Biscayne National Park

Keys, mangroves and reef south of Miami

⏱ Half to full day👤 All agesFree

The mainland area offers a visitor center, a short mangrove-edge trail and a shoreline where you can watch for birds and sea breezes. It is free to enter the park, though boat tours, rentals and some activities carry their own costs. Facilities are limited, so bring water, snacks, sun protection and insect repellent. Check the park's current conditions before you go, as hours and services can change with the season and weather.

Beyond the shore, the keys and reef are the highlights. Islands such as Boca Chita Key, with its decorative lighthouse, and Elliott Key are accessible by boat, and the reef is a draw for snorkelers and divers. Because water conditions vary, check visibility and winds with a concessioner before you commit. Winter and spring tend to offer calmer, drier conditions, while summer brings heat, storms and more insects. If you are not a confident boater, a guided trip is the easier route.

Allow plenty of time. The park is about an hour south of central Miami, and a full day lets you enjoy the visitor center, a boat or paddle excursion and the drive back without rushing. Pair it with a stop at Robert Is Here fruit stand or with the Everglades for a south-of-Miami nature day. Respect posted rules around wildlife and the reef: touching coral damages it, and many areas have protections. Bring a reusable bottle and carry out what you carry in, and you will leave this quiet corner of the coast as you found it.