Bahia Honda State Park

Discover Bahia Honda State Park, Florida

Escape to Bahia Honda Key and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this celebrated Florida State Park. With its white sandy beaches and deep blue waters, Bahia Honda offers a tropical haven unlike any other. But this park isn’t just a pretty place; it’s steeped in history, thanks to Henry Flagler’s ambitious vision to extend the railroad to Key West in the early 1900s. The iconic Bahia Honda Bridge, a remnant of the storied Overseas Railroad, is a testament to this grand endeavor.

Spanning 524 acres, Bahia Honda State Park attracts countless visitors annually who come to enjoy its pristine beaches and lush landscapes. From snorkeling in the clear waters to bird watching along the shore, the park offers a variety of recreational activities. Open daily from 8:00 am to sunset, it’s the perfect spot for your next adventure.

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Best time to visit

Must-see attractions

Top 3 Facts about Bahia Honda State Park

01

Historic Railroad Bridge

Bahia Honda State Park is home to the remnants of the historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge, which was originally part of Henry Flagler’s Florida East Coast Railway. It was constructed in the early 1900s and was crucial in developing the Florida Keys.

02

Award-Winning Beaches

The park boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Florida Keys. Bahia Honda’s beaches have been recognized multiple times by various travel publications and organizations, including being named one of the top beaches in the United States by Dr. Beach.

03

Abundant Wildlife

Bahia Honda State Park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the American crocodile and the Key deer. Birdwatchers will also delight in the opportunity to spot various bird species, including herons, egrets, and ospreys.

Where to Sleep

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Hammond Haven, Luxury Log and Timber Cottage on Jack Lake

Apsley, Ontario

Lakeside Getaway includes Hot Tub (pet friendly)

Gaylord

The Round House

Big River

Dunehaven

Gary

Villa Santorini

Gary

Camp Baxter

Gary

Sandhill Flat

Gary

Elyon Hall + Coach House

Gary

Camping and transportation in Bahia Honda State Park

Backcountry camping permits required for wilderness camping opportunities.

How to Get to Bahia Honda State Park

Getting to Bahia Honda State Park in Florida is relatively easy, whether you’re driving from nearby cities or flying into a nearby airport. Here’s how you can get there:

By Car: If you’re driving from Miami, take the Florida Turnpike South to US-1 South. Continue on US-1 South for approximately 120 miles until you reach Bahia Honda State Park, located at Mile Marker 37. If you’re coming from Key West, head north on US-1 for about 37 miles.
By Plane: If you’re flying into the area, the nearest major airport is Key West International Airport (EYW), located approximately 37 miles from Bahia Honda State Park. You can rent a car from the airport and drive north on US-1 to reach the park.
Boat: If you’re traveling by boat, Bahia Honda State Park has a marina with boat slips available for day visitors and overnight guests. You can access the park’s beaches and amenities directly from the water.

Places to Stay Near Bahia Honda State Park

Nearby Bahia Honda State Park, you’ll find various accommodation options ranging from hotels to campgrounds. Here are some places to stay:

Bahia Honda State Park Campgrounds: The park offers camping facilities with options for tent and RV camping. The park has three campgrounds: Buttonwood, Bayside, and Sandspur. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire pits. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Looe Key Reef Resort & Dive Center: Located just a few miles from Bahia Honda State Park, this resort offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to diving and snorkeling opportunities. It features a variety of room options, including waterfront suites and cottages.
Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge: Situated on nearby Big Pine Key, this lodge offers a range of accommodations including waterfront RV sites, tent sites, and rental units. It provides amenities such as a swimming pool, boat ramp, marina, and fishing opportunities.
Marathon: The city of Marathon, located about 25 miles north of Bahia Honda State Park, offers numerous hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. These include popular chains such as Holiday Inn Express, Courtyard by Marriott, and various locally-owned properties.

Driving

Yes, you can drive within Bahia Honda State Park. The park has paved roads that provide access to various areas, including the campgrounds, beaches, hiking trails, and other amenities. Visitors can drive their vehicles throughout the park to access different points of interest and recreational areas.

Public

Bahia Honda State Park does not have public transportation within the park itself. However, visitors can reach the park by private car, taxi, or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

Parking

There are designated parking areas located throughout the park, including near the beaches, campgrounds, hiking trails, and other amenities.

Must-See Attractions

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Calusa Beach

Calusa Beach is one of the park’s main attractions, featuring soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the iconic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge from the beach.

Old Bahia Honda Bridge

The remnants of the historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge are a must-see attraction within the park. Visitors can walk or bike along the pedestrian section of the bridge, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and islands. The bridge provides an excellent vantage point for watching sunsets or spotting marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles.

Sandspur Beach

Another beautiful beach within the park, Sandspur Beach, offers a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere than Calusa Beach. It’s known for its pristine sands, shallow waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities along the rocky outcrops.

Helpful Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure to Bahia Honda State Park

Plan Ahead

Before your trip, check the park’s website for any updates on hours of operation, entrance fees, and available amenities. Consider making reservations for camping or lodging if you plan to stay overnight, especially during peak seasons.

Pack Appropriately

Be sure to bring essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, hats, sunglasses, and plenty of water, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors. Don’t forget your snorkeling gear if you intend to explore the underwater world.

Respect Wildlife

While exploring the park, respect the wildlife by observing from a distance and refraining from feeding or approaching animals. This helps to keep both you and the animals safe.

Stay Hydrated

The Florida sun can be intense, so stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your visit. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to refill at the park’s drinking fountains or concession stands.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park is highly recommended for anyone visiting the Florida Keys. It offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for both active visitors and those looking to unwind on the beach.

Yes, swimming is a popular activity at Bahia Honda State Park. The park features three beaches with shallow waters perfect for swimming and sandcastle building, particularly at Loggerhead Beach, facing the Atlantic Ocean.

Yes, Bahia Honda State Park is accessible by car and is located on US Highway 1 at Mile Marker 37 on Bahia Honda Key. It is a straightforward drive from most locations in the Florida Keys.

Sandspur Beach is considered the best beach at Bahia Honda State Park, known for its white sand and clear blue waters. It is perfect for those looking to relax or engage in water activities like snorkeling.

Yes, you can snorkel from the shore at Bahia Honda State Park. The park offers excellent near-shore snorkeling opportunities, especially off the beach, where the waters are rich in marine life.

Yes, Bahia Honda State Park offers cabins for rent. These are available for booking up to 11 months in advance and provide a comfortable lodging option within the park.