The largest of the Lower Keys.
Located about 30 miles from Key West, Big Pine Key is the largest of the Lower Keys, while being second largest only to Key Largo. It is named for the extensive stands of Southern Slash Pines that are found here and on nearby No Name Key and Little Pine Key. It is also home to the famous little Key Deer. Points of interest include The Blue Hole which contains fresh water turtles, fish and alligators, and the Nature Trail which meanders through federal refuge lands. Big Pine lies within both the Key Deer and Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuges. The developed areas are scattered about the island with state and federal protected lands in between. Most of Big Pine Key is pine lands and hardwood hammocks fringed by wetlands and transitional wetlands.
Along US 1 you will find much more diverse commercial activities and businesses. These include: two large marine dealers, two dive shops, two bait/tackle shops, two convenience/gas stations, a post office, two banks, two beauty shops, two liquor stores, a major chain grocery store, boat rentals, kayak rentals, video rentals, florists, three building supply/hardware stores, dentists, doctors, gift stores, eleven restaurants and more.
