Bahia Honda

HISTORY Bahia Honda Key is home to one of Florida’s southernmost state parks. The channel between the old and new Bahia Honda bridges is one of the deepest natural channels in the Florida Keys. The subtropical climate has created a natural environment found nowhere else in the continental U.S. Many plants and animals in the park are rare and unusual, including marine plant and animal species of Caribbean origin. The park has one of the largest remaining stands of the threatened silver palms. Specimens of the silver palm and the yellow satinwood, found in the park, have been certified as national champion trees. The rare, small-flowered lily thorn may also be found in the park. The geological formation of Bahia Honda is Key Largo limestone. It is derived from a pre-historic coral reef similar to the present-day living reefs off the Keys. Because of a drop-in sea level several thousand years ago, portions of this ancient reef emerged from the sea, forming islands. Bahia Honda is the southernmost key where the formation is exposed. In more modern times, the park was part of Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railway holdings. The railroad remains were converted into what is known today as U.S. Highway 1. The Old Bahia Honda Bridge serves as a reminder of Flagler’s dream. A section of the old bridge offers visitors a panoramic view of the island and surrounding waters. Since the initial acquisition of the first 13 acres of the park in 1961, Bahia Honda has become well-known as a recreational treasure. BAHIA HONDA STATE PARK 36850 Overseas Highway Big Pine Key, FL 33043 305-872-2353 PARK GUIDELINES Please remember these tips and guidelines, and enjoy your visit: • • • • • • • • • Hours are 8 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year. An entrance fee is required. The collection, destruction or disturbance of plants, animals or park property is prohibited. Pets are permitted in designated areas only. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and well-behaved at all times. Fishing, boating, swimming and fires are allowed in designated areas only. A Florida fishing license may be required. Use diverdown flags. Fireworks and hunting are prohibited. Alcoholic beverage consumption is allowed in designated areas only. For camping or cabin reservations, contact Reserve America at 800-326-3521 or visit ReserveAmerica.com. Florida’s state parks are committed to providing equal access to all facilities and programs. Should you need assistance to enable your participation, please contact the ranger station at 305-872-2352 OR 711 (Florida Relay Service). FloridaStateParks.org Visit us online at Follow us on social media FloridaStateParks.org #FLStateParks BAHIA HONDA STATE PARK Experience the breathtaking views offered by the Florida Keys EXPERIENCES AND AMENITIES Bahia Honda is unique among other islands in the Keys because it has extensive sandy beaches and deep waters close enough offshore to provide exceptional swimming and snorkeling. The park encompasses 524 acres, including one small island on the southwest end of the park. Bahia Honda State Park Directions The park is located on Bahia Honda Key, 12 miles south of Marathon. The entrance is located between Mile Markers 36 and 37, oceanside of U.S. Highway #1. M .1 U.S Boating: Two boat ramps and a 19-slip marina are available at the park. Camping: There are three camping areas, with a total of 80 campsites. Lodging: Three duplex cabins on stilts (5 units) are furnished with accommodations for up to a maximum of six people per cabin. One unit, Cabin #2, is wheelchair accessible, has a lift and can accommodate up to four people. Kayaking: Ocean kayaks are available for rent at the concession. Gulf of Mexico Bicycling: Cruise the park’s more than 3.5 miles of surface road. Bayside Sites 73-80 Silver Palm Nature Trail Cabins 1-6 st e Key W Concession/Dive Shop: Snacks, souvenirs, snorkeling equipment rentals and tickets for the snorkel boat tours may be obtained at the concession. Call 305-872-3210. Snorkeling: Bring your mask and snorkel to explore the park’s waters. Remember: a diverdown flag is required and never touch marine life. n ho t ara Ranger Station Atlantic Ocean Sandspur Sites 49-72 Buttonwood Sites 1-48 N W Old Bahia Honda Bridge E Butterfly Garden Trail S Fishing: Anglers will find several good areas for fishing from shore or fly fishing. Saltwater fishing licenses are required in Florida. Swimming: For water enthusiasts, Bahia Honda has the largest natural sand beach in the Florida Keys, with water deep enough to swim in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Picnicking: Pavilions with picnic tables are provided at Calusa and Sandspur Beaches. Please make sure to properly dispose of all trash. Nature Center: Visit the Sand and Sea Nature Center, located on the Gulf side of the old bridge, for park information. Beach Access Concessions Boat Ramp Nature Center Boat Tours Picnicking Cabins Restrooms Campfire Circle Showers Camping Swimming P00242_Rev_01.19