The Florida Keys, a mesmerizing chain of islands stretching over 125 miles off the southern tip of Florida, have always been a magnet for honeymooners. Imagine lounging on pristine sands with the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean as your soundtrack or exploring coral reefs teeming with life while basking in the warmth of the sun. But the true magic of a Florida Keys honeymoon lies in discovering those hidden beaches that offer not just beauty, but solitude and intimacy. In this guide, I’m going to take you on a journey to five secret beaches in the Florida Keys, each offering a unique experience that promises to make your honeymoon unforgettable.
Bahia Honda State Park Is the Perfect Honeymoon Spot
Bahia Honda State Park, situated on Big Pine Key, is a must-visit for couples seeking a romantic and tranquil retreat. This park is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Florida Keys, with Sandspur Beach and Calusa Beach being standout spots. The fine white sand here is the result of centuries of coral breaking down into powder, and the waters are a mesmerizing turquoise, typical of the Caribbean.
One of the things that makes Bahia Honda so special is its expansive 3.5-mile beach, which offers plenty of room to find your private slice of paradise. The sand stretches over 18,000 square meters, providing ample space for sunbathing and relaxation. The shallow waters are perfect for swimming, with an average depth of just 1.5 meters (about 5 feet), making it ideal for wading and floating together.
For those who enjoy exploring nature, Bahia Honda offers several trails that wind through the park’s 524 acres. The Silver Palm Trail, although just 0.3 miles long, provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural flora of the Keys. This trail is home to the rare silver palm, a tree that’s almost exclusive to this area. The elevation along the trail reaches a mere 3 meters (about 10 feet) above sea level, but this is enough to offer breathtaking views of the surrounding waters.
Kayaking is another fantastic activity here. You can rent a kayak for around $20 per hour and paddle through the calm, crystal-clear waters, where visibility often exceeds 20 meters (65 feet). This gives you a great chance to see marine life such as nurse sharks, sea turtles, and various species of rays up close.
As evening falls, Bahia Honda becomes one of the best spots in the Keys to witness a sunset. The unobstructed western horizon allows for a perfect view of the sun as it sinks into the Gulf of Mexico, painting the sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple. These sunsets are best enjoyed from the Old Bahia Honda Bridge, an abandoned railway bridge that now serves as a viewing platform. It’s the perfect place to share a quiet moment with your partner as you watch the day end in spectacular fashion.
For more information, you can contact Bahia Honda State Park at:
– Address: 36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043
– Phone: +1 (305) 872-2353
– Website: Florida State Parks – Bahia Honda
Long Key State Park Offers a Hidden Gem for Honeymooners
Long Key State Park, located on Long Key, is an under-the-radar gem that offers couples a peaceful escape from the busier parts of the Florida Keys. This park, encompassing 965 acres, is a sanctuary for nature lovers, with its quiet beaches and diverse ecosystems.
The beach at Long Key is a true hidden treasure, stretching over 1.1 kilometers (about 0.7 miles) and offering soft sands that are often devoid of other visitors. The waters here are shallow, with an average depth of around 1 meter (about 3 feet), making it perfect for a leisurely swim. The beach’s gentle slope into the water creates a safe and inviting environment for relaxation.
Long Key is also known for its unique hiking trails. The Golden Orb Trail, a 2.4-kilometer (1.5-mile) loop, takes you through several distinct habitats, including mangrove swamps and coastal berms. These ecosystems are rich with wildlife, from the colorful roseate spoonbill to the elusive Key deer, a species unique to the Florida Keys. The trail is well-marked and offers plenty of benches where you can sit and take in the beauty of your surroundings.
For couples who enjoy kayaking, Long Key offers some of the best paddling opportunities in the Keys. The park’s waters are protected by the surrounding coral reefs, resulting in calm, clear waters that are perfect for exploring. Renting a kayak costs around $30 for a half-day, and it’s worth every penny. You can paddle through the mangrove channels, where the water is so clear that you can see the fish swimming below, or venture out into the open ocean for a more adventurous experience.
Picnicking is another activity that’s well-suited to Long Key. The park offers several picnic areas with grills and tables, many of which are shaded by palm trees. Packing a picnic and spending the day on the beach is a great way to enjoy each other’s company while surrounded by nature. The sea breeze and the sound of the waves create a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic meal.
As the day draws to a close, Long Key offers some of the most serene sunsets in the Keys. The lack of development in the area means there’s little light pollution, allowing you to watch the sunset in near-total silence, broken only by the sound of the waves. The sky here often turns a deep, fiery red as the sun sets, creating a dramatic and unforgettable scene.
For more information, you can contact Long Key State Park at:
– Address: 67400 Overseas Highway, Layton, FL 33001
– Phone: +1 (305) 664-4815
– Website: Florida State Parks – Long Key
Anne’s Beach Offers a Unique Experience for Honeymooners
Anne’s Beach, located on Lower Matecumbe Key, is a small but charming beach that offers a unique and intimate experience for honeymooners. The beach is named after Anne Eaton, a local environmentalist who dedicated her life to preserving the natural beauty of the Keys. Today, Anne’s Beach remains a testament to her efforts, offering a quiet retreat away from the more tourist-heavy areas.
What sets Anne’s Beach apart is its shallow waters, which stretch out for over 200 meters (about 656 feet) from the shore. This makes it an ideal spot for wading and relaxing in the warm waters of the Atlantic. The beach itself is relatively narrow, measuring about 150 meters (492 feet) in length, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in charm and tranquility.
The scenic boardwalk that winds through the mangroves is one of the highlights of Anne’s Beach. This wooden walkway is 800 meters (about 2,625 feet) long and offers stunning views of the coastline as well as several access points to the beach. Along the way, you’ll find small, shaded picnic areas where you can sit and enjoy a snack while taking in the view. The boardwalk is also a great place for a leisurely stroll with your partner, offering plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as herons, pelicans, and even the occasional manatee.
For those who enjoy water activities, Anne’s Beach is a popular spot for kiteboarding. The consistent winds and shallow waters create ideal conditions for this exciting sport. Even if you’re not participating, watching the colorful kites dance across the sky can be a mesmerizing experience. The sight of the kites soaring above the turquoise waters adds a splash of color and energy to the tranquil setting.
Anne’s Beach is also a great spot for snorkeling. Although the waters here are not as deep or as clear as some other locations in the Keys, they are still home to a variety of marine life, including small fish, crabs, and occasionally stingrays. The best time to snorkel is during high tide when the water is clearest, and visibility can reach up to 10 meters (about 33 feet).
If you’re planning to stay until evening, Anne’s Beach offers some of the most stunning sunsets in the Keys. The western-facing beach provides an unobstructed view of the sunset, and as the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted with vibrant colors. This is the perfect time to spread out a blanket, cuddle up with your partner, and watch as the day fades into night.
For more information, you can contact the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce, which oversees tourism in the area:
– Address: 87100 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036
– Phone: +1 (305) 664-4503
– Website: Islamorada Chamber of Commerce
Dry Tortugas National Park Is an Alluring Destination for Couples
Dry Tortugas National Park, located 113 kilometers (about 70 miles) west of Key West, is one of the most remote and pristine destinations in the Florida Keys. This park, covering 262 square kilometers (about 101 square miles), is home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fortress, as well as some of the clearest waters and most vibrant coral reefs in the region.
Getting to Dry Tortugas is an adventure in itself. The Yankee Freedom III ferry departs from Key West and takes about 2.5 hours to reach the park. The ferry ride costs around $190 per person, and this includes breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, and
a guided tour of Fort Jefferson. For a more unique experience, you can opt for a seaplane ride, which takes about 40 minutes each way and costs approximately $361 per person. The seaplane offers stunning aerial views of the coral reefs and the park’s seven small islands.
Once you arrive at Dry Tortugas, you’ll be greeted by a landscape that feels untouched by time. The park’s beaches are pristine, with powdery white sand and clear, warm waters that are perfect for snorkeling. The coral reefs around the park are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional nurse shark. The visibility underwater is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters (about 100 feet), making it a snorkeler’s paradise.
Exploring Fort Jefferson is another highlight of a visit to Dry Tortugas. This massive fortress, constructed from over 16 million bricks, covers an area of 16 acres (about 6.5 hectares) and is one of the largest masonry structures in the Americas. The fort was built to protect the Gulf of Mexico and played a key role in the Civil War. Today, it stands as a testament to American history, with its walls rising 14 meters (about 45 feet) above the sea. Walking through the fort’s corridors and climbing its walls provides a fascinating glimpse into the past and offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean.
For couples who enjoy outdoor activities, Dry Tortugas offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. In addition to snorkeling and swimming, you can explore the park’s hiking trails, which take you through mangroves and along the shoreline. The Garden Key Trail, a 1.5-kilometer (about 1-mile) loop, offers a peaceful walk with views of the fort and the surrounding waters. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, consider camping at Dry Tortugas. The park offers a small, primitive campground with 10 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a grill. Camping fees are $15 per night, and reservations are required due to the limited number of sites. Spending the night on this remote island, with nothing but the sound of the waves and the sight of the Milky Way above, is an experience you’ll never forget.
For more information, you can contact the National Park Service at:
– Address: P.O. Box 6208, Key West, FL 33041-6208
– Phone: +1 (305) 242-7700
– Website: National Park Service – Dry Tortugas
Little Palm Island Offers the Ultimate Private Beach Experience
Little Palm Island, located off the coast of Little Torch Key, is the epitome of luxury and exclusivity. This private island resort, accessible only by boat or seaplane, offers an unparalleled experience for couples seeking the ultimate romantic getaway. With just 30 thatched-roof bungalows, the resort offers an intimate setting where you can focus entirely on each other.
As soon as you arrive at Little Palm Island, you’ll be struck by the island’s natural beauty. The resort’s bungalows are nestled among swaying palm trees and lush tropical gardens, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Each bungalow covers an area of about 50 square meters (around 538 square feet) and is designed with privacy in mind. The interiors feature luxurious furnishings, including king-sized beds, oversized soaking tubs, and outdoor showers. Each bungalow also has a private patio or deck where you can relax and enjoy the sound of the waves.
One of the most appealing aspects of Little Palm Island is its no-phone, no-TV policy, which encourages guests to disconnect from the outside world and focus on each other. This makes it an ideal destination for honeymooners who want to truly unwind and spend quality time together without distractions. The island’s tranquil atmosphere is further enhanced by its stunning beaches, which are often empty, allowing you to enjoy the sand and sea in complete privacy.
The resort offers a variety of activities and experiences designed to enhance your stay. For those who want to explore the surrounding waters, snorkeling and diving trips can be arranged. The coral reefs around the island are teeming with marine life, and visibility often exceeds 20 meters (about 65 feet), making it a snorkeler’s paradise. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the island’s coastline at your own pace. The calm, clear waters are perfect for paddling, and you might even spot a dolphin or two along the way.
For couples who prefer to stay on land, Little Palm Island offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort’s luxurious spa, the SpaTerre, offers a range of treatments, from massages to facials, all designed to help you unwind and feel pampered. The spa’s signature treatment, the Javanese Lulur, is a 140-minute ritual that includes a massage, body scrub, and flower bath, leaving you feeling completely refreshed.
Dining at Little Palm Island is an experience in itself. The resort’s waterfront restaurant, The Dining Room, offers a menu of gourmet cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced seafood. The restaurant’s wine list features over 100 selections, ensuring the perfect pairing for your meal. For a truly romantic experience, you can arrange for a private beachside dinner, where you’ll be served a multi-course meal under the stars, with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack.
If you’re looking to make your honeymoon even more special, consider booking one of the resort’s honeymoon packages. These packages often include a range of romantic extras, such as champagne upon arrival, couples’ spa treatments, and private boat charters for exploring the surrounding waters. The Romance Package, for example, includes a four-night stay in a bungalow, a private dinner on the beach, and a sunset cruise, all for a price starting at $6,000.
For more information, you can contact Little Palm Island Resort & Spa at:
– Address: 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, FL 33042
– Phone: +1 (305) 872-2524
– Website: Little Palm Island Resort & Spa
FAQs
What makes Bahia Honda State Park ideal for honeymooners?
Bahia Honda State Park offers expansive, uncrowded beaches, clear waters perfect for swimming and kayaking, and breathtaking sunsets that provide the perfect romantic setting for couples.
How do I reach Dry Tortugas National Park from Key West?
You can reach Dry Tortugas National Park by taking the Yankee Freedom III ferry, which costs around $190 per person and takes 2.5 hours, or by seaplane, which costs approximately $361 per person and takes about 40 minutes.
What activities are available at Long Key State Park?
Long Key State Park offers activities such as hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and picnicking. The Golden Orb Trail is a popular hike that takes you through diverse ecosystems, and the calm waters are perfect for paddling.
Is Little Palm Island worth the cost for a honeymoon?
Yes, Little Palm Island offers a luxurious and private experience with top-notch amenities, making it worth the cost for couples looking to celebrate a special occasion in style.
What is unique about Anne’s Beach in the Florida Keys?
Anne’s Beach is known for its shallow waters, scenic boardwalk, and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a peaceful, laid-back beach experience.
Can you camp at Dry Tortugas National Park?
Yes, Dry Tortugas National Park offers primitive camping with 10 campsites available. Reservations are required, and the cost is $15 per night.
Conclusion
Choosing the right beaches for your honeymoon is crucial for creating an unforgettable experience. The Florida Keys offer a range of hidden gems that provide the perfect backdrop for romance, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the tranquil shores of Bahia Honda State Park, discovering the hidden beauty of Long Key State Park, enjoying the unique charm of Anne’s Beach, immersing yourself in the adventure at Dry Tortugas National Park, or indulging in luxury at Little Palm Island, these destinations promise to make your honeymoon in the Florida Keys a truly magical experience. So pack your bags, and get ready to discover the ultimate honeymoon bliss in the Florida Keys.
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