Located at mile marker 37 in the Florida Keys, sits questionably the most beautiful stretch of beach in the keys.
Bahia Honda State Park encompasses over 500 gorgeous acres on both the bay and ocean sides of US Highway 1 and includes a historic section of the original bridge and road to Key West.
Our favorite place to play around in Bahia Honda is the beach on the bay just after the concession stand. When you pull into the park, just turn right, head straight until you hit the parking lot. There is also a path here up to the old bridge, which has a stunning view of the ocean, bay and overseas highway.
Back at the concession stand, you can book a trip out to Looe Key for some world-class snorkeling, rent a kayak or two or purchase some snacks and souvenirs.
A little further north of the concession stand in the park are tent camping spot and some rv spots on the ocean. Just past the camping sites are two more beaches, usually deserted due to the large amounts of seaweed which wash up here. We personally love this stretch of beach and once in the water past the seaweed, it is quite nice. The water is crystal clear.
If you chose to rent a kayak, there is a small key just off the beach at the northernmost part of the park. The over is a very quick paddle but you do go over some very deep water and yes, there is bull and hammerhead sharks in the deeper water. So you definitely want to be careful.
Once over the open water, head for western side of the island, nearest to the bridge on the left. Hidden in the mangroves is a shady beach with plenty of room to pull a kayak or paddle board into. If you want to have the island to yourself, make sure to get there early. The island is very popular with locals, sailors and kayakers alike.
The currents back to beaches at to Bahia Honda can get a little tough over the deeper parts of water, so make sure to bring your life vest along, and if going alone, make sure to text or call a friend or family member just to let them know for safety reasons.
