The Dante Fascell Visitor Center is located in Homestead, FL, but 95% of the national park is comprised of water. The Keys in the park are only accessible by boat. There are many sunken shipwrecks, now archeological sites, that are popular dive/snorkeling locations. The Maritime Heritage Trail has been established for those interested in seeing them, but taking artifacts is strictly prohibited.
Kayaks and canoes can be rented and launched into Biscayne Bay near the Visitor Center.
But, our doggie, Sadie, took the opportunity for a quick swim at the kayak launch.
Boat tours are offered by the park service to Boca Chita Key, but, alas, dogs are not permitted on the island. (When we were in the Everglades, dogs were allowed on boat tours!) The tours depart from the visitor center.
A boardwalk leads to a small peninsula where there is a trail.
The mangrove wilderness was once considered “a form of wasteland.” Environmentalists realize that the mangroves are vital to the survival of wildlife in the area, particularly fish and birds. They also provide a measure of protection from storm surges and hurricanes common to the area. Below are red mangroves, identified by their stilt-like roots.
In 1513, Ponce de Leon sailed across Biscayne Bay in search of the Fountain of Youth. Their are great views of the bay from the trail. We could see Miami in the distance (about 50 miles) from this location.
Cormorants seem to enjoy sitting on markers close to the shoreline.
When we reached the end of the trail, we saw the Colonial Bird Protection signage. In the distance are pelicans and terns.
We loved the views of the bay from this trail!
Returning to the Visitor Center, we enjoyed the exhibits about the coral reefs and marine life in the park.
The National Seashores and National Parks almost always have a “please touch” table that allows visitors an up-close look at the indigenous flora and fauna. I always love spending some time checking them out (although John thinks I am a little crazy).
Biscayne National Park is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year (along with Redwood National Forest in CA). Also shown is the iconic Boca Chita Lighthouse.
As we were leaving the park, we caught a glimpse of several manatee. Can you see his nose sticking out of the water in the first photo?
We enjoyed visiting this park, but will plan a boat tour the next time we get here. That’s really the best way to enjoy this national park. For additional information about Biscayne National Park, go to www.nps.gov/bisc.
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