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Biscayne National ParkSnorkelers explore Elkhorn Reef
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A Watery Wonderland

Within sight of downtown Miami, yet worlds away, Biscayne protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and fish-bejeweled coral reefs. Here too is evidence of 10,000 years of human history, from pirates and shipwrecks to pineapple farmers and presidents. Outdoors enthusiasts can boat, snorkel, camp, watch wildlife…or simply relax in a rocking chair gazing out over the bay.

 
President Johnson shakes the hand of Congressman Dante Fascell while Lloyd Miller and Hardy Matheson look on as Biscayne National Monument is Established on October 18, 1968.

Celebrating 40 Years of Preservation

Biscayne's intriguing history includes a contentious fight to stop the construction of a petrochemical plant on the Bay's shoreline, and an equally difficult struggle to save the park's islands from becoming the city of "Islandia." The battle culminated on October 18, 1968, when President Lyndon Johnson signed the law establishing Biscayne National Monument. Join us as we commemorate the past, celebrate the present and envision the future of the park as we celebrate 40 years of preservation on October 17, 18 and 19, 2008.
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A snorkeler jumps into the water

Things to Do

Biscayne National Park is the ideal place to celebrate the International Year of the Reef. Snorkeling, diving, boating, fishing, camping, picnicking and superb opportunities for wildlife watching are just a few of the many activities here. From late December to May, special activities like Family Fun Fest, guided canoe tours and the Discovery Series lectures can enhance your understanding and appreciation for the largest marine park in the National Park System.
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Porkfish on coral reef

Park Ecosystems

Biscayne National Park protects four primary ecosystems: the long stretch of mangrove forest along the mainland shoreline, the shallow southern portion of Biscayne Bay, the northernmost Florida Keys and a portion of the world's third-longest living coral reef.
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Pioneers on Elliott Key

Park History

Although Biscayne National Park was established primarily for its natural features, the exploits of humans over ten centuries light the fires of imagination, with many stories just now being uncovered. Discover some of the people, places and stories that help make the park such a special place.
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Write to

Biscayne National Park
9700 SW 328 Street
Homestead, FL 33033

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(305) 230-7275

Administrative Offices
(305) 230-1144

Fax

(305) 230-1190

Climate

Summers are generally warm, with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are typically mild and dry, but windy. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared with rainwear at any time of year.
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The Sweeting Family  

Did You Know?
For 50 years, four generations of the Sweeting family thrived on Biscayne National Park's Elliott Key. Here they raised pineapples, salvaged wrecked ships, went to school, worshipped and played at the northern end of Florida's Keys.

Last Updated: September 18, 2008 at 18:06 EST