Have you ever dreamed of discovering a hidden paradise where turquoise waters meet lush mangrove forests? Then pack your bags and get ready for a Park adventure and check out the things to do in Biscayne National Park! As a seasoned traveler who has explored countless corners of the world, I can confidently say that this place has a special magic hidden in it. From kayaking through crystal clear waters to spotting colorful marine life, Biscayne National Park offers a unique combination of natural beauty and exciting activities.
So whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adrenaline junkie, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, I think this park has something for everyone. Let’s explore the best things to do in this charming corner of Florida with me and nationalparkshops.com through the following article! Let’s get started!
11 Best things to do in Biscayne National Park Must Try
Biscayne National Park, located just south of Miami, Florida, is a hidden gem that offers a unique combination of underwater adventures and stunning natural beauty. As soon as I set foot here, I was overwhelmed by the vibrant coral reefs, lush mangroves, and diverse wildlife. It would be safe to say that this park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers (like me). After experiencing it multiple times, I have come up with the 11 best things to do in Biscayne National Park that you absolutely must try! Let’s find out what it is!
Take in the Visitor Center
Many national park visitors skip visitor centers on their list of things to do in Biscayne National Park, perhaps because they find them boring. That’s a shame, because they’re great gateways to exploring these incredible public lands. The Biscayne Visitor Center is no exception, helping to orient visitors to the layout—and treasures—of this tropical wonderland.
Specifically, I’m talking about the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, located on the narrow mainland portion of the park at Convoy Point. Inside, visitors will find a well-organized and informative museum about Biscayne’s four major ecological regions: the Great Barrier Reef of Florida, Biscayne Bay, the farthest reaches of the Florida Islands, and the mangrove shoreline of the mainland.
There’s also an art gallery featuring the work of local artists—a fun feature that you might not expect in a park visitor center, but one that highlights a less specific quality of America’s national parks: their ability to inspire and stimulate the spirit.
Spending an hour or so at the visitor center is one of the best things to do in Biscayne National Park, especially for first-timers.
Kayaking or Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Jones Lagoon
This is one of the best things to do in Biscayne National Park… just make sure you’re loaded up on mosquito repellant! This National Register of Historic Places lagoon consists of Totten Key and Porgy Key, along with the shallow channels between them. In the 19th century, the Jones family grew pineapples and lemons here.
The Jones family is long gone, but this quiet area remains, and is one of the best places in Biscayne National Park to kayak or SUP. Since these channels are far from the deep channels and boat traffic, it’s a peaceful experience.
To get here, you’ll pass through Caesar’s Bay and then enter the lagoon via Hurricane Bay. As you paddle through the mangroves, keep an eye out for sharks, sea turtles, and fish.
I did this with the Biscayne National Park Institute. Our 3.5 hour tour included a boat ride to and from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, our paddleboards, and a guide. We were the only ones on the tour, so it was just me, my friends, and our guide, paddling through the mangroves. I enjoyed the experience, although I was bitten to death by mosquitoes. So great travel advice: slather on mosquito repellant before heading to Laguny Jones, or any island.
Read More: Paddle Through Paradise: Kayaking Biscayne National Park
Snorkel at Fowey Rocks Lighthouse
Known as the “Eye of Miami,” the historic Fowey Rocks Lighthouse stands as a prominent landmark within Biscayne National Park. Built-in 1876 to warn ships of the treacherous reef, it originally housed a magnificent Fresnel lens, crafted in Paris and installed in 1878. While that original lens now resides at the US Coast Guard’s National Aids to Navigation Training Center in Yorktown, Virginia, the lighthouse continues to guide mariners with its modern, solar-powered light, visible for an impressive 17 miles.
Beyond its historical significance, Fowey Rocks Lighthouse offers exceptional snorkeling opportunities. The waters surrounding the lighthouse teem with a vibrant array of fish, congregating around the submerged metal pilings. This combination of history and thriving marine life makes Fowey Rocks Lighthouse a true highlight of things to do in Biscayne National Park and a firm favorite for me.
Read More: Guide To Best Time To Visit Biscayne National Park
Visit Elliott Key
Elliott Key is the largest island in the park and the northernmost island in the Florida Keys. It was once home to a community of pineapple farmers. Today, Elliott Key has campsites, a short hiking trail, picnic tables, and fishing spots. The scar of the “Spite Highway” is still there, but it has been overgrown since the 1960s. Reason enough to put this on your list of things to do in Biscayne National Park.
I hiked the trail that loops around Elliott Key. Most of the time, you are in a forest where you can’t see much. It’s muddy, full of spider webs, and despite using lots of insect repellent (I learned my lesson at Laguny Jones), we still got a few mosquito bites. Part of the trail, you can walk on the remaining portion of the “Spite Highway” and you can also walk to the beach on the other side of Elliott Key.
Visit Boca Chita Key
Boca Chita Key is the most visited island in the park and one of the top things to do in Biscayne National Park. It is one of our favorite places in the park and one of the best things to do in Biscayne National Park.
The only way to get here is by boat. As you enter the bay, you will first be greeted by the iconic lighthouse built by Mark Honeywell in the 1930s. If you visit Boca Chita with a tour, a park ranger will allow you to climb to the top of the lighthouse. Otherwise, it is closed to visitors.
Take the half-mile loop trail around the island. It is a great walk, with views of nearby Sands Key. There is also a picnic area and a beautiful little beach worth visiting. There are restrooms on Boca Chita Key, but no water. Bring all your trash with you, as well as sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Mosquitoes are present all year round.
Watch One of the Biscayne National Park Films
Back at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, one of the things to do in Biscayne National Park that I recommend is to watch some of the park’s films on a variety of national park-related topics, including the 20-minute feature film Biscayne.
I highly recommend watching one of these—you can ask a ranger to play the one you’d like to see. Regardless of which film you choose, it’ll be a great introduction to the park’s history, people, and/or natural resources.
Go on a Guided Boat Tour
There are a variety of guided boat tours available, from half-day trips to full-day trips and even overnight sailings. To truly experience Biscayne National Park, taking a guided boat tour is a must. After orientation at the visitor center, a boat tour is where you’ll find the real Biscayne.
You’ll sail across the shallow Biscayne Bay, which always offers great wildlife viewing opportunities – I saw a dolphin and some water birds.
Depending on the tour you choose, it may include a visit to Boca Chita Key and its iconic lighthouse, a cruise through Stiltsville, a few hours of snorkeling at reefs or shipwrecks, and/or the option to paddle around the islands.
It doesn’t really matter which tour you choose. They’re all great. However, it is important that you actually go on a boat tour. It is definitely on your list of things to do in Biscayne National Park. It is really the only way to fully experience and explore Biscayne National Park.
Fishing in Biscayne Bay
“For ancient people like the Tequesta, it was a way of life. Today, we enjoy fishing as a way to relax and appreciate the outdoors,” the National Park Service says.
However, there are many restrictions and regulations on fishing in Biscayne National Park, so check the park’s website for more details. You can fish from Jetty Convoy Point, which is essentially the only fishing area allowed on the mainland, as well as most of Biscayne Bay, and nearly all of the islands.
Camping on a Florida Key
Yes, you can camp in Biscayne National Park too. This is one of the things to do in Biscayne National Park! The park has two campgrounds, both located on islands, Boca Chita Key – the most popular island in the park and Elliott Key – the largest island in the park.
The only way to get to these campgrounds is by boat. There are no services on either island, which means you’ll need to bring everything you might need. However, some (basic) facilities are available.
The Boca Chita Key Campground has a grassy area right next to the dock, great views of the water, picnic tables, and grills. There are flush toilets, but no drinking water, sinks, or showers. Rates are $25/night for camping only and $35/night for docking and camping.
The Elliott Key Campground has picnic tables and grills, as well as restrooms with sinks and cold showers. Drinking water is available, but guests are encouraged to bring enough water in case of system failure. Prices are $25/night for camping only and $35/night for docking and camping.
Look For Wildlife
On the list of things to do in Biscayne National Park, in addition to observing marine life underwater while snorkeling or scuba diving, observing wildlife above the water is also great. In fact, wildlife watching is one of the most popular activities in Biscayne National Park.
At Convoy Point, look for large animals like dugongs and even alligators, which are occasionally seen in the shallow waters. And like nearby Everglades National Park, Biscayne is also home to an incredible diversity of birds.
Birdwatching in Biscayne National Park can be done anywhere in the park, from the mainland of Convoy Point to the vast expanse of Biscayne Bay and small islands like Boca Chita Key, Elliott Key, and Adams Key.
Explore the Convoy Point Jetty Walk
This is an easy hike, one of the few things to do in Biscayne National Park without hopping on a boat. Starting from the visitor center, you will walk out to a bridge to the Colonial Bird Sanctuary.
The trail was closed for repairs during my visit, but from what I saw, it looked like a great, easy hike through mangroves with great views of Biscayne Bay.
Along the way, you may also see fishermen casting their lines, loons catching fish, or even a sea turtle swimming by. It is a relaxing way to experience the coastal environment of the park and enjoy its tranquility.
Maps of Biscayne National Park
FAQs about Things to Do in Biscayne National Park
How to Get to Biscayne National Park?
How to get to Biscayne National Park? Biscayne National Park is located just south of Miami, Florida, and is easily accessible by car or boat. Ways to get there include:
- By Car: The park’s main entrance is off SW 152nd Street in Miami. It’s about a 30-minute drive from downtown Miami and roughly an hour from Fort Lauderdale.
- By Boat: Many boat tours operate out of Miami, offering a unique way to explore the park’s waters and islands. You can also rent a boat and explore independently, but check the park’s regulations and any required permits.
- By Public Transportation: While not the most convenient option, you can reach the park by taking public transportation. The Metrorail and Metromover systems in Miami can take you to the park’s main entrance, but it may involve a combination of bus rides and transfers.
How Many Days Do You Need in Biscayne National Park?
While you can see many of the park’s highlights in one day, spending two to three days allows you to fully appreciate everything Biscayne National Park has to offer. This gives you time to explore the islands, go snorkeling, and enjoy the various things to do in Biscayne National Park without feeling rushed. Plus, you can take advantage of camping opportunities for a more immersive experience.
Where to Eat and Stay in Biscayne National Park?
While the park itself has limited dining and accommodation options, the surrounding area offers a wide variety of choices.
- Eating:
- Convoy Point Visitor Center: Offers a small snack bar with basic food and drinks.
- Dante Fascell Visitor Center: Has a picnic area where you can enjoy your own lunch.
- Nearby Restaurants: There are many restaurants in nearby Miami and Key Biscayne offering a variety of cuisines.
- Staying:
- Camping: The park has two campgrounds:
- Elliott Key Campground: Accessible only by boat, offers primitive camping with no amenities.
- Boca Chita Key Campground: Accessible by boat, features amenities like flush toilets and picnic tables.
- Hotels and Resorts: There are many hotels near Biscayne in Miami and Key Biscayne that offer convenient access to the park.
- Boat Rentals: You can rent boats and stay on the water overnight if you’re comfortable with boating.
- Camping: The park has two campgrounds:
Conclusion
Alright, adventurers, I’ve got to say, Biscayne National Park is a true gem. From the moment you step foot on those pristine beaches, you’ll be captivated by the beauty and serenity of this hidden paradise.
So, if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, head to and join things to do in Biscayne National Park. It’s a place where you can reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Florida Keys, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
P.S. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures! Be sure to capture some amazing photos and share them with the world. I’m eager to see what incredible moments you’ll have while exploring this magical place.
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