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Guide to Bahia honda state park-Florida Keys

Located on on the overseas highway right in the heart of the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the true beauty the keys has to offer.

Overseas Highway Florida Keys - TravelammoThe park is surrounded by award winning beaches both on the bay and ocean side which offer the perfect place to take a swim or just simply relax on the soft sands enjoying the year round sunshine. Blessed with a gentle offshore breeze the park offers the perfect venue to soak up the sun without over heating although please do bare in mind that the sun in the keys is extremely strong year round, it would be irresponsible of us not to recommend a good sun screen is used at all times.

Pick a shady spot in the car park and you car will remain cool for your return.

The entrance to the park is located at mile maker 37 on the left side of the highway if travelling towards Key West. Shortly after entering the tree lined entrance you will be greeted by a very friendly and informative park attendant that will take your entrance fee and point you in the right direction to the most suitable parking. Most of the parking is very close to the main beaches and marina as well as the main concession and amenities.

Located centrally to the park, next to the marina and only a minutes walk to the main beach is the main concession building which is home to rentals, gift shop, cafe, boat trips and restrooms. The cafe offers a delicious range of cooked meals, snacks, subs, ice cold drinks and ice creams as well as daily specials all at very reasonable prices. We recommend if available on the specials board you try the pulled pork sub, perfect for taking down to the beach for lunch.

Snorkeling trips to Looe Key marine sanctuary are a must.

If your looking for slightly more than sunning yourself from your visit then the rental office offers sit on top kayaks by the hour at very reasonable prices. The calm, clear waters around the key offer the perfect environment for a gentle paddle which is suitable for all abilities and if its your first time, help and guidance is on offer to get you on the water. Whilst out paddling don’t forget to look over the side for the chance to see an abundance of sea life, you wont be disappointed. The rental store also offers Snorkeling equipment and boat trips and we’ve always found all the equipment in excellent condition and well maintained.

Drift wood Bahia Honda Beach - TravelammoAside from the beaches and water activities the park also has miles of trails suitable for both walking and cycling, and from the trails you will find secluded beaches, mangroves and an abundance of wildlife and beautiful plants, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for nesting Iguanas dotted around the island. Unfortunately the chance to walk on a section of the original overseas highway is closed temporarily although it is still possible to walk the trail to see it close up.  Forget any worry about getting lost either as trail maps are located around the park to help you find your way at your own pace.

Bahia Honda Cabin - TravelammoBahia Honda also offers a small selection of rental cabins and some 80 camping pitches. Spending a few evenings away from the rest of the world under a starlit sky is a perfect way to enjoy the keys and with low levels of light pollution is a stargazers dream.

We thoroughly recommend Bahia Honda state park not be missed if your visiting the keys and if you looking for a beach day there is no better more enjoyable place to find it than here.

Key features and tips:

    • Park open from 8:30am till sunset daily.
    • Entrance is currently $8 for a car and 2-8 occupants.
    • $4  single occupancy car entry.
    • On foot/cyclist entry fee $2.
    • Boat slip rentals from $10.
    • Cabin hire from $120 per night.
    • Camp pitches from $36 per night.
    • Toilets and facilities on site.
    • Concessions available ( provided by Coral Reef Park Co )
    • Dogs allowed ( restrictions apply )
    • Accessible facilities.
    • Marina ( fees from $2 per foot, Min $30 )

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Fort De Soto park – Florida USA

Fort De Soto park, located on the southern tip of Pinellas County Florida is without doubt one of Florida’s finest beaches.

The State park is an area of five keys covering 1,136 acres and boasting over 3 miles of pristine coral white gently slopped beaches,  acres of mangroves and of not forgetting the historic fort it self, worth a visit alone.

De Soto Beaches are frequently voted among the best in north america

Whilst at the park there is more than enough on offer to keep everyone in your group happy from fishing on one of the two piers, walking some of the 10 miles of self guided  trails, kayaking,  exploring the fort or for the beach lovers looking to relax there’s an abundance of beautiful spots on the sands to relax and listen to the gentle waves lapping the sands.

The beaches of De Soto also play host to nesting loggerhead turtles

The park also plays host to a variety of wildlife both on and of shore. Dolphins are often seen cruising along the shore line or playfully leaping around the pier. Whilst on the beach and walking the trails you have a high chance of seeing some of the 328 documented bird species which are either visiting or native to the park.

If you wish to stay in the tranquility that little bit longer the park also has some 238 camping pitches along with all the amenities to provide a comfortable over night stay.

Fort De Soto Cabin - TravelammoFort De Soto  is a truly unforgettable place and we recommend anyone visiting the Tampa bayClearwater-St Petersburg area find time to visit. Bring along a picnic or even a cooler full of meat, shrimp and fish to cook on one of the many onsite BBQ pits free to use, just don’t forget to pack the charcoal and please remember to clean up and dispose of the ashes carefully following the parks guidelines. For even bigger family gatherings there are also  picnic shelters with seating and BBQ areas although these need booking during peak times.

For the more active members of the group why not rent a Kayak and explore the mangroves, 7 miles of shoreline and inner bays on offer providing the perfect setting to leisurely paddle away. Bike rentals are also available should you want to explore on dry land.

Fort De Soto is located at 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 3371.

Driving times are approximately 45 minutes from central Tampa and 20 minutes from St, Petersburg.

  • Restrooms available.
  • Plentiful parking.
  • Bait, souvenirs and concessions.
  • Two Fishing piers.
  • Boat launch and floating docks ( Permits required ).
  • Suitable for all ages.
  • Dog restrictions in place ( Facilities provided ).

For more information, bookings and permits  please visit  Pinellas County Parks and Recreation.

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