Sun, Salt & Sawgrass Adventure
Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas
Discover Florida’s wild side on a subtropical journey through sawgrass marshes, vibrant coral reefs, and remote island outposts. This trip links three unforgettable parks—each shaped by water—offering wildlife encounters, coastal exploration, and a rare taste of America’s tropical landscapes.
Ideal Length
7-9 Days
Best Seasons
December-April
Travel Style
Nature & Water-Based Adventure
Best For
Coastal Explorers & Photographers
Parks Included
During this trip you'll be exploring the following National Parks:
Plan your Trip
Overview
Florida’s Sun, Salt & Sawgrass Adventure brings together three national parks that showcase the state’s most distinctive ecosystems. From the slow-moving wetlands of Everglades National Park, to the turquoise waters and living reefs of Biscayne National Park, and onward to the remote island fortress of Dry Tortugas National Park, this trip is defined by water, wildlife, and wide-open skies.
Unlike mountain or desert park loops, this journey favors boats, boardwalks, and breezes over long scenic drives. Travelers can kayak through mangrove tunnels, snorkel coral reefs, spot manatees and wading birds, and step ashore on an isolated island steeped in maritime history. Anchored by South Florida, this adventure offers a cohesive, immersive experience found nowhere else in the national park system.
Sample Itinerary
Days 1-3
The Everglades
Begin your adventure in the heart of Florida’s wild interior, where slow-moving water, endless sawgrass, and abundant wildlife define the landscape. These first days are about immersion—learning the rhythms of the wetlands and experiencing a side of the national park system unlike anywhere else in the country.
Highlights:
- Scenic drives and boardwalks through sawgrass marshes
- Wildlife viewing: alligators, wading birds, turtles, and possibly manatees
- Kayaking or canoeing through mangrove tunnels
- Sunrise or sunset photography over open wetlands
Days 4-6
Biscayne
Shift east toward the coast and transition from freshwater wetlands to saltwater ecosystems. Biscayne is primarily explored by boat, offering a more active, water-focused experience centered on reefs, islands, and open bays.
Highlights:
- Snorkeling or diving on coral reefs
- Boat tours through Biscayne Bay
- Exploring islands and historic sites
- Clear-water kayaking and coastal wildlife encounters
Days 7-8 (or 9)
Dry Tortugas
End the trip with a once-in-a-lifetime journey to one of America’s most remote national parks. Accessible only by ferry or seaplane from Key West, Dry Tortugas feels worlds away—where turquoise water, seabirds, and history take center stage.
Highlights:
- Full-day ferry or seaplane excursion
- Exploring Fort Jefferson
- Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters
- Relaxing on remote beaches surrounded by open sea
Where to Stay
Days 1-3
The Everglades
Days 4-6
Biscayne
Days 7-8 (or 9)
Dry Tortugas
Where to Eat
Days 1-3
The Everglades
Days 7-8 (or 9)
Dry Tortugas
What to Do
Days 1-3
The Everglades
Days 4-6
Biscayne
Days 7-8 (or 9)
Dry Tortugas
Planning Notes
Best Time to Visit
Winter through early spring (December–April) offers the most comfortable conditions, with lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and calmer seas. Summer brings intense heat, afternoon storms, and peak mosquito activity—best avoided unless you’re prepared for true subtropical conditions.
Park Passes & Reservations
An America the Beautiful pass covers entry to Everglades and Biscayne, but Dry Tortugas requires advance ferry or seaplane reservations, which often sell out weeks or months ahead. Secure Tortugas tickets early and build the rest of your itinerary around that date.
Driving Distances & Expectations
This trip minimizes long drives. Everglades and Biscayne are within about an hour of South Florida hubs, while Dry Tortugas is accessed via ferry or seaplane from Key West. Expect water travel and guided excursions to replace traditional scenic driving.
Lodging Strategy
Base yourself near Homestead or southern Miami for Everglades and Biscayne, then relocate to Key West for the Dry Tortugas portion. Staying flexible near South Florida allows you to adapt plans around weather and water conditions.
Weather & Elevation Awareness
Florida’s subtropical climate means sun exposure, humidity, and sudden rain showers are part of the experience. Bring sun protection, lightweight clothing, and rain layers. Winter cold fronts can occasionally affect boating conditions.
Crowd Management Tips
Visit Everglades boardwalks early or near sunset for fewer crowds and better wildlife activity. Biscayne feels less crowded by nature but depends on tour availability. Dry Tortugas limits daily visitors, making it one of the least crowded parks—once you get there.
Food & Supplies
Dining options inside the parks are extremely limited. Stock up on food, water, and snacks before entering Everglades or boarding boats in Biscayne and Key West. Plan picnic-style meals and hydrate frequently.
Cell Service & Navigation
Cell service is spotty or nonexistent in much of Everglades and on the water. Download offline maps, bring printed confirmations for tours, and don’t rely on GPS once inside remote areas or offshore.
Wildlife Awareness & Safety
Respect wildlife from a distance—especially alligators, crocodiles, and nesting birds. Never feed animals, stay alert near water edges, and follow park and guide instructions when snorkeling or boating.
Join the Explorer's List
SAVE TRIP
PRINT TRIP