Biscayne National Park was founded in 1980, and the park is 95% water, which shapes the whole visit. The coral reefs, the shipwreck on the Maritime Heritage Trail and the lighthouse on Boca Chita Key are all out on the bay, so the day depends on how you get onto the water.
That is the trade-off. Without your own boat, reaching the reefs and islands means a guided eco-adventure with the Biscayne National Park Institute, which runs snorkeling trips and cruises to Boca Chita Key, booked separately from park entry; the Institute advises reserving ahead.
With a canoe or kayak, you can put in at the designated launch area beside the parking lot, and ranger-led canoe clinics are offered seasonally. The Dante Fascell Visitor Center is at its busiest from late November through the end of April.
