Biscayne National Park
Guide

Biscayne National Park is home to hundreds of florae including some endangered species. The most popular and interesting flora species in the park are the mangroves, which occur in long continuous stretches on the Florida East Coast. These mangroves in the park always bring to mind the jungles in old movies. The trees are very evident in the park with their beautiful emerald leaves and tangled roots.

Other plant species include Semaphore prickly-pear cactus and Sargent’s Palm, believed to be the rarest native palm in Florida.

Explore Biscayne Bay in your boat to enjoy the fully immersive experience that comes from visiting emerald islands and seeing the living coral reefs in the park’s water. Your boating experience plays a part in how much fun you will be able to have as it determines how much access you will have to the magnificent water resources.

Personal watercraft are prohibited, including jet skis and waverunners, and safe boating practices are recommended in the park. There are nearby marinas that provide access to boaters.

One of the best ways to explore the shallow bay waters and shorelines of Biscayne National Park is in canoes and kayaks. If you are an experienced kayaker, then you can set out to cross the seven-mile Biscayne Bay and end up at Elliot Key and Boca Chita Key. Should you choose to explore the park from the south, then you’ll find the launching from Adams Key is good for you.

The creeks and lagoons within the park are best suited for canoeists and kayakers, and several paddling trail guides are also available.

Interesting, fun-filled and educational guided tours are offered at Biscayne National Park to visitors on various features and activities in the park. You could participate in any of the eco-adventures in the park, including snorkeling at a shipwreck on Maritime Heritage Trail, exploring Jones Lagoon, and sailing on Biscayne Bay. Cruises to Boca Chita Key and lighthouse are also available.

All these guided tours are offered by The Biscayne National Park Institute and participants are advised to make advanced reservations.

Various fish habitats are available in Biscayne National Park, offering wonderful and diverse fishing opportunities to angling enthusiasts and visitors to the park. Hundreds of fish species are available in the park’s waters, all ranging from less than one inch to more than ten feet in length, so anglers have plenty to aim for. Most of the fish in the park are marine species, with only a few documented freshwater species.

Fishing in the park is governed by Florida saltwater fishing and lobster regulations.

Biscayne National Park is designated an important bird area as it offers great birding experiences and opportunities to view beautiful birds. Significant varieties of wading birds and protected species, as well as nesting birds have been sighted in the park. Some areas in the park are particularly known to be inhabited by birds on migration.

To recognize the birds in the park, watch out for their markings, colors, postures, flight patterns and other features. You may want to use binoculars, notebooks and field guides to enhance your viewing experience.