Florida Vacation: Biscayne National Park
Written by Vacation Idea.com Travel Editors.
Biscayne National Park is located 35 miles from Miami International Airport, nine miles east of Homestead, Florida. Since the park is 95% water, the park's concessioner offers several options for getting around. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour, or rent a canoe or a kayakm weather permitting. The park also offers snorkel and dive trips and island excursions.
The Dante Fascell Visitor Center is open all year 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, except December 25. The visitor center features a permanent exhibit of the park's four ecosystems (mangrove forest, bay, keys and coral reef), and various works of local artists. For more information, call 305-230-7275.
Glass Bottom Boat Tours are offered daily from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. You will be able to observe turtles, dolphins, and colorful tropical fish. Fee is $24.45 plus tax for adults, $16.45 for children under 12 years, and $19.45 for seniors. Reservations are recommended and six passenger minimum applies. Call in advance of your visit for up-to-date information and schedules. For information and reservations, call 305-230-1100.
Rent a canoe at $9 per hour and explore the mangrove shoreline and its wildlife from Convoy Point. Kayak rentals are $16 per hour. For information and reservations, call 305-230-1100.
Camping in Biscayne National Park in allowed only in the designated campsites on Elliott Key and Boca Chit Key. Access to the islands is by boat only and advance arrangement is required ($25.95 round trip fee November through May). Elliott Key has fresh water, cold water showers, and restrooms. Boca Chita Key has no fresh water, so you must bring your own drinking and cooking water. Camping fee is $10 per day for up to 6 people and two tents. If you have a boat in either Elliott Key or Boca Chita Key Harbors, a campsite is included in the $15/night docking fee.
Find out more about snorkeling and scuba diving in Biscayne National Park.
There are several hotels and resorts in the area, including the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. If you have time, visit the Everglades National Park, which is 18 miles away.
