
Flamingo Marina
Your gateway to Everglades wildlife! Spot crocodiles, manatees, and dolphins on boat tours or explore via houseboat rental.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant weather

Flamingo Marina
Best Time
Fewer bugs, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Your gateway to Everglades wildlife! Spot crocodiles, manatees, and dolphins on boat tours or explore via houseboat rental.
"Simply the best idea! Saw manatees, dolphins, crocodiles and the beautiful flora and learned a lot."

Book Boat Tours Early
Spontaneously booking a boat trip can be amazing! Saw manatees, dolphins, and crocodiles. :ticket:
Confirm Kayak Rentals
Kayak rentals were initially denied but an exception was made. Always confirm availability beforehand! :kayak:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crocodile & Dolphin Boat Tours
Flamingo Marina
Witness American crocodiles and playful dolphins on guided boat tours. Highly recommended for an immersive wildlife experience.

Houseboat Rental Adventure
Flamingo Marina
Embark on a multi-day houseboat rental for a serene escape and unparalleled access to the Everglades' natural beauty.

Kayaking & Fishing
Flamingo Marina
Explore the waters by kayak or cast a line. Affordable rentals with PFDs are available, offering a close-up view of marine life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Everglades Wildlife Hotspot
Houseboat Rental Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours Early
Spontaneously booking a boat trip can be amazing! Saw manatees, dolphins, and crocodiles. :ticket:
Confirm Kayak Rentals
Kayak rentals were initially denied but an exception was made. Always confirm availability beforehand! :kayak:
Pack Smart for Houseboats
Bring your own water, bug spray (40% DEET!), and entertainment. Internet is spotty. :woman_shrugging:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for crocodiles, manatees, and dolphins – they're frequently spotted from boats and kayaks! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours Early
Spontaneously booking a boat trip can be amazing! Saw manatees, dolphins, and crocodiles. :ticket:
Confirm Kayak Rentals
Kayak rentals were initially denied but an exception was made. Always confirm availability beforehand! :kayak:
Pack Smart for Houseboats
Bring your own water, bug spray (40% DEET!), and entertainment. Internet is spotty. :woman_shrugging:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for crocodiles, manatees, and dolphins – they're frequently spotted from boats and kayaks! :camerawithflash:
Marina Staff Assistance
Dock Masters like Rubén and Morgan are very helpful with rentals and information. :handshake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible wildlife sightings on boat tours, with many spotting crocodiles, manatees, and dolphins. The houseboat rentals offer a unique, immersive experience, though some guests note inconsistencies in information and a need for thorough preparation. Staff are generally helpful, and the marina provides a convenient base for exploring the Everglades.
"Rye of Flamingo Everglades Boat Tour gave a memorizing tour. We got super lucky and saw both a crocodile in the lake and bottle nose dolphins jumping next to our boat!! One of the most informative and entertaining tours I’ve had in my life!!! Rye almost constantly gave us cool facts about the fauna and flora of the beautiful Everglades!!"
HaoQi Li
"We were at the marina yesterday and spontaneously booked a boat trip. It was simply the best idea. Captain Bobby and Cheese did their best and were very funny. We saw manatees, dolphins, crocodiles and the beautiful flora and learned a lot about the Everglades. Highly recommended to everyone!"
Sebahat Bickici
"Dock Masters Rubén and Morgan were very helpful. The prices were affordable and included a PFD with the kayak rental. On my way back in a crocodile swam right in front of me! I’ll be back!"
Troy Bent
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Flamingo Marina is located at the southernmost district of Everglades National Park. You can reach it by car via the main park road. The drive itself is scenic and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Public transport options directly to Flamingo Marina are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if available in the area, but be prepared for potentially high costs.
The drive to Flamingo Marina is part of the Everglades experience. Expect a scenic route through diverse habitats. Allow ample time for stops to observe wildlife and enjoy the landscape.
Yes, there are parking facilities available at Flamingo Marina for visitors. Parking can fill up during peak seasons, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended.
Renting a car is a popular and recommended way to reach Flamingo Marina, offering flexibility to explore Everglades National Park at your own pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance fee is required for Everglades National Park, which includes access to the Flamingo area. You can purchase passes at park entrances or online.
Boat tours operating from Flamingo Marina typically require separate tickets. It's advisable to book these in advance, especially during busy periods, to secure your spot.
Operating hours for facilities like the marina shop and restaurant can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Everglades National Park website or contact the marina directly for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, houseboat rentals at Flamingo Marina are highly recommended to be booked well in advance, as they are very popular and have limited availability.
Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as seniors or military personnel, for park entrance fees. Check the National Park Service website for details. Tour operators may also offer special rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Flamingo Marina is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. You can often see American crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species.
Popular activities include boat tours, kayaking, fishing, and houseboat rentals. The marina also serves as a starting point for exploring the Everglades.
Yes, Flamingo Marina offers a great experience for families. Boat tours and the chance to see wildlife are particularly engaging for children.
Kayak and canoe rentals are available, though it's wise to confirm their availability and any associated policies beforehand, as they can change.
Amenities include a marina shop, restaurant, and facilities for houseboat rentals. Services like fuel and boat slips are also available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant at Flamingo Marina offering meals for visitors. It's a convenient option for refueling after a day of activities.
The restaurant typically serves a range of casual dining options, often featuring seafood and American cuisine. Check their menu for current offerings.
You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you are renting a houseboat or planning a picnic. This is a good option for saving money and having more variety.
Yes, there is a marina shop that sells various items, including snacks and essentials. However, it may not always stock bug spray, so it's good to bring your own.
Grocery stores are not readily available near Flamingo Marina. It's advisable to stock up on supplies before you arrive in the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The marina itself, with boats and water views, is picturesque. Look for opportunities to photograph wildlife like crocodiles and birds, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Wildlife photography is a major draw, with opportunities to capture crocodiles, manatees, dolphins, and numerous bird species in their natural habitat.
While specific photography tours might not be widely advertised, boat tours offer excellent vantage points for capturing wildlife and landscapes.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This is also when wildlife is often most active.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a safe distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the marina and surrounding areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a houseboat rental for a truly memorable family experience. It provides a unique base for exploring, and kids will love the novelty of living on the water. Ensure you pack plenty of snacks, games, and bug spray to keep everyone comfortable and entertained. The marina shop can provide some essentials, but stocking up beforehand is wise.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will be captivated by the abundant wildlife. The guided boat tours are highly recommended for their educational value and the high chance of spotting iconic Everglades creatures. Even a simple kayak paddle can lead to incredible encounters with the park's unique flora and fauna. Remember to bring binoculars and a good camera to capture the moments.
🏠 Houseboat Adventurers
Be prepared for a more rustic experience. While the houseboats provide a comfortable living space, amenities are basic. Confirm all rental details and policies in advance, especially regarding navigation and any included equipment like kayaks. Packing smart with essentials like water, food, and entertainment will ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Everglades from Flamingo Marina
Wildlife viewing is a major draw here. Visitors frequently report sightings of American crocodiles, manatees, and dolphins on boat tours. The diverse birdlife also makes it a paradise for birdwatchers. The waters around the marina are teeming with life, offering constant opportunities for discovery.
For those seeking a more extended experience, houseboat rentals offer an unparalleled way to explore the backcountry. However, it's crucial to be prepared. Confirm details about navigation limits and available amenities, as information can sometimes be inconsistent. Packing essentials like water, bug spray, and entertainment is key to a comfortable stay.
Houseboat Rentals: A Unique Everglades Experience
However, potential renters should be aware of certain aspects. Kayak rentals, while sometimes mentioned, may have been discontinued, so it's vital to confirm this in advance if it's a priority for your trip. Navigation can also be somewhat vague on provided maps, and conflicting information might be given. It's advisable to clarify where you can and cannot go to avoid any issues.
Essential packing tips for houseboat rentals include bringing ample water for drinking and cooking, as the tank water is not potable. A fillet knife, rope, and a 12v USB adapter can be very useful. Don't forget bug spray (40% DEET is recommended) and entertainment like books or games, as internet connectivity is minimal.
Boat Tours and Water Activities
Beyond guided tours, kayaking and fishing are popular activities. The marina offers affordable kayak rentals, complete with life vests. Paddling through the mangroves or along the coast provides a more personal encounter with the environment. Fishing enthusiasts will also find opportunities to cast a line in the rich waters.
When planning your water activities, it's worth noting that the range for radio communication can limit how far you can explore into certain bays, like Whitewater Bay. While staff are friendly, specific recommendations for prime wildlife viewing spots might not always be readily available, so some self-exploration might be necessary.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit