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

May21
10 AM – 11:30 AMCompass Rose Downstairs of Visitor Center Dante Fascell Visitor Center 9700 SW 328 ST Homestead, Florida 33033

The park invites nature journalers of all skill levels and ages to come out to the park and draw what you see. So, what is nature journaling? It involves observing a subject in nature and documenting it through sketching, painting, or writing. Sometimes it can be all of those, and include poems, questions, or thoughts - whatever you feel inspired to create! Park staff is coordinating a once a month opportunity to stretch your creative muscles, get inspired by others, and share what you have worked on while learning about what makes Biscayne National Park such a special place. We meet up to discuss a monthly topic, then head out around Convoy Point to explore together and create something from what we see. At the end we share what we have created with each other. You don't need to be a writer or artist to try your hand at nature journaling, you just have to be a little curious and willing to dedicate an hour to get started. This is a friendly and non-judgmental environment to gather once a month to learn, draw, write, and share. Simple watercolor paper, basic sketching supplies, watercolor supplies, and colored pencils/crayons will be provided during the program (though you are more than welcome to bring your own!).

Cultural/Craft DemonstrationOtherTalk
All ages and groups are welcome to participate, no registration requiredEllie Bonnell7863353625elizabeth_bonnell@nps.gov
May23

Park After Dark

Free
02 PM – 08 PM9700 SW 328th Street Sir Lancelot Jones Way Homestead, FL 33033

The Rangers of Biscayne National Park are excited to celebrate another Park After Dark with you Saturday, May 23rd! Schedule: 2:00-4:00 PM Fishing Clinic 5:00-6:30 PM S’mores Additional programs TBA These free programs will take place during our monthly Park After Dark event. The park will close later than usual, giving you the chance to take a sunset walk with a loved one, enjoy a late picnic, and catch that last fish. We hope to see you there!

Campfire/Evening ProgramChildren’s ProgramExhibition/ShowTalkWalk

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

Now

80° / 70°F

3.05" rain

Most visitors

May

83° / 74°F

5.15" rain

Most visitors

Jun

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

Every visit deserves a story.

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