Frequently asked Questions about the Area & the Houses


How long does it take to drive to Big Pine Key?
It typically takes about 2.5 hours from Miami, 4.5 hours from Ft Myers, and 6 hours from Orlando to drive to the San Marco Houses. You're encouraged to relax and enjoy the scenic, casual drive, surrounded by blue water along US 1 in the Keys.
Is there access to the area by Plane?
Marathon and Key West airports are each within 30 miles and offer commercial flights via Cape Air (and perhaps others?). Private facilities can also be accommodated at either of these fields.
What are available facilities for my boat?
There is a 30 foot dock (with up to 60 ft of mooring) at the North House. There is a 40 foot dock (with up to 60 ft of mooring) at the South House and a 20 foot dock (with additional mooring) at the Bungalow. All docks have electric and water facilities. The canal is 40 feet wide and has a draft of approximately 10 feet. The entrance to the canal has a draft of 4 feet at low tide. Fuel and a small ship's store is less than a half mile away at the Old Wooden Bridge Marina.
Are there areas that provide good bicycling or jogging?
Because Big Pine Key is home to its own protected species of deer, all speed limits are reduced, and closely monitored on the island. Slow car speeds and small rural roads provide excellent walking, running and biking throughout the 3 by 15 mile island. In addition, the San Marco House is a five-minute ride to the No Name Key Bridge, across which you can get a close, first hand look at these deer, especially in the evenings. An excellent five-mile circuit would take you to the end of No Name Key, and back.
What are some recommended boating destinations?
A must see is the famous Looe Key Preserve. Either in your own boat, or by local charter, Looe Key is about a 5-mile run and provides some of the best snorkeling and diving anywhere. Be sure tie your boat to the designated buoys, no anchors are allowed in the preserve.
Some excellent deep-water fishing starts just off the Atlantic ledge approximately 3 miles from shore.
In shore species from bonefish to snappers can be found throughout the backcountry. The famous Content Keys provide excellent lobster diving and snorkeling during the season. Access to these fertile grounds is via Spanish Channel, within view of the San Marco Houses.
Venture to the Gulf Side and explore the Content and the Sawyer Keys and the many backwater opportunities. The water is crystal clear and ideal for stalking your catch.
What other activities can you recommend in the area?
Key West provides excellent shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. Take a casual 30 mile drive south to the famous Duval Street. Rent mopeds, see the southern most point in the continental US, and bring a camera for some incredible sunsets on Mallory Square.
On the trip into, or out of the Keys, make a quick stop for an ice cream bar at Robbie's Marina on the North side of US 1 at mile marker 77. While there, buy a bucket of sardines to hand feed the giant tarpon that hang out at the marina docks.
Worldwide Sports, mile marker 81 is a "candy store" for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The kids will enjoy the huge fish tanks showcasing some of the same sport fish we all chase.
While on Big Pine Key, an evening cocktail at any one of the local watering holes will introduce you to the laid back lifestyle of the Keys. Be prepared for lively conversation with some of our interesting locals.