Visiting Boca Chita Key: A Complete Guide

3 hours ago

4 min read

If there's one island I get asked about more than any other, it's Boca Chita Key. It's the most visited island in Biscayne National Park, and the first time you round the corner and see that lighthouse standing over the little harbor, you'll understand why.

Here's everything you need to know before you go.

Getting There: Boat Only

Biscayne National Park is about 95% water, and Boca Chita Key is one of those places you can only reach by boat. There's no bridge and no ferry schedule to work around when you go with us. We leave from the floating dock at Loggerhead South Miami Marina, inside Black Point Park & Marina in Cutler Bay, and cruise across Biscayne Bay to the island.

The ride itself is half the fun. On a clear day, the water out here turns colors you won't believe until you see them, and it's not unusual to spot dolphins or a sea turtle along the way.

The Lighthouse

The star of the island is the 65-foot lighthouse, built in the 1930s by industrialist Mark Honeywell, who owned the island back then. Here's a fun fact I love sharing with guests: it's an ornamental lighthouse. It was built for looks, not to guide ships.

The observation deck at the top has great views of the islands, the bay, the ocean and the Miami skyline in the distance. The park opens it when staff are around, so it isn't always open. Even from the ground, it makes for some of the best photos you'll take all year.

The Harbor

Boca Chita's harbor is small and protected, with stone walls that make it feel like a little hideaway. When there's room, we tie up and you can step right off the boat and explore at your own pace.

One honest heads-up: going ashore depends on space in the harbor. On busy days, especially weekends, it can fill up. If that happens, you'll still see the island and lighthouse from the water, and I'll make sure your day is still a great one. The park also charges a docking fee on Fridays through Mondays and federal holidays, which isn't part of our trip price.

Picnics and Exploring

Boca Chita is a perfect picnic spot. The island has grassy areas, picnic tables and grills, and there's a short trail (about half a mile) if you want to stretch your legs and look around.

Bring your own food and drinks, because there are no shops or snack stands on the island. And please plan to take your trash back with you. There are no garbage cans out here, which is part of what keeps the island so clean.

Bathrooms, But No Running Water

This is the one that surprises people: Boca Chita Key has bathrooms, but there's no running water. That means no sinks, no showers and no drinking water on the island. Bring all the water you'll need, plus a little hand sanitizer. I also keep a cooler on board with ice, water and an assortment of drinks.

A couple of other things to know:

No pets. The park doesn't allow pets on the island or on boats in its harbor. Service animals are the exception.
Mosquitoes are here year round. Bring bug spray, especially if you're staying into the evening or camping.
Reef-safe sunscreen only, please. It helps protect the water and everything living in it.

Camping on Boca Chita Key

Want to wake up on an island? Boca Chita has a grassy campground with picnic tables and grills, and it's my top pick for camping in the park. Our Island Camping Drop-Off & Pick-Up runs you and your gear over on the Mako at 7 AM and comes back for you at 7 AM on the day you choose.

A few camping basics:

Campsites are first come, first served, and campsite fees are paid directly to the park.
Bring all your water, food, charcoal and cooking gear.
Pack out every bit of trash.
Quiet hours run 10 PM to 6 AM.

Ways to Visit with Coastal Runners

Every trip with us is private, just your group (up to 6 guests), and every trip is custom.

2-hour Boca Chita trip on the Mako 253: a quick, easy way to see the island and lighthouse. It runs on weekdays at 9 AM, 12 PM and 3 PM.
4, 6 or 8-hour private charters: available on both the Mako 253 and the Sea Casita. Add a sandbar, a snorkel stop or Elliott Key to your Boca Chita visit.
Island camping shuttle: drop-off and pick-up for your camping trip.

Every guest signs a liability waiver before we head out. It only takes a minute, and then it's island time.

Come See It for Yourself

Boca Chita Key is one of my favorite places on earth, and I'd love to show it to you. Book your trip at coastalrunners.com, email hello@coastalrunners.com, or call or text 305-842-1119. Tell me what kind of day you have in mind, and I'll take care of the rest.

See you on the water, Captain Pablo

Gratuity isn't included in the trip price. If you enjoyed your day on the water, a 20% tip for your captain and crew is customary and always appreciated.