Biscayne National Park

Just south of the busy and bustling city of Miami, Florida lies the calm, blue waters of Biscayne Bay and the hundreds of species of aquatic life protected with Biscayne National Park.

The stunning coral reefs of Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park protects nearly 173,000 acres of Biscayne Bay and its nearby keys and coral reefs. In addition to the remarkable aquatic life found within the park, Biscayne National Park highlights the rich, cultural history of the early inhabitants of the area.

The marina from the Dante Fascell Visitors Center

Established in 1980, and visited by nearly 470,000 travelers annually, Biscayne National Park is comprised almost entirely of water. As 95% of the park located within Biscayne Bay, the only region of the park located on the mainland is the area immediately at and around the Dante Fascell Visitor Centers.

Schools of fish find sanctuary within the mangroves in Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park has no entrance fees, and its calm, clear waters are accessible 24 hours a day. Those with private watercraft have full access to the waters and keys found within the park, but for those needing a guided tour throughout the park, the Biscayne National Park Institute, located within the Dante Fascell Visitors Center, provides a wide assortment of tour options to explore this watery wonderland.

A manatee saying hello at Biscayne National Park

While the park offers no formal lodging options, camping is permitted on Elliot Key and Boca Chita Key. Additionally, fishing, boating, paddling/kayaking, and snorkeling throughout the waters of Biscayne National Park provide ample options for adventurous visitors to this aquatic playground.

A few Egrets soaking in the beauty of Biscayne National Park

From the countless species of marine life and tranquility of its calm waters, to the rich cultural history found within the shipwrecks and the iconic Boca Chita Lighthouse, Biscayne National Park, with it’s close proximity to Miami, is an aquatic wonderland that protects the true essence of the fragile Florida Reef.