Big Pine Key On a Budget
If you are yearning for a slice of paradise without the hustle and bustle of an ever-growing tourist population, the calm, turquoise waters and the untouched sands of Big Pine Key will surely do. Located 100 miles south of Miami and 30 miles north of Key West, this small community huddled in the family of Florida keys is often overlooked by many. However, Big Pine Key is truly a gem for all who seek a tropical vacation as activities like boating, fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling are found throughout the town. Besides its oceanic wonders, Big Pine Key also boasts in containing some of the United States' best seafood restaurants. Enjoy the aquatic wonders of the Keys and stop at Big Pine Key!Sights
A favorite destination for visitors, Bahia Honda State Park is truly a magnificent sight of how unbelievably gorgeous the Floridian tropics are. An award-winning beach and historic bridge, Bahia Honda is over 500 acres, and an offshore island offers favorite waterborne activities like snorkeling or beachcombing. Bahia Honda also has concession services, which offer a complete gift shop, snack bar, and kayak rentals. If you are looking to get the a full experience of Bahia Honda State Park, take a snorkeling tour to the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. No matter what you decide, you will find all your oceanic activities satisfied at Bahia Honda.Though Big Pine Key does not hold exquisite malls like some metropolitan areas, Big Pine Key does boast in having an incredibly large flea market. The Big Pine Key Flea Market was established in 1983, and provides customers with a variety of items at amazing deals. Sunglasses, local produce, local-made soups, fishing supplies--the Big Pine Key Flea Market holds a wide diversity of vendors. Some featured vendors include Hareen's Suncare and Hats, Steve's Tees, Tanks, and More, Splash Soap Co., Cheryl's in Paradise, and Nature's Treasures. Meet and greet the owners of these vendors and oogle away at their amazing products!
Activities
If you are looking to interact with Florida's wilderness, the National Key Deer Refuge should do nicely. Established in 1957 to protect and preserve in the national interest the Key deer, a miniature deer that is no bigger than an average dog, and other wildlife, the refuge includes 9,200 acres of land, which are not limited to pine rockland forests, tropical hardwood hammocks, freshwater wetlands, salt marsh wetlands, and mangrove forests. Home to hundreds of animal and plant species, with many of them endangered or threatened, the refuge allows for its visitors to partake in a wide array of activities, including saltwater fishing, wildlife observation and photography, interpretation, and environmental education. Explore and appreciate nature's beauty at the National Key Deer Refuge!If you are yearning for a slight diversion from the magnificent shorelines and friendly gift shops, you can always stop at Blue Hole Freshwater Lake. Sitting in the middle Big Pine Key, abandoned rocks from Henry Flagler's railroad company formed a quarry creating Blue Hole long ago. Take a refreshing swim in the lake, and be sure to admire the rich wildlife around you, which includes large invasive iguanas, tropical birds, various snakes, and reptiles, and the well-known Florida alligator.
Food and Dining
Prop your sandy toes up and unwind at Springer's Bar and Grill. Known for a mouth-watering menu and friendly service, Springer's was happy to accept the Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor in 2015. From seafood to pizza, Springer's has a wide variety that will surely surprise you. Besides its family-friendly atmosphere, Springer's also ensures to provide a show with their meal, often featuring local musicians on the outside patio. Some of their best dishes include their duval street pot pie, lobster bisque, and blackened fish sandwich. Get full and have fun at Springer's!Transportation
Both taxis and shuttles are provided in Big Pine Key for either short or long distances. Some taxis in the community have even been known to provide delivery services for some of Big Pine Key's tastiest restaurants. Bike rental services are also found throughout the town due to its many bicycle paths. However, for bicycle enthusiasts and amateurs alike, be sure to research the areas you intend to travel as construction has been known to obstruct many of these pathways. Besides all these methods of transportation, just like with any town, Big Pine Key provides rental car services as well near its airport. Be sure to get the most out of your time at Big Pine Key!Related:
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Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.