2-Day Biscayne National Park Itinerary
Two days of pristine reef snorkeling, island exploration, and legendary shipwrecks just 30 miles from Miami.
Biscayne National Park sprawls across 173,000 acres south of Miami, with 95% submerged beneath crystal-clear tropical waters. The park protects a portion of the world's third-longest coral reef, shipwrecks dating back centuries, and thriving mangrove estuaries teeming with marine life.
- 173K Park acres
- 600+ Fish species
- 44 Documented shipwrecks
- No fee Park entry
Day 1: Visitor Center, Jetty Trail & Maritime Heritage Snorkeling
Stay: Base yourself in Homestead or Florida City, 15–20 minutes from Convoy Point; options include Courtyard by Marriott and TownePlace Suites.
Start with an easy orientation walk and mangrove views, then descend into the underwater world to see the park's most iconic feature: accessible shipwrecks and vibrant coral.
- Begin at Dante Fascell Visitor Center with its exhibits on park ecology and Maritime Heritage Trail.
- Walk the Jetty Trail at Convoy Point—a flat, easy 0.8-mile boardwalk and gravel path skirting mangroves and Biscayne Bay.
- Then depart for a 3.5-hour guided snorkel tour to explore the park's shipwrecks, coral patch reefs, or mangrove habitats; the Mandalay wreck (12 feet deep) is ideal for snorkelers.
Day 2: Island Heritage Cruise & Jones Lagoon Paddle
Stay: Final night in Homestead before departing. Consider a sunset dinner cruise option (6 pm, $65 Nov–Feb) as an optional evening activity.
Experience the park's second dimension—island wildlife, secluded mangrove waterways, and marine creatures. Choose between a heritage cruise to Boca Chita Key or a remote Jones Lagoon paddle adventure.
- Depart Convoy Point aboard the Heritage of Biscayne Cruise for a 3.5-hour journey to Boca Chita Key or Elliott Key, including time to explore the island and spot dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.
- Alternatively, book the Jones Lagoon Paddle Eco-Adventure (age 12+): a 45-minute powerboat ride to a remote lagoon, then guided kayaking through mangrove tunnels searching for baby sharks, turtles, and Roseate Spoonbills.
Common Questions
Do I need a boat to visit Biscayne National Park?
Yes—95% of the park is water. The mainland visitor center and jetty are accessible by car, but all islands, reefs, shipwrecks, and lagoons require a boat. The Biscayne National Park Institute operates guided tours from Homestead (Convoy Point), or you can rent a private boat or bring your own. Docking fees apply ($25 Friday–Monday for day use, $35/night for camping).
When is the best time to snorkel at Biscayne?
December through April offers calm seas, water clarity exceeding 60 feet, and ideal tropical weather (70–80°F). September mornings also deliver calm conditions and fewer crowds. Avoid June–November (hurricane season) when tours may close suddenly and weather is unpredictable.
Can I camp overnight in the park?
Yes, on Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key. Both are first-come, first-served with no reservations—sites fill quickly in winter. Cost is $25 docking fee (Friday–Monday) or $35/night for camping. Amenities include toilets (Elliott Key has cold showers), picnic tables, and grills, but no running water or electricity.
How much do boat tours cost?
Half-day snorkel tours range $83–$115 per adult. Heritage island cruises cost $83. Jones Lagoon paddle is $79. Full-day combination experiences (snorkel + paddle + island) run $209–$239. Children's discounts apply. Book in advance during peak season.
Is the park safe during hurricane season?
Park services, boat tours, and the visitor center may close with little notice if a storm threatens. Book trips for December–April for reliable access. If visiting June–November, have flexible dates and confirm tours 24 hours ahead; weather can shift rapidly in tropical waters.
Sources & Further Reading
- Plan Your Visit - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Things to Do - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Guided Tours - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Convoy Point Jetty Walk (Self-Guided) - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Fees & Passes - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Camping - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Permits & Reservations - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Maritime Heritage Trail - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Fowey Rocks Lighthouse - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Coral Reefs - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Where to Stay - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Operating Hours & Seasons - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
- Biscayne National Park Institute — biscaynenationalparkinstitute.org
- Snorkel Experience - Biscayne National Park Institute — biscaynenationalparkinstitute.org
- Island Experiences - Biscayne National Park Institute — biscaynenationalparkinstitute.org
- Jones Lagoon Paddle Eco-Adventure - Biscayne National Park Institute — biscaynenationalparkinstitute.org
- Elliott Key - Biscayne National Park (U.S. National Park Service) — nps.gov
