Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Everything you need to know before your boat tour. Learn how to reach the Coconut Grove departure point and what to pack for the islands.
Biscayne National Park Boat Tours from Miami
Dinner Key Marina, 3400 Pan American Dr, Miami
GPS 25.7277, -80.2338
Open directionsGetting there
Tours depart from Dinner Key Marina in Miami.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive to Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove, Miami. | 15-30 minutes from Downtown Miami | Varies by lot (approx. $1.50-$3.00 per hour) | Traffic in Coconut Grove can be heavy. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure. Paid parking is available near City Hall. |
| Bus: Take the Miami Metrorail to Coconut Grove Station, then transfer to a local Metrobus or the free Coconut Grove Freebee shuttle. | 45-60 minutes from Downtown Miami | $2.25 | A convenient option to avoid parking hassles at the marina during busy weekends. |
When to go
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- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is from November to April. The weather is comfortable and there are fewer mosquitoes on the islands. Summer is hotter and buggier, but it is better for water activities.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Infants count toward the boat's maximum capacity.
Coast Guard regulations limit passenger numbers.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for your Miami departure.
A concise 2-hour trip focusing on historic architecture over the water.
- Arrive in Coconut Grove
Park near City Hall and walk to Pier 9 at Dinner Key Marina.
- Depart the marina
Board your vessel and head out into Biscayne Bay.
- View Stiltsville
Listen to your guide explain the history of the six remaining stilt houses.
- Skyline views
Enjoy panoramic views of Downtown Miami as you return.
- Return to dock
Disembark at Dinner Key Marina.
A 4-hour excursion including an island stop and lighthouse visit.
- Check in at Pier 9
Confirm your departure from Dinner Key Marina.
- Cruise to the island
Travel south through the bay to Boca Chita Key.
- Explore the island
Walk the half-mile hiking trail and view the 65-foot lighthouse.
- Picnic lunch
Eat the lunch you packed at the harbor pavilions.
- Return trip
Arrive back at Coconut Grove.
Practical advice for your boat tour
Preparation is key for visiting the offshore sections of the park. You must bring reef-safe sunscreen, plenty of drinking water, and insect repellent. Mosquitoes are present year-round on the keys. If you get seasick, take medication before boarding.
Arrive at Dinner Key Marina at least 30 minutes early. Traffic in Coconut Grove gets heavy, especially on weekends. Paid parking is available near Miami City Hall. Check your confirmation email to ensure you are at Pier 9 and not the Homestead visitor center.
Easiest way to do it
Miami Small Group Boat Tour: History, Wildlife, and Stiltsville
2 h 5.0 (74)
- Historical and cultural sightseeing boat tour
- Bottled water
- All Fees and Taxes
From$187per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Where do the Biscayne boat tours leave from in Miami?
Tours depart from Dinner Key Marina at 3400 Pan American Drive in Miami. Check in at Pier 9. This location is in the Coconut Grove neighborhood.
Are there bathrooms on Boca Chita Key?
Yes, there are restrooms located near the picnic pavilions on Boca Chita Key. However, there is no fresh drinking water or trash cans available anywhere on the island.
Can you swim at Boca Chita Key?
Yes, you can swim around the island. Keep in mind there are no lifeguards on duty. Summer is the best season for water activities.