Big Pine Key offers an unparalleled blend of stunning natural beauty, rare wildlife encounters, and serene beaches, making it the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Tucked away in the nearby town of Marathon, our premier vacation rentals provide the perfect home base for exploring the breadth that all the Florida Keys have to offer, including Summerland Key, Duck Key, Cudjoe Key, No Name Key, Sugarloaf Key, Stock Island, and of course, Big Pine Key.
With unique attractions, such as the National Key Deer Refuge and Bahia Honda State Park, visitors to Big Pine Key are overjoyed to experience a peaceful paradise that feels worlds away from the ordinary.
Why visit Big Pine Key? This guide reveals what makes it special, including pristine beaches, rare wildlife, and stunning views. Discover what awaits you in Big Pine Key.
What Makes Big Pine Key Worth Visiting?
Photo Credit: Andreas Vogel
For starters, Big Pine Key is a treasure trove of natural wonders and unique attractions that set it apart from the other Florida Keys.
Famous for its pristine beaches and lush landscapes, Big Pine Key offers swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking on some of the region’s most beautiful beaches.
The island’s natural beauty is complemented by the diverse wildlife, including the endangered Key deer, which is unique to the lower Florida Keys. Freshwater ponds provide peaceful settings to observe birds and alligators.
There are also some quirky attractions to enjoy all over the island, such as Grimal Grove’s tropical fruit tours. Perfect for those with a taste for the exotic, these tours provide the delightful experience of tasting unique fruits like breadfruit.
The Scenic Drive From Marathon to Big Pine Key, FL
If you’re staying in Marathon or Key Colony Beach, the drive to Big Pine Key promises a scenic treat.
The route is delightful, winding through the picturesque lower Florida Keys. In about 30 minutes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the natural beauty and the peaceful ambiance of Big Pine Key.
With stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself.
Best Things To Do in Pine Key on a Day Trip
Big Pine Key is perfect for day-trippers seeking adventure and relaxation. The island offers a variety of attractions that cater to all interests, from wildlife enthusiasts to water sports lovers.
Explore the National Key Deer Refuge
Photo Credit: Teddy Attarian
The National Key Deer Refuge is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Established in 1957, this refuge was created to protect the endangered Key deer and their habitats. These small, spritely deer are native to the lower Keys and are the smallest subspecies of the white-tailed deer in the world.
Walking through the national wildlife refuges, you’ll be charmed by these gentle creatures as they roam freely in their natural environment.
The refuge encompasses a diverse array of habitats, including pine rockland forests and mangrove ecosystems, providing a rich landscape to explore. There are viewing platforms in several serene locations that provide excellent opportunities for watching wildlife.
Have Kayaking Adventures on Big Pine Key
Kayaking in Big Pine Key is an unmissable adventure. Half and full-day kayaking tours are available to take you through the stunning backcountry waters of the island.
These tours are not just about paddling kayaks; they are an educational journey through the natural history of the Florida Keys. Navigating through the mangroves, you’ll spot diverse marine life and learn about the unique ecosystems of the lower Keys.
Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or a beginner, guided kayaking tours offer a blend of adventure and education, making them a top activity for outdoor enthusiasts in Big Pine Key.
Go Snorkeling at Looe Key Reef
Photo Credit: Lucia.Pinto
Located near Big Pine Key, Looe Key Reef is a snorkeling paradise. Known for its vibrant, colorful coral formations and abundant marine life, this reef offers an underwater experience like no other in the Keys.
Snorkeling trips depart daily from outfitters on Big Pine Key, with morning and afternoon start times available to easily fit into your day trip itinerary.
Snorkeling tour operators usually provide all the necessary snorkeling gear, ensuring you have a hassle-free experience. Certified staff are on hand to ensure your safety, allowing you to relax and enjoy the reef’s beauty.
Swimming alongside colorful fish and exploring coral gardens highlights the natural beauty of the Florida Keys waters.
Visit Bahia Honda State Park
Photo Credit: Simon Dannhauer
Renowned for its stunning beaches and recreational activities, Bahia Honda State Park is a jewel of the Florida Keys.
Loggerhead Beach is perfect for swimming and picnicking, thanks to its calm waters. For sunbathing and relaxation, Sandspur Beach offers natural beauty and a serene environment.
Snorkeling is another popular activity at Bahia Honda, offering opportunities to explore marine life directly off the beach. Snorkel gear is available for rent, making it easy for visitors to access the underwater world.
If you fancy a night under the stars, consider camping at one of Bahia Honda’s campgrounds.
Whether swimming, snorkeling, or lounging on the beach, Bahia Honda State Park is a must-visit destination in Big Pine Key.
Scenic Drives on the Overseas Highway
Photo Credit: Mia2you
The Overseas Highway drive is an experience in itself. Stretching for 113 miles from Miami to Key West, it connects all the Keys via 42 bridges, offering spectacular views along the way.
The journey typically takes about 3.5 hours, but with so many picturesque spots to explore, you’ll want to take your time.
Don’t forget to take a photo with the iconic Mile Marker 0 in Key West. It marks the official end of U.S. Route 1, which runs all the way from the Canadian border at Fort Kent, Maine, 2,369 miles away.
The Seven Mile Bridge, known for its stunning vistas, is a highlight of the Overseas Highway. As you cruise along, you’ll be treated to breathtaking landscapes of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
Whether you’re heading to Key West or just exploring the lower Keys, the Overseas Highway is one of the most scenic road trips in the continental United States, and it’s not to be missed.
Discover the Blue Hole
The Blue Hole stands out as a unique attraction in Big Pine Key. Once a limestone quarry, it now features layers of freshwater above saltwater, creating a distinctive aquatic lake environment.
An excellent spot for nature enthusiasts, the Blue Hole offers opportunities to observe a diverse range of wildlife, including Key deer, alligators, and various fish species. It’s also incredibly picturesque.
Admission to the Blue Hole is free, making it a quick and accessible stop for visitors. Most people spend around 20 minutes here, taking in the serene surroundings and the diverse ecosystem.
Whether you’re exploring on your own or with family, the Blue Hole is a fascinating glimpse into the natural world of Big Pine Key.
Explore Shopping and Dining in Big Pine Key
Big Pine Key offers a delightful shopping and dining experience. Notable spots include:
- No Name Pub, known for its unique atmosphere and a variety of American pub fare.
- Big Pine Rooster, popular for its friendly service and a diverse menu.
- Coco’s Kitchen, a must-visit for those who enjoy Mexican and Latin cuisine.
The Big Pine Key Flea Market is an excellent stop for shoppers during the peak season. You’ll find vendors selling souvenirs, vintage clothes, handmade crafts, and freshly-prepared food. The market typically operates on weekends from November to April.
Dining on fresh seafood or browsing handmade crafts, Big Pine Key’s shopping and dining scene offers something for everyone.
Take A Day-Cation to Florida Big Pine Key
Big Pine Key is a unique destination in the Florida Keys, offering a blend of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation.
While staying at our lovely Marathon, Florida vacation rentals, you can savor the best of the Lower Keys with ease. Our homes are fully-equipped with everything you need for a 5-star stay.
Search for turtles, have some fun in the sun, and hop from state park to private beach on this excellent day trip from Marathon to Big Pine Key.
