Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park sits on a shallow limestone platform that is the southern tip of the Florida peninsula. The park's seafloor is composed of Key Largo Limestone, a fossil coral reef formed approximately 125,000 years ago during the last interglacial period when sea levels were higher. This ancient reef forms the foundation for the modern coral ecosystem that grows along the park's eastern edge. The park contains the northernmost reaches of the Florida Reef Tract, which extends 360 miles southwest to the Dry Tortugas. The reef supports a diverse ecosystem of hard corals, soft corals, sponges, and reef fish, though it has been significantly impacted by bleaching events, disease, and hurricane damage. The western portion of the park is dominated by the mangrove coastline of the mainland, where red, black, and white mangroves form a dense fringe that protects the bay from storm surges and provides critical nursery habitat for fish and crustaceans. Biscayne Bay itself is a shallow lagoon, averaging only 6 to 10 feet deep, with seagrass beds that support manatees, sea turtles, and juvenile fish. The bay is divided from the open ocean by the chain of islands including Elliott Key, Adams Key, and Sands Key.

Snorkeling and diving on the coral reefs are the park's signature activities. The Maritime Heritage Trail is a unique underwater trail connecting six shipwreck sites, including the Lugano, a 350-foot steel freighter that sank in 1913, and the Arratoon Apcar, a steamship that ran aground in 1878. Snorkelers can visit these sites on guided boat tours that depart from the park's Convoy Point headquarters. Snorkeling at the reef typically costs $50 to $100 per person, and SCUBA diving trips run $80 to $150. Paddling is a popular way to explore the mangrove coastlines and the shallow bay. Elliott Key has a 6-mile loop hiking trail called the Elliott Key Loop that passes through tropical hardwood hammock forest and offers the rare experience of walking on an undeveloped Florida Key. Boca Chita Key is a popular day-use and camping destination, known for its 65-foot ornamental lighthouse built by industrialist Mark Honeywell in the 1930s. Wildlife viewing is a draw year-round: manatees are frequently spotted in the bay, and dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of wading birds are common. Fishing is permitted with appropriate state licenses in designated areas.

Biscayne National Park is located about 35 miles south of Miami, adjacent to the city of Homestead. The Dante Fascell Visitor Center at Convoy Point is the only land-based access point and is where the concessionaire (Biscayne National Park Institute) operates boat tours, snorkeling trips, and paddle trips. Entrance to the park is free, but all activities on the water require a boat, either through the concessionaire or on a private vessel. Boat tours range from half-day snorkeling trips to full-day island excursions and paddle adventures. There is no bridge or road to any of the islands; private boaters can launch from public ramps at Homestead Bayfront Park or Black Point Marina. Overnight camping is available on Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key on a first-come, first-served basis ($25 per night) with basic facilities including toilets and picnic tables but no fresh water. Visitors must bring all water, food, and supplies. The visitor center has a small bookstore and aquarium exhibits. The park is open year-round, and visitor center hours are typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Biscayne's tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but conditions vary significantly. The dry season (November through April) is the ideal time to visit, with warm temperatures, low humidity, calm seas, and excellent underwater visibility — this is when snorkeling and diving conditions are best. Water temperatures are comfortable for swimming without wetsuits. Winter is also the busiest season, and boat tours should be reserved in advance. The wet season (May through October) is hotter, more humid, and prone to afternoon thunderstorms, which can create rough seas and reduce visibility. Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity in September and October; visitors should monitor forecasts and have flexible plans during these months. Summer water temperatures reach the mid-80s°F, making wetsuits unnecessary but increasing the risk of coral bleaching. Mosquitoes and biting insects can be intense on the islands, especially during the wet season; long sleeves and insect repellent are essential. Sea turtle nesting season runs from May through October, and visitors on beaches should avoid disturbing nests.