4 Ways to Explore Biscayne National Park

This underrated National Park is located on Biscayne Bay, just a short distance from Miami, Florida. The park is 95% water and is known for having more biodiversity and marine life than any other park.

There is no entrance fee to the park, but the guided tours are the only ways to get the full experience (unless you have access to a private boat). The Biscayne National Park Institute operates a variety of excursions to suit any activity level.

Kayaking

We went on a one and a half hour guided kayaking tour along the water trees, known as mangroves. Double and single open-faced kayaks were available, and no prior experience was necessary. Half of the tour we followed the group, and the other half we paddled out into the open water on our own. The water was calm and made for a short & relaxing way to the end the day.

Snorkeling/Scuba Diving

We did not participate in scuba diving since you have to be certified, but we know that BNPI does offer tours.

We went on a small group snorkeling excursion (I was a passenger on the boat and Hunter actually participated). Even though the activity lasted over 3 hours, we spent a good portion of the time simply sailing to the destinations, and about an hour actually snorkeling. The snorkel gear (fins, wet suits, and masks) are not included in the  price - you can bring your own or rent from the visitor center.

Snorkel spots will vary based on weather conditions, but the crew tried to gauge our interests. Options could include swimming amongst shipwrecks, sea grass beds, coral reef patches, and the base of Fowey lighthouse. Biscayne National Park contains the 3rd largest stretch of coral reef in the world.

On our particular trip, we explored coral reefs and sea grass beds. Hunter witnessed many types of fish, jelly fish, and starfish. Some people in our group even encountered small sharks and tiny seahorses. There are over 600 species of fish that inhabit the bay, and our crew had helpful illustration guides available to help identify what we saw. At the marina dock, we saw plenty of iguanas and birds.

Boat Tours

We decided on a last-minute trip out to Bocha Chita Key, departing from Coconut Grove in downtown Miami (this is NOT from the visitor center marina in Homestead, FL). The 3 hour tour was comprised of an hour and half boat ride and about 1.25 hours walking around the island on our own.

This key was once a privately owned party cove, and is now known as the  “backyard of Miami.” The tiny island contains a few boat slips, a lighthouse, a forested trail, and a small beach inlet. There wasn’t a sandy area to lay out, but it did have very shallow, beautifully clear water to wade out in. It’s also equipped with a restroom, grass & sidewalks, picnic tables, and a couple campsites.

The lighthouse is one of the most iconic images of the park, and we were lucky enough that our tour guide was able to unlock the lighthouse base for us. The spiral staircase led us up to a beautiful lookout where we could gaze at the endless stretch of teal ocean and city buildings in the distance.

On our way back to Miami, we passed through the houses on the water, known as “Stiltsville.” At one time, 27 houses created this water village - now, only 6 remain after years of hurricane damage and are used for fishing tournaments.

This tour ended up being our favorite thing we did in the park. We would love to find a way to get transportation to tent camp here some day - it’d be a true paradise!

Paddle Boarding

We didn’t have time for this unfortunately, but plan to make paddling through Jone’s Lagoon a priority the next time we are in Miami.

Each tour had passionate crew members who educated us on the history and current conditions of the area. We learned so much about the plants, animals, and acquisition of this unique park. Profits from the BNPI tours are used to fund projects, such as beach cleanup/restoration and research.

While each excursion is pricey, you will be sure that your itinerary is packed with adventure. The only walking area is a boardwalk around the visitor center, so you wouldn’t see much otherwise. If hiking isn’t your thing, then this may be the park for you. You can make this as relaxing or as exhilarating as you wish, all while enjoying the warmth of the Florida sun and coolness of the water.

Highlight Reel

TRIP BREAKDOWN

LENGTH OF STAY: 2 DAYS

📍 Homestead, FL

💲 This National Park is FREE

🛶🛥️: $83/person (Boca Chita), $40/person (kayaking), $99/person (snorkeling)

🏨 $130 (two nights)

⛽ 🍽️ : variable