Tag: on the water

Ecstatic to Have Booked a Bahia Honda Waterfront Campsite!

Bahia Honda is a coveted State Park campground in the Florida Keys. I managed to snag a spot, but there are limitations.

If you know anything about camping in the Florida Keys, you may have heard of a campground named Bahia Honda. If you have camped there, kudos! And if you have camped in a waterfront site – wow, good for you!

After many tries, I now have booked a waterfront site for next May. But, it is not perfect for our needs.

About Bahia Honda

Bahia Honda Key is a small island just past Marathon Key heading south in the Florida Keys. It is part of the chain of islands off Florida’s southern tip, and is located at Mile Marker 37. The Bahia Honda State Park is where everyone wants to camp. And I mean everyone. I have not camped there yet, but soon.

Bahia Honda key in the Florida Kays with palm trees ocean and beaches.
Photo of Bahia Honda by Paulbr75 @ Pixabay

Camping Right on the Ocean

The big draw for campers who want to visit Bahia Honda is the waterfront sites. Not to mention you are in the Keys! Loop BTWC (Buttonwood Campground) is the main campground area. This area contains 13 campsites that sit at the edge of the Atlantic. Two of those are short – for 24 ft. campers – which leaves only 11 for me to choose from, with a 28 ft. travel trailer. You can camp here in a tent or a trailer, but check the size limitations for each site. Some are longer and accommodate RVs up to 45 feet.

I do not wish to travel all the way down to the Florida Keys only to stay in a normal site – I need to have a view! … and swim right from my site would be perfect. But, getting a spot in one of the Buttonwood sites is nearly impossible.

One morning I logged into the Florida State Parks website, ready once again to fight for a booking, and the site froze. Grabbing a campsite here is serious business. I read on a review page where someone suggested having two computers going and two people trying simultaneously to get one of the waterfront sites! It is a war I tell you.

It isn’t easy to get any sites, but the ones on the water are gems, and the most coveted. You may not care about a waterfront site, and that helps a little. After all, the Island has public beaches that look pristine.

Waterfront Camping at Sandspur

There is another section of the state park for camping. It is called Sandspur. Every site is right on the Atlantic Ocean, with a view and water access. These look like beautiful sites. However, there is a camper / trailer size restriction.

The sites are large, but apparently getting in and out of the sites is tight. RVs cannot be over 23 feet long. It specifically says,”trailers no more than 23 feet long, measured from hitch/bumper to bumper.” in the site description. This is to preserve natural growth. They don’t want campers pulled over vegetation, and the natural habitat destroyed. I applaud them for this.

My current travel trailer measures 28 feet and will not fit in the Sandspur sites. But, if we tent camp we can get a spot. So that is what I did.

I’m still looking occasionally, at the Buttonwood campground, to see if I might luck out and get a travel trailer site, but it seems highly unlikely. If that happens I will switch.

Tent Camping at Bahia Honda

If we do end up tent camping at Bahia Honda, in the Sandspur campground, it means we might be able to tow our boat with us. I do not like the idea of tent camping because I am old! But, if it means living for a few days with an ocean view and access to swimming, I think I can handle it.

The third section at Bahia Honda is rustic, with no hookups. It is specifically for only tents. There are also some cabins for rent in Bayside – they look like houses. However, be aware that you must pass under a low bridge that is 6’8″ high to reach this campground and cabin area. Read more, and see a map here.

Check out the Campsite Photos website and type in Bahia Honda to see a photo of every site in the campground. Next May we will be staying in Sandspur site 54, unless things change.

How to Bring a Boat to Bahia Honda?

Bahia Honda has a marina. They have a nice boat ramp to launch the boat too. Other than that, I have questions. Do I need a reservation? Is there an additional cost? I will have to call for information.

turquoise ocean water

If we do bring our boat, it means we could ride from our campsite down to the marina, hop into our boat and cruise around the keys. Sounds pretty awesome! We could not be able to do this if we towed our travel trailer.

  • Try for the off-season, meaning summertime here in Florida (May-Sept. – when the snowbirds have left.)
  • Camp smaller, or rustic – use a tent – this opens up many sites, at all times of the year.
  • Consider a non-waterfront site, but enjoy the beaches just the same.

I always knew that any camping on the water (specifically the ocean) is tough to book. We have stayed at Gamble Rogers, but never on the ocean. Any time you want to stay right on the beach in Florida, you quickly realize everyone else does as well. Usually I don’t care, but in the Keys, I want waterfront.

As Floridians, we are competing with all the northern folks who flood the state to go camping, especially in the winter months. This is why I suggest you try for an off-season booking, meaning summer.

It is hard to compete with the rest of the country, but the snowbirds generally leave by the end of April. I was able to book my Bahia Honda site for the end of next May (2027). As Floridians, we have the nice option to book 11 months in advance (at State Parks), while the out-of-staters have only 10 months. But, all camping Floridians are still competing for a handful of sites on one tiny island.

Personally, I would not want to camp in the Keys in summer. June and July might be okay, but after that, the hurricane threat increases. When you are on the Keys, there is only one way out – Rt.1 north – for everyone. Then again, it could be that you have less competition in snatching up a site, and take your chances with the weather.

If you have a smaller size camper, or you are willing to camp in a tent, consider the Sandspur campground. Camper size (max 23 feet) cuts out many of the people looking to book. I found that it was a little easier to get a spot.

Don’t care about a water view? Your chances also are better at getting a Bahia Honda site. Don’t get me wrong, it is still a competition.

Other Florida Keys Campgrounds

Bahia Honda is not the only campground in the Florida Keys. Curry Hammock is another state park campground. I don’t think they have water access sites. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is in Key Largo at the top of the Keys. It’s draw is the coral reef.

I considered both of these state park campground, but neither one has sites on the water. They also don’t seem to have swimming beaches – Curry Hammock might. The Florida Keys are uniquely beautiful, and the water is the big reason to go. If I can’t go swimming where I camp, I might as well stay home!

Besides the three state park campgrounds, there are other campgrounds in the Keys. They will cost a lot more (usually over $100 a night – I paid just a bit over that for my entire 5 night stay!). State Parks are trying to preserve Florida nature. Private campgrounds are simply trying to make money. But, I do understand that with only three state parks, camping options are limited.

Please leave a comment if you have been to, or are trying to get a spot at Bahia Honda. What are your Keys camping stories?

Camping Review of Long Point Campground in Melbourne

Camping in Florida right on the salt water river in Melbourne. Long Point offers water access sites and we stayed for two nights in March.

In March 2023 my sons and I went camping at Long Point campground in Melbourne, Florida. When I first saw the images of this campground I was very excited to go there. Many of the campsites are set around the edge of the island and have water access. The cost of a stay is also reasonable, so I went online and found a spot for us. This was our third camping trip with the 28 foot long Imagine.

Our Site #14

We chose site #14 because of the beautiful view, and it certainly was a beautiful view in person. However, the site itself was a bit difficult for maneuvering our 28 ft. trailer. The ground slanted downward toward the water and we had to lower the front of the camper all the way down to level it. Also, that open water access was set between two campsites, so the little beach area was shared with site #13. You can’t tell any of that from the online picture when making the reservation.

Long Point Campground Site number 14
Site #14
Long Point campground site #14
Site #14 is pretty small

If we’d had a smaller camper like the ones beside us, this site would have been plenty big. As you can see in the photos below they just drove in and parked.

Continue reading “Camping Review of Long Point Campground in Melbourne”

Four Places to Eat on the Water in New Smyrna Beach

A review of four restaurants found in the New Smyrna Beach area where patrons can sit near the water and eat.

yachts river view
View from the deck at Outriggers

I’ve only recently returned to Florida and have only lived in the New Smyrna Beach area since October 2016, BUT I first moved to central Florida in 1979 and spent 27 years here.  I lived inland, but visited the East coast often.

I’m sharing my personal opinion, and sharing information, about places to eat on the water here in New Smyrna Beach.  Since first writing this article, more restaurants have opened so I’ve added them.

 All have excellent water views of either the ocean or the saltwater river. I prefer eating on the river because there is a lot to see. Big yachts and boats of all types and sizes may go past. Look for dolphin, manatee and jumping fish.

The Eateries Come and Go

Over the years restaurants have come and gone, and I never was one to go out to eat all that much (kids, you know). Some of my favorite old memories were of getting take-out at the Sea Harvest.   Who remembers the Sea Harvest?  I miss it. With a very casual atmosphere, affordable pricing, and big fish dinners eaten right next to the water, it was very popular.  

Hurricanes are hard on river residents including restaurants on the water.

Eventually the Sea Harvest location became the Dolphin View restaurant, but that closed after a short time and the place sat empty. For a while it was evident (from the water while boating) that someone was fixing up the location. Now it is the River Deck Restaurant.

dolphin view restaurant
The Dolphin View – while it lasted
Valet parking required at the River Deck restaurant in New Smyrna Beach Florida
River Deck – newly opened

At the time I first wrote this page there was no restaurant in this spot, so it wasn’t mentioned. The River Deck has a sister restaurant called The Ocean Deck. I already wrote a little about the new River Deck restaurant at my link above, and I’ve never gone inside to eat.

We stopped one day after boating thinking we could park and go in to eat, but they have valet parking, which means no boats. They let us park on the side and go in to pick up some food. I’ve never been back. I am against valet parking and I believe these new places do it to accommodate the winter residents. If you care to go, it is located right on the Indian River, just down a bit (traveling on the water) from Outriggers.

The List


I have eaten at all of these restaurants, but haven’t visited them all recently.   I am not a professional reviewer, just someone who lives in this area and wants to give the reader a place to start. They are in no particular order.
Click the links to see menus, photos, and more information about each place.

Outriggers

Outriggers is a majestic looking place because it is near the big boat marina where some pretty large yachts are docked.

Screen Shot 2017-09-23 at 12.36.54 PM

Located on the Indian River (Intracoastal Waterway) Outriggers has a large outdoor eating deck.  The restaurant is located around in front of the big, mint green Marina.

Located just off the North Causeway (Flagler Ave.), in New Smyrna Beach, the restaurant can be a little tricky to find, as you must drive to the right of the “Villages” to find the parking area. (The drive shown in the photo goes to the condos, not the restaurant.) Then, follow the winding walkway around to the large open deck area to be seated.  

I’ve only ever eaten on the deck outside (see a picture of the deck and view Outriggers Menu here), but there is a large indoor seating area too. The food is pretty good, but I’ve had no meal that really stood out as a favorite. I’ve eaten there about four times.

Outside there are many tables lined up with a view of the water – as you look past the yachts lining the docks. The view is nice as you never know what type of boat will travel the waterway.  It’s also possible to see dolphin, manatees and sea turtles (which can be spotted anywhere along the river).

yachts river view
View from the deck at Outriggers
yachts
View from Outriggers Restaurant
Outriggers parking lot and marina
Marina and Outriggers
Outriggers
Outriggers From the River

The place strives to give an upscale feel, and it is definitely not “old Florida”. They often have valet parking, which I don’t see as necessary. Many other patrons apparently don’t either, so they park across the road in the “boat trailers only” parking area. I can’t really blame them. Who wants to have someone park their car (and then feel obligated to leave a tip) when you are going out for a casual noontime lunch on the water?

As a boat-owner who launches our boat from this area, it’s very annoying to have the trailer parking area full of cars! There is scarcely enough trailer parking as it is. I think the problem may partially be solved by stopping the valet parking.

JB’s Fish Camp and Seafood Restaurant

JB’s Fish Camp is very casual and promoted as “A slice of old Florida“.  You can also get here by boat, which we have done.  They have a nice dock area. Watch out for kayakers if you come by boat.

outdoor dining at JB's fish camp restaurant
Eating on the deck at JB’s fish camp restaurant
Scallop basket lunch at JB's
Scallop basket at JB’s Restaurant
pelicans
Gathering of pelicans
JB's dock repair
Repairing the docks at JB’s Fish Camp and Restaurant

From the mainland JB’s Fish Camp is a bit more of a drive, as you must cross the south causeway and then head a few miles (approximately 7 miles) down Route A1A.  Because of that location, it’s away from the busy in-town, touristy areas.  It is popular place with the locals, and a great place to take kids.  They allow fishing from their dock, and this area is great for viewing dolphin and manatees.

Boaters can pull up to the big dock area, which is brand new thanks to damage from Hurricane Irma.  In fact we were told by our server that much of the entire building is new.  Recently we took the boat over and ate outside with a view of the river.   I had the scallop basket this time, which was okay.  I’ve eaten here since, and rented kayaks, but I wouldn’t travel back for the food.

Fishermen can bring their catch and have it prepared for them… which many restaurants offer (Outriggers offers the same.)

The view is best outside the restaurant, where you can walk on the dock, or rent a kayak and get out on the water yourself. This waterway will lead south to Mosquito Lagoon, or wind around and head north up the Indian River. The Atlantic Ocean is just across the road.

The Grille Riverview

Screen Shot 2017-09-23 at 12.37.11 PM

Located over the bridge on the North Causeway (Flagler Ave.) directly on the right. I have eaten here, but it was many years ago. There is an outdoor eating area with docks, so I believe you can pull up in your boat and walk in to eat.

The photo was taken from the bridge, shortly after Hurricane Irma, which means their docks were probably damaged.

This area of Flagler Ave is busy and very touristy. According to the Grille Riverview site, they offer evening entertainment. And you can view their menu with prices on their site.

I can’t vouch for the food, parking, or atmosphere, but it’s located in a good spot right on the river.  Watch the bridge open, as you eat, to let taller ships pass.

And right down the road…..

The Breakers Restaurant, on the Ocean

Breakers restaurant on the beach
Breakers Beachside at the end of Flagler Ave.

Breakers is located at the end of Flagler Ave., right on the beach. The iconic pink building is hard to miss, and I must admit this is one of my favorite places to eat because of that view! You can’t get closer than eating right on the beach. The super casual atmosphere appeals to beach lovers, who can walk right in, sandy feet and all, and feel right at home.  The only reason I don’t go here more often is because it is such a busy place and in a touristy area.

Breakers Menu is extensive and they are known for their burgers (I don’t usually eat burgers, but they offer a ton of them). I usually get the fish sandwich and it’s always yummy.

The atmosphere can’t be beat as you sit at the bar facing the ocean.   The waitstaff has always been very attentive, friendly and efficient. There are tables, but the best view is at the eating bar which seats many and gives patrons an excellent beach view.  Do some people-watching with a magnificent ocean backdrop.

New Smyrna Beach
View From Breakers – 2013

Parking can be tricky here, as the lot behind the restaurant is tiny. But they have a lot attendant who patiently helps you park! Or, go across the street and park in the big lot (which costs money if you don’t have a resident parking pass).

Additional: Not Sure of the Name

This reminds me that there is a two-story place to eat just behind that parking lot. We had drinks and appetizers here one day when my daughter was visiting. I don’t know the name of the place, but when I look on the map it may be the Ocean Breeze Tiki Bar and Grill – link goes to the FaceBook page.

restaurant with ocean view
Ocean Breeze Tiki Bar? The view as you eat upstairs.

There is another place to eat right on the water which I will mention.  It’s Chases on the Beach and it’s farther down Route A1A (South Atlantic Ave.).  I have never been there and honestly I’ve always thought of it as more of a bar on the beach.  

Goodrich’s in Oak Hill

Not in New Smyrna, but next door to the south, after a drive through Edgewater, is a casual place with tables next to the water – the Indian River – called Goodrich’s.  They have good food and nice outdoor atmosphere. I once had a bad experience with an unfriendly waitress, but that is not the norm.   I do like the food here and the atmosphere is casual. Napkins, salt, pepper, etc. is on each table inside a fishing box. (They also had damage to the dock from Hurricane Irma, but it’s been nicely re-done.)

deck dock seaside restaurant
Old deck and docks
new deck at Goodrich's restaurant
New outdoor eating deck
new deck and overhang at Goodrich's
View south from the new deck at Goodrich’s Restaurant

So there you have it. My list of restaurants with a water view in New Smyrna Beach. Have you been to them? What did you think?

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