Manager's Message
Sea Turtle News
The park is pleased to report that the green and the hawksbill sea turtle nests that were laid in mid-August have hatched! During the week of October 12, the hawksbill and green sea turtle nests hatched within days of each other. The hawksbill hatchlings emerged from their nest during the day so numerous visitors were lucky to witness this exciting event. This was the first documented green sea turtle nest at Bahia Honda and the second one ever documented on the mainline Florida Keys. (Green sea turtles commonly nest on the islands in the Key West Refuge and the Dry Tortugas.) Hawksbill sea turtles rarely nest in Florida. They were first documented nesting at Bahia Honda in the late summer of 2000. Since then, the park has recorded hawksbill nests every few years. The park currently has one more hawksbill nests due to hatch within the next few weeks. A second hawksbill nest hatched the last week in October.
Nature Center
Be sure to come by the Sand and Sea Nature Center when you visit the park. The nature center has a small marine aquarium, an extensive sea life collection and several environmental activities to explore. Kids can become a Junior Ranger and receive a patch by completing the “Junior Ranger Activity Book” or get a “Treasures of the Sea” coloring book (for a small donation). Or, cool off in the air conditioning and watch a nature video. A staff member will be available to answer your questions.
- Eric Kiefer, Park Manager
Welcome to Bahia Honda State Park
Henry Flagler's railroad to Key West turned the remote island of Bahia Honda Key into a tropical destination. Today, the island is home to one of Florida's southernmost state parks, known for beautiful beaches, magnificent sunsets, and excellent snorkeling. Visitors can picnic on the beach and take a swim, or simply relax and enjoy the balmy sea breezes that caress the shores year-round. Anglers can fish from shore or bring a boat and launch at the boat ramp. The park's concession rents kayaks and snorkeling gear and offers boat trips to the reef for snorkeling excursions. Bahia Honda is an excellent place to see wading birds and shorebirds. The nature center can introduce nature lovers to the island's unique plants and animals. Full-facility campsites and vacation cabins are available. Located 12 miles south of Marathon.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Bahia Honda State Park, please call 305-872-2353.
Get more information on making a reservation.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Bahia Honda is located 12 mile south of Marathon on U.S. Highway 1.
Park Fees
Admission Fees:
$8.00* per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$2.00* Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
$4.00* Single-occupant vehicle or Motorcycle.
* Plus $.50 per person Monroe County Surcharge.
Boat Ramp Fee:
$10.00 per boat.
Camping Fees:
$36.00 per night, plus tax. Includes water and electricity.
Cabin Rental:
$120.00 per night, plus tax, May 1 – October 31.
$160.00 per night, plus tax, November 1 – April 30.
>Pavilion Rental Fees:
$50.00 Full Day.
$30.00 Half Day.
Rental fee does not include park admission fee. Parking space is not guaranteed.
Bahia Honda State Park
36850 Overseas Hwy.
Big Pine Key, Florida 33043
Phone: 305-872-2353
Fax: Contact Park for Number
Visitor Service Provider
Coral Reef Park Company
36850 Overseas Highway
Big Pine Key, FL 33043
(305) 872-3210
Bahia Honda Division of Coral Reef Park Company
