Biscayne National Park

Coral Reefs, Mangroves & Miami’s Hidden Marine World

Florida’s Underwater National Park

Est. 1980

Stretching from Miami’s shoreline to the edge of the Florida Keys, Biscayne National Park protects a dazzling mosaic of coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangrove forests. Approximately 95% of the park lies underwater, creating a sanctuary for manatees, sea turtles, and colorful reef fish. Above the surface, small islands like Boca Chita Key and Elliott Key reveal the area’s maritime past with historic lighthouses and coastal trails shaded by palms.

Only a short drive from downtown Miami, Biscayne feels worlds away — a place where skyscrapers give way to mangroves and boats drift over clear, Caribbean-blue water. If water is your thing, snorkel coral gardens, kayak through mangrove tunnels, or cruise to Stiltsville, a cluster of wooden houses perched on stilts above the bay. This is the wild, watery side of South Florida that few visitors ever see.

Featured Experiences

Whether by boat, kayak, or air, guided tours reveal Biscayne’s rich ecosystems and history — from Stiltsville’s colorful past to the vibrant marine life beneath the waves.

Suggested Itineraries

Because most of Biscayne lies beneath the surface, your time here revolves around the water — from coral reef snorkeling to mangrove kayaking. These sample plans will help you make the most of your visit.

1-Day Adventure

Morning: Join a small-group boat or snorkel tour to explore the reefs and Stiltsville.
Afternoon: Visit Boca Chita Key to climb the lighthouse and picnic by the bay.
Evening: Return to Homestead or Miami Beach for dinner by the water.

👉 Perfect for first-time visitors and families.

2-Day Escape

Day 1: Paddle through mangrove creeks on a guided kayak tour, then explore the Dante Fascell Visitor Center.

Day 2: Snorkel the Maritime Heritage Trail, spotting shipwrecks and tropical fish.

👉 Ideal for active travelers and photographers.

Let Us Plan Your Vacation

Find Experiences, Plan Your Days & Book It All With Us!

Whether you’re flying in from Miami or driving down from the Keys, we’ll help arrange your perfect Biscayne adventure — from guided reef trips to private charters. Tell us your interests and schedule, and we’ll craft an itinerary that fits your pace and passions.

What to Expect Each Season

Open Year-Round • Peak Season: November–April

Though warm year-round, Biscayne’s weather shifts between dry winter breezes and humid summer rains. Understanding these changes ensures calmer waters and clearer snorkeling days.

Winter: (December–February)
Cooler, drier weather with calm seas and best visibility.
Best for: Snorkeling, boating, and sightseeing.

Spring: (March–April)
Warmer days, cool evenings with slight increase in wind and wave intensity and storm potential, but still good visibility – unless inclement weather.
Best for: Snorkeling, boating, windsurfing and sightseeing.

Summer: (May–September)
Hot and humid with afternoon storms but thriving marine life.
Best for: Kayaking, wildlife viewing and early-morning tours.

Fall: (October–November)
Variable weather, lighter crowds, and vivid sunsets.
Best for: Flexible travelers and photographers.

Find your perfect season for reef adventures and bay cruises.

PLAN YOUR VACATION

Biscayne National Park Tours

View All Biscayne Bay Tours & Activities

Guided tours make this mostly underwater park accessible. Explore by boat, paddleboard, or air — every perspective reveals a new side of the bay.

Boat Tours

For travelers who want to see Biscayne’s best sights, but not get wet, narrated boat tours reveal the park’s stories. Cruise across Biscayne Bay to see mangroves, coral islands, and historic Stiltsville, all while learning about the region’s wildlife and maritime past from your local guide.

Air Tours

Seeing Biscayne from the sky is a mosaic of color that few experience — emerald mangroves, turquoise reefs, and the deep blues of the Atlantic. Scenic airplane and helicopter tours glide over Key Biscayne, Stiltsville, and the Cape Florida Lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of Miami’s coastline and the park’s sparkling waters.

Key Biscayne Air Tours
See Miami’s skyline and Key Biscayne from the air.... More
- 50–55 Minutes • Miami FL
- Plane or Helicopter Flight
- Key Biscayne & Stiltsville
- Skyline & Coastline Views
from $219.00

Not sure where to start?

Our team can suggest the best itineraries.

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Visitor Centers At The Park

The Dante Fascell Visitor Center, located near Homestead, serves as the park’s main hub for education and orientation. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits about Biscayne’s coral reefs, shipwrecks, and wildlife, plus park rangers who can help you plan your trip, or join a ranger-led kayak tour.

Dante Fascell Visitor Center

The Dante Fascell Visitor Center, located near Homestead, serves as the park’s main hub for education and orientation. Inside you’ll find interactive exhibits about Biscayne’s coral reefs, shipwrecks, and wildlife, plus park rangers who can help you plan your trip or join a ranger-led kayak tour.

Tip: Begin here before heading to the water — it’s where you’ll find maps, current weather info, and program schedules.

👉 Stop by the Dante Fascell Visitor Center for exhibits and trip advice.

Get a better picture of your travel plans.

VIEW PARK MAPS

Visiting On Your Own

Visitors can explore Biscayne independently by kayak, private boat or tour.

Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days).

Permits: Required for overnight camping on islands.

Access: Mainland area near Homestead. Boat required to reach Keys and reefs.

Cell Service: Limited on the water.

Tip: Check marine conditions and wind forecast — before departure — as the bay can change quickly.

Park Information & Details

Planning ahead ensures a smooth visit to this mostly aquatic park. From entrance fees and access routes, to what to pack and how to stay safe on the water, these essentials help you focus on exploring Biscayne’s reefs and islands, instead of worrying about logistics.

Food & Drink

There are no restaurants inside the park. Bring snacks and plenty of water. After your visit, enjoy fresh seafood, Cuban cafés, and local eateries in Homestead, Florida City, or Miami Beach.

What to Bring

Light clothing
hat
Reef Safe sunscreen
swimsuit
waterproof bag
camera
reusable water bottle

**If boating or snorkeling, also pack towels and dry bags for gear**

Safety Tips

Be aware of sun exposure and marine life. Avoid touching coral or wild animals. Stay hydrated and check weather forecasts for afternoon storms.

Shuttle / Transport Info

Most visitors arrive by private vehicle from Miami (≈ 45 minutes). Boat access is essential to reach the islands and reefs. Public tours depart from Miami Beach and Key Biscayne.

Accessibility For All

The Dante Fascell Visitor Center and some shoreline areas are wheelchair-accessible.

**Boat and island access may require assistance.**

Using a Mooring Buoy

Recreating In The Parks’ Waters

Maps Of The Park & Region

Understanding Biscayne’s layout helps you plan routes to the islands and reefs. Maps show key locations like Elliott Key, Boca Chita Key, and Stiltsville.

Biscayne Park Map

Miami Area Map

Use these essentials to prepare for your Biscayne adventure.

CHECK OUR TOURS

Park Gateway Towns

The communities surrounding Biscayne are launching points into the park’s waters. From Homestead and Florida City near the visitor center to the marinas of Key Biscayne and Miami Beach, each offers its own window into South Florida’s blend of nature and coastal culture.

Homestead, FL

Homestead serves as the mainland gateway to Biscayne National Park, located just a short drive from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center. This welcoming town has deep agricultural roots and a relaxed, local feel.

Travelers will find affordable hotels, authentic Latin eateries, and easy access to both Biscayne and the nearby Everglades. It’s the perfect base for visitors who want to explore the wild side of Miami-Dade County without the crowds or traffic.

Tip: Stay in Homestead if you plan to visit both Biscayne and Everglades National Parks — it’s the midpoint between the two.

Florida City, FL

A next door neighbor to Homestead, Florida City offers similar convenience with a slightly more suburban atmosphere. It’s known for being the final stop before the Florida Keys, making it an easy and budget-friendly launch point for travelers continuing south. Motels, family restaurants, and roadside fruit stands line the main roads, while local guides offer airboat, kayaking, and eco-tours that reach into Biscayne’s backcountry shallows.

**Tip: Stock up on snacks and water here — island access within the park is by boat only.**

Miami, FL

As the cultural and logistical heart of South Florida, Miami is where most Biscayne adventures begin. From the city’s glittering skyline, you’re less than an hour from the park’s coral reefs and mangrove shorelines — yet close to world-class restaurants, museums, and nightlife. Miami combines urban sophistication with tropical edge.

Enjoy art deco landmarks in South Beach, Cuban coffee in Little Havana, and boats gliding past skyscrapers in Biscayne Bay. It’s the perfect launchpad for travelers who want both city energy and ocean escape in one trip.

**Tip: Stay in Downtown or Brickell for quick access to Biscayne tours departing from nearby marinas.**

Key Biscayne, FL

Just south of downtown Miami, Key Biscayne bridges city life with tropical calm. Palm-lined beaches, scenic bike paths, and views of the Miami skyline make it a favorite for day trips and boat tours into Biscayne Bay. The Cape Florida Lighthouse at Bill Baggs State Park marks the island’s southern tip — a historic landmark and one of the most photographed spots on Florida’s coast.

**Tip: Depart from Key Biscayne for easy access to Stiltsville and Biscayne Bay’s northern islands.**

Miami Beach, FL

Famous for its art deco skyline and nightlife, Miami Beach also serves as a surprising gateway to nature. From its marinas, small-group and private charters set out daily to explore Biscayne Bay, Stiltsville, and the barrier islands that separate ocean from city. It’s the ideal base for travelers who want to pair marine adventure with Miami’s culture, dining, and vibrant waterfront lifestyle.

**Tip: Stay near the marina if you’re booking early morning tours — departures are often right from the docks.**

What Visitors Say About The Park

Kayaking through mangroves felt like entering another world — quiet, green, and full of life.

Visitor from California

The Stiltsville houses were amazing to see up close. It’s a part of Miami most people don’t know exists.

Visitor from New York

Snorkeling over the reefs was the highlight of our trip — so many fish and such clear water.

Visitor from Texas

From City Skyline to Coral Sanctuary

Biscayne National Park shows that Miami’s most beautiful side lies beneath the waves.
Let us help you plan your boat tour, snorkel trip, or island adventure today.

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Biscayne National Park

Florida’s Underwater National Park

Featured Experiences