Biscayne Bay is a unique national park located in the heart of Miami, Florida. With its pristine waters and lush mangroves, it offers families a chance to escape from the city and enjoy a variety of recreational activities in a natural setting.
Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Biscayne Bay has something for you.
The Beauty of Biscayne Bay
Biscayne Bay is a stunning body of water that boasts crystal clear waters and an abundance of sea life. The bay is home to over 500 species of fish and is one of the largest coral reef systems in the world.
In fact, it is the only living coral reef in the continental United States, making it an important habitat for marine life.
Visitors can go snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking to explore the vibrant underwater world. Or, do as our family did, and take a boat tour to see the colorful fish, interesting islands, and exotic birds that call Biscayne Bay home.
Discover the History of Biscayne Bay
Biscayne Bay is also a park rich in history. Between the culture of the Tequesta people and the infamy of Stiltsville, this park has stories to tell!
Tequesta People of Biscayne Bay
It was once home to the Tequesta people who lived in the area for thousands of years. Visitors can see the remains of the Tequesta village including ancient middens (piles of shells) at Biscayne’s Dante Fascell Visitor Center.
This indigenous tribe lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of European explorers, and their legacy can still be seen in the names of local landmarks including the Miami River and the village of Tequesta.
The Tequesta were a fishing and hunting society who built their homes and structures from the natural resources available in the area.
One of the most significant archaeological sites associated with the Tequesta is the “Miami Circle,” a circular arrangement of limestone boulders that was discovered in 1998 during the construction of a high-rise building.
The Miami Circle is believed to have been a Tequesta structure, and it is thought to have been used for spiritual or ceremonial purposes.
The Tequesta were ultimately decimated by diseases brought by the Spanish as well as by conflicts with other indigenous groups and European colonizers. By the mid-18th century, the Tequesta had largely disappeared from the area.
Today, the Tequesta are remembered as an important part of the history of Biscayne Bay and the Miami area.
Their contributions to the local culture and economy are recognized and celebrated, and efforts are underway to preserve their cultural and archaeological heritage for future generations.
Stiltsville
Additionally, Biscayne Bay is home the historic Stiltsville, a collection of colorful wooden houses built on stilts in the middle of the bay. Visitors can take a boat tour to see these unique structures and learn about their fascinating history.
Stiltsville dates back to the 1930s when a man named “Crawfish” Eddie Walker built the first shack on stilts in the middle of the bay. He sold bait and beer to passing boaters.
Over time, more people built houses on stilts, and by the 1950s Stiltsville had become a popular destination for boaters, fishermen, and partygoers. The community was known for its lively parties and unique setting.
It was a favorite spot for celebrities like Judy Garland, Tennessee Williams, and Ted Williams.
Despite its popularity, Stiltsville was not without controversy. In the 1960s the state of Florida began to crack down on the unregulated development of the bay. Many of the houses in Stiltsville were deemed to be illegal.
Over the years hurricanes and fires destroyed several of the houses, and by the 1990s only seven structures remained.
In 1992 the federal government took control of the land where Stiltsville was located, and the future of the community was uncertain.
However, a group of local residents organized a campaign to save Stiltsville, and in 2000, the houses were granted a 30-year lease by the National Park Service.
Today, Stiltsville is a popular tourist attraction. The remaining houses are protected as part of the Biscayne National Park. The community’s colorful history and unique architecture make it a beloved symbol of Miami’s past.
For the natural history and modern conservation stories of Biscayne Bay’s marine life, read THIS article next.
Family-Friendly Activities at Biscayne National Park
How to start your Biscayne adventure…
Biscayne Bay offers a variety of activities for families to enjoy together. As we always recommend, start your visit at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center.
There, you can see the park film, pick up junior ranger programs, and view the many exhibits. Once you have your map and your agenda, you will want to get off shore to appreciate the value of this special national park.
Biscayne Tours & Guides
The primary adventure guide for this park is the Biscayne National Park Institute. This non-profit organization operates a multitude of tours endorsed by the park.
From boat rides to snorkling to kayaking, booking one of these experiences is our favorite way to explore Biscayne Bay.
Additional commercial tours are also available from other park-authorized companies. They include kiteboarding opportunities and fishing guides.
Fishing & Bird Watching in Biscayne National Park
Families can also go fishing and lobstering in Biscayne Bay. It is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, but be sure that everyone in your party over the age of sixteen has a valid Florida fishing license.
Biscayne Bay is known for its excellent bird watching. The park service has even created a Birding Trail to guide visitors through different park sites to view different species.
Camping in Biscayne National Park
There are two first come, first served, primitive campgrounds in Biscayne Bay National Park.
One is on Elliot Key and the other is on Boca Chita Key. They are only accessible by boat. For more details on the camping regulations, view the park’s information HERE.
In addition to these activities, Biscayne Bay also offers a number of ranger-led programs. These programs vary by day and by season.
They are a great way for families to learn more about the park and have fun together.
The Perfect Location for a Family Adventure
Biscayne Bay is the perfect location for a family adventure. With its breathtaking beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, families can spend their days exploring the park and their evenings relaxing at one of the many nearby hotels or campgrounds.
Miami is just a short drive away, so families can enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful and natural setting in the park and a vibrant city with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
When you’re in the area, consider visiting South Florida’s other two fantastic parks: Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park!
