Jones Lagoon Biscayne National Park
Explore serene mangrove tunnels and abundant marine life in Jones Lagoon, Biscayne National Park. Ideal for paddleboarding and snorkeling adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, abundant wildlife
Jones Lagoon Biscayne National Park
Best Time
Calm waters, abundant wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore serene mangrove tunnels and abundant marine life in Jones Lagoon, Biscayne National Park. Ideal for paddleboarding and snorkeling adventures.
"Paddle through mangrove tunnels and spot sharks and rays in the clear waters of Jones Lagoon!"
Book Guided Tours
Essential for exploring Jones Lagoon! Book via the National Park website or @biscaynenationalparkinstitute.
Spot Marine Life
Look for sharks, rays, and fish! The clear waters are perfect for wildlife viewing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mangrove Tunnel Exploration
Jones Lagoon
Paddle through serene mangrove tunnels, a unique ecosystem teeming with life. A truly immersive nature experience.
Abundant Marine Wildlife
Jones Lagoon
Spot nurse sharks, stingrays, parrotfish, and more in the clear, calm waters. A nature lover's paradise.
Paddleboarding Paradise
Jones Lagoon
Glide across crystal-clear waters on a paddleboard, enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Paddle Tour in Advance
Embrace the Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Guided Tours
Essential for exploring Jones Lagoon! Book via the National Park website or @biscaynenationalparkinstitute.
Spot Marine Life
Look for sharks, rays, and fish! The clear waters are perfect for wildlife viewing.
Paddleboard Bliss
Enjoy the calm, clear waters for an amazing paddleboarding experience.
Bring Your Camera
Capture the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Don't miss the mangrove tunnels!
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Guided Tours
Essential for exploring Jones Lagoon! Book via the National Park website or @biscaynenationalparkinstitute.
Spot Marine Life
Look for sharks, rays, and fish! The clear waters are perfect for wildlife viewing.
Paddleboard Bliss
Enjoy the calm, clear waters for an amazing paddleboarding experience.
Bring Your Camera
Capture the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Don't miss the mangrove tunnels!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Jones Lagoon for its abundant wildlife and serene paddleboarding experience through mangrove tunnels. The clear waters are perfect for spotting marine life like sharks and rays, and guided tours are highly recommended for an educational and immersive adventure. Some visitors note that booking tours in advance is essential.
"Got here with the Biscayne Institute tour, tons of wildlife and fun paddle area."
Tristan Chavez
"Great snorkeling area! Saw lots of fish, rays, sharks and sponges."
Tori Martin
"Excellent place to paddle board. Lots of wildlife to view in this undisturbed area! Yours can be booked through the National Park website"
Andrew Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jones Lagoon is located within Biscayne National Park and is primarily accessible via guided tours. You can book paddleboarding, SUP, or kayaking tours through the Biscayne National Park Institute, which often depart from Convoy Point.
Jones Lagoon is a relatively short ride from Miami, making it a popular day trip destination. The tours offer a chance to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature.
Direct driving access to Jones Lagoon is limited. The most common way to experience it is by joining a guided tour that provides transportation or departs from a designated park area like Convoy Point.
Parking is available at Convoy Point, the main visitor area for Biscayne National Park, where many tours depart from. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during busy periods.
While paddle tours are the most popular way to explore Jones Lagoon, the Biscayne National Park Institute also offers sailing paddle trips that can take you to explore the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Biscayne National Park itself is free, but to experience Jones Lagoon, you'll need to book a guided tour. These tours have associated costs.
Tour prices vary depending on the operator and type of tour (kayak, SUP, paddleboard). It's best to check the Biscayne National Park Institute's website for current pricing and booking information.
It's highly recommended to book your Jones Lagoon tour in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times. Same-day bookings may be limited or unavailable.
Most tours include the use of paddleboards or kayaks, a guided experience through the mangrove tunnels, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Some may offer snorkeling gear.
Age restrictions can vary by tour operator. It's advisable to check with the specific tour provider, such as the Biscayne National Park Institute, regarding any age or swimming ability requirements.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Jones Lagoon is a haven for marine life. Visitors frequently report seeing nurse sharks, stingrays, various species of fish like parrotfish, and abundant birdlife in the mangrove areas.
Yes, Jones Lagoon is an excellent spot for snorkeling due to its clear, calm waters and rich marine ecosystem. You can often see fish, rays, and sponges.
The best way to explore Jones Lagoon is by paddleboard or kayak, especially on a guided tour. This allows you to navigate the mangrove tunnels and get close to wildlife.
Facilities are generally limited within the more remote areas of Jones Lagoon. Restrooms and visitor services are typically available at the park's main visitor center, Convoy Point.
Swimming is possible in Jones Lagoon, but it's often recommended to do so with a guide or as part of a tour, especially if you're interested in snorkeling or observing marine life. Be aware of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The mangrove tunnels offer unique photographic opportunities, as does the abundant marine life visible in the clear waters. Sunrise and sunset can also provide beautiful lighting.
Taking photos while paddleboarding requires some balance. Consider a waterproof phone case or a secure mount for your camera. Many visitors capture great shots from their boards.
A waterproof camera or a smartphone in a waterproof case is ideal. If you have a DSLR, consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife.
Drone usage in national parks is often restricted. It's crucial to check the specific regulations for Biscayne National Park regarding drone operation before flying one.
Mornings often offer calmer waters and softer light, ideal for photography. However, afternoons can also be good, especially if you're looking for dramatic skies or to capture wildlife activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and encourage kids to look for marine life from the paddleboards. The mangrove tunnels provide a sense of exploration and wonder. Ensure everyone has sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. It's a memorable way to introduce children to the importance of coastal ecosystems and conservation.
🐠 Snorkelers & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Guided tours are particularly beneficial as the naturalists can often lead you to prime wildlife viewing spots and provide insights into the behavior and ecology of the animals you encounter. Bringing a waterproof camera or a GoPro is highly recommended to capture the underwater wonders.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mangrove Ecosystem
The interconnected roots of the mangroves create a complex underwater world, perfect for spotting the diverse marine life that calls Jones Lagoon home. The calm, clear waters, especially during morning tours, make it easy to observe everything from small fish darting among the roots to larger creatures like stingrays and nurse sharks gliding by. It’s a testament to the park’s conservation efforts that such an undisturbed habitat can be experienced so readily.
When you visit, take a moment to appreciate the quiet beauty and the incredible biodiversity. The experience is not just about paddling; it's about understanding the importance of these coastal wetlands and the role they play in the health of the marine environment. Guided tours are highly recommended to learn more about the ecology from knowledgeable naturalists.
Wildlife Encounters in Jones Lagoon
Beyond sharks and rays, the clear waters teem with various fish species, including colorful parrotfish, snapper, and grunts, especially around the mangrove roots where they find shelter and food. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the variety of avian life, from herons and egrets to ospreys. The undisturbed nature of the lagoon contributes to its rich biodiversity, offering a genuine glimpse into a healthy coastal ecosystem.
To maximize your chances of seeing wildlife, consider booking an early morning tour when the water is calmest and animals are often most active. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. The Biscayne National Park Institute's guided tours are excellent for learning about the local fauna and where to best spot them.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit