12 Things to do at Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park on Big Pine Key maybe the furthest you need to go in the Florida Keys. This historical Florida State Park has all the amenities a family could want in a state park and more. The super cool train trestle was a big hit with our boys!

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History of Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda, meaning “deep bay” can be seen on Spanish maps hundreds of years old. Bahia Honda Park, discovered by travelers via the Florida East Coast Railway, connects the mainland to Key West. Travelers loved to stop and enjoy the blue waters and white sand. The Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 ruined many of the bridges. The state of Florida paved over the railroad to create the Overseas Highway. Bahia Honda Park, discovered by travelers via the Florida East Coast Railway, connects the mainland to Key West.

Snorkeling

I ordered new snorkeling masks for our entire family. Next, we practiced snorkeling in pools and were all set for our snorkeling vacation. The 180 degree masks fit well and made the view uninhibited. Everyone was excited to snorkel! The air temperature read 81 degrees, the water temperature read 74 degrees and the sign at the entrance read “No Snorkeling Tours today.” WHAT?!?!? The weather all week was windy so I guess I should have known snorkeling was out of the question.

Snorkeling at the beach is a great alternative. The beach area is shallow at four to six feet. We were able to see tropical fish, conchs and a few spiny lobsters. The 180 degree masks worked great and the boys loved them.

Biking

Bring your bikes and ride the paved roads in the park. Watch out for busy times and small children. A great way to enjoy nature, exercise and be together as a family is on a bike ride.

Camping

Campers will enjoy beautiful campsites made for RVs and tents. Choose between water front sites or inland sites. Some sites have electricity and water and some are more rustic. Camping in a state park is always a great choice for families. With so many things to do to keep everyone busy, and the price, it’s a great choice. Boat Camping is available too!

Paddling

Outdoor enthusiast will enjoy the open water by renting kayaks or bringing your own kayak or canoe. The concession store rents kayaks and can guide you to some great locations.

Fishing

The boys enjoyed fishing at Bahia Honda. Since they already had their saltwater fishing license they were all set for a day of fishing. They had a little luck of their own. They liked watching the other fishermen pull in some nice fish.

Geocaching

You will find a few geocaching items available in the park. Go to www.geocaching.com to sign up for an account. Search for geocaching opportunities in all of the Florida State Parks.

Hiking

This may be the only state park with one hiking trail, however, it is one of the best trails ever. The hiking trail will take you to the top of the bridge and will provide amazing views. You may see large sting ray, fish or turtles on a clear day. Hiking seems to be a family activity we cannot get enough of, and are always looking for more places to hike.

Picnicking

After Hurricane Irma there was much work to be done throughout Bahia Honda State Park. The new picnic pavilions are evidence of the beautiful newness in the park. Our family used one of the two pavilions to grill up our lunch and enjoy our meal together as we sat beach side.

Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is allowed at Bahia Honda State Park. Diving at the park is best for beginners as the shore line is very shallow. Don’t forget your “Diver Down” flag.

Snorkeling Tours

The weather wasn’t cooperative to do any more than beach snorkeling during our trip. Snorkel in the beach area to see sea grass, soft coral, conchs, and some spiny lobsters. Our boys enjoyed the shallow snorkeling. The best option is to take the Looe Key Snorkeling Tour. Inside the concessions building you will find the tour counter. It is best to make your reservations on-line prior to coming to the park. There is even a coupon to print right on the website.

The Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary is a major destination for snokeling enthusiasts. Snorkelers will find beautiful and colorful tropical fish, bright living coral reefs and other marine sea creatures. Snorkeling is for all ages and is an excellent family activity at a reasonable price.

Swimming

Swimming at the beach is our family’s number one preferred activity. Bahia Honda State Park swimming was such a great experience for our family. Mason loved playing and digging in the sand. Cooper is our water boy and enjoyed the salt water swimming and shallow sea grass snorkeling.

Photography

The beginner to professional level photographer will find a days worth of views to capture at Bahia Honda. How many times can you find abandoned train trestle, beach and endless ocean in one place? Only at Bahia Honda! The sunset is absolutely beautiful. The wildlife, fauna, people and blue ocean will fill your scrapbook, on-line photo album, social media or portfolio.