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 our houses.  You’re encouraged to relax and enjoy the scenic ride across the casual bridges across the blue water of US 1 in the Keys.

Is there access to the area by Plane?

• Marathon Airport and Key West Airport are each within 30 miles and offer commercial flights via Cape Air and Delta (and perhaps others?).  Private facilities can also be accommodated at either of these fields.

What are available facilities for my boat?

• There are 20 and 40 foot docks (with up to 60 ft of mooring), with electric and water facilities behind the houses.  Draft is 4 feet at low tide.  Fuel and a small ship’s store is less than a half mile away at Old Wooden Bridge and Big Pine Fishing Camp.

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.  In addition, our houses are 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 to tie the 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 our house.

What other activities can you recommend in the area?
            A few recommended activities include:

• 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 82 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, 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.