The park's waters teem with marine life, including over 500 species of reef fish, sea turtles, manatees, and bottlenose dolphins. The coral reefs host an incredible diversity of marine organisms, from colorful parrotfish to nurse sharks. The mangrove shorelines provide habitat for numerous bird species, including brown pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds, and various herons. The hardwood hammocks support terrestrial wildlife such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, and numerous butterfly species.
Biscayne's diverse plant life includes extensive mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and hardwood hammocks. The park's mangrove ecosystem features red, black, and white mangroves that provide crucial nursery areas for marine life. The seagrass meadows cover nearly 49,000 acres of the park, while the hardwood hammocks on the keys support over 100 species of tropical trees and plants, including several rare and endangered species like the Sargent's palm and semaphore cactus.
The park's geology is characterized by a limestone foundation formed from ancient coral reefs and marine sediments. The Florida Keys, including those within the park, are part of an ancient coral reef system. The current living reef is the third reef system to form in the area over the past 150,000 years. The park features four primary ecosystems: the mangrove shoreline, the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay, the coral limestone keys, and the offshore Florida Reef.
The area now known as Biscayne National Park has been home to human settlements for over 10,000 years, beginning with Native American tribes like the Tequesta. European contact began in the 16th century, leading to centuries of maritime activity including shipwrecks, piracy, and trade. The park was established in 1968 as Biscayne National Monument to protect the area from industrial development and was designated as a National Park in 1980, preserving its rich maritime heritage and unique ecosystem.
Biscayne National Park is distinguished by its unique combination of aquatic and terrestrial features, with 95% of the park being underwater. Key attractions include the Maritime Heritage Trail, featuring six shipwreck sites accessible to snorkelers and divers; Elliott Key, the park's largest island and former home to pioneer settlers; and the spectacular coral reefs that parallel the keys. The park also includes Boca Chita Key with its historic lighthouse, and the extensive mangrove shoreline along the mainland, offering excellent opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.
Biscayne National Park experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: wet (May-October) and dry (November-April). Summer temperatures typically range from 85-90°F (29-32°C) with high humidity, while winter brings pleasant temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). The park is vulnerable to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season (June-November). Water temperatures remain comfortable year-round, ranging from 70°F in winter to 85°F in summer, making it ideal for water activities throughout most of the year.
USA
25.4830°, -80.2000°
June 28, 1980
700
Biscayne National Park protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and coral reefs. The park preserves Biscayne Bay and its offshore barrier reefs. It is home to extensive mangrove forests along the shoreline and abundant marine life including manatees, sea turtles, and over 500 species of fish.