Escape the Cold: A Family Boat Day in Biscayne National Park

22 hours ago

4 min read

Updated: 1 hour ago

If you're reading this from New York, New Jersey or Boston, there's a good chance someone in your house is wearing three layers right now. Meanwhile, down here at Black Point Marina, the water is turquoise, the breeze is warm and the pelicans are lined up on the pilings like they're waiting for the morning boat.

I'm Captain Pablo Treto, and I run Coastal Runners, a small, family-run charter company taking private groups out into Biscayne National Park. Every winter break, Presidents' Week and spring break, I meet families who flew in from the cold looking for something better than another day at the hotel pool. This post is for you: what a family boat day in Biscayne actually looks like, what the kids will love, and how to plan it.

Why Biscayne National Park Is One of the Best Things to Do in Miami with Kids

Most visitors don't realize that Miami has a national park that's about 95% water. Biscayne National Park sits right at the southern edge of Miami-Dade, with shallow, clear bays, mangrove shorelines, coral reefs and a string of islands you can only reach by boat. That last part is the magic. There are no crowds, no lines and no theme-park prices on snacks. It's just your family, your own boat and a whole lot of blue.

A private charter means the day runs at your family's pace. Little ones need a snack break? We stop. Teenager wants to try snorkeling a second time? We find another spot. Grandma wants shade and a cold drink? Our boats have it.

Kid-Favorite Highlights

Boca Chita Key and Its Lighthouse

Boca Chita Key is about 30 to 40 minutes by boat from our dock at Black Point, and it feels like a storybook island. The ornamental lighthouse, built in the 1930s by Mark Honeywell, is the photo everyone wants, and kids love exploring the little harbor, the walking path and the beach on the ocean side. It's the most popular stop for families, and for good reason. Learn more on our Boca Chita Key boat tour page.

The Sandbar

Picture this: you hop off the boat into knee-deep, crystal-clear water in the middle of the bay. Kids splash, dig for shells and spot little fish around their ankles, while parents just stand there in January sunshine wondering why they don't do this every winter. The sandbar is where cold-weather families usually decide they're coming back next year.

Dolphins, Manatees, Rays and Sea Turtles

Biscayne is wild water, so I never promise wildlife. When we do see bottlenose dolphins surfing our wake or a manatee rolling up for a breath, though, the whole boat goes quiet and then erupts. We also often spot rays gliding over the grass flats, sea turtles popping up, and pelicans and ospreys diving for lunch. Bring a phone with a full battery.

Snorkeling

On calm days we can stop at shallow spots where even beginners can float over sea grass, sponges and tropical fish. We provide snorkeling gear for everyone (bring your own mask if you have a favorite), and I'll give kids a quick lesson before anyone gets in. Conditions depend on wind and water clarity, so I'll pick the best spot for that day.

Stiltsville

For families who love a good story, we can cruise out to Stiltsville, a group of six historic houses standing on stilts in the middle of Biscayne Bay. Kids can't believe people used to party, fish and even live out there. Check out our Stiltsville boat tour.

Is Winter a Good Time for a Boat Tour in Miami?

Yes, it's one of the best. Winter in South Florida usually means comfortable temperatures, lower humidity and fewer afternoon storms than summer. A cold front can sometimes bring a windy day, so I watch the forecast closely and will always talk with you about rescheduling or adjusting the route if conditions aren't right for a comfortable family trip. Safety and a good time come first.

What to Bring for a Family Boat Day

Reef-safe sunscreen. The winter sun here is still strong, especially on the water.
Hats and sunglasses, ideally polarized so you can see fish and rays.
Swimsuits and a change of clothes.
A light jacket or hoodie for the ride on breezy mornings.
Towels.
Water and snacks (kids get hungry fast on the water).
Waterproof phone pouch or a small dry bag.
Any motion-sickness remedy your family uses, taken before we leave.

Little kids are welcome, and there's no minimum age. We carry life vests in every size from toddler to adult, and snorkeling gear is provided. Just tell me everyone's ages when you book.

Getting to Black Point Park & Marina

We depart from Black Point Park & Marina, 24775 SW 87th Ave, Homestead, FL 33032. That's an easy drive from Miami Beach, Brickell, Coral Gables and the Keys-bound hotels in Homestead and Florida City, and there's parking right at the marina. Start your day in the park, end it with a sunset, and you've got the kind of vacation story the kids will tell their friends back home.

Plan Your Visit Around School Break

Winter break, Presidents' Week and spring break are our busiest weeks of the year, because families from the Northeast all have the same great idea at the same time. If you already know your travel dates, reach out early to lock in your day on the water. For a bigger picture of what you can see out here, visit our Biscayne National Park tours page and our guide to Biscayne National Park.

Book Your Family Boat Day

Trade the snow shovel for a sandbar. Every Coastal Runners trip is private, just your group with Captain Pablo, and we'll build the day around your kids and your interests.

👉 Check dates and book at coastalrunners.com

📞 Call or text 305-842-1119

✉️ hello@coastalrunners.com