Biscayne National Park Guide
QUICK GLANCE
Location: South Florida
Time needed (minimum noted): 1 day
When to Visit: December-May
Activities: Wildlife viewing, walking, bicycling, birdwatching, kayaking, boating
Advanced Reservations Required: Recommended for activities
Lodging Style: Camping, budget, mid-range, and luxury
Where to Stay: Miami
Fixed Costs: Activity costs
Transportation: Car is required
Road Trip Option: Yes
Accessible Activities: Yes
INTRODUCTION
Biscayne National Park protects a rare blend of mangrove forests, shallow bay waters, keys, and coral reef ecosystems in South Florida. Located within sight of downtown Miami, the Park is primarily a vast marine environment where the Atlantic Ocean meets Biscayne Bay, preserving significant natural and cultural history spanning thousands of years. This guide explains why to visit, how to get there, what to do, and key logistics for planning your trip to this uniquely aquatic National Park.
WHY GO
Biscayne National Park is 95% water and includes incredibly marine biodiversity. The Park protects a portion of third largest coral reef system in the world, is home to several hundred species of fish, mangroves, and shipwrecks. The Park is a water-lover’s dream with sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, and kayaking all available and ship wrecks to explore under the surface. If you are not a water lover, then a visit to Biscayne will be quick as activities are extremely limited.
LOCATION
Biscayne National Park is in southern Florida, immediately south of the Miami area. The Dante Fascell Visitor Center at Convoy Point near Homestead, Florida is the primary land access point and serves as the gateway to the park’s water activities and tours.
TIME NEEDED (MINIMUM NOTED)
You’ll need one full day to visit the Visitor Center, stroll the scenic jetty walk, and do an activity on the water. If you aren’t doing any water activities, then you just need a half day.
WHEN TO VISIT
The Dry Season (December–April) is a great time to visit for pleasant weather, lower humidity, and fewer mosquitos. This is also the most popular time to visit, with more wildlife visible around water sources and better conditions for hiking, biking, and paddling.
The Wet Season (May–November), which also overlaps with Hurricane season, provides higher temperatures, humidity, and mosquitos. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent and common. Water levels are higher, which can benefit boating and kayaking, but weather conditions can be unpredictable. We were there in January and our kayak trip got cancelled due to intense wind.
Overall, the dry season is considered the best time for most visitors, especially those focused on wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation.
BEST THINGS TO DO & MUST SEE
Boating & Guided Eco-Adventures — Boating or kayaking is the best way to explore this water-world park. Guided tours, to include daytime and sunset sailing trips and eco-focused kayaking trips, depart from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center.
Coral Reefs & Shipwreck Trails — The Biscayne Maritime Heritage Trail connects historic wrecks accessible by snorkeling or diving. The Park protects part of the world’s third-longest living coral reef system.
Snorkeling & Scuba — The Park offers warm, shallow waters and vibrant marine life create excellent conditions for snorkeling and scuba diving with shallow, warm, waters and ample marine life. Recommend reserving gear rentals in advance.
Island Exploration — Boca Chita Key features a 1930s historic lighthouse and picnic areas, and Elliott Key is a larger island with hiking and birdwatching opportunities; both require boat access.
Paddling & Wildlife Watching — Kayak and canoe routes take you deep into mangrove tunnels, lagoons such as Jones Lagoon, and peaceful bay waters rich with birdlife and fish.
Jetty Trail & Visitor Center Exhibits — A short, accessible boardwalk trail at Convoy Point offers scenic water views and a gentle introduction to the park’s ecosystems.
ACCESSIBLE ACTIVITIES
Biscayne National Park provides several accessible experiences:
Jetty Walk — A scenic boardwalk over Biscayne Bay that is wheelchair accessible.
Convoy Point Facilities — ADA-compliant restrooms, picnic areas, and ramps at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center.
Visitor Center Exhibits — Accessible films and displays with wheelchair seating.
LODGING STYLE AND WHERE TO STAY
Camping: Island camping on Elliott Key or Boca Chita Key—primitive sites (no hookups, water available on Elliott Key only) accessible only by boat. Check Park site for reservation requirements.
There are no hotels within the park boundaries. Nearby towns such as Homestead, Florida City, and Miami offer a range of lodging from budget motels and mid-range hotels to luxury stays.
FIXED COSTS
Entrance Fee: No entrance fee is charged at Biscayne National Park — park access is free.
Camping Fees: Island campsites charge a modest fee per night.
Expect to pay $70+ per person if you are doing any type of water activity/excursion.
TRANSPORTATION
A car is needed to get to the Visitor Center and jumping off point for water activities.
ROAD TRIP OPTIONS
Biscayne National Park pairs well with Everglades National Park and the Florida Keys for a South Florida road trip focused on coastal and marine ecosystems, wildlife, coral reefs, and subtropical nature exploration.
TIPS
Book tour and water excursions early, especially during peak season (winter months).
Bring mosquito repellant and dress appropriately year-round, and especially during the summer months.
There are no restaurants inside the Park or on the water. Bring all required food, water, and supplies.
GO FURTHER
Two days at Biscayne allows for snorkeling dives, boat excursions to Boca Chita or Elliott Keys, paddling water trails, diving or deeper wildlife encounters.
Three days at Biscayne is ideal for island camping, additional reef exploration, fishing excursions, and sunset sailing.
Plan for extra time, at least one day, to visit Everglades National Park, which is also in the South Florida area. With three additional days, you can travel down to the Keys to visit Key West and Dry Tortuga National Park.
