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Big Pine Key, The "Old" Key

Replete with forests of overreaching pine trees and Key deer, Big Pine Key, or Big Pine is the largest key in the lower Florida Keys, consisting of 5,800 acres of lush land. Just southwest of Marathon, Big Pine Key reestablishes the feel to the Florida Keys, differing in population, ambience, pace, and geological makeup. The Big Pine Key area is accessible via the Seven Mile Bridge, known to some as the longest fishing pier in the world. This magnificent structure, which connects Marathon to Sunshine Key, crosses Pigeon Key, a tiny island boasting ecological research and marine science. Several local islands are neighbors and easily accessible from Big Pine Key. They include Little Torch Key, Ramrod Key, Summerland Key, Cudjoe Key, Sugarloaf Key, No Name Key, Bahia Honda Key, Sunshine Key, Little Pine Key, Little Spanish Key, Big Spanish Key, Big Torch Key, Water Keys, and Sawyer Key. Looe Key, part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and only accessible by boat, has become a popular diving site. The best public beaches can be found in the lower Florida Keys, as Big Pine Key has variety of smaller, white sandy retreats. The Bahia Honda State Park was recently named one of the top ten beaches in America. The exquisite coral reef, coupled with timeless and preserved wildlife, sets Big Pine Key apart from the rest. A quieter and less developed region than that of its neighbors, Big Pine Key attracts those wanting to explore the untouched natural beauty and unique plant and animal life, rarely extending beyond these borders. The preservation of Key Deer, residing at the National Key Deer Refuge, is a fascinating exhibition of the near-extinct miniature species. This 8,600 acre park is home to America’s smallest white-tailed deer, standing no taller than 3 feet at the shoulders and weighing less than 75 pounds. Prime deer-viewing time is at dawn when the park allows a limited number of animal enthusiasts to catch a glimpse of these endangered subspecies. Although calmer and more serene than the rest of the Florida Keys, the town of Big Pine Key represents the heart of the shopping district for all of the lower keys, including Key West. Looking into the Gulf of Mexico For the best fishing around, Big Pine has a variety of both saltwater and freshwater. Unlike any other key in the Florida Keys, the limestone rock foundation on Big Pine Key is oolitic, where fresh water can be found. Big Pine is the home to Blue Hole, a freshwater rock quarry pond where alligators and turtles rest near the shore and wading birds bask in the midday sun. Diving and snorkeling are some of the island’s favorites, as Big Pine Key proudly originates several charters and guided trips for a variety of water sports. From sea kayaking, canoeing, sightseeing tours, and sunset cruises, Big Pine offers unlimited aquatic entertainment. But the preserved beauty of the island lends itself to a host of adventures, including camping, nature trails, biking/hiking, guided tours, weddings, and honeymoon packages. The Jack C. Watson Nature Trail, located at mile marker 30 in the National Key Deer Refuge, is home to some of the most beautiful pine trees in the country. Pelicans, herons, egrets, and birds of every size and color can be enjoyed at the Great White Heron National Refuge. Big Pine Key offers unlimited dining, lodging, and entertainment. More affordable than nearby Key West, Big Pine Key has the very best in vacation rentals, including homes, apartments, duplex cabins, hotels/motels, Bed and Breakfasts, and cottages. From waterfront to country-front, many have spectacular views, large decks, canals, and boat docking facilities. Or, if you prefer an entire island to yourself, Little Palm Island, a five-acre tropical paradise features 14 waterfront two-suite bungalows, accentuated by gently swaying palm trees and cool island breezes. Regulars know to book in advance as these sought-after spots fill quickly! Quick Links in Big Pine Key Attractions Hotels Fishing Diving Boat Rentals Tours Camping Dining Vacation Rentals Bed and Breakfast Key Deer on Big Pine Key Getting to Big Pine Key is Easy By Car: Either traveling on busier Route 1 with “crocodile crossing” signs or Card Sound Road, a longer but more beautiful and scenic route to the Florida Keys, Big Pine Key is located only 20 miles from Marathon. By Air: With several domestic and international airports to choose from, Big Pine Key can be easily reached by travelers around the globe. Airport Name Airport Code Distance from Big Pine Key Airport Type Florida Keys Marathon Airport Monroe County Florida 9400 Overseas Hwy Marathon, FL 33050 MTH 20 miles southwest Domestic Key West International Airport 3491 S. Roosevelt Blvd Key West, FL EYW 28 miles southwest International Miami International Airport 4200 N.W. 21 Street Miami, FL MIA 132 miles northeast International Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport 320 Terminal Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL FLL 155 miles northeast International Enjoy Big Pine Key’s Yearly Climate Of the entire state of Florida, the Keys receive the lowest amount of average yearly rainfall. When it does rain, it comes in brief periods, often returning the skies to a beautiful, clear day for continued outdoor activities. As for brutal, humid, summer heat, you won’t find it in Big Pine Key. And hurricanes like to skirt around the Keys, leaving its beauty untarnished. With the ocean breeze to keep cool, visitors love the reliable, balmy climate of the Florida Keys. Season Average Ocean Temperature Average Rainfall Average High Temperature Average Low Temperature Jan – Mar 72°F 2 inches 76°F 66°F Apr – Jun 83°F 3 inches 84°F 74°F Jul – Sep 87°F 4 inches 88°F 78°F Oct – Dec 77°F 3 inches 80°F 71°F