The visitor center, or Concession Building, at Bahia Honda State Park is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day of the year.
The entrance fee at Bahia Honda State Park is $8 per vehicle for 2-8 people, $4 for single-occupant vehicles or motorcycles, and $2.50 for pedestrians and bicyclists. Annual entrance passes are also available.
From Miami, take US-1 South for ~120 miles (Mile Marker 37); from Key West, drive ~37 miles north on US-1. Fly into Key West International Airport (EYW), then rent a car. Bahia Honda also has a marina with slips for day and overnight guests.
Bahia Honda State Park has a large parking lot for cars and motorcycles, with overflow parking at the Sandspur Day-Use Area. RVs under 6’8″ tall can park, but only one vehicle per campsite. Overnight parking is allowed for campers. Parking fees include $8 per vehicle (2-8 people) or $4.50 for single-occupant vehicles and motorcycles, plus a 50-cent Monroe County surcharge per person.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Escape to Bahia Honda Key and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this celebrated Florida State Park. With white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and the historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge, this tropical destination offers a stunning blend of recreation and heritage. Spanning 524 acres, the park is beloved for its snorkeling, swimming, and wildlife watching—plus some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. Birders, sunseekers, and history buffs alike will find something to love at Bahia Honda. Open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, it’s an essential stop on any Keys itinerary.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 557 785
- Established year
- 1961
Top 3 Facts about Bahia Honda State Park
The park is home to the largest known stand of Florida silver palms, and it features over 150 species of flora, including the rare yellow satinwood and the endangered small-flowered lily thorn, which can be found along three separate trails that wind through tropical hardwood hammocks.
Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the U.S., including recognition by Dr. Beach.
A habitat for endangered American crocodiles, Key deer, and bird species like herons, ospreys, and egrets.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Check the official Florida State Parks website for operating hours, park alerts, and campsite availability. Reserve campgrounds well in advance during peak months.
Pack Appropriately
Bring essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, swimwear, snorkeling gear, and water. Lightweight clothing and sun protection are especially important in the tropical climate.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a distance—especially endangered species like Key deer. Do not feed animals. Respect nesting and protected zones.
Stay Informed
Visit the park’s website before arrival for updates on weather, park alerts, entrance fees, and camping availability.
Seasons
Spring offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for beachcombing, wildlife watching, and enjoying the lush tropical foliage.
Summer is the busiest time with hot, sunny weather ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and boating. Plan ahead, as accommodations and campsites fill quickly.
Fall brings pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making it ideal for a peaceful retreat. It’s still warm enough for all beach activities and enjoying the park’s biodiversity.
Winter is a prime time to visit, offering warm temperatures compared to the rest of the U.S. Great for escaping cold climates while enjoying sunny days by the ocean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Bahia Honda State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
You should stay in Big Pine Key or nearby Little Torch Key to be close to the park. These areas offer several hotels and resorts, such as Parmer’s Resort and Little Torch Cottages, that are conveniently located near the park.
-
The Silver Palm Trail is the best hiking trail for kids, as it is a short and easy loop that winds through a tropical hardwood hammock, offering a glimpse of diverse plant and animal life with minimal challenging terrain. This trail is perfect for beginning hikers and provides plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. It also includes observation decks where you can enjoy a picnic.
-
Dogs must be on a six-foot, hand-held leash and be well-behaved at all times. They are not allowed off-leash or in certain areas like beaches, cabins, bathhouses, pavilions, or the concession building.
-
There is no separate fee for motorcycle parking; the fee is $4 for motorcycles and single-person vehicles, which includes the Monroe County surcharge. Pedestrians and bicyclists pay $2. Vehicles with 2-8 passengers pay $8.
-
The best times to visit are at sunrise for spectacular morning light and at night for stargazing, as the park is famous for its clear dark skies. Sunrise typically occurs around 7:50 am in October, while nighttime offers ideal conditions for stargazing.