Earlier this year, we took a little day trip to Biscayne National Park in Homestead. The park is just a few minutes from our house and instead of being bummed about the lack of cold weather in Miami (it was in the upper 70s/low 80s the first weekend of January), we decided to embrace our ability to go dip our feet in the Atlantic without catching pneumonia.
We started our trip inside the Dante Fascell Visitor’s Center, where we got to learn about various aquatic animals and watch a video about the park. Willy and I had a good time looking through the various artifacts they keep at the Touch Table (including sea shells, animal skulls and teeth, and even a ranger hat).
There was also a small art exhibit featuring an exhibit called Parkquest by artist Patricia Rottino Cummins. The exhibit, featuring various oil and pastel paintings done while the artist was working in residency at eleven different national parks, will be on display until February 28th, 2016.
Afterward, we took a nice, slow stroll along the jetty and watched people fishing, barbecuing, canoeing, and just hanging out enjoying the day. Willy was excited to dip his feet in the cool, ocean water and I followed suit, getting splashed on occasion by my charming toddler. It was a pleasant and relaxing way to spend an afternoon on the cheap (actually, FREE!)
Most of Biscayne National Park is actually under water, and to really get a chance to see it, your best bet is to rent a canoe, kayak, or boat. Biscayne National Park has guided boat tours that last two hours long, at just $30 per person (kids under 5 are free), which we’re planning to do next time around since Willy’s still too small for canoeing.
The tours also include a day pass to Homestead Bayfront Park right next door. Admission to this park is normally $7 and includes all day access to barbecues and pavillions plus a nature atoll pool and beach that’s perfect for littles to splash about in. There’s also an excellent, local restaurant overlooking the water, La Playa Grill, which features pub fare (burgers, wings, hot dogs) plus some sea food and Mexican cuisine. I personally opt for the Veggie Burger (black bean and corn patty that’s always delicious and filling for my veg-friends) and beer (at very reasonable prices).
Have you been to Biscayne National Park before? What did you dig the most?
I’ve never been to Biscayne National Park – and I’ve lived here for a long-long time. It’s cool to discover things right in your own back yard! Thanks!
I’ve visited the park but on the Playa Grill side. I’ll definitely try to venture out soon. I’m in Homestead so it’s definitely fun to add another hidden gem to my list.
I can’t believe I’ve never visited the Biscayne National Park. I’ve added it to my places-to-go list 🙂
Looks fun, thanks for sharing this hidden gem. 🙂
I’ve never been here before. Thanks for introducing me. It looks like a great way to spend the afternoon.
We managed to get in the Everglades and Dry Tortugas but ran out of time and decided to postpone Biscayne until another time. Next trip to South Florida, I promise!