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Biscayne National ParkAbove and below water view of Biscayne National Park's mangrove shoreline
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A Watery Wonderland

Within sight of downtown Miami, yet worlds away, Biscayne protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and fish-bejeweled coral reefs. Here too is evidence of 10,000 years of human history, from pirates and shipwrecks to pineapple farmers and presidents. Outdoors enthusiasts can boat, snorkel, camp, watch wildlife…or simply relax in a rocking chair gazing out over the bay.

 
A snorkeler jumps into the water

Things to Do

Biscayne National Park is the ideal place to celebrate the International Year of the Reef. Snorkeling, diving, boating, fishing, camping, picnicking and superb opportunities for wildlife watching are just a few of the many activities here. From late December to May, special activities like Family Fun Fest, guided canoe tours and the Discovery Series lectures can enhance your understanding and appreciation for the largest marine park in the National Park System.
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porkfish on reef

Park Ecosystems

Biscayne National Park protects four primary ecosystems: the long stretch of mangrove forest along the mainland shoreline, the shallow southern portion of Biscayne Bay, the northernmost Florida Keys and a portion of the world's third-longest living coral reef.
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Early settlers on Elliott Key.

Park History

Although Biscayne National Park was established primarily for its natural features, the exploits of humans over ten centuries light the fires of imagination, with many stories just now being uncovered. Discover some of the people, places and stories that help make the park such a special place.
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Ranger Anna leads a school group on an Elliott Key hike.

Hey Teachers!

Biscayne National Park offers a variety of educational opportunities for your students. From self-guided programs using Discovery Packs, to the brand new Biscayne Explorer program, to the highly popular 3-day, 2-night Elliott Key camping experience called Biscayne Expedition, you are sure to find a curriculum-based program that meets your objectives.
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Write to

Biscayne National Park
9700 SW 328 Street
Homestead, FL 33033

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(305) 230-7275

Administrative Offices
(305) 230-1144

Fax

(305) 230-1190

Climate

Summers are generally warm, with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are typically mild and dry, but windy. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared with rainwear at any time of year.
The Jones family on the porch of their Porgy Key home.  

Did You Know?
Israel Lafayette Jones purchased land on Porgy Key, at the southern end of Biscayne National Park, in 1898. He, his wife Mozelle and their sons Arthur and Lancelot carved out a life for themselves by farming pineapples and key limes, eventually owning most of the land surrounding Jones Lagoon.

Last Updated: April 02, 2008 at 13:49 EST