Exploring the Submerged Wilderness of Biscayne National Park

Discover Biscayne National Park with our complete guide to snorkeling, shipwrecks, and island camping. Explore 173,000 acres of Florida’s coastal beauty today.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 7, 2026, 11:12 AM EST

Source: tripsavvy

A National Park Defined by Water and History

Biscayne National Park stands as a coastal marvel within the United States National Park System, distinguished by the fact that nearly its entire 173,000 acre expanse is submerged. Established in 1980, the park protects the northernmost Florida Keys and the surrounding turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay. This geography makes it a premier destination for those seeking maritime adventure, ranging from casual boaters to professional scuba divers. The park is not merely a natural sanctuary but a historical one, preserving over 10,000 years of human activity from Paleo Indian migrations to modern day conservation efforts.

The ecosystem here is a delicate balance of mangrove shorelines, shallow lagoons, and the beginning of the world’s third largest barrier reef. Visitors typically begin their journey at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center in Homestead, which serves as the primary gateway to the park’s four distinct ecosystems. For those looking to understand the area's significance, the center offers educational films and exhibits that detail the transition from the Florida peninsula to the deep sea.

Aquatic Adventures and the Maritime Heritage Trail

Because the park is water based, the most authentic way to experience it is via the Maritime Heritage Trail. This unique underwater trail offers snorkelers and divers access to six documented shipwrecks dating from 1878 to 1966. For instance, the site of the Mandalay is particularly popular for snorkelers due to its shallow depth, while the Alicia and Lugano offer more challenging depths suited for experienced tank divers. These wrecks serve as artificial reefs, hosting hundreds of species of tropical fish and vibrant coral formations.

Beyond diving, the Biscayne National Park Institute manages various guided excursions. These include paddleboarding through the winding, mangrove lined waterways of Jones Lagoon, where it is common to spot juvenile sharks, rays, and West Indian manatees. For those who prefer to stay above the surface, the park’s sailing and boating culture is robust, with nearby marinas like Black Point providing direct access to the bay’s sprawling 250 square miles of water.