Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park is located in southeastern Florida, about 20 miles south of downtown Miami. Established on June 28, 1980, the park covers an area of approximately 173,000 acres, including Elliott Key, the park's largest island, and a portion of the northernmost Florida Keys.

The park's historical background is deeply tied to human activity. For thousands of years, Biscayne Bay and its surrounding areas were home to indigenous people, such as the Tequesta and later the Seminole tribes. European explorers arrived in the early 16th century, and the area became a key trade route, attracting pirates and smugglers. Later, the park's islands were used for pineapple plantations, and during Prohibition, illegal rum-running activities were prevalent.

Today, Biscayne National Park offers a range of activities for visitors. Exploring the park's diverse marine ecosystem is a popular choice, with opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating. The park features the third-largest coral reef system in the world, which is home to over 200 species of fish and other marine creatures. Fishing is also a favorite pastime for visitors, with numerous locations to cast a line and catch game fish.

Those seeking to experience the park's history and cultural heritage can visit the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, where exhibits showcase the park's natural and cultural resources. Guided tours of historic Stiltsville, a collection of houses on stilts in Biscayne Bay, provide insight into the area's past. Additionally, the park offers various hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping opportunities on Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature.

Biscayne National Park also benefits from its proximity to other popular attractions in southern Florida. Miami, with its vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches, and cultural diversity, is just a short drive away. Key Biscayne, home to beautiful beaches, golf courses, and the Miami Seaquarium, is located nearby as well. Additionally, the Everglades National Park is within reach, offering unique wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities.

Overall, Biscayne National Park is a stunning natural and historical treasure that offers visitors the chance to explore diverse ecosystems, engage in outdoor activities, and learn about the area's rich heritage.

Biscayne National Park, located in the sunny state of Florida, encompasses a vast area of natural beauty within the southern part of the state. Situated in Miami-Dade County, this national park extends from the mainland to the stunning turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay, encompassing over 172,000 acres of diverse habitats. Its unique geographical location places it in close proximity to the bustling city of Miami, making it an easily accessible paradise for nature enthusiasts and locals alike. With its intricate network of mangroves, vibrant coral reefs, and sparkling waterways, Biscayne National Park stands as a testament to the state's breathtaking natural wonders.

Address & Contact

9700 SW 328th Street
Sir Lancelot Jones Way
Homestead, FL 33033
Driving Directions
Phone: 786-335-3620
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Biscayne National Park would be in January or February. During these months, temperatures range from the high 70s to low 80s, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 1.7 to 1.9 inches, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the park without excessive rainfall. Moreover, visitor numbers are relatively low during these months, allowing for a more peaceful experience and avoiding large crowds. Thus, January and February offer a favorable combination of weather conditions and lower visitor traffic, making them the ideal time to explore Biscayne National Park.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Biscayne National Park are: Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Camping Boating Motorized Boating Fishing Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Swimming Boat Tour Sailing Stand Up Paddleboarding SCUBA Diving Snorkeling Saltwater Swimming

Topics

Learn about these topics at Biscayne National Park: Animals Birds Arts Fish Tortoises and Turtles Trails Water Trails Unique Species African American Heritage Schools and Education Climate Change Scenic Views Endangered Coasts, Islands and Atolls Alligators or Crocodiles Maritime Maritime - Military Oceans Coral Reefs Piracy and Privateering Ships and Shipwrecks Estuaries and Mangroves Lighthouses

Visitor Centers

Dante Fascell Visitor Center

The Dante Fascell Visitor Center is located at Convoy Point, 9 miles East of the city of Homestead, Florida. A beautiful museum offers a virtual journey through the park's four ecosystems using dioramas, audio and video. Several films are available to help you learn about the park, including the 20-minute feature presentation: Connections. The Gallery highlights the works of local artists who find inspiration in the park.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Dante Fascell Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Biscayne National Park

Boca Chita Campground

Boca Chita campground is located on an island. The only access is by boat. No services are available. Boca Chita Key features an iconic lighthouse and an open, waterside, grassy camping area with picnic tables and grills. Toilets are available, but there are no sinks, showers or drinking water. The harbor entrance at low tide is approximately four feet deep. Pets, with the exception of service animals as defined by the ADA, are not permitted on the island or boats in the harbor.
Fees (US$): 35.00 (Camping Fees)
Total Campsites: 60
Toilets: Flush Toilets - year round
Showers: Cold- Seasonal
Potable Water: Water

Elliott Key Campground

Elliott Key campground is located on an island. The only access is by boat. Elliott Key features waterside and partially forested camping areas, picnic tables, and grills. Restrooms with sinks and cold water showers are available. A mile-long loop hiking trail starts near the campground. Another walking trail, the infamous "Spite Highway" runs approximately six miles down the center of the island. At low tide, the depth of the entrance to the marina is approximately 2 1/2 feet.
Fees (US$): 35.00 (Camping Fees)
Total Campsites: 20
Toilets: NULL
Showers: NULL
Potable Water: NULL

Hotels within or near Biscayne National Park

Marriott Stanton South Beach

A stay at Marriott Stanton South Beach places you in the heart of Miami Beach, steps from Ocean Drive and 3 minutes by foot from Collins Avenue Shopping Area. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Miami Beach? This hotel has facilities measuring 5000 square feet (465 square meters), including conference space.
Address: 161 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach

Located in Miami Beach (South Beach), Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach is within a 5-minute drive of South Pointe Park and Lincoln Road Mall. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a 24-hour business center, and limo/town car service. Planning an event in Miami Beach? This hotel has facilities measuring 1500 square feet (139 square meters), including conference space.
Address: 101 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

Prime Hotel

With a stay at Prime Hotel in Miami Beach (South Beach), you'll be steps from Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue Shopping Area. Featured amenities include express check-out, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Miami Beach? This hotel has facilities measuring 30 square feet (3 square meters), including a meeting room.
Address: 100 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

Beachfront Studio-South Beach-Miami

With a stay at this apartment in Miami Beach (South Beach), you'll be steps from Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue Shopping Area. Featured amenities include laundry facilities and an elevator.
Address: 335 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

SoFi Vacation Rentals

With a stay at SoFi Vacation Rentals in Miami Beach (South Beach), you'll be steps from Collins Avenue Shopping Area and Ocean Drive.
Address: 100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

Casa Sofi

With a stay at Casa Sofi in Miami Beach (South Beach), you'll be steps from Collins Avenue Shopping Area and 3 minutes by foot from Ocean Drive.
Address: 735 2nd St, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

Ocean Walk Apartments by SV Rentals

With a stay at Ocean Walk Apartments by SV Rentals in Miami Beach (South Beach), you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Ocean Drive and Lummus Park Beach.
Address: 335 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

Sage on Ocean Drive Apts by SV Rentals

With a stay at Sage on Ocean Drive Apts by SV Rentals in Miami Beach (South Beach), you'll be steps from Collins Avenue Shopping Area and Ocean Drive.
Address: 130 3rd Street, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

Jurny - Miami Beach Apartments

With a stay at Jurny - Miami Beach Apartments in Miami Beach (South Beach), you'll be steps from Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue Shopping Area.
Address: 320 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link

250 Collins by Sextant

With a stay at 250 Collins by Sextant in Miami Beach (South Beach), you'll be steps from Collins Avenue Shopping Area and Ocean Drive.
Address: 250 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Web: Link