Caution:Boater Awareness
Information:Camping and Docking at Boca Chita and Elliott Keys
Information:Ride Share Services
Biscayne National Park

Biscayne

Family Friendly Florida

Overview

Biscayne National Park is 95% water, protecting 173,000 acres of Biscayne Bay, mangrove shoreline, the northernmost coral reef in the continental United States, and a chain of undeveloped barrier islands off the coast of Miami. The park's underwater world is its main attraction: the reef system teems with parrotfish, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and brain corals in water so clear that snorkelers can see 60 feet down on calm days. The barrier islands — Elliott Key, Boca Chita Key, and Adams Key — are accessible only by boat and offer a startling contrast to the Miami skyline visible across the bay. Boca Chita Key has a historic lighthouse, picnic areas, and a harbor for boaters. Elliott Key, the largest island, has a short nature trail through tropical hardwood hammock and a seven-mile hiking path along its spine. The park's mangrove shoreline, visible from the Convoy Point visitor center on the mainland, serves as a critical nursery for fish and crustaceans. Visiting Biscayne requires getting on the water. The park concessionaire runs snorkeling and diving trips to the reef, glass-bottom boat tours, and island shuttles. Kayaking through the mangrove channels is a quiet alternative that puts you face-to-face with wading birds, manatees, and juvenile fish. The park is free to enter, and the visitor center at Convoy Point is a worthwhile stop even without a boat.

Things to Do

  • Snorkel the coral reef on a guided boat trip
  • Kayak through mangrove channels
  • Take a glass-bottom boat tour over the reef
  • Camp on Elliott Key or Boca Chita Key
  • Dive the Maritime Heritage Trail of shipwrecks
  • Paddleboard across Biscayne Bay
  • Visit the Boca Chita lighthouse by boat
Stone lighthouse with glass dome stands at the mouth of the harbor

Boca Chita Campground

Sites available

RestroomsShowersWater
Golden orange sunset mirrored in the calm waters of the bay

Elliott Key Campground

Sites available

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for these animals during your visit:

Sea Turtle Manatee Nurse Shark Parrotfish Bottlenose Dolphin Brown Pelican Spiny Lobster

Pro Tips

  • 💡 Book the concessionaire snorkel trip in advance — it only runs on select days and fills up fast
  • 💡 Bring your own kayak to avoid rental fees and explore the mangroves at your own pace
  • 💡 The best snorkeling visibility is in calm conditions; check wind forecasts before booking reef trips
  • 💡 Elliott Key camping is primitive (no showers) but the island is gorgeous and you'll likely have it to yourself midweek
  • 💡 The park is a 45-minute drive from Miami Beach — combine with an Everglades visit for a two-park day

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Subtropical with warm, humid summers (highs in the 90s) and mild winters (70s). Hurricane season runs June through November. Winter dry season offers the best visibility for snorkeling.

Best seasons: Winter, Spring