Located just 20 miles south of Miami, Biscayne National Park is a unique aquatic treasure that spans 173,000 acres, with an astounding 95% of the park underwater. This extraordinary park protects the largest living coral reef in the continental United States, making it a national park unlike any other. We recently had the opportunity to explore Biscayne National Park with our family, and we can’t wait to share this guide with you!
Since most of the park is underwater, families should plan to participate in water-based activities to fully experience what Biscayne has to offer. Whether snorkeling in clear waters, kayaking through mangroves, or exploring historic islands, Biscayne National Park provides memorable experiences that combine fun. But don’t write the park off if you don’t want to go out on or in the water, the shoreside visitor center area makes for a perfect half day visit. We visited as part of a 3 Florida National Parks and Keys road trip.
Explore Biscayne National Park’s Areas
Biscayne National Park can be divided into distinct areas that each offer unique experiences for families. The mainland’s Dante Fascell Visitor Center serves as the primary gateway and provides excellent educational opportunities, while the park’s three main keys – Boca Chita, Elliott, and Adams – each showcase different aspects of the park’s natural and cultural heritage. .
The surrounding waters, which make up the majority of the park, can be explored through various guided tours and activities ranging from leisurely boat rides to adventurous snorkeling expeditions. Each area has its own character and appeal, but they all work together to tell the story of this remarkable ecosystem where mangrove forests meet coral reefs and historic structures stand as testament to the region’s fascinating past
Dante Fascell Visitor Center
The Dante Fascell Visitor Center at Convoy Point serves as the primary entrance point to Biscayne National Park and is a must-stop for families to learn about the park. Open 7 days a week from 9 AM – 5 PM, interactive exhibits showcase the park’s diverse ecosystems, from mangrove shorelines to coral reefs, while the educational area allows children to touch natural artifacts and learn about marine life.
The center also features an informative 10-minute video that provides an excellent overview of the park’s history, wildlife, and the importance of the mangrove in the ecosystem. One interesting fact we learned from the film was the difference between keys and islands.
In Florida, the term “key” refers to a low-lying island made mostly of coral or limestone, like those found in the Florida Keys. These tropical islands formed from ancient coral reefs and stretch from Key Largo to Key West. In contrast, “islands” in Florida, such as Sanibel or Amelia Island, are typically sandy landforms created by ocean currents and are found along both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
Along the visitor center grounds, families can explore the 0.8-mile round-trip Convoy Point Jetty Trail leads visitors along Biscayne Bay’s shoreline to a jetty. The trail features a wooden boardwalk that crosses over the water, offering views of the surrounding waters and opportunities to spot wading birds and to fish. Remember to follow all park regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
Be sure to hold onto your hat, as it can get quite windy along the trail!
From the jetty, visitors can see the historic Fowey Rocks Lighthouse standing six miles offshore – this 110-foot iron lighthouse has guided ships safely through the Florida Reef since 1878 and remains an active aid to navigation today.
The center’s boat dock area tells the story of the Jones family, who lived on Porgy Key for generations. Sir Lancelot Jones, the last private resident of the keys that now make up the park, was born on Porgy Key in 1898. The Jones family grew key limes and pineapples on the island, and Sir Lancelot later worked as a fishing guide before selling his land to help create the national park. Today, historical placards near the dock share their story
Boca Chita Key
Boca Chita Key, the park’s most popular island destination, is crowned by its iconic 65-foot ornamental lighthouse built in the 1930s by Mark Honeywell, a wealthy industrialist who used the island as his private retreat. While the lighthouse was never an official aid to navigation, visitors can climb to the top during ranger-guided tours (when available, it was closed for renovations and covered with scaffolding during our visit) for panoramic views of Miami’s skyline, Biscayne Bay, and the surrounding keys.
The island features a half-mile walking path that circles its perimeter, offering views of both the Miami skyline and the open Atlantic. The western side of the key has a protected harbor with a public dock, while the eastern rocky shoreline provides excellent spots for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters. On weekends and holidays, the shallow waters around the key become a popular anchoring spot for local boaters, creating a festive (and party) atmosphere as families gather to swim, picnic, and enjoy the tropical setting.
Basic facilities on Boca Chita include restrooms, picnic tables, and a grassy camping area. The historic pavilion near the harbor offers a shaded gathering space with spectacular water views. Like Elliott Key, Boca Chita is only accessible by boat – either through guided tours from the visitor center or via private vessel. There are no food vendors or drinking water available on the island, so visitors should bring all necessary supplies. The key’s small size and relatively protected waters make it an ideal destination for families looking to experience the park’s island environment.
Elliott Key
Elliott Key, the largest island in Biscayne National Park at seven miles long, once housed thriving pineapple farms and pioneer settlements. Today, this remote island is only accessible by private boat or through guided tour services departing from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, with boat trips taking approximately 40 minutes across Biscayne Bay.
The island has a one-mile loop trail winds through the tropical hardwood hammock, providing shade and opportunities to spot unique flora and wildlife. Along the eastern shore, visitors can enjoy swimming and snorkeling from a natural beach area where the mangroves give way to the rocky shoreline. The western side of the island features calmer waters and a harbor with a shaded pavilion, perfect for picnicking and watching boats pass by.
Elliott Key maintains basic amenities for day visitors and campers, including restrooms with cold showers, drinking water, and picnic tables. The harbor includes a ranger station (staffed seasonally), a designated swimming area, and a maintained dock where tour boats and private vessels can tie up. While the island’s boardwalk and facilities make it relatively accessible, visitors should come prepared with essentials like reef friendly sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water, as there are no food or supply vendors on the island. The best time to visit is January-March, otherwise the mosquitos and no-see-ums can be unbearable.
Adams Key
Adams Key, formerly known as Cocolobo Key, holds a fascinating history as the location of the exclusive Cocolobo Club, once a retreat for presidents and celebrities in the early 1900s. Today, this small island serves as an off-the-beaten-path destination accessible only by boat, either through scheduled tours from the visitor center or via private vessel, with the journey taking about 35 minutes from the mainland.
The island offers a peaceful setting with a shaded pavilion and several picnic tables nestled among tropical hardwoods. Amenities include composting toilets and no drinkable water. The key’s short walking trail loops through native vegetation, offering glimpses of the surrounding waters and opportunities to spot migratory birds and native wildlife. The western shoreline features a dock and swimming area, while the eastern side presents a more natural coastline where visitors can explore the mangrove ecosystem.
Unlike the more popular Boca Chita and Elliott Keys, Adams Key typically sees fewer visitors, making it an excellent choice for families seeking a quieter island experience. The protected waters around the key are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, with opportunities to spot manatees, rays, and various fish species in the clear shallows. Note that this key is also known for mosquitos, best time to visit is January-March.
Maritime Biscayne
Park Waters and Ecosystems
Biscayne National Park’s waters support an incredible diversity of marine life. The shallow waters of Biscayne Bay, averaging 10 feet deep, are home to vast seagrass meadows that provide crucial nursery grounds for young fish and feeding areas for manatees and sea turtles. Along the eastern edge of the park, the Florida Reef Tract – the only living coral reef in the continental United States – supports over 500 species of tropical fish and 40 species of coral, making it one of North America’s most diverse marine ecosystems.
The park’s mangrove-lined waterways act as nature’s nurseries, where juvenile fish find protection among the tangled roots before venturing into deeper waters. These marine environments, from the western shoreline to the eastern reef, work together to maintain the delicate balance of marine life in the park. The clear waters also protect important cultural resources, including more than 40 documented shipwrecks that span nearly 500 years of maritime history.
One of the bay’s most unique features is Stiltsville, a collection of seven historic wooden houses standing on stilts above the water. These distinctive structures, dating back to the 1930s Prohibition era, began as a community of social clubs and weekend fishing retreats. Once numbering 27 buildings, the remaining houses now represent a fascinating piece of Miami’s maritime history and can be viewed during boat tours or from the water.
Ways to Explore Maritime Biscayne
The Biscayne National Park Institute offers snorkeling and scuba tours that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse marine habitats. These tours, which vary from half-day to full-day excursions, take participants to reef, wreck, and mangrove areas, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife such as dolphins, rays, and sea turtles.
Guided Boat Tours
Experience the rich maritime history of Biscayne National Park on a guided boat tour. Choose from a variety of options, including island-hopping excursions, eco-adventure tours, and sunset tours, each offering a unique perspective on the park’s fascinating past.
- Biscayne Maritime Heritage Trail: Explore the park’s maritime history, shipwrecks, and Stiltsville.
- Island-hopping excursions: Visit Elliott and Boca Chita Keys.
- Sunset tours: Enjoy spectacular views of Miami’s skyline.
- If the Institute tours don’t work for you, check out the other companies authorized to operate in the park.
Snorkeling and Scuba Tours
Explore the underwater world of Biscayne National Park on a snorkeling or scuba tour. Half-day to full-day excursions take you to vibrant reef, wreck, and mangrove areas, where you can spot local wildlife like dolphins, rays, and sea turtles.
Specialized Eco-Adventures
Book an in-depth experience with a specialized eco-adventure. Sailing and paddling trips offer a serene and peaceful way to explore the park’s waters, while private snorkeling excursions provide a personalized and exclusive experience.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking
Explore the tranquil waters of Biscayne National Park by paddleboard or kayak. Jones Lagoon eco-paddles offer a chance to observe wildlife in shallow, crystal-clear waters, while stand-up paddleboarding provides a fun and exciting way to experience the park’s marine ecosystem. Perfect for all skill levels, these activities allow you to connect with nature at your own pace.
Reef Trips
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Biscayne National Park’s coral reefs on a guided reef trip. Observe vibrant coral formations and tropical fish up close, and enjoy unique snorkeling experiences around historic shipwrecks. With expert guides, you’ll be immersed in an unforgettable underwater world.
Guided Snorkel Tours
Join a guided snorkel tour for a fun and educational experience in Biscayne National Park. With marine biology education included, these tours are perfect for families and beginners. Explore shallow waters teeming with marine life, and enjoy a personalized experience with expert guides who will help you make the most of your snorkeling adventure.
Exploring Biscayne National Park with Your Own Boat
When visiting Biscayne National Park, bringing your own boat allows for a more personalized exploration of the park’s vast waters. However, it’s crucial to follow guidelines and regulations to ensure both your safety and the preservation of the park’s natural beauty. For more information please visit the NPS site regarding Boating in Biscayne National Park.
Big Family Accommodations in Biscayne National Park
Local Big Family Friendly Hotels
Find big family friendly hotels in Homestead, the closest city to Biscayne. Which is also great if you’re enjoying a NASCAR race. Or incorporate some beach time into your trip by making your park visit a day trip from Miami.
Camping in Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park offers two distinct camping locations, both accessible only by boat. Camping requires advance preparation as visitors must bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water, and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Elliott Key Campground The larger of the two camping areas, Elliott Key’s campground features designated tent sites in a hardwood hammock setting with access to cold-water showers, restrooms, and drinking water. The campground includes picnic tables and grills, offering basic amenities while maintaining a wilderness experience, and its location provides easy access to the island’s hiking trail and swimming areas.
Boca Chita Key Campground Boca Chita’s more primitive camping area features a grassy field near the historic lighthouse where visitors can pitch tents, with basic restrooms but no shower facilities or drinking water available. The campground’s waterfront location offers stunning views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay, making it particularly popular with boaters on weekends and holidays.
Biscayne National Park with Kids: One-Day Itinerary
You can easily spend a half-day exploring the Dante Fascell Visitor Center and learning about the park’s unique ecosystems and history. However, to truly experience the park’s beauty, consider booking a guided tour, which can fill up a whole day. Most tours offer morning or afternoon options, so you can choose the one that best fits your schedule. Be sure to note the departure location for your tour, as some may leave from different locations such as Coconut Grove or Homestead, rather than the visitor center.
A typical day might start with a morning tour departure, followed by a few hours of exploring the surrounding waters, snorkeling, or visiting one of the park’s islands. After the tour, you can head back to the visitor center to explore the exhibits, watch the educational film, take a stroll along the Convoy Point Jetty Trail, and enjoy the scenic views of Biscayne Bay.
If you have time, you can also try your hand at fishing off the bridge or simply relax in the park’s picnic area. Whatever your schedule, be sure to plan ahead and book your tour in advance, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
10 Essential Tips for Visiting Biscayne National Park
- Best Time to Visit The most comfortable time to visit is November through April, when temperatures are mild and humidity is lower. Summer months bring intense heat, afternoon thunderstorms, and hurricane risks. Winter weekends can be crowded, so consider visiting mid-week for a quieter experience.
- Make Reservations Early Book guided tours and boat trips well in advance, especially during peak season. Many tours have limited capacity and frequently sell out. Contact the visitor center or authorized tour operators to secure your preferred activities.
- Pack the Essentials Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, water shoes, and plenty of water. Pack snacks and lunch as there are no food vendors in the park. Consider bringing a dry bag for electronics if planning water activities.
- Plan for a Full Day While the visitor center can be explored in a few hours, boat tours typically take 3-4 hours, and island visits require most of a day. Consider spreading activities across multiple days for a more relaxed experience.
- Join the Junior Ranger Program Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the visitor center. Activities are designed for children ages 5-12 and offer an engaging way to learn about the park’s ecosystems and history.
- Check Weather Conditions Water conditions can change quickly. Check the weather forecast and marine conditions before your visit, especially if planning boat tours or water activities. Tours may be cancelled due to adverse weather.
- Bring Cash and Park Passes While major credit cards are accepted at the visitor center, some tour operators may require cash.
- Know Where to Find Supplies The closest supplies are in Homestead, about 15 minutes from the visitor center. Stock up on necessities before entering the park, including any camping supplies if planning to stay overnight.
- Be Water Wise Follow water safety guidelines, including wearing life jackets during water activities. Be aware of marine life and maintain safe distances. Cell phone coverage can be spotty on the water, so have a communication plan.
- Accessibility Information The Dante Fascell Visitor Center and its surrounding grounds are wheelchair accessible. Most boat tours can accommodate visitors with mobility challenges, but contact operators in advance to discuss specific needs.
Tools to Plan Your Trip
Educational Resources
Learn about the park before you go with books for kids, park guides, and maps.
Nearby Airports and Car Rental Options for Your Biscayne Trip
On our trip, we flew to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood using Southwest Airlines Travel Points, which made our trip even more affordable. If you’re looking to maximize your travel budget, consider signing up for a Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Card to earn points for future adventures. In this trip we visited Everglades National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, and Dry Tortugas.
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami International Airport, located about 50 miles northeast of the Everglades, is the largest and closest airport for most visitors. It offers a wide range of flights both domestically and internationally. With its central location, it is convenient for accessing various entrances to the park.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is approximately 70 miles from the park and an excellent alternative for visitors. It caters to domestic and international flights with generally fewer crowds than Miami.
Car Rental Options
Both nearby airports (MIA, FLL) feature top car rental companies. Due to the popularity of the area, we recommend checking in online to avoid long lines.
Biscayne National Park offers families a unique opportunity to explore an underwater wonderland just minutes from Miami. Whether you’re spending a few hours at the visitor center, taking a guided boat tour, or planning a multi-day camping adventure, the park provides an unforgettable experience exploring marine ecosystems.
Ready to Plan Your Biscayne Adventure? Start by booking your guided tour through the park’s authorized operators, as these popular excursions often fill up weeks in advance. Download or buy the park map and Junior Ranger materials to begin getting your family excited about the visit. Remember, the best way to experience Biscayne is to come prepared and allow enough time to explore both the mainland facilities and the park’s remarkable waters. Your underwater adventure awaits!
