National Parks Journal
Coral reef with two snorkelers diving below the surface

Photo: NPS image by Shaun Wolfe

Biscayne National Park

Within sight of Miami, yet worlds away, Biscayne protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and fish-bejeweled coral reefs. Evidence of 10,000 years of human history is here too; from prehistoric tribes to shipwrecks, and pineapple farmers to presidents. For many, the park is a boating, fishing, and diving destination, while others enjoy a warm breeze and peaceful scenery.

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Entrance Fees

No entrance fee. Other fees may apply for tours, camping, or transportation.

Activities

BoatingMotorized BoatingSailingBoat TourCampingFishingGuided ToursBoat TourPaddlingCanoeingKayakingStand Up Paddleboarding

Top Hikes

Convoy Point Jetty Walkeasy

0.8 mi · 0 ft gain · out & back

Self-guided boardwalk with interpretive stations along Biscayne Bay covering the park's ecosystems and maritime history.

Starts at: Dante Fascell Visitor Center

Elliott Key Loop Traileasy

1 mi · 0 ft gain · loop

Short nature loop near Elliott Key campground for wildlife observation in the maritime forest habitat.

Starts at: Elliott Key Harbor

Spite Highwaymoderate

12 mi · 0 ft gain · out & back

A six-mile path running the length of Elliott Key through maritime forest. Named for a road bulldozed by developers before the park was created.

Starts at: Elliott Key Harbor

Upcoming Events

Jun27

Fishing Clinic

Free
02 PM – 04 PMFishing Bridge 9700 SW 328th St Sir Lancelot Jones Way Homestead, FL 33033

Learn how to Fish alongside park staff! Some topics that may be covered during a clinic include (but are not limited to): The techniques behind casting and dehooking a fish Local species Local regulations Best times to fish History of fishing in the area How to tie knots Beginner Friendly! Fun for the whole family!

Children’s ProgramCultural/Craft Demonstration
Park Staff786-335-3620
Jun28

Paddle Clinic

Free
09:45 AM – 12 PM9700 SW 328th Street Sir Lancelot Jones Way Homestead, FL 33033

The Paddle Clinic introduces park visitors to canoeing while building paddle skills and confidence. Biscayne National Park is 95% water and paddling is one of the best ways to explore the park. The trips are staff/weather dependent. Watch the weather and call (786)335-3620 the day before the trip to confirm. Know that trips can be cancelled up until the last minute. All paddlers must be 11yrs+. Non-paddlers sitting in the middle must be 6yrs+. (Indicate age when signing up anybody under the age of 18.) No experience necessary but comfortability on the water is required. This is a beginner course and is moderately strenuous. Most paddle clinics spend nearly two hours on the water and traverse two miles of shallow bay. Shoes and clothes that can get wet are required. Water bottles, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. Please ensure that you’ve provided a local phone number or email address that you are able to check prior to the trip. If you need to cancel, please call (786)335-3620 as soon as possible. These trips are in high demand and others would appreciate the opening. Please arrive 30 min before scheduled departure time. Upon arrival, each participant must come to the visitor center desk to sign a waiver. You spot will be given away if you have not checked in 15 min prior to departure time.

Cultural/Craft DemonstrationGuided Tour
Please contact the visitor center to reserve space for these paddle clinics: 786-335-3620Biscayne National Park786-335-3620

Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit: November

Pleasant weather with fewer crowds

Jan

74° / 62°F

1.89" rain

Most visitors

Feb

76° / 64°F

1.97" rain

Most visitors

Mar

77° / 66°F

2.02" rain

Most visitors

Apr

80° / 70°F

3.05" rain

Most visitors

May

83° / 74°F

5.15" rain

Most visitors

Jun

Now

86° / 78°F

8.16" rain

Most visitors

Jul

87° / 79°F

6.01" rain

Most visitors

Aug

88° / 79°F

7.29" rain

Most visitors

Sep

86° / 78°F

8.01" rain

Most visitors

Oct

83° / 76°F

6.4" rain

Moderate

Nov

79° / 70°F

2.99" rain

Moderate

Dec

76° / 65°F

2.33" rain

Most visitors

Weather & Climate

The park is situated in a subtropical climate, which ensures sunshine year-round. Winters are normally dry and mild, with occasional fronts bringing wind and little rain. Summer brings hot and humid weather with scattered thunderstorms in the afternoons. The average temperature in January is 68 degrees Fahrenheit and 82 in July. The average rainfall for the area is 2.17 inches in January and 3.95 inches in July. June to November is hurricane season.

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National Parks Journal

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