Calusa Beach
Serene beach in Bahia Honda State Park, known for calm waters, historic bridge views, and excellent snorkeling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Calusa Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Serene beach in Bahia Honda State Park, known for calm waters, historic bridge views, and excellent snorkeling.
"Escape to Calusa Beach for crystal-clear waters and pristine sands without a hint of seagrass."
Bring Your Own Gear
No chair or umbrella rentals here! Pack your own for maximum comfort. :beach_umbrella:
Water Shoes Recommended
The rocky bottom and sea grass make water shoes a smart choice for comfortable wading. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Bridge Views
Overlooking Florida Bay
Marvel at the iconic old railway bridge, a stunning backdrop for photos and drone shots.
Calm Waters for Snorkeling
Calusa Beach shoreline
Discover vibrant marine life in the clear, shallow waters, perfect for beginner snorkelers.
Rocky Shoreline Exploration
Calusa Beach
Explore the unique rocky areas, teeming with hermit crabs and small fish, ideal for curious minds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Embrace the Natural Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Gear
No chair or umbrella rentals here! Pack your own for maximum comfort. :beach_umbrella:
Water Shoes Recommended
The rocky bottom and sea grass make water shoes a smart choice for comfortable wading. :athletic_shoe:
Drone Photography Spot
The old bridge offers fantastic drone photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Snorkel for Small Wonders
Plenty of small fish and hermit crabs near the rocks and jetty. :fish:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Gear
No chair or umbrella rentals here! Pack your own for maximum comfort. :beach_umbrella:
Water Shoes Recommended
The rocky bottom and sea grass make water shoes a smart choice for comfortable wading. :athletic_shoe:
Drone Photography Spot
The old bridge offers fantastic drone photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Snorkel for Small Wonders
Plenty of small fish and hermit crabs near the rocks and jetty. :fish:
BBQ Grills Available
Pack a picnic and utilize the available BBQ grills for a delightful beachside meal. :hamburger:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Calusa Beach is praised for its clear, calm waters, less seagrass than other local beaches, and the stunning views of the historic railway bridge. Visitors appreciate the convenient amenities like restrooms and showers, and the opportunity for snorkeling. However, some note that it can get crowded on weekends and that chair/umbrella rentals are unavailable.
"If you're looking to escape the bustling beaches of Key West, this is your ultimate getaway! Picture crystal-clear waters and pristine sands without a hint of seagrass. You’ll find convenient bathrooms and parking right at your fingertips. Just a little tip: while alcohol is not permitted, sneaking in some drinks in cans is totally fine! Plus, you can fire up the grill because BBQ is allowed! Get ready for a perfect day of sun and fun in paradise!"
Antony Mendoza
"We visited on a Wednesday in late December 2024 (Christmas Day). They were open. We arrived around 10AM and there were 3 cars waiting in front of us at the gate and plenty of parking in the parking lot by Calusa Beach (facing Florida Bay/to the North). We heard this was the best place to snorkel. We did hike up the bridge and at least see Loggerhead Beach.
They weren't wrong about the snorkeling. While we didn't try the other beaches, there were plenty of small fish in the rocks by what I think is a small jetty. Many people were walking on top of it to take pictures but there were enough fish here to keep my kids entertained for the better part of an hour. The water was clear. There were a lot of hermit crabs as well on the rocks. If you went to the end of the jetty you have to be more carful as it gets pretty deep pretty quick 8-10 ft. Also boats and coming in and out of the marina and not all are following the rules.
The Calusa Beach was great with great sand and relatively flat. They have a number of picnic benches with pergolas. Some have seen better days however. There was shade available too with trees. We had a great day here. The water was a little colder than we would've liked but the sun was out. Younger kids didn't stay in water long and mostly played on the beach. There were some people throwing around balls which some came pretty close to us when they missed. It wasn't what I call super crowded but I can only imagine what this might be like on a very packed day. I don't think I'd want to be here.
The bathrooms were also pretty nice. They had a number of outdoor showers although some worked better than others and access here was all concrete so easier for wheelchairs and strollers.
Overall we enjoyed our trip to this beach for the first time. We wish we had more time and would definitely come back. There are other hikes we really wanted to do and also explore the other beaches on the ocean side like Loggerhead Beach and Sandspur Beach."
David L.
"Nice state park with three beaches to choose from. All have lots of sea grass on the shore. Calusa beach had the least amount of sea grass. The water area is full of rocks so water shoes are handy. Can also rent beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkel gear. Concession stand with ice cream is nice. There is a walking path to the old train bridge."
Gayle Nowakowski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calusa Beach is located within Bahia Honda State Park on Big Pine Key, Florida Keys. It's about an hour north of Key West and three hours south of Miami. The park has a clear entrance fee, and parking is available near the beach.
Yes, Calusa Beach offers convenient parking and access. The pathways are concrete, making it easier for wheelchairs and strollers. [^Review]
From Miami, take US-1 South towards Key West. Bahia Honda State Park will be on your right. From Key West, take US-1 North. The park entrance is well-marked.
No, Calusa Beach is located inside Bahia Honda State Park, so you will need to pay the park's entrance fee to access it.
Public transportation options are limited in the Florida Keys. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Calusa Beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Calusa Beach is part of Bahia Honda State Park, which has an entrance fee per vehicle. The fee typically covers access to all beaches and amenities within the park. Check the official Bahia Honda State Park website for current pricing.
Alcohol is not permitted, but canned beverages are generally accepted. BBQ grills are available for use. [^Review]
Calusa Beach is open during the operating hours of Bahia Honda State Park. It's advisable to check the park's official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays. [^Review]
Unfortunately, there are no chair or umbrella rentals available at Bahia Honda State Park, including Calusa Beach. It's recommended to bring your own.
Yes, there is parking available at Calusa Beach. Arriving early, especially on weekends or holidays, is recommended to secure a spot. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
The old railway bridge offers a dramatic backdrop for photos, especially at sunset. The rocky shoreline and clear waters also provide beautiful scenic shots.
Yes, the old bridge is a popular spot for drone photography, offering unique aerial perspectives of the coastline and the historic structure.
Sunset is particularly stunning at Calusa Beach, offering beautiful golden hour light. Morning light is also great for capturing the clear waters.
The juxtaposition of the old bridge against the natural beauty of the beach and the water creates many unique photo opportunities.
Yes, the shallow waters are home to small fish and hermit crabs, offering opportunities for close-up nature photography. [^Review]
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
Calusa Beach is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The calm waters and rocky areas are great for exploring marine life. [^Review]
Yes, many visitors find Calusa Beach to be excellent for snorkeling, with plenty of small fish visible near the rocks and jetty. [^Review]
Calusa Beach has calm, shallow waters and a sandy shoreline with some rocky areas. It generally has less seagrass compared to other beaches in the park.
Yes, there are restrooms and outdoor showers available at Calusa Beach, which are generally well-maintained. [^Review]
Crowd levels can vary. Weekdays and mornings are less crowded, while weekends and holidays can become quite busy. [^Review]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With convenient restrooms, showers, and picnic tables with grills, families can easily spend a full day here. The accessibility of the beach also makes it easier to manage strollers and younger children. While there are no playgrounds, the natural environment provides plenty of opportunities for active play and discovery. [^Review]
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the bridge, the clear waters, sandy shores, and rocky outcrops provide diverse subjects for photography. Drone enthusiasts can capture unique aerial perspectives of the coastline and the historic structure. The marine life in the shallow waters also presents opportunities for close-up nature shots.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1It's an ideal spot for a picnic lunch, with grills available, or a refreshing swim. For those on a tighter schedule, it offers a taste of the Keys' natural beauty without requiring a full day's commitment. Remember to factor in the park entrance fee and potential crowds if visiting on a weekend. [^Review]
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bahia Honda State Park's Beaches
+1Bahia Honda State Park is a gem in the Florida Keys, and its beaches are a major draw. Calusa Beach, facing Florida Bay, is often praised for its tranquility and the picturesque views of the historic bridge. It's a great spot for families and those seeking a more relaxed beach day. The park's commitment to preserving its natural environment means you'll find a more untouched, authentic beach experience compared to some of the more developed Keys locations.
When planning your visit, consider that Bahia Honda State Park is a popular destination. While Calusa Beach is often cited as having less seagrass than other areas, it's still a natural environment. Bringing water shoes is a good idea due to the rocky areas. The park also offers opportunities for hiking, including a walk on the old bridge, and a butterfly sanctuary, making it a well-rounded nature destination. [^Review]
Snorkeling and Marine Life at Calusa Beach
The rocky areas and the jetty create natural habitats for marine creatures. While it might not rival world-renowned snorkeling destinations, the accessibility and abundance of small sea life make it a worthwhile experience. The water clarity is generally good, allowing for easy viewing of the underwater world. Remember to be mindful of boat traffic near the marina and follow any posted guidelines. [^Review]
For the best snorkeling experience, consider exploring the areas around the rocks and the end of the jetty. While the water can get deeper quickly past the jetty, the shallower sections are perfect for observing the local marine ecosystem. It's a great way to add an extra layer of discovery to your beach day at Calusa Beach. [^Review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit