Top Family Friendly Beaches in Big Pine Key, Florida
Located between the City of Marathon and Big Pine Key, Bahia Honda State Park sits upon 500 acres of Bahia Honda Pine and offers the quintessential “Florida experience” - palm studded white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, breathtaking sunsets and starry nights. The park is gradually recovering from damage by Hurricane Irma and parts of its 2.5 mile beach area are still being reconstructed for public use. However, this doesn’t mean that the park has lost its charm, as it offers numerous activities for visitors along with amenities like showers, restrooms, concession stands and picnic pavilions. The beach allows pets on leash and provides accessibility to people with disabilities. Although the park has parking facilities, it may be really hard to find a spot during vacations.
The site has two open beaches – Calusa Beach and Loggerhead Beach, having loads of activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, swimming, fishing and boat tours to nearby reefs. Paths for cycling and walking are also present. The picnicking sites in the area have several facilities to make your experience comfortable. The park is frequented by nature aficionados for exploring the vibrant biodiversity of the island, home to several rare species of plants and animals. Birdwatchers can look out for exotic shore birds. Hiking excursions are also available including one leading to the iconic Old Bahia Honda Bridge, which gives a picturesque view of Calusa Beach. The park also gives a clear view of the night sky for stargazing.
If you get hungry, you can visit the concession store in the park for snacks. The neighboring Keys also have great eateries, one being the iconic No Name Pub, named in the ZAGAT Survey as “the best casual dining experience in Florida Keys''. The Pub, 15 minutes away from the beach by car, is famous for its quirky dollar bill laden walls and treats like dips, burgers and its signature pizzas. Another popular joint less than a 10-minute drive away from the park is the Big Pine Rooster. The restaurant is popular for its diligent staff, airy ambience and an innovative menu. Be sure to visit Coco’s Kitchen, a family friendly place. Situated a short drive away from the park, the place offers great cubano cuisine at modest prices.
If you are looking for a place to stay near Bahia Honda State Park, don’t look further than their onsite campgrounds and cabins for an unforgettable experience with wilderness. Facilities like electricity, tables, grills and well-furnished cabin rooms make it ideal for lodging. The adjacent Keys also have nice accommodations, like Barnacle Bread and Breakfast, nine minutes away from the park by car. It is famous for its lavish rooms, great amenities. You might also encounter friendly key deer here! Another option is the Isla Bella Beach Resort, a 24 acre 4-Star resort 10 minutes away from the park by car and having luxuries including a 4000 square foot Spa, multiple fine dining options and a beautiful beachside bar.
Located on the northern side of the Bahia Honda Key, Calusa Beach is a popular beach with white sand. A rocky jetty and tropical vegetation are also present near this beach. An iconic landmark present near this beach is the historic Old Bahia Honda Bridge, which was constructed as a railway bridge in the early 20th century. In addition, this bridge was also a part of the Overseas Highway (a segment of the United States Route 1) till 1972.
