Swinging westerly past Marathon Key, you cross the Seven Mile Bridge on your way to the part of the Florida Keys that is referred to as the Lower Keys.  The Lower Keys is a region reputed for relaxing the weary traveler looking to escape from a hectic world.  Small resorts, homely restaurants, single-family homes, unspoiled wilderness and rich history characterize the Lower Keys.  Among the primary destinations found in the Lower Keys is Big Pine Key.  Activities in Big Pine Key Florida entail having fun and enjoying the natural wildlife of the area.  At the National Key Deer Refuge, which encompasses most of Big Pine Key, some 300 deer roam free.  This unique species of white-tail deer stand only about 26 inches high.  Other refuges found on Big Pine Key Florida are the Bight State Aquatic Preserve, and the National Great White Heron Refuge.

Big Pine Key is sometimes referred to as Big Pine Keys, due to the fact that it is made up of over 100 tiny mangrove islands.  It is named for its extensive pine forests, whereas pines are particularly rare in the upper and middle keys.  Nature trails wind through the pinewoods and exotic foliage, helping to make Big Pine Key travel ideal for nature-lovers.  Boaters, fisherman, and bird watchers all find Big Pine Key Florida a welcome spot for tropical recreation.   Its deserted beaches are ideal for wasting a lazy day away while collecting sea shells along the Gulf side.  To get off land, those looking to do some Florida Keys diving can book a trip on a dive boat for a most memorable adventure.  Nearby Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary is popular among dive enthusiasts, and beginning swimmers alike, looking to experience the most biologically diverse and aesthetically beautiful reef in the entire chain of keys.  The water clarity and moderate sea conditions at Looe Key make it perfect for diving and viewing the colorful fish that inhabit the native corals.  Big Pine Key and the surrounding Lower Keys are simply a diver’s dream and a haven for all looking to enjoy pristine tropical settings.  Within a half hour’s drive from Big Pine Key Florida, one can access the historic sites, shops and nightspots of either Key West or Marathon Key.

There isn’t exactly a slew of options when looking for a Big Pine Key hotel, however, the Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge gains positive reviews and should cover the needs of most travelers.  Many families over the years decide to return to this Big Pine Key hotel, where you will find one of the nicer pools in the chain of keys.  The Pine Key Fishing Lodge is family-owned and is clean and well-maintained.  It offers great access to the water for those who love to fish, and the boat dock is a short walk from the lodge rooms, meaning boaters won’t need to take the boat in and out of the water daily.  Key deer often wander onto the grounds, and campers are encouraged to set up their tent along the water at one of the campsites.  There are also full RV hookup sites, if you are taking your mobile home through the keys.  The campground is well protected and safe for families traveling with kids.  In the 16 rental rooms, amenities include a balcony or terrace, either a kitchen or kitchenette, air conditioning, a refrigerator, a microwave oven, television, a coffee maker, and daily maid service.  Included in the overall hotel details are a game room, a gift shop, a laundry room, and easy access to scuba diving and snorkeling.  You really can’t go wrong with this choice for your Big Pine Key hotel, and you’ll likely stay here again the next time you come down.  At around $109/per night for a room, you get a lot of bang for your buck, and the location is ideal for enjoying all the area attractions.