National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS / Rob Waara · Public domain
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.
Entrance Fees
No entrance fee. Other fees may apply for tours, camping, or transportation.
Getting There
Roads and entrances can close temporarily. Check current conditions on nps.gov (opens in a new tab) before you go.
Entrances
- Directions to Dante Fascell Visitor Center (Convoy Point) (opens in a new tab)
Dante Fascell Visitor Center (Convoy Point)Main
Homestead, FL · Grounds open daily; visitor center hours vary
Airports
- MIA
Miami International Airport · Miami, FL
ClosestMajor airport
Distances are approximate road distances; tap a distance for live driving directions.
Activities
Top Hikes
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
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
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
Ranger's Choice 11a
Join us for a variety of rotating staff led activities, cool topics, and hands-on learning programs such as guided walks, science labs, nature journaling, and history presentations that encourage connection with Biscayne's resources. Drop-ins and the entire family are welcome. Programming is free. For program specifics, please visit or call the visitor center at 786-335-3620.
Ranger's Choice 3p
Join us for a variety of rotating staff led activities, cool topics, and hands-on learning programs such as guided walks, science labs, nature journaling, and history presentations that encourage connection with Biscayne's resources. Drop-ins and the entire family are welcome. Programming is free. For program specifics, please visit or call the visitor center at 786-335-3620.
Bird Art
Continue celebrating migratory birds with us while we take things slow with a bird-watching art activity. Feel free to bring your own art supplies or use ours! We will gather on the Visitor Center's upstairs porch for this activity before we walk to where we will make art.
Best Time to Visit Biscayne
Best time to visit: January–April
The best time to visit Biscayne National Park is January–April. Dry season brings mild, sunny weather and little rain, avoiding summer storms and the June–November hurricane season.
In those months, average highs are 75–82°F at Dante Fascell Visitor Center. Visitor numbers peak in May, though March is nearly as busy.
Monthly averages at Dante Fascell Visitor Center (10 ft). Climate normals (1991–2020): PRISM Group, Oregon State University.
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.
