Biscayne National Park
A 95% water national park protecting the Florida Reef Tract, offering unparalleled snorkeling, diving, boating, and island exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer waters, pleasant temps
Biscayne National Park
Best Time
Clearer waters, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 95% water national park protecting the Florida Reef Tract, offering unparalleled snorkeling, diving, boating, and island exploration.
"DO NOT MISS THIS PARK! The boat ride is great. FANTASTIC SNORKELING."
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Essential for experiencing the park! Tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season. :ticket:
Embrace the 95% Water
The park is mostly water, so plan for boat trips, kayaking, or snorkeling to see its best. :kayak:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snorkeling the Florida Reef Tract
Northern Florida Reef Tract
Dive into the third-largest coral reef system in the world. Explore vibrant marine life and shipwrecks in crystal-clear waters.
+1
Boca Chita Key Exploration
Boca Chita Key
Visit this picturesque island with its iconic lighthouse. Perfect for picnics, swimming, and enjoying stunning bay views.
Heritage Boat Tour
Biscayne Bay
Embark on a 3.5-hour journey learning about the park's history and spotting diverse sea creatures.
Park After Dark Canoe Adventure
Convoy Point
Experience the park at night with free guided canoe trips, campfires, and s'mores. A unique and memorable evening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Water: Your Biscayne Adventure
Timing is Key for Optimal Exploration
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Essential for experiencing the park! Tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season. :ticket:
Embrace the 95% Water
The park is mostly water, so plan for boat trips, kayaking, or snorkeling to see its best.
Visitor Center is a Starting Point
Explore exhibits and catch a film before heading out. Look for wildlife near the visitor center! :camerawithflash:
Pack for Sun and Water
Bring sunscreen, hats, and swimwear. Even on windy days, you might get splashed!
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Essential for experiencing the park! Tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season. :ticket:
Embrace the 95% Water
The park is mostly water, so plan for boat trips, kayaking, or snorkeling to see its best.
Visitor Center is a Starting Point
Explore exhibits and catch a film before heading out. Look for wildlife near the visitor center! :camerawithflash:
Pack for Sun and Water
Bring sunscreen, hats, and swimwear. Even on windy days, you might get splashed!
Check Weather & Wind Conditions
Wind can impact boat tours and water activities. Always check forecasts before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Biscayne National Park's stunning turquoise waters and incredible snorkeling opportunities, highlighting the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The boat tours are frequently praised for their informative guides and access to unique locations like Boca Chita Key. While the park is predominantly water-based, requiring boat excursions for full exploration, the overall experience is described as magical and highly recommended.
"DO NOT MISS THIS PARK! The boat ride is great. Our captains Alex and Jeremy were very informative, sharing history and their knowledge about the park. FANTASTIC SNORKELING. The water is clear and beautiful. We went to a shipwreck and the 3rd largest coral reef in the world! To whole park is great to picnic, hangout, swim, kayak, boating, fishing. We could’ve stayed there another day. Saw crocodile and manatees by the visitors center."
beth bratcher
"Beautiful National Park! Unfortunately, the weather was not ideal, but still had a great time. When you go, be sure to book a tour on the boat or kayaks, this park is really all about the water. The parking was great, staff were wonderful, and walk around the ground’s was great."
Jim Burgraff
"One of those extremely unique parks where most of it is the water! The small islands don’t have much going for them but the real adventures lie in the water. Plan ahead and buy tickets ahead of time to get excursions from the institute coming out of Homestead. There’s snorkeling, Kayak and other boat type adventures. We did the paddle board adventures and it was defiantly unique and worth every penny!"
Willie Ruiz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Biscayne National Park's visitor center is located at Convoy Point in Homestead, Florida. You can drive there, and parking is generally available. For exploring the park's water areas, you'll need to book a tour departing from Convoy Point or other marinas.
No, there is no entrance fee to access the Biscayne National Park visitor center at Convoy Point. However, fees apply for boat tours and excursions offered by the Biscayne National Park Institute or other tour operators.
While you can visit the visitor center and walk the jetty trail, the park is 95% water. To truly experience Biscayne's coral reefs and islands, a boat tour, kayak, or paddleboard excursion is highly recommended.
The best way to see Biscayne National Park is by boat! Guided tours like the Heritage Boat Tour or Snorkel and Paddle Eco-Adventure offer immersive experiences. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards for a more independent exploration.
Yes, the visitor center at Convoy Point offers exhibits and a theater. The newly reopened jetty trail also provides opportunities for walking and wildlife viewing. However, the primary attractions are water-based.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours for Biscayne National Park can be booked through the Biscayne National Park Institute's website or directly via the National Park Service (NPS) website. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for popular excursions.
The visitor center at Convoy Point is typically open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. Boat tours operate on scheduled times. Always check the official NPS website for the most current operating hours and tour schedules.
The cost of boat tours varies depending on the duration and type of excursion. A 3.5-hour Heritage Boat Tour might cost around $50-$60 per person, while longer snorkeling or eco-adventures can be more.
Yes, you can bring your own boat to Biscayne National Park. There are boat ramps available, and you can explore the park's waters at your own pace. However, be aware of navigation rules and designated mooring areas.
The visitor center and jetty trail are free to access. Additionally, Biscayne National Park occasionally hosts free 'Park After Dark' events, which can include guided canoe adventures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can spot a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, manatees, and dolphins. On land, keep an eye out for birds and reptiles. Crocodiles have also been seen near the visitor center.
Yes, snorkeling is excellent! The park protects a significant portion of the Florida Reef Tract, offering vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life. Shipwrecks are also popular snorkeling spots.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather and water activities. Bring swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen. Water shoes are recommended for boat tours and exploring islands.
Yes, primitive camping is available on Boca Chita Key and Elliott Key. Reservations are required, and you'll need to bring all your own supplies, including water and food.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy boat tours, snorkeling, and exploring the visitor center. The 'Park After Dark' events are particularly family-friendly. Ensure children are supervised closely near water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Biscayne National Park itself. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks for picnics, especially if you're going on a boat tour or camping.
The visitor center area in Homestead offers various dining options, from casual eateries to seafood restaurants. It's best to pack a picnic to enjoy within the park.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Biscayne National Park, especially on islands like Boca Chita Key. Remember to pack out everything you pack in to keep the park clean.
Alcohol is generally permitted in Biscayne National Park, but responsible consumption is expected. It's prohibited in certain areas, so check park regulations.
You can purchase groceries and snacks in Homestead before heading to the park. There are several supermarkets and convenience stores available.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic lighthouse on Boca Chita Key, the vibrant coral reefs underwater, and panoramic views of Biscayne Bay are prime photo opportunities. The visitor center also offers scenic overlooks.
Absolutely! If you're snorkeling or diving, bring an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case to capture the stunning marine life and coral formations.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh, but it's still great for capturing the vibrant blues of the water.
Drone usage is restricted in National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check the official NPS website for current drone regulations before your visit.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing landscapes and the vastness of the bay. For underwater shots, an action camera or a DSLR with a waterproof housing is ideal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a shorter boat tour or a paddleboarding excursion if your children have shorter attention spans. The visitor center also provides educational exhibits that can be fun and informative for younger visitors. Remember to prioritize safety, especially around water, and apply reef-safe sunscreen generously.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic lunch and snacks is essential, as there are no food services within the park. If you have your own kayak or paddleboard, you can explore the shallower waters without the cost of a rental or tour. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for potentially lower tour prices.
🐠 Snorkelers & Divers
+1 Book a dedicated snorkeling or diving tour to access the most vibrant reef sections and shipwrecks. Ensure you have your own mask, snorkel, and fins, or rent them from tour operators. Using reef-safe sunscreen is crucial to protect the delicate coral ecosystem. Be prepared for clear, warm waters and an abundance of marine life, from tiny reef fish to larger sea creatures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Biscayne's Waterways
For those seeking a more independent experience, kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent options. These activities allow you to explore the shallow waters, mangrove areas, and get up close with marine life at your own pace. Rental options are available, and many visitors find these excursions to be a highlight of their trip. Remember to check weather conditions, especially wind, as it can significantly impact your experience on the water.
If you prefer to bring your own vessel, boat ramps are available, allowing you to explore at your leisure. However, it's crucial to be aware of navigation rules, designated mooring areas, and to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's delicate ecosystem. Understanding the park's geography, which includes numerous small keys and the extensive Florida Reef Tract, is key to planning a successful water-based adventure.
Discovering the Underwater World
+1Several tour operators offer dedicated snorkeling and diving excursions to prime locations within the park. These trips often visit shipwrecks and vibrant sections of the reef, providing an unforgettable glimpse into this underwater paradise. For those who prefer to explore independently, bringing your own snorkeling gear or renting it is a great option. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral ecosystem.
Beyond the coral reefs, the park's waters are also home to larger marine mammals. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins and gentle manatees, especially in the calmer bay areas. The experience of swimming alongside these magnificent creatures is truly magical and a testament to the park's rich biodiversity.
Island Escapes and Historical Echoes
These islands are not just beautiful natural landscapes; they also hold historical significance. Visitors can learn about the past inhabitants and the role these islands played in the region's history. Boat tours often include stops at these keys, allowing you to step ashore and immerse yourself in their tranquil atmosphere.
Whether you're looking for a secluded spot for a picnic, a place to set up camp under the stars, or simply a chance to stretch your legs after a day on the water, Biscayne's islands offer a welcome respite and a different perspective on this unique national park.
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