The channel between the old and new Bahia Honda bridges is one of the deepest natural channels in the Florida Keys. Bahia Honda is unique among other islands in the Keys because it has extensive sandy beaches and deep waters close enough offshore to provide exceptional swimming and snorkeling.

HIKING
A nature trail at the far end of the park’s Sandspur Beach, oceanside, follows the shore of a tidal lagoon, then twists through a coastal strand hammock and back along the beach. Guided walks are available to groups by reservation, 305-872-2353. Park tours and boat rentals, 305-872-1127.

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PLANT LIFE
The park, which encompasses 524 acres, includes one small island offshore on the southwest end of the park. The subtropical climate throughout the Florida Keys has created a natural environment found nowhere else in the continental U.S. Many plants in the park are rare and unusual, including marine plant and animal species of Caribbean origin. Trees in the community include the yellow satinwood, gumbo limbo and silver palm. The park has one of the largest remaining stands of the threatened silver palms in the United States. A specimen of the silver palm and the yellow satinwood have been certified as national champion trees. Also found on the park grounds is the endangered small-flowered lily-thorn. These, and other natural wonders, may be viewed along the nature trail that follows the shore of a tidal lagoon at the far end of Sandspur Beach.

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GEOGRAPHY
The geological formation of Bahia Honda is Key Largo limestone. It is derived from a prehistoric coral reef similar to the present day living reefs of the Keys. Because of a drop in sea level several thousand years ago, portions of this ancient reef emerged from the sea, forming islands. Bahia Honda is the southernmost key where the formation is exposed.

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HISTORY
In more modern times, the park was part of Henry Flagler's East Coast Railway holdings. The railroad to Key West was started in 1905 and was jokingly referred to as "Flagler's Folly." It was eventually completed in 1912 but later destroyed by a hurricane in 1935. The railroad remains were converted into what is known today as U.S. Highway 1. Presently, the Old Bahia Honda Bridge serves as a reminder of Flagler's dream. The bridge offers visitors a panoramic view of the island and surrounding waters. Since the initial purchase of the first 13 acres of the park in 1961, Bahia Honda has become well-known as a recreational treasure in the Keys.

For more information, contact:
Bahia Honda State Park
36850 Overseas Hwy.
Big Pine Key, Florida 33043
305/872-2353

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