Emerald Isle – North Carolina, USA
- Bogue Inlet Drive, Emerald Isle, Carteret County, North Carolina, 28594, United States
- +1 (252) 354-3424
- October 13, 2025
About This Beach
Located in the lower Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is home to some of the most beautiful and natural beaches in the entire state. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and untouched natural surroundings, Bahia Honda often feels more like a Caribbean paradise than mainland Florida.
Stretching across 500 acres and an offshore island, this park offers three main beaches — Calusa Beach, Loggerhead Beach, and Sandspur Beach — each with its own unique charm. It’s one of the few beaches in the Keys where you’ll find both calm shallow water for families and excellent snorkeling opportunities just offshore.
Bahia Honda is also famous for its views of the historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge, making it one of the most photographed spots in the Keys.
📜 History & Unique Features
Bahia Honda, which means “deep bay” in Spanish, was once part of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad project in the early 1900s. Remnants of the original railroad bridge still stand today and create a dramatic backdrop for beach photos.
What sets Bahia Honda apart is its rare combination of wide sandy beaches (unusual for the rocky Keys), shallow swimming areas, and healthy coral reefs just offshore. It’s consistently ranked as one of the Top 10 Beaches in the U.S. by travel magazines and guides.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Winter (December – March): Mild, dry, and busiest season.
Spring (April – May): Warm, fewer crowds, excellent snorkeling.
Summer (June – August): Hot, humid, great for water sports; occasional seaweed.
Fall (September – November): Quieter and budget-friendly; watch for storms.
Spring (April – May): Warm, fewer crowds, excellent snorkeling.
Summer (June – August): Hot, humid, great for water sports; occasional seaweed.
Fall (September – November): Quieter and budget-friendly; watch for storms.
Things To Do
Popular Activities
- Swimming & Sunbathing: Enjoy calm, shallow waters perfect for kids and families.
- Snorkeling: Explore offshore reefs with colorful tropical fish, rays, and occasionally sea turtles.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Rentals available; paddle through clear waters and mangroves.
- Picnics & Relaxing: Picnic areas and shaded shelters throughout the park.
- Camping: Tent, RV, and cabin camping available (very popular — reserve early).
- Photography: Capture the iconic Bahia Honda Bridge with turquoise waters as the backdrop.
- Nature Trails: Explore short hiking paths and spot native birds, butterflies, and iguanas.
Amenities
Nearby Amenities
- Restrooms & outdoor showers
- Picnic tables & pavilions
- Kayak, snorkel, and bike rentals
- Gift shop and snack bar
- Boat ramp and marina
- Visitor center with park information
- Campground with tent, RV, and cabin options
Beach Hours
Beach Hours
Open Now
Open 24/7
Hours/Lifeguards
Hours/Lifeguards
Open daily: 8:00 AM – Sunset
Campground: 24/7 access for registered campers
🚫 No permanent lifeguards are stationed at the beaches (Calusa, Loggerhead, Sandspur).
🏖️ Swimming is at your own risk — which is common in most Florida State Parks.
✅ However, the waters are usually calm and shallow, making them family-friendly.
Park rangers and staff are on-site during operating hours, but they do not act as lifeguards.
Campground: 24/7 access for registered campers
🚫 No permanent lifeguards are stationed at the beaches (Calusa, Loggerhead, Sandspur).
🏖️ Swimming is at your own risk — which is common in most Florida State Parks.
✅ However, the waters are usually calm and shallow, making them family-friendly.
Park rangers and staff are on-site during operating hours, but they do not act as lifeguards.
Pricing
Pricing
Park Entrance: ~$8 per vehicle (up to 8 people) + small per-person fee
Camping: ~$20–$45 per night (depending on site)
Snorkeling Tours: ~$30–$40 per person
Kayak Rentals: ~$12–$20 per hour
Camping: ~$20–$45 per night (depending on site)
Snorkeling Tours: ~$30–$40 per person
Kayak Rentals: ~$12–$20 per hour
Food & Drinks
Food & Drinks
Onsite concession stand offers snacks, drinks, and light meals.
Picnic areas available — many visitors bring coolers for the day.
Nearby Marathon and Big Pine Key have restaurants and grocery stores.
Picnic areas available — many visitors bring coolers for the day.
Nearby Marathon and Big Pine Key have restaurants and grocery stores.
Events & Festivals
Events & Festivals
Ranger-led Programs: Nature walks, snorkeling lessons, and educational talks.
Local Events: While no large festivals occur inside the park, nearby Keys towns host seafood and cultural festivals year-round.
Local Events: While no large festivals occur inside the park, nearby Keys towns host seafood and cultural festivals year-round.
Contact Information
Primary Phone
Website URL
Location
Beach Address
36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, USA
Access Points
Bahia Honda State Park
36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, USA
Located at Mile Marker 37 on U.S. Highway 1 (Overseas Highway)
~12 miles south of Marathon, ~37 miles north of Key West
Parking available within the park (entry fee applies)
36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, USA
Located at Mile Marker 37 on U.S. Highway 1 (Overseas Highway)
~12 miles south of Marathon, ~37 miles north of Key West
Parking available within the park (entry fee applies)
36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, USA
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