Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park in South Florida is one of the few U.S. national parks that is roughly 95 percent water, encompassing Biscayne Bay, the northernmost islands of the Florida Keys, and the northernmost living coral reef in the continental United States. Established as a national monument in 1968 and elevated to national park status in 1980, it protects an intricate mosaic of mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and coral reefs that support sea turtles, dolphins, and manatees. The park's Maritime Heritage Trail is a standout feature — an underwater path connecting six historic shipwrecks at depths reachable by both snorkelers and scuba divers. Access is by boat from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center in Homestead, and guided kayak trips to the offshore keys are among the most popular ways to explore the park.