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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It features the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. The David M. Rubenstein Gallery houses one of the four remaining original copies of the 1297 Magna Carta. It is the ongoing exhibition of the Record of Rights. There is also a 17-foot (nearly 5-m) touch screen on the national discussions surrounding subjects like citizenship and free speech. Additionally, the museum hosts a variety of passing exhibits. It includes a featured document display and the Boeing Learning Centre. Here visitors can check out white gloves and a magnifying glass to examine replica documents like an actual archivist. The National Archives Museum is located at 701 Constitution Avenue North West, Washington, DC, 20408. It is open daily from 10 am to 5.30 pm. 11. National Air And Space Museum Visit the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC, for a fun-filled free museum. Visit the renowned National Air and Space Museum to learn more about the power of flying and how it propelled humans off the planet. The Air and Space Museum, like many other museums, is undergoing renovations that will last until 2025, although eight new exhibits are already open. The Wright Brothers & the Invention of the Aerial Age explores the history and force of flight with a special emphasis on its creators. Discover how we reached the moon in 1969 and why and how we are returning in the new blockbuster-level exhibit Destination Moon. You must have a free timed admission pass, otherwise you can skip the queue. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Centre, their secondary location, is located in Chantilly, Virginia, about 40 minutes from Washington, D.C. Here, you may learn about human spaceflight and World War II aviation while also seeing planes and a space shuttle. The National Air and Space Museum is located at 600 Independence Avenue, Washington, DC, 20560, and is open daily from 10 am to 5.30 pm. 12. National Zoo Bears, lions, and tigers, and so much more! Discover a variety of animal species from all over the world, as well as daily animal demonstrations and habitat displays. There are entrance passes that must be purchased in addition to paid parking passes in advance (if you decide to drive and park there). A few same-day passes will be available on-site, although it is advised to make a reservation in advance. Visit the Kids' Farm, the unusual Me and the Bee playground, and the seasonally open Squirt Zone if you're traveling with children. Kids will enjoy the Speedwell Conservation Carousel, but keep in mind that each ride costs $4. Two to three hours are suggested or anticipated for a trip to the zoo; be sure to wear shoes that are suitable for walking around in. You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks (no glass bottles), though they do have some food options on-site. The National Zoo is located at 3001 Connecticut Avenue North West, Washington, DC 20008, and is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm. 13. National Portrait Gallery Discover portraits of some of America's most prominent people in the visual, performing, and new media arts, including artists, politicians, scientists, innovators, activists, as well as entertainers. The museum is home to the only comprehensive collection of presidential portraits outside of the White House, which includes works by renowned artist Gilbert Stuart. For a customized visit with your group, schedule a tour five weeks in advance for ten or more people, or try your luck with the walk-up tours on Saturdays as well as Sundays at 12 and 2.30. The National Portrait Gallery is located at 8th Street North West & G Street North West, Washington, DC, 20001, and is open daily from 11.30 am to 7 pm. 14. American Art Museum Discover the country's first collection of American art. It is one of the most significant and comprehensive collections of American art in the world. It is also a unique world-class chronicle of the American experience. The museum has taken the lead in seeking out, gathering, and displaying exceptional as well as outstanding representations of American visual art culture. In addition to the conventional, expected kinds of art in a museum, there is photography, current folk and self-taught work. There are also frequently unsung cultural arts, such as African American and Latino, and even computer games. The museum has two locations. However, they are only a 25-minute walk apart. The Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) is in the downtown cultural center. The Renwick Gallery, which specializes in craft and decorative art, is close to the White House. Check out the Experience America exhibition, which captures American culture in a variety of artistic mediums. There is also Janet Echelman's 1.8 Renwick, a commissioned colorful fiber and lighting piece dangling from the ceiling. Moreover, it highlights the relationships between people and the natural world across time. The SAAM site is open from 11:30 am to 7 pm, as well as the Renwick Gallery is open from 10 am to 5.30 pm. Both locations are open every day. While the Renwick Gallery is located at 1661 Pennsylvania Avenue North West #1 in Washington, DC, the SAAM is housed in the same building as the National Portrait Gallery at G Street North West & 8th Street North West. Read More: Understand More About The Vatican’s Museums 15. National Postal Museum Last but not least, on this list of the free museums in DC that you must visit is the National Postal Museum. Who knew using the mail could be so much fun? Learn about the practicalities of how your letter gets from your mailbox to its destination as well as what it's like to work for the postal service. You can also learn about the transportation used by the postal system. In this amazing stamp collection, you may engage with stamps in ways you never thought possible. Along with regular special programming including story times, art programmes, reading groups, talks, and even multilingual options like Hello, Museo for kids, daily tours are also offered. The National Postal Museum is located at 2 Massachusetts Avenue North East, Washington, DC 20002, and is open daily from 10 am to 5.30 pm. Bonus: Phillip's Musuem Nestled amidst the exquisite row houses of Dupont Circle, this modern art museum was founded in 1921 within a Georgian Revival mansion that had previously served as Duncan Phillips' family home. The location is a favorite among Washingtonians because it is both sophisticated and intimate. Impressionist and modern art are the main foci of the modern art museum, and it excels in both areas. Renoir's well-known "Luncheon of the Boating Party" and pieces by Georgia O'Keefe, Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Richard Diebenkorn are among the highlights of the permanent collection. A single bench is surrounded by four of the abstract expressionist artist's paintings in a small but cozy Rothko Room. In celebration of the centennial of The Phillips Collection, visual artist Daniel Canogar created a digital piece that melds 550 pieces from the museum's collection into a captivating, swirling projection using an algorithm. Wrapping It Up! I hope that this guide has been of help to you in finding the best free museums in DC. Is there more that you want to know? Feel free to scroll down and leave your queries at the bottom of the page. And I will be there to answer them all for you! Read Also: Top 10 National Parks In Oregon That You Need To Explore Tips To Make Your Vacation In Gatlinburg More Enjoyable 6 Things To Know Before You Visit St. George

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Margaritaville Palm Springs Reviews: Is It Ideal For A Family Vacation? 

BY  Sibashree Mar 23, 2026

A vast expanse of dry and shimmering heat lies in front of you, the Coachella Valley.  The jagged peaks of the San Jacinto Mountains tower over you like ancient sentinels, reigning over the desert landscape.  As you pull into the driveway of your home at the north end of Palm Springs, you will see typical desert décor: mid-century modern simplicity, a desert plant known as "desert sage." You may also find some Southern California old-time Hollywood glam.  However, upon your arrival, you don't see a cactus garden or anything close to one. The things we are habituated to seeing at the Treasure Island Beach or the Laguna Beach in Southern California.  Instead, you will be greeted with a 13-foot-long blue flip-flop located at the entrance lobby area, where the faint but delicious fragrance of coconut lime & ocean salt is present in the atmosphere. In 2020, the famous Riviera Resort (known as the 'playground' of Frank Sinatra and other members of what is referred to as "The Rat Pack") was totally renovated.  Moreover, it has since opened as the first Margaritaville location on the west side of America. But do you know what is more special about this 24-acre island oasis? It shows a fascinating hybrid.  It is an excellent fusion of the chic architectural bones of 1950s California and the "no-shoes, no-problem" philosophy of Jimmy Buffett. However, here the question is whether it is for families? I will unfold all the details in this Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs review.  Let’s start with a dive into the history, though! How A Storied Past Meets A Salty Future At Margaritaville Palm Springs This hotel has existed since 1959, when it was known for being upscale and accommodating celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.  Through time, the renovations at Margaritaville kept the structure's famous “spokes on a wheel” layout with six buildings for guest rooms radiating from an entrance lobby. However, it transformed the previous dark and dreary spaces into light and bright environments. Furthermore, with regards to what's in style these days, it's bright, open, and downright happy.  Also, the lobby doesn't feel like a typical hotel lobby. It feels like an upscale beach house.  Moreover, there are whimsical seating areas around the lobby and many nautical elements incorporated into the design of the space.  The arrangements help parents know right away that they can sit back and relax because their children can act like children in this space. Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs Reviews: The Hotels, Rooms, Food And Family-Friendliness  So, does a stay at the Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs feel great on a family vacation? Or, does the luxury here translate into comfort? Let’s find out!  1. The Layout Of The Hotel: Navigating The Oasis The resort features a large amount of grounds (24 acres of beautifully landscaped area) to be enjoyed by guests.  While the property size may seem large upon arrival, it is actually one of the resort’s greatest assets as well.  Moreover, the resort buildings are separated across a large area and provide each guest with enough privacy and room to be away from a typical hotel tower. • The Central Hub The resort's heart is the central hub where the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar sits surrounded by fire pits, lounge chairs, and the main pool.  • Quiet Corners Beyond the central pool, there are large open outdoor spaces and private gardens, as well as places to escape the music, people, and hustle of the resort. • The Spa At St. Somewhere Palm Springs' largest resort spa has everything you need for relaxation away from your kids.  Encompassing 11,000 sq ft net of the highest level of service and comfort, there is something for everyone.  Moreover, you will walk away as if you were in St. Barts after 1 week of goodness with our "Parrot Head" (the place you want to be) pedicure to deep-tissue massage. 2. The Rooms At Margaritaville Palm Springs The resort is a vibrant retreat developed for ultimate relaxation.  The spaces showcase examples of the 'coastal-meets-desert' chic interior by incorporating high-end island decor and furnishings.  Furthermore, the resort has 398 guest rooms and suites for its customers and offers a vibrant retreat developed for ultimate relaxation. The accommodation has a range of modern and thoughtful features, including the following.  Free Wi-Fi Smart TV Professional Hair Dryer Coffee and Tea Service Mini Fridge Multiple Room Options For Families  Rooms are available in a variety of sizes and designs.  Standard options have king beds and sleeper sofas. Most rooms come with a balcony.  Families can also opt for rooms containing two king beds.  This offers a greater amount of room and comfort when compared to a standard double queen room.  Most rooms come with a balcony to enjoy the beautiful views of the San Jacinto mountains or an energetic patio for those wanting to relax. 3. Dining At Margaritaville Palm Springs A Margaritaville experience wouldn’t be complete without its food offerings. The resort features several unique dining choices to suit various tastes and budgets.   • Come Monday Café Situated near the lobby, this venue is perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a laid-back atmosphere with a lovely outdoor patio.   • JWB Grill For a more sophisticated dinner, JWB (named in honor of James William Buffett) offers an elegant menu in a stylish environment.   • Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions This is the ideal place for a quick bite. Whether you need a caffeine boost, a breakfast sandwich, or a salad to enjoy by the pool, this spot is convenient and a bit easier on the wallet.   • 5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar The perfect poolside hangout serving chips, salsa, burgers, and, of course, their famous margaritas. What Works For Families At Margaritaville Palm Springs?  Margaritaville stands out in several areas that simplify life for parents. It is great for a family trip for the following reasons.   • The Double King Room While most hotels provide two queen beds, which can feel cramped for a family of four, Margaritaville offers accommodations with two king-size beds.  Also, this significantly improves sleep quality and personal space.   • Poolside Convenience The attentive staff allows you to order lunch and frozen drinks right from your lounge chair.  This means you won’t need to drag wet, hungry kids back to your room or into a formal dining area for a midday bite to eat.   • Built-in Entertainment The resort fee covers free bike rentals, making it easy to explore the serene, breezy streets of the nearby neighborhood, along with complimentary high-speed internet for those unavoidable evening tablet sessions. • The Evening Atmosphere As night falls over the mountains, the resort transforms.  Fire pits are ignited, and the outdoor patios turn into "enchanting" spaces adorned with lanterns hanging from the trees.  Moreover, it creates a sophisticated vibe for adults while remaining completely welcoming for kids. What Does Not Work For Families At Margaritaville Palm Springs? For me, the first inconvenience at the resort started with the talk. The building we were assigned to was quite a long walk from the pool.  Furthermore, during weekends, with the crowd surge, it was a bit difficult for my kids.  What Are The Places To Visit Near Margaritaville Palm Springs? Beyond the 24-acre sanctuary, these are the places you can visit.  The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens The Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert Indian Canyons Furthermore, don’t forget a ride in the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the top of Mount San Jacinto.