Where is Biscayne?
Learn More about
Biscayne
Learn More about
Biscayne
Learn a bit about Biscayne National Park through these fun and interesting facts
Origin
Designated a national park in 1980 to protect the unique marine ecosystems of Biscayne Bay and the northern Florida Keys.
Origin
Designated a national park in 1980 to protect the unique marine ecosystems of Biscayne Bay and the northern Florida Keys.
Topography
Roughly 173,000 acres—95% of it water—featuring coral reefs, mangrove coastlines, and shallow bay habitats.
Topography
Roughly 173,000 acres—95% of it water—featuring coral reefs, mangrove coastlines, and shallow bay habitats.
Wildlife
Home to endangered species like the West Indian manatee, hawksbill sea turtle, and the American crocodile.
Wildlife
Home to endangered species like the West Indian manatee, hawksbill sea turtle, and the American crocodile.
Recreation
One of the best U.S. parks for snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating; accessible primarily by water.
Recreation
One of the best U.S. parks for snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating; accessible primarily by water.
Hidden History
Contains shipwrecks from the 1800s through the early 1900s that form an underwater Maritime Heritage Trail.
Hidden History
Contains shipwrecks from the 1800s through the early 1900s that form an underwater Maritime Heritage Trail.
Unique Ecosystem
Protects four distinct marine environments—mangrove forest, bay, reef, and offshore keys—all within one park.
Unique Ecosystem
Protects four distinct marine environments—mangrove forest, bay, reef, and offshore keys—all within one park.
Welcome to
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park is unlike any other—95% of it lies underwater, revealing an aquatic world teeming with life and mystery. This subtropical sanctuary encompasses vibrant coral reefs, winding mangrove shorelines, and islands rich with history. Above the surface, you’ll find tranquil turquoise waters perfect for boating and snorkeling; below, a thriving ecosystem alive with color and motion.
The park preserves the northernmost section of the Florida Reef, the third-largest barrier reef system in the world. Divers and snorkelers can explore shipwrecks along the Maritime Heritage Trail or swim through schools of angelfish among the coral heads. Kayakers glide through mangrove tunnels, while boaters drift toward the small islands that make up the northern Florida Keys, each with its own wild beauty.
Biscayne also holds deep historical and cultural roots. Long before Miami rose from the mainland, the Tequesta people fished these waters. Later, pirates, pioneers, and pineapple farmers all called the area home. Today, the park balances ecological protection with recreation, offering visitors a chance to experience both serenity and adventure within minutes of the city’s skyline.
Whether you come to snorkel over living coral, kayak through glassy mangrove lagoons, or simply soak in the tropical stillness, Biscayne National Park reminds you that sometimes the greatest wilderness lies beneath the waves.
