Heading to Florida but where??

[Dan Steill]

I want to go down to Florida for an extended vacation to sail my 17 foot Daysailer. I need a place to camp with electric hook-up. Never been there before so I have no idea where to go. I do have a semi self-contained Van so I do have some flexability. I would love to get some suggestions from you guys!

 

[red coles]

In the Keys

Hello Dan My reccomendation, would be Bahia Honda Park, in the lower keys. You will have access to ocean or bay, no bugs this time of year,excellent snorkeling, fishing and Key West is close enough for a day trip. Good luck red

 

[Paul Mieszczenski]

Lots of choices

Hey Dan, Red is right on with Bahia Honda, but you really need to make reservations. Check out this web site for all sorts of info. www.fla-keys.com.Sunshine Key campground is also a good spot to stay and sail out of.Just before you cross the bridge at Jew Fish Creek to get onto Key Largo, look to the right and you'll see Gilberts. Great Rum Runners and the place where we keep our boat. Ask for Ursa Minor and see if we are down for the weekend. Where ever you end up the sailing is great. Be sure to observe the speed limits on the Overseas Highway. Speeders are a great source for local revenue. Have a great trip. PM

 

[steven f.]

charlotte harbor

Ever consider the Charlotte harbor area?? there is a huge protected harbor with some of the best back-water fishing in the world, including the Keys. There are umpteen anchorages and camping on several barrier islands. I'd stay during the winter, the winds can be wicked, spring is the best time, no bugs, good wind and cool temps.

 

[Steve O.]

second to Charlotte

Charlotte Harbor is great sailing, especially for a 17' daysailor. Its protected but relatively shallow. Caya Costa and Cabbage Key are two destinations that are a day's sail out of Punta Gorda or Burnt Store Marina, Sanibel/Captiva or Ft. Myers Beach from Ft. Myers. Fall weather is great if no hurricanes!

 

[Wayne]

Bahia Honda

Hi Dan:I have stayed at Bahia Honda and it was a very nice area and campground. Key West is well within a days trip. There are snorkeling trips which leave from the camp store and go to the reef approximately 12 miles out. There is a bridge which you might have to drop your mast to get under or sail 12 miles to get around. It's a great area with lots of good snorkeling if your not paranoid about potentially becoming part of the food chain. Have a great time.WJ