Blue Hole Observation Platform - Big Pine Key, Florida

Blue Hole Observation Platform Overview

Located at Key Deer Blvd, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, the Blue Hole Observation Platform stands out as a must-visit spot for nature lovers and families alike. This unique platform offers a breathtaking view of the Blue Hole, a stunning natural swimming hole, and is set against the backdrop of the Florida Keys' lush environment.

Location and Accessibility

The platform is easily accessible from Key Deer Blvd, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. It's particularly family-friendly, with dog-friendly trails and areas allowing pets to join in on the adventure. For those traveling with children, the hiking trails are not only enjoyable but also educational, featuring informational stands and tree signs that help identify the various flora around the area.

Special Features and Activities

The Wildlife park aspect of the site is a significant draw, offering visitors a chance to observe local wildlife up close. From deer and alligators to fish and even a baby deer spotted by some visitors, the diversity of life in this park is astounding. Besides wildlife watching, the platform itself is perfect for those seeking a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding them. The Fred Manillo Trail, conveniently located nearby, is another highlight for hikers looking to extend their exploration.

Information and Educational Opportunities

For those interested in learning more about the area, the Visitor Center is an invaluable resource. Here, guests can gain insights into the habitats of the Florida Keys and its unique fauna, all while picking up souvenirs to remember their visit. The center's exhibits and staff are excellent for enhancing the experience, providing context to the natural wonders observed at the observation platform.

Visitor Experiences and Ratings

With over 800 reviews on Google My Business, the Blue Hole Observation Platform has garnered a solid reputation. The average opinion is a highly positive 4.4/5, indicating high satisfaction among visitors. Many reviews highlight the ease of the walking trails, the opportunity to see wildlife, and the platform's educational value. Visitors often comment on the value of bringing their kids, as the trail is kid-friendly and offers a great learning experience without being overwhelming.

👍 Reviews of Blue Hole Observation Platform

Tia T.

5/5

Nice easy walking trail to the observation point. Dog friendly, information stands along the trail with some tree signs that tell you what kind of tree it is. Lots of birds, we saw one small baby deer, and fish.

Jean P.

5/5

Nice place to relax, have a short walk and inform yourself about the habitats of the Florida Keys and its fauna. See some wildlife like deer’s and alligators, also make sure to make it to the Fred Manillo Trail which is really close! Also the Visitor Center is a good spot to learn some more and get some souvenirs

Mary U.

4/5

Small quiet spot for seeing birds, gators, turtles and other wildlife. There is a bird sanctuary that is closed to the public so you have limited walking trails, but it's worth it to see if you can spot anything. The parking lot is not very big and you may pass right by it if you aren't paying attention. It is free to access as well.

Peter J.

5/5

Awesome little observation area with a lot of wildlife to see while walking through watched 👀 lots of fish in the water and cool little reptiles didn't see any alligator though that was a bummer, but plenty of beautiful birds.

Andrew H.

5/5

Extremely short trail to Blue Hole. Worth it for the gator sighting. May be the only gator in this small pond.

Rowena W.

3/5

We saw sleeping alligators and some tarpon in the lake. Not very exciting but somewhat interesting if you are a nature loving person and you can observe a natural habitat and find it of interest. There is information on boards that tell you about how blue hole was formed and about the wildlife around it. In previous visits the key deer would walk right up to us but we didn't see any on this visit. Luckily it was a windy day so no mosquitos. We try to visit when there is a breeze because it's better and not so hot in the forest that surrounds the lake. We always do a walk on No Name bridge and peer over the railings to see the fish and sea grass on the bottom . We have seen small sting rays and schools of fish swimming below and once we saw a sea turtle come up for air. Nature is so abundant in the keys. A special place in paradise for sure. 😎

Trudy M.

4/5

Saw key deer on the road feet away from entrance, saw a gator at observation deck, and saw some beautiful birds! Great stop!

Roger I.

5/5

Well worth a visit. The viewing point and signs explain the background of the hole. The guide at the viewpoint explained in more detail about the history and some details about the birds and fish. Unfortunately, we did not see an alligator, but still worth a visit.