Plan Your Visit

The park protects 72,000 acres of the northernmost range of the Florida Reef

NPS photo by Shaun Wolfe

95% of the park is covered by water, so being on - or in - the water is the best way to experience the park. Explore some of these ideas:

• Places to go
• Protect the Reef
• Things to do
• Calendar of events, programs and more
• Basic information
• Directions
• Safety
• Accessibility
• Things to know before you arrive

 

Campers on Elliott Key enjoying the sunset

NPS photo by Karen Adkins

Elliott Key is the largest island in the park. It was once a thriving community of pioneers engaged in pineapple farming, sponging, wrecking and other pursuits. Today the island offers camping, picnicking, wildlife watching and a hiking trail. Trips are best during the winter months when temperatures are mild and bugs are easier to deal with.