Going to the Keys in April

[turbodriven]

We are renting a canal front house right off the main road in Big Pine Key. I was just wondering if anyone knew anything about this location? It's about 20 minutes "north?" of Key West.

I've got an 18ft SeaRay runabout and was wondering about ramps, low traffic and isolated beaches in the area, and any other points of interest. Good places to snorkel is also on my list of places to find. My boat isn't the best for venturing too far offshore so keep that in mind.

This is probably a long shot... but maybe one or two people have been there before. Maybe even saved some GPS coordinates of good spots.

 

[69seacraft]

Re: Going to the Keys in April

BPK is nice. I would highly reccommend a trip by boat or car, over to Bahia Honda St. Park - A nice beach that you can anchor off if its not too windy. As far as snorkeling is concerned Looe Key is beautiful and about 5 mi? offshore. A nice closer option is just outside and to the East of Newfound Harbor Chanel where there is some nice marked shallow water snorkeling available. Follow the charts closely, it can be a lower unit graveyard in that area. 8)

 

[turbodriven]

Re: Going to the Keys in April

Thank you! I'm sure that once we get there I'll have no problem finding interesting places to see. I'll get a chart for the area and stop at a visitor center too. For now I'm just scouring the area with Google earth and writing down GPS coordinates. The places you mentioned were easily found.

I think I'm going to leave my high five prop at home for this trip. I'm too afraid of running aground with all the shallow water. At least if my aluminum hits I'll only be out $100 and it'll give some. :%

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: Going to the Keys in April

Just watch the channel markers; the channels are pretty clearly marked. Outside of these areas, keep in mind:
Green Green- Nice and Clean
Blue Blue- cruise on through
White White- you just might
Brown Brown- Run Aground!

A good pair of polarized lenses is a must, keep your eyes open and watch ahead of you. The water is extremely clear and depth perception can be deceiving.

There is a public ramp on Big Pine Key at the local marina. Many of the resorts like Parmer's and others have a launch on the grounds. The Keys are among my favorite places to boat. Do make sure to visit Looe Key...Really Beautiful diving.