Jones Lagoon (Biscayne NP) - Image 1
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Jones Lagoon Biscayne National Park

5
·3 reviews·Islandia, United States

Explore serene mangrove tunnels and abundant marine life in Jones Lagoon, Biscayne National Park. Ideal for paddleboarding and snorkeling adventures.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning tours

Calm waters, abundant wildlife

CrowdLow
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Jones Lagoon (Biscayne NP) - Image 1

Jones Lagoon Biscayne National Park

Best Time

Morning tours

Calm waters, abundant wildlife

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore serene mangrove tunnels and abundant marine life in Jones Lagoon, Biscayne National Park. Ideal for paddleboarding and snorkeling adventures.

5
(3 reviews)

"Paddle through mangrove tunnels and spot sharks and rays in the clear waters of Jones Lagoon!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mangrove Tunnel Exploration

Mangrove Tunnel Exploration

Jones Lagoon

Paddle through serene mangrove tunnels, a unique ecosystem teeming with life. A truly immersive nature experience.

Abundant Marine Wildlife

Abundant Marine Wildlife

Jones Lagoon

Spot nurse sharks, stingrays, parrotfish, and more in the clear, calm waters. A nature lover's paradise.

Paddleboarding Paradise

Paddleboarding Paradise

Jones Lagoon

Glide across crystal-clear waters on a paddleboard, enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Paddle Tour in Advance

Jones Lagoon is best explored via guided paddle tours. Booking ahead ensures your spot, especially during peak season. These tours offer unique access to the mangrove tunnels and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Embrace the Wildlife Encounters

This pristine area is teeming with marine life. Keep an eye out for nurse sharks, stingrays, parrotfish, and more. The calm, clear waters make it an ideal spot for observation and photography.

Best Times

When
Morning tours
Why
Calm waters, abundant wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon tours
Why
Good light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you been?? #icelandadventure #iceland #bluelagoon #SoFiBreakUpChallenge #BbStyleFearlessly #MACChallengeAccepted #travel
@monet.izabeth
1.2M likes • 6.4M views

Book Guided Tours

Essential for exploring Jones Lagoon! Book via the National Park website or @biscaynenationalparkinstitute. Instagram+1

Spot Marine Life

Look for sharks, rays, and fish! The clear waters are perfect for wildlife viewing. InstagramReddit

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is extremely overrated compared to some of the other spas/lagoons/hotsprings you can find in Iceland! The Forest Lagoon was incredible as it allows you to stay there late enough where you can see the northern lights while relaxing in a geo-thermal spa! #bluelagoon #bluelagooniceland #iceland #icelandadventure
@jadenversluis
1.1M likes • 7.7M views
Paddling through Jones Lagoon near Porgy Key in Biscayne National Park 🌴 #biscayne #biscaynenationalpark #paddleboarding #Florida #visitflorida #biscaynebay #nationalpark #mangrove #mangrovetunnels #paddle #reels
mollybee820
7 likes • 156 views

Paddleboard Bliss

Enjoy the calm, clear waters for an amazing paddleboarding experience. InstagramReddit

Bring Your Camera

Capture the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Don't miss the mangrove tunnels! Instagram

Welcome to Florida! Peter and I are on our first kidless vacation (more than a night or two) since, well, since we had kids 🤣. We went on a paddle tour through the mangrove forests of Jones Lagoon in Biscayne National Park today and saw a nurse shark, sting rays, parrot fish and more. Highly recommend @biscaynenationalparkinstitute if you go! _____ [Ad] We tested out the personalization on a...
suitcasesinseattle
70 likes • 3.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Guided Tours

Essential for exploring Jones Lagoon! Book via the National Park website or @biscaynenationalparkinstitute. Instagram+1

Spot Marine Life

Look for sharks, rays, and fish! The clear waters are perfect for wildlife viewing. InstagramReddit

Paddleboard Bliss

Enjoy the calm, clear waters for an amazing paddleboarding experience. InstagramReddit

Bring Your Camera

Capture the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Don't miss the mangrove tunnels! Instagram

What Travellers Say

5
(3 reviews)

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

Abundant marine wildlife
Beautiful mangrove tunnels
Clear, calm waters

What People Dislike

Limited direct access

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jones Lagoon offers a fantastic family adventure, especially for kids who love nature and animals. The calm, clear waters are ideal for paddleboarding or kayaking, making it accessible even for younger adventurers. Guided tours are highly recommended as they provide a safe and educational experience, with naturalists pointing out wildlife like fish, rays, and even small sharks. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🐠 Snorkelers & Wildlife Enthusiasts

For those passionate about marine life, Jones Lagoon is a must-visit. The clear, shallow waters make it an excellent spot for snorkeling, offering fantastic visibility to observe a variety of fish, stingrays, and even nurse sharks. The mangrove roots create a vibrant habitat that attracts a diverse array of sea creatures. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Mangrove Ecosystem

Jones Lagoon is a vital part of Biscayne National Park's extensive mangrove ecosystem. These unique trees are crucial for coastal protection, acting as natural barriers against storms and erosion. They also serve as nurseries for countless marine species, providing shelter and food for juvenile fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Paddling through the narrow channels offers an intimate look at this thriving environment. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

Wildlife Encounters in Jones Lagoon

Jones Lagoon is renowned for its abundant and diverse marine wildlife, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors frequently report sightings of nurse sharks, which are generally docile and often seen resting on the sandy bottom or swimming slowly. Stingrays are also common, gracefully moving through the shallow waters, and can sometimes be spotted from paddleboards or while snorkeling. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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