Welcome To Biscayne National Park: Enjoy Kayaking and Canoeing At This Watery Wonder

Jul 10, 2024

Last Updated on: Jun 12, 2025

Travel Blog

If you are in Florida and want to give it all for your active pursuits, your path must lead to the Biscayne National Park.

With the third longest coral reef, the watery wonderland is a beautiful coexistence of wildlife, water trails, hiking spots, and life under the water.  

Also, did you know that as you visited Florida’s Biscayne National Park, you made a little contribution to the local and national economy? The National Park Service says,  

The South Florida national parks, comprised of Big Cypress National Preserve, Biscayne National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, and Everglades National Park, were collectively visited by 2.9 million people who spent $242.5 million and supported over 3,250 jobs in South Florida. The cumulative benefit to the South Florida economy was over $352 million.”  

So, is the allure palpable enough? Are you already invested in the wildlife, islands, water sports, and the urge to do a little good for the local community?

Pack your bags and set in! Meanwhile, let me do all the legwork and make all the plans to join you at the park.  

Things To Know About Biscayne National Park 

Biscayne National Park 

Before I share the details about the kayaking and canoeing fun at the Biscayne National Park, I want to present a brief overview of the park.  

A visit to this park is truly a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s like a microcosm of the universe with the falling together of land and water ecosystems.  

It’s time to know the park at a glance before you plan a visit.  

Biscayne National Park (Things To Know)  
Best Time to Visit  Late November to April  
Address 9700 SW 328th Street, Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, FL 33033  
Operating Hours  7:00 AM–5:30 PM, 7 days a week (except holidays) 
Size 172,971 acres 
Coral Reef Length  72,000 acres of the northernmost range of the Florida Reef 
Number of Visitors (in 2023) 571,242  
Entrance Fee None 
Phone 305 230-1144 
Alerts & Conditions  Updated regularly  
Safety Concerns Mosquitoes and occasional storms 
Nearby Accommodation Facilities You can stay in tents and make the most of your camping experience. The camping spot is available on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Otherwise, you can drive west for half an hour and find hotel chains in Homestead. 

I know you can’t wait to have a slice of the national park ripe with outdoor adventure. So, let’s delve deeper into the water and have some kayaking fun and more!  

Kayaking, Canoeing, And More! Exploring The Watery Wonderland Of The Biscayne National Park  

Kayaking, Canoeing, And More! Exploring The Watery Wonderland Of The Biscayne National Park  

95% of the Biscayne National Park has water. So, water activities and exploring the water ecosystem are the most amazing things about the place.  

You can go canoeing on the open water across the coastal line and reach the stretches of mangroves. Further, you can explore the artificial islands by canoeing and kayaking.  

However, to have the most amazing canoeing experience and paddle with the current, you must get a tide table for the visitor center first.  

So, let’s start paddling and kayaking! 

Jones Lagoon Eco-Adventure Clear Water Paddling 

Fee: $109 

Age Limit: 12+ for Shared Trips 

Duration: 3.5 Hours 

Get surrounded by the most amazing marine life during this clear water paddling trip. You will meet the sea turtles, Roseate Spoonbills, and baby sharks on your trip.  

Kayakers also love the Jones Family Historic District and Lagoon because of its historic importance. It features on the National Register of Historic Places

The Jones Family Historic District consists of Porgy Key and Totten Key. The Jones family stayed there during the 1800s and started growing limes and pineapples.  

Also, in the early 20th century, they sold their property stretching over a whopping 277 acres and became millionaires. It was a rare incident then in this part of the world for an African American to have this fortune.  

Debris Cleanups with Guided Jones Lagoon Paddle 

Debris Cleanups with Guided Jones Lagoon Paddle

Fee: $50 

Age Limit: 12+ 

Duration: 6 Hours 

How about enjoying the beauty and diversity of Biscayne National Park and contributing to its conservation simultaneously?  

This debris cleanup and Jones Lagoon paddle trip involves cleaning the debris across the mangrove coastal line and enjoying a relaxing paddle through Jones Lagoon. 

At the end of the trip, you will return to the Dante Fascell Visitor Center and unload the debris.  

Kayak the Mangroves 

Kayak the Mangroves 

Fee: $39 

Age Limit: 6+ for Shared Trips 

Duration: 1.5 Hours 

The mangrove stretch at Biscayne National Park is home to many animals. It is also one of the longest bordering mangrove stretches on the left of the eastern shoreline of the United States.  

So, it’s time to meet the tree crabs, fish, animals, and snakes residing in the mangroves. The best part of this tour is that it is partially guided.  

The naturalist will guide you for the first half an hour, and from there, you can paddle on your own and take charge of how you want to enjoy the trip.  

Sail, Paddle, And Snorkel At Biscayne National Park 

Sail, Paddle, And Snorkel At Biscayne National Park 

Fee: $209 

Age Limit: 8+ for Shared Trips 

Duration: 6 Hours 

This trip involves exploring through the mangrove forest, kayaking, and snorkeling. The trip starts from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center in Homestead.  

Snorkel and Paddle 

Snorkel and Paddle 

Fee: $209 

Age Limit: 12+ for Shared Trips 

Duration: 6 Hours 

This snorkel and paddle trip at Biscayne National Park is the best to experience aquatic diversity. The rays, dolphins, and sea turtles  await to welcome you to their lives. Further, an encounter with the coral reef is going to be the best experience you can think of.  

Also, if you are a birder, you cannot just miss the Roseate Spoonbills while padding. The mangrove forests stretching through the route once again speak of the biodiversity present in the park. 

Your guide on the Captain of the National Park will explain the nature of the inhabitants, how they coexist, and the history of the place. It’s the best chef’s kiss you can expect on a trip.  

Kayaking Through The Seagrasses of Stiltsville 

Kayaking Through The Seagrasses of Stiltsville 

Fee: $109 

Age Limit: 12+ 

Duration: 3 Hours 

Must-Have: Prior Kayaking Experience 

As you paddle through the water, the Stiltsville houses on the seagrass banks will be your roadmap to history. This ride is also about the most delightful encounter with the wildlife at Biscayne National Park.  

You will even learn why these seagrass banks are important for the ecosystem of the national park. Do you have this thing for everything quaint? The sunken barge on this route stands as a remarkable piece of eulogy.  

For the trip, you will start from Coconut Grove and  kayak to the bay to start paddling.  

You Can’t Miss The Third Longest Coral Reef At The Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park promises you a kaleidoscopic experience with the third-longest coral reef in the world. The living coral reef, with its rhythmic movements and embrace of the pork fish and nurse sharks, presents an unforgettable visual experience. The soft corals in the reef dance to the current and create movements.  

It’s mesmerizing to know how the polyps make the most beautiful structures by collecting calcium from seawater.

In some parts, the coral reef looks like the most vivacious flowers, and in other parts, it will appear like elk antlers or mountains.  

On and around the reef, you will also come across the following creatures: 

  • Sea fans 
  • Sea whips 
  • Bright sponges 
  • Christmas tree worms 
  • Fish, shrimps, crabs (They visit to eat the algae gathered on the coral reef.) 

Overall, it’s a rainbow of colors with red, purple, orange, and green dominating the spectrum.  

How To Visit Biscayne National Park? 

How To Visit Biscayne National Park? 

You can visit the Dante Fascell Visitor Center of the Biscayne National Park from the US Highway 1 (from north and south) or the Florida Turnpike (from north).  

Reaching The Biscayne National Park From North 

From Florida Turnpike 

  1. First, choose exit 6. 
  1. Then, reach the exit ramp and take a left turn to continue moving south to SW 328th Street.  
  1. Now, take a left turn on the 328th Street. 
  1. Further, drive for four miles to reach the end of the road. 
  1. Find the park entrance on your left. 

From The US Highway 1 

You have to drive south toward Homestead, take SW 137th Avenue, and turn left. You will reach SW 328th Street after a five-mile drive. From here, you will have to take a left turn and drive for four miles. Once you get to the end of the road, you will find the park entrance on your left.  

Reaching The Biscayne National Park From South 

You can reach the Biscayne National Park from US Highway 1 while traveling from the south.  

Then, drive north and reach Homestead. There, you take a right turn on SW 344th Street. Further, continue for four miles until the road near the Homestead Speedway takes a northern turn.  

Next, reach the SW 328th Street and head east. Now, you will have to drive for four miles to reach the end of the road. The entrance of the Biscayne National Park will be on your left.  

Fun Facts About The Biscayne National Park  

  • The series of sandy, low-lying, and small islands here are known as keys. 
  • Eliott Key is the largest key or island in the Biscayne National Park. 
  • Boca Chita Key is the most popular island here. Also, it is known for its 65-foot lighthouse constructed in the 1930s.  

See You There! 

Biscayne National Park is a destination that will spoil you with choices. The kayaking and canoeing activities are there, and you can also take a deep dive to have a one-on-one with the fascinating marine life.  

If you want more outdoor pursuits in the water, you can try swimming and fishing.  

Further, the park does not disappoint wildlife lovers and tourists who love exploring history. The Jones Family Historic District at the park features on the National Register of Historic Places.  

Also, the dolphins, birds, turtles, and fish are there to offer you the most amazing wildlife experience.  

And the list is endless! The things to do and see at the Biscayne National Park! So, let’s quickly wrap up my guide and plan a visit to the park. See you there soon!  

Biscayne National Park FAQ 

What Is Biscayne National Park? 

Biscayne National Park in Florida is one of the most visited National Parks in America. It is known for its diverse ecosystem and historical importance. Further, it has the third-largest coral reef in the world.  

How Do I Access Biscayne National Park? 

You can reach Biscayne National Park through US Highway 1 or the Florida Turnpike if you are driving from the north. If you are traveling from the south, you will have to take US Highway 1. 

What Activities Can I Do at Biscayne National Park? 

At Biscayne National Park, your outdoor pursuits are going to be endless. You can enjoy the following activities. 

  • Snorkeling 
  • Diving  
  • Kayaking 
  • Paddling  
  • Exploring the mangroves 
  • Visiting coral reefs 

The park also offers opportunities to experience the best marine life by observing manatees, sea turtles, and various marine creatures. 

What Landmarks Can Be Found In Biscayne National Park? 

Biscayne National Park has the following landmarks. 

  • Maritime Heritage Trail 
  • Stiltsville 
  • Living Coral exhibit at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center 

Is There Scuba Diving At Biscayne National Park? 

Yes, you can do scuba diving in clear waters at Biscayne National Park. You will  encounter coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and shipwrecks while scuba diving.  

When Did Biscayne National Park Become A National Park? 

In 1968, Biscayne National Park was established as a national monument. Years later, in 1980, it got the designation of a National Park.  

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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Jim Keysor, the warning coordination meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Gaylord, says, “The process of lake-effect snowfall, and rainfall, is the process of cold air moving across an unfrozen body of water … and we normally have a wind direction that blows from north and northwest that brings the air across the Lakes into our area.” What Is The Snowiest City In Michigan? Munising, Houghton, and Marquette are the snowiest cities in Michigan. However, this year (2024-25 Winter), Gaylord has become the center of attraction due to a heavy snowfall of 204.6 inches.  However, it is still behind Munising, which had a record snowfall of 238 inches in the 1996-97 winter, and in the 2024-25 winter season, it recorded a snowfall of more than 218.1 inches.  What Is Gaylord Famous For? With heavy snowfall and a mild summer, Gaylord is the ultimate “Alpine Village” you want to visit. No wonder that it is often referred to by this nickname.  Its skiing and golf resorts attract a lot of enthusiasts every year, and it is the ultimate land of outdoor adventure with diverse terrains and activities such as biking, hiking, elk spotting, etc.  With a Swiss heritage and a sister city to Pontresina in Switzerland, Gaylord also celebrates the Alpine connection through festivals and other cultural activities.  Alpenfest is the biggest celebration in this regard. In 2025, Alpenfest in Gaylord will take place from 8 to 12 July 2025. It is the 60th year of the festival. Moreover, don’t miss the Alpine-themed architecture when you are in Gaylord.  What Should I Wear To Gaylord Ice? You should wear long pants, a hat, gloves, and a Gaylord Rockies parka to Gaylord Ice.  Gaylord is one of the coldest cities in Michigan, and snowfall reached a record high in the 2024-25 winter season. What Is America's Snowiest City? Valdez, in Alaska, is the snowiest city in the United States.  Thanks to the Aleutian low-pressure system, frequent and lasting snowstorms, and mountain drainage, Valdez experiences around 325.3 inches of snowfall in a year.  What Is The Coldest City In Michigan? In the Upper Peninsula, Stambaugh is the coldest city in Michigan, with the temperature going down to -30 degrees Celsius on 20th January, 2025, and -28 degrees Celsius on 21st January 2025.  In winter 2024-25, the Upper Peninsula and some parts of the Lower Peninsula experienced frigid cold.  Further, the temperature in various parts of the Upper Peninsula decreased to -25 degrees Celsius.  Nevertheless, here is a list of the temperature records of the cities in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan during the winter of 2024- 25. Name of the CityTemperature (Degree Celsius)Stambaugh-28Ironwood-27Herman-25Marquette Area-19Bergland-17Munising-14Manistique-13Sault Ste Marie-13Engadine-13Houghton/Hancock:-12West Branch-12Atlanta-9Kalkaska-6Battle Creek-5Grand Rapids-5Vanderbilt-4Lansing-4Gaylord-4 What Month Does Michigan Get The Most Snow? December to February are the snowiest months in Michigan. However, snowfall in Michigan starts in November and continues till April.  In the 2024-25 winter season, the Upper Peninsula Region of Michigan had a snowfall of over 320 inches (National Weather Service). It was the highest of the season.  Further, Gaylord had a snowfall of 204.6 inches in the 2024-2025 winter season1, achieving a 138% high of the usual average of 148 inches.  Also, during the same months, Traverse City received 152.2 inches of snow, and Detroit received 28.7 inches. Up Next.. A Guide To National Parks In Michigan Is The Bahamas Part Of The US Or Canada? 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9+ Cheapest Places To Travel Now In USA: USA Travel Guide On A Shoestring

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

The USA has much to offer with its natural abundance, wildlife, and historic and archaeological sites. National parks are the cheapest places now in USA. However, the USA also has beaches and small towns, allowing you to enjoy many marine activities and a quiet holiday. Further, the most affordable travel destinations in the USA are perfect for all types of tourists. You can be a solo traveler eager to soak in the unmissable energy of the country, or you can even be on a much-awaited family vacation.  So, let’s explore the options and hit the locations you will love! Cheapest Places To Travel Now In USA: Know The Budget-Friendly Destinations The tourism market in the USA is growing. By 2029, the tourism market in the USA is expected to reach a whopping revenue of US$214.40.  After COVID-19 impacted the tourism scenario of the USA and all other countries, these new figures are more than promising. Further, the USA has generated its tourism revenues through online sales, and it is likely to leave all other countries behind in the sales figures.  It’s time for you to experience the best tourism experiences the USA offers. Further, the cheapest places to travel now in USA are available for everyone, eliminating the budget hiccups.  1. Grand Teton National Park Location: Wyoming Nearest Airport: Jackson Hole Airport The U.S. News list for the cheapest places to travel now in the USA has Grand Teton National Park at the top. You can travel to this park from various parts of the USA by car.  You can fly to the Jackson Hole Airport and take a car ride from there. At this national park, the pocket pinch per person is just $35 in the form of entry fees.  The Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center tells you about the unique history and geology of the park while you can indulge in the wonderful view of the Teton Range. At Grand Teton National Park, you can also participate in outdoor pursuits like hiking, mountain climbing, and kayaking.  2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Nearest Airport: Philadelphia (PHL) Airport Best Place to Stay in Philadelphia: The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Philadelphia, one of the cheapest places to travel now in USA, will introduce you to the history of the country. Taking a walk down Philadelphia’s Old Town is an experience that triggers goosebumps.  Further, Old Town is the first Heritage City in the USA, and it is the “birthplace of the nation.” Your budget here is not a constraint at all. You must explore the following activities to learn much with spending less than one can expect. The Liberty Bell The President's House (It was the original White House before the one now in Washington, DC.) Elfreth's Alley Further, Philadelphia is famous for its beer. You can tour the local breweries and beer gardens to cherish the best beverage.  3. Yosemite National Park Location: California Nearest Airport: Yosemite International Airport (FAT) Yosemite National Park stands out due to its rich geological features. You will find amazing glacier features complemented by large granite domes here.  May to September is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park. Further, hiking is the most popular outdoor activity in Yosemite National Park.  The hiking trails will take you to beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and mountain summits. As you take a walk through these trails, you will also encounter the wonderful wildlife in the park. While in Yosemite National Park, you can explore the following hiking trails. Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Nevada Fall via the Mist Trail Lower Yosemite Falls Trail  Mirror Lake Loop Moreover, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is famous for rock climbing and stargazing.  4. Arches National Park Location: Utah Nearest Airport: Moab (CNY) Airport and Grand Junction Airport  As the name suggests, Arches National Park has some of the most amazing natural geological formations in the world. Further, the formation of these stone formations has a history of 65 million years.  Once you enter the national park, you will find more than 2000 stone formations. Further, these arches look surreal, bathed in sunrise and sunset lights.  You will love the following arches in the park. Delicate Arch North And South Windows Landscape Arch Navajo Arch Turret Arch However, Double Arch, the tallest natural rock formation in the park, collapsed in August 2024. It was one of the important geological landmarks in Utah and the USA.  5. Yellowstone National Park Location: Wyoming  Nearest Airport: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport Yellowstone National Park, one of the cheapest places to travel now in USA, offers you the best wildlife experience. It is also a place to learn about human history as it tells the tales of Native Americans who lived here around 11000 years ago.  Moreover, Yellowstone National Park has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique geothermal properties. You can visit the following spots and get drenched in geothermal water with healing properties. Old Faithful Castle Geyser Riverside Geyser Steamboat Geyser Furthermore, the most prominent wild animals you will meet here are elks, black and grizzly bears, American bison, bighorn sheep, etc.  6. Joshua Tree National Park Location: California Nearest Airport: Palm Springs International Airport Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to travel in the USA on a budget because 85% of this national park is still pristine wilderness. Further, with a history of human lives of 15000 years, Joshua Tree National Park has spiritual significance.  The Joshua trees, with their raised branches, reminded the Mormon pioneers about Joshua. Joshua stretched his arms to the sky and prayed for the Israelites. He also led Israelites to the promised land.  Moreover, being a pristine landscape, Joshua Tree National Park is great for stargazing. Pinto Basin, Hidden Valley, and Quail Springs are the best spots in the park for gazing at the night sky.  7. Glacier National Park Location: Montana Nearest Aiport: Glacier Park International Airport Sharing its border with Canada, this national park in the USA is a priceless mine of wildlife, fossils, and geological wonders. There is a reason why Glacier National Park is called the “Crown of the Continent.”   With 1,583 square miles of wilderness and 700 lakes, this park also boasts many hiking trails. To explore the best of the park, you must hit trails like the Avalanche Lake Trail, Highline Trail, Siyeh Pass, and Hidden Meadow.  8. Sequoia National Park Location: California Nearest Airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport As you can know from the name, the giant sequoia groves are the main attractions of Sequoia National Park. Further, the landscape of Sequoia National Park is varied, and you can encounter a variety of wildlife creatures like mountain lions, bears, bobcats, and gray foxes.  You must pay $35 to enter the national park with a vehicle. Further, hiking through the trails and participating in the ranger-led programs will more than makeup for the fees.  9. Olympic National Park Location: Washington Nearest Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International With an area of 1 million acres, Olympic National Park has the best vistas of “glacier-capped mountains.” Further, it is the hub of outdoor activities like fishing, stargazing, and hiking.  However, the biggest attraction of the Olympic National Park is the different species of whales you get to see. The best months for watching whales in Olympic National Park are April and May and October and November.  10. Bar Harbor Location: Maine Nearest Airport: Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport Bar Harbor, one of the cheapest places to travel now in USA, is a quiet seaside destination for anyone looking for a relaxing holiday on a budget. It is also the gateway to the Acadia National Park.  You will love the scenic views here while taking a stroll along the Shore Path. In addition, you can enjoy a family picnic at waterfront Agamont Park.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.