BISCAYNE
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 172,971 ACRES

EST. 06 28 1980

FLORIDA

Planning a Trip to
Biscayne National Park

At Yosemite National Park, you can explore some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. From its iconic Half Dome to its towering sequoias, Yosemite is a place unlike any other. It's also home to a wide array of wildlife, including black bears, deer, coyotes and more. Additionally, the park is home to the oldest living organism in the world, an estimated 3,500 year old bristlecone pine tree. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Yosemite National Park is the perfect place to explore, reconnect and escape the everyday.

"the grandest of all special temples of Nature" and "the only one of the world's great parks that could not be improved."
- John Muir

"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.
-Theodore Roosevelt

BEST TIME TO GO

The best time to go to Biscayne National Park depends on the activity you wish to do. For swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the water is calm. For camping, the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the bugs are not as bad. For hiking and bird watching, the winter months are best as the park is less crowded and the foliage is in full bloom. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, you will be sure to have a wonderful time in Biscayne National Park!

The best time to visit Biscayne National Park is during the winter season. From November to April, the park is less crowded and the cost of admission is significantly lower. Winter is also the best time to spot wildlife, as many of the animals in the park migrate to the warmer climate. Additionally, the warm, sunny days make it perfect for outdoor activities. With fewer crowds and lower cost, the winter months are the ideal time to visit Biscayne National Park and explore its natural beauty.

OVERVIEW

Biscayne National Park is an incredible marine paradise located just south of Miami, Florida. It is one of the few places in the world where visitors can explore the wonders of both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Visitors can explore the park's coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and hardwood hammocks. Biscayne National Park also offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors, including fishing, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, camping, and nature walks. The best thing about Biscayne National Park is its unique combination of aquatic and terrestrial habitats, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.

WEATHER

Biscayne National Park offers a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The summer months bring high temperatures and humidity, with average highs in the mid-90s and lows in the mid-70s. Rainfall is common during this time, and the summer is also the peak of hurricane season. Winters are mild, with average highs in the mid-70s and lows in the mid-50s. Rainfall is less common, and temperatures tend to stay around the mid-70s during the day. Spring and fall are pleasant times to visit the park, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s.

Biscayne National Park is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and the Florida Bay. The weather in the park is generally mild, with temperatures ranging between the mid-60s and mid-80s during the day and the mid-50s to mid-70s at night. Rainfall is most common during the summer months, and thunderstorms can occur during this time. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for hurricanes, tropical storms, and other severe weather during the late summer and early fall.

GEAR

When visiting Biscayne National Park, there are some essential pieces of gear that you should bring with you. Here is a list of the top 10 gear to bring:
1. Waterproof sunscreen and hat for sun protection.
2. Binoculars for spotting wildlife.
3. Insect repellent to keep mosquitoes away.
4. Swimsuit and towels for swimming and snorkeling.
5. A cell phone (in case of emergency) with a waterproof case.
6. A good pair of shoes for exploring trails.
7. A first aid kit for minor cuts and scrapes.
8. A cooler for storing food and beverages.
9. A map of the park to help you navigate.
10. A camera to capture memories.

Whether you’re a beginner or experienced snorkeling or scuba diving enthusiast, here are the top 10 pieces of gear you should bring with you to Biscayne National Park: 1. Mask and Snorkel – for a clear view of the underwater world. 2. Fins – to make swimming easier and more efficient. 3. Wetsuit – to keep you warm and protect you from the sun. 4. Underwater Camera – to capture all the underwater memories. 5. Weight Belt – to help you stay down in the water. 6. Dive Computer – to monitor your dive times and depths. 7. Dive Light – to brighten up the underwater world. 8. Floatation Device – to help you stay afloat. 9. Dive Flag – for safety when you’re in the water. 10. First Aid Kit – in case of any emergencies. With these top 10 pieces of gear, you’ll be sure to have a great adventure at Biscayne National Park.

GEAR UP

HISTORY

Biscayne National Park was established in 1968, making it the first national park in the United States to be created exclusively for the purpose of protecting a marine environment. Prior to its national park status, Biscayne was home to many Native American communities and was used as a fishing and hunting ground. In the late 19th century, settlers began to move into the area and established a thriving fishing industry. The area was also popular for its natural beauty, a popularity that was recognized by President Richard Nixon when he declared it a national park in 1968. Today, Biscayne National Park is home to many species of fish, birds, and other wildlife, and is a popular spot for recreational activities such as snorkeling and boating.

Biscayne National Park is full of legendary stories and tales, many of which have been passed down through generations. One of the most popular legends is that of the ghost of a Spanish sailor who haunts the waters of Biscayne Bay. According to local folklore, the sailor was shipwrecked and forced to spend his days swimming the bay until his eventual death. Another popular legend is that of the lost city of Atlantis, which some believe lies beneath the waters of Biscayne Bay. The final legend is that of the Fountain of Youth, a legendary spring said to possess magical powers of youth and rejuvenation. Local folklore states that the fountain is hidden deep within the park and is guarded by a giant sea monster.

RECOMMENDED

Biscayne National Park offers a variety of activities year round, each one providing a unique experience. Here are our top 10 recommendations to do at Biscayne National Park for each season:

Spring: Go fishing, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Take a boat tour to view manatees, dolphins, and other wildlife. Explore the Maritime Heritage Trail and the Maritime Hammock Trail.

Summer: Go snorkeling and scuba diving to explore the coral reef. Take a boat tour to observe dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. Enjoy a picnic on the beach or a hike on one of the many trails.

Autumn: Take a boat tour to observe dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. Enjoy a picnic on the beach or a hike on one of the many trails. Go fishing, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking.

Winter: Take a boat tour to observe dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife. Enjoy a picnic on the beach or a hike on one of the many trails. Go fishing, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Explore the Maritime Heritage Trail and the Maritime Hammock Trail.

1. Take a boat tour of Biscayne National Park for an up-close look at the diverse wildlife and stunning views.
2. Spend an afternoon snorkeling or diving in the crystal clear waters of Biscayne Bay.
3. Explore the islands in the park, each with its own unique beauty and unique wildlife.
4. Go kayaking or canoeing to explore the mangroves and other secluded areas of the park.
5. Visit one of the many beaches in the park, such as Elliott Key or Sands Key.
6. Take a boat to one of the many sandbars in the park, such as Soldier Key or Sands Key.
7. Enjoy a picnic on one of the many islands in the park.
8. Take a guided tour of the park to learn more about its history and ecology.
9. Fish in the park's waters to catch grouper, snapper, tarpon and more.
10. Take a nature walk to observe the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

1. Take a boat tour: Enjoy a guided tour of the park's beautiful marine life, coral reefs, and island ecosystems.
2. Go kayaking: Explore the park from a kayak and get up close to some of the park's unique wildlife.
3. Go snorkeling: Discover the underwater world of the park's vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
4. Do some fishing: Try your hand at catching some of the park's best catches.
5. Enjoy a picnic: Enjoy a picnic on one of the park's beaches or small islands.
6. Take a hike: Explore the park's natural beauty and wildlife on one of its many trails.
7. Go bird watching: Spot some of the park's native birds and other wildlife.
8. Go camping: Pitch a tent and spend a night under the stars in the park.
9. Visit the visitor center: Learn more about the park's history and ecology at the visitor center.
10. Take a swim: Take a dip in the crystal clear water.

Biscayne National Park offers a variety of hikes that will take you through a variety of landscapes. Here is a list of the top 10 hikes to do at Biscayne National Park:
1. The Convoy Point Trail is a 1.8 mile loop that is rated as easy.
2. The Bear Cut Preserve Trail is a 2.5 mile loop that is rated as moderate.
3. The Maritime Hammock Trail is a 1.3 mile loop that is rated as easy.
4. The East Cape Florida Trail is a 2.5 mile loop that is rated as moderate.
5. The Boca Chita Key Trail is a 1.2 mile loop that is rated as easy.
6. The Elliott Key Trail is a 4.4 mile loop that is rated as difficult.
7. The Long Point Trail is a 1.2 mile loop that is rated as easy.
8. The Adams Key Trail is a 7.4 mile loop that is rated as difficult.
9. The Old Ingraham Highway Trail is a 4.6 mile loop that is rated as moderate.
10. The Grapeland Trail is a 5.2 mile loop that is rated as moderate.

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Biscayne National Park welcomes over 500,000 visitors each year. It is the largest marine park in the National Park System and is located off the coast of Florida in Miami-Dade County. The park features a variety of recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, snorkeling, and camping. During the peak season, which runs from December through April, the park sees an average of around 100,000 visitors per month. The number of visitors drops off sharply during the summer months, with an average of around 20,000 visitors per month. Biscayne National Park is a popular destination for Floridians and tourists alike, and it's clear that its popularity is growing.

ALL ABOUT
BISCAYNE

LEARN ABOUT THE

ANIMALS

EXPLORE THE NATIVE

PLANTS

EXPLORE THE LOCAL

GEOLOGY

LEARN ABOUT THE

HISTORY

TOP HIKES
BISCAYNE

Lightly trafficked trail along the sandy trail.

A SHORT AND EASY WALK ALONG THE SHORELINE.

A SHORT NATURE TRAIL THAT CIRCLES THE WOODED AREA OF BOCA CHITA KEY

63 PARKS

BISCAYNE
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 172,971 ACRES

EST. 06 28 1980

FLORIDA

Planning a Trip to
Biscayne National Park

ALL ABOUT
BISCAYNE

LEARN ABOUT THE

ANIMALS

EXPLORE THE NATIVE

PLANTS

EXPLORE THE LOCAL

GEOLOGY

LEARN ABOUT THE

HISTORY

TOP HIKES
BISCAYNE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

"ONE CAN'T SEEK THE THRILL WITHOUT THE JOURNEY." - MARK TWAIN

TWITTER

YOUTUBE

63 PARKS

BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 172,971 ACRES

EST. 06 28 1980

FLORIDA

Planning a Trip to Biscayne National Park

ALL ABOUT BISCAYNE

LEARN ABOUT THE

ANIMALS

EXPLORE THE NATIVE

PLANTS

EXPLORE THE LOCAL

GEOLOGY

LEARN ABOUT THE

HISTORY

TOP HIKES BISCAYNE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

"ONE CAN'T SEEK THE THRILL WITHOUT THE JOURNEY." - MARK TWAIN

TWITTER

YOUTUBE

BISCAYNE
NATIONAL PARK

Planning a Trip to
Biscayne National Park

ALL ABOUT
BISCAYNE

TOP HIKES
BISCAYNE