Message: As I posted in "Key West Itinerary", I will be stopping in Bahai Honda on my way to KW. Are there any must sees/ a certain beach that I should go to? I am not interested in snorkling, just heard that this is the best beach in the keys. I have been on the website www.bahiahondapark.com already, didnt find what i am looking for.

Thanks
JC

I have been to KW on a number of occasions and driven through the Bahia Honda area but not stopped there. I did look at the website you referenced - if what you seek is not shown there, don't expend the time or energy to stop. The keys in general are nto known for beaches - Bahia Honda gets mentioned in KW discussiosn regularly because for those travelign to the Keys who DO want a beach experience, it's one of the only good options. Compared to well knwon beach destinations it's probably unimpressive but compared to the beach areas available in KW it's good (so I'm told). KW has lots of appeal - the lackof beach areas is a non-issue for most of us. BTW, I didn't reply to you original KW post but your itinerary is good - very realistic in that you're not trying to squeeze in too much too quick. The laid back and relaxed pace of KW is a major draw - best to enjoy it.

I'm sure a large part of the reason Bahia Honda gets the press it does is that is is a nifty park. There are really two beach areas: One (oft-missed) on the ocean side, and one a bit grubbier near the concession building/inlet.

They also have campsites, and a half-dozen or so condos to rent. If you do stop, drive all the way around and take a good look.

Another, lesser-known, beach is Sombrero Beach. It's a Marathon City Park, and we've always enjoyed the stop. Midweek, it's near-deserted, at least in the early part of the day. As you come into town from the north, keep going till you see the K-mart. Turn left there, and go back 1.5-2 miles. It's on your left and free.

We tried stopping in at Bahia Honda on our way to KW on March 27. I say tried because we couldn't get in - the parking lot was full and cars weren't being let in past the gate house. Granted, it was close to noon by the time we got there and that is a busy Spring Break week. But, you may want to ensure you get there early.

I have been to Bahia Honda many times over the years, beginning in college and more recently with my husband and two children. It is an unspoiled beach, nature at its best. when you drive into the park, bear left (go north) for my favorite area. Wading in the water, you will be greeted by all sorts of sea life. Don't expect a Miami or Jersey shore type of beach, just the beach the way nature inteneded. Very beautiful and serene. Have fun.

Your posts have been very helpful, thank you!

Many, many years ago I used to camp at Bahia Honda, so I have a soft spot in my heart for the place. However, other than natural beauty, there's not much to warrant a stop there (no restaurants, no hotels, etc.) Plus, like someone above said, it can get real crowded real quick (It's a small key.) The best way to experience Bahia Honda, in my opnion, is at sunset - walk out on the old bridge and watch the sun slowly fade away as the ocean flows below you.