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Biscayne National Park
Park in Miami, Florida
Biscayne National Park
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9700 Sw 328th St
Homestead, FL 33033
305-230-1144
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Park
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Hiking
Biscayne National Park Description
Everyone's heard of the Everglades, but many Miami visitors don't know the area is home to a second national park -- a shame, since the underwater Biscayne Park is a marine lover's dream. Kids adore both the half-hour boat ride and the hour snorkel at a coral reef teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, dolphins, -- and for added excitement -- the occasional (harmless) shark. Be forewarned that while snorkeling on the coral reef is spectacular, sadly, some sections have been bleached by pollution so you have to swim around a bit to find a great spot. An alternative if your kids aren't strong swimmers is a glass-bottom boat tour, which takes you over the same incredible coral. Afterwards, walk the short trail to spy wading birds and butterflies.
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: Unless they're strong swimmers, opt for a glass-bottom boat tour rather than snorkeling.
School-Age Kids: They'll flip for the kaleidoscope of fish during snorkeling; the boat trip to the reef (and back) will go faster if you bring along some snacks.
Pre-Teens & Teens: Snorkeling (or even scuba diving if they're certified) offers the perfect opportunity to hunt for colorful fish and sharks.
Planning Notes
- Reserve the boat in advance. You must reserve the one snorkel or glass-bottom boat trip ahead of time. If there aren’t enough people, it sometimes gets cancelled.
- Plan for a snack on the boat. You can also picnic on the gorgeous shore of Biscayne Bay. Bring your own food or buy packaged sandwiches and drinks at the visitor’s center.
- Slather on the sunscreen. The Florida sun is strong even in winter, and especially in the water.
- Wear proper shoes. Boat floors get messy. And don’t forget a change of clothes and towels for everyone.
- Don't bring beach toys. There’s no sandy beach in the park.
Just the Facts
Hours: 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: Half day
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What's Nearby?
- Cutler Ridge Pool & Park 10100 Sw 200th St
Cutler Bay, FL 33157
305-238-4166 25.581163888888888 -80.35583277777778 - Homestead-Miami Speedway 1 Speedway Blvd
Homestead, FL 33035
305-230-5000 25.45551777777778 -80.41178
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