Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys is a renowned destination for snorkeling enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to discover the vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, the Bahia Honda State Park Snorkeling Tour provides an unforgettable experience.
Snorkeling Tours at Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park offers two distinct snorkeling tour options, each catering to different preferences and skill levels.
Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary Tour
- Departure Times: 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Duration: 1.5 hours of snorkeling
- Contact: Call (305) 872-3210 for information and reservations
- Prices:
- Adults: $29.95
- Children (under 18): $24.95
- Equipment Rental: Available on-site
This tour takes you to the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, a protected area known for its diverse marine ecosystem. Snorkelers can expect to encounter a variety of tropical fish, coral formations, and other fascinating underwater creatures during this guided excursion.
Shore Snorkeling at Bahia Honda State Park
In addition to the organized tours, Bahia Honda State Park offers excellent shore snorkeling opportunities for visitors.
Bay Side Beach
- Suitability: Suitable for beginners
- Underwater Terrain: Shallow waters with rocks and a wall that are home to some fish
- Caution: Be cautious of strong currents near the bridge
Atlantic Side Beach
- Conditions: More waves and generally not much better than the Bay Side Beach
- Requirement: Requires a dive flag if snorkeling outside the bay side
Snorkeling Conditions at Bahia Honda State Park
It’s important to be aware of the current snorkeling conditions at Bahia Honda State Park to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Coral Bleaching Event (2023)
In 2023, a significant coral bleaching event occurred in the Florida Keys, including the waters surrounding Bahia Honda State Park. This event has resulted in widespread coral death, which may impact the underwater scenery and marine life.
Sea Life
Despite the coral bleaching, visitors can still expect to see a variety of sea life during their snorkeling adventures, including:
- Spiny lobsters
- Starfish
- Queen conch
- Immature fish
Park Amenities for Snorkelers
Bahia Honda State Park offers a range of equipment rentals to enhance your snorkeling experience.
| Rental Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Mask | $4.00 |
| Fins | $4.00 |
| Dive Flags | $6.00 |
| Half Wet Suit | $6.00 |
| Snorkel | $8.95 |
| Safety Vest | $5.00 |
| Corrective Mask | $5.00 |
Please note that deposits are required for all equipment rentals.
Tips and Recommendations
For Beginners
The shore snorkeling at Bahia Honda State Park is an excellent choice for those new to the sport. The shallow, calm waters of the bay side provide a comfortable and safe environment to learn the basics of snorkeling.
For Experienced Snorkelers
While the shore snorkeling can be enjoyable, experienced snorkelers may find the boat trips to the Looe Key Reef more satisfying. The reef offers a more diverse and vibrant underwater ecosystem to explore.