Boca Chita Key Lighthouse
An island paradise in Biscayne National Park, Boca Chita Key boasts a historic lighthouse and stunning turquoise waters, accessible only by boat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Boca Chita Key Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An island paradise in Biscayne National Park, Boca Chita Key boasts a historic lighthouse and stunning turquoise waters, accessible only by boat.
"The top of the lighthouse has pretty views and the island is a tropical paradise."
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Tours fill up quickly! Secure your spot on a guided boat trip to Boca Chita Key to ensure access. :admission_tickets:
Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
Amenities are limited. Bring all your food, drinks, and sun protection for a comfortable day. :food:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boca Chita Lighthouse
Boca Chita Key
Climb the iconic 65-foot lighthouse for breathtaking 360-degree views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline.
Turquoise Waters & Beaches
Boca Chita Key shoreline
Relax on tranquil, turquoise beaches. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and spotting marine life like starfish.
Island Exploration
Boca Chita Key
Wander the island's trails, discover picnic areas with grills, and observe diverse bird and marine species.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access is Boat-Only
Plan for Limited Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Tours fill up quickly! Secure your spot on a guided boat trip to Boca Chita Key to ensure access. :admission_tickets:
Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
Amenities are limited. Bring all your food, drinks, and sun protection for a comfortable day. :food:
Climb the Lighthouse
The 56 steps to the top offer incredible panoramic views. Don't miss this! :camerawithflash:
Look for Marine Life
Keep an eye out for starfish, sharks, and rays in the clear waters. :fish:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Tours fill up quickly! Secure your spot on a guided boat trip to Boca Chita Key to ensure access. :admission_tickets:
Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
Amenities are limited. Bring all your food, drinks, and sun protection for a comfortable day. :food:
Climb the Lighthouse
The 56 steps to the top offer incredible panoramic views. Don't miss this! :camerawithflash:
Look for Marine Life
Keep an eye out for starfish, sharks, and rays in the clear waters. :fish:
Consider Camping
For a truly immersive experience, book a campsite and stay overnight. :camping:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Boca Chita Key's stunning natural beauty, clear turquoise waters, and the iconic lighthouse offering breathtaking views. The island's historical significance and tranquil atmosphere make it a highly recommended escape. Some note the limited amenities and the necessity of boat access.
"Boca Chita Heritage cruise $79 adults, $49 (ages 5-12), free 0-4. Very nice visitor center to Purchase tickets for cruises, paddling, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Both the Tour Guide Elizabeth and Boat Capt James were wonderful. Very informative and nice, which made the cruise enjoyable. The top of The lighthouse has pretty views."
Kitty Cat
"A lovely boat to the Boca Chita Key with Biscayne National Park Institute. Stunning Key and a beautiful location. There is even a four berth car garage (and no roads).
Tip: the tour guide on the boat trip legacy tour has a key to open up the lighthouse. 56 steps to the top."
Simon Rood
"Awesome spot! Great views. Beaches! Look for the starfish! Lot of history stemming back to the Honeywell Family. Yes the thermostats! The Lighthouse not aloud to be lit was so interesting!"
J-Kube
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boca Chita Key is only accessible by boat. You can reach it via private boat rental, charter, or by booking a guided tour with the Biscayne National Park Institute. Some tours depart from Coconut Grove Marina.
Yes, boat rentals and charters are available in the Miami area, allowing you to reach Boca Chita Key. Companies like @bigboatrentals offer options for day trips or longer stays.
There is no public ferry service to Boca Chita Key. Access is exclusively by private or chartered boats, or through organized park tours.
Boca Chita Key is located about 12 miles south of Miami, making it a popular day trip destination for those with boat access.
While possible for experienced paddlers, it's a significant distance. Most visitors opt for boat tours or rentals for easier access to Boca Chita Key.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Boca Chita Key itself is free as part of Biscayne National Park. However, you will need to pay for boat transportation or tours to get there.
Prices for boat tours vary. The Biscayne National Park Institute offers a Heritage Cruise for $79 for adults and $49 for children (ages 5-12).
You can purchase tickets for cruises, paddling, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving at the visitor center on Boca Chita Key.
Boca Chita Key is accessible when boat tours are operating. The park itself is generally open year-round, but access depends on your chosen transportation method.
Biscayne National Park does not have an entrance fee. However, fees apply for boat tours and any specific activities like camping.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can climb the lighthouse for views, relax on the beaches, snorkel in the clear waters, explore walking trails, and enjoy picnic areas. It's a great spot for nature lovers and history buffs.
Yes, the calm, turquoise waters around Boca Chita Key are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Snorkeling is popular here, with clear waters offering views of marine life like starfish and fish.
Expect to see various bird species, iguanas, and marine life such as starfish, sharks, and eagle rays in the surrounding waters. +1
Yes, families can enjoy the beaches, swimming, and exploring the island. The lighthouse climb is also a fun activity for older children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants on Boca Chita Key. Visitors must bring all their own food and drinks.
Absolutely! Boca Chita Key has designated picnic areas with grills, making it a perfect spot for a day trip meal.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and any meals you plan to eat. Consider a cooler to keep items fresh.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views. The lighthouse itself, the beaches, and the turquoise waters are also prime photo opportunities. +1
Definitely! The 360-degree views from the top are spectacular and provide unique photo angles of the island and bay. +1
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography. Mornings can also be great with softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. Check the official Biscayne National Park website for current rules and restrictions before flying.
The lighthouse, built in the 1930s, and the island's history offer unique storytelling opportunities for photographers. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Climbing the Boca Chita Lighthouse is an exciting activity for older children, offering a sense of accomplishment and incredible views. The island also features picnic areas with grills, making it easy to enjoy a family meal outdoors. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as amenities are limited. Consider a guided tour that caters to families for an educational and engaging experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is crucial to save money, as there are no dining facilities on the island. Consider carpooling with friends if you're renting a boat to split costs. The beauty of Boca Chita Key is its natural splendor, which is free to enjoy once you've arranged your transportation.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the vibrant turquoise waters and pristine beaches, perfect for landscape and lifestyle shots. The island's natural beauty, with its diverse wildlife and lush vegetation, offers endless opportunities for nature photography. Golden hour in the late afternoon casts a magical glow over the entire scene, making it ideal for capturing stunning images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Boca Chita Lighthouse
Despite its non-operational status for guiding ships, the lighthouse has found a new purpose. It now functions as a rainwater collection system, a practical adaptation for island life. The Honeywell family's vision for the island as a social hub is still palpable, contributing to its enduring 'party vibe.'
Today, as part of Biscayne National Park, the lighthouse is a focal point for visitors. Climbing its 56 steps offers not only historical insight but also unparalleled views of the surrounding bay and landscape. It's a testament to a bygone era of Miami's high society and a unique architectural feature within the park.
Exploring Biscayne National Park by Boat
These excursions offer opportunities for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and simply enjoying the stunning coastal scenery. Many tours focus on specific interests, such as historical sites like the Boca Chita Lighthouse or the underwater Maritime Heritage Trail. The Biscayne National Park Institute is a key provider of these educational and recreational boat trips, offering a guided way to discover the park's diverse ecosystems and history.
When planning your boat trip, consider the type of experience you want. Whether it's a short day trip to Boca Chita Key or a longer exploration of the park's various keys, booking in advance is highly recommended. This ensures you secure a spot on popular tours and can fully immerse yourself in the unique beauty of Biscayne National Park.
Wildlife Spotting in Boca Chita Key
Beyond the starfish, the waters are also known to host sharks and eagle rays, adding an element of excitement for nature enthusiasts. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to observe, with various seabirds frequenting the island and its surrounding waters. Keep an eye out for iguanas basking in the sun on the island's shores as well.
While the island itself offers opportunities for terrestrial wildlife viewing, the underwater world is particularly vibrant. Snorkeling or even just wading in the shallows can provide glimpses of colorful fish and other fascinating marine creatures. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.
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