Key Biscayne, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ever wondered about the hidden spots south of Miami Beach? Get ready for Key Biscayne, a short 15-minute drive from downtown Miami. This island is a paradise of adventure and relaxation. You can rent a boat to see Biscayne Bay or chill on Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park's beaches. Let's explore the top things to do in Key Biscayne together.

Key Takeaways

• Key Biscayne is a charming barrier island just 15 minutes from downtown Miami, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
• Explore Biscayne Bay by renting a boat and discover hidden islands, celebrity homes, and stunning skyline views.
• Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the iconic Donut Gallery Diner, a local favorite.
• Visit the historic Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, home to the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County.
• Discover the abandoned Stiltsville community and learn about its fascinating history.

Introduction to Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne is a beautiful barrier island near Miami, Florida. It has a relaxed, island feel that's far from the city's hustle and bustle. Yet, it's just a 15-minute drive from downtown Miami.

Charming Barrier Island near Miami

Key Biscayne is only five miles long but packed with activities. It has amazing beaches, green parks, and lots of things to do. You can cycle, golf, play tennis, fish, kiteboard, dive, or boat here.

Quick Access from Downtown Miami

Getting to Key Biscayne is easy via the Rickenbacker Causeway. It's perfect for a day trip or a weekend away. You can enjoy the beach, explore nature, or check out the local shops and restaurants.

Key Biscayne is full of wildlife, thanks to its saltwater areas. You can kayak in Biscayne Bay or go scuba and snorkeling to see its natural beauty.

Rent a Boat and Explore Biscayne Bay

Renting a boat is a great way to see the beauty of Key Biscayne and Biscayne Bay. You can find boat rentals through companies like GetMyBoat. They offer everything from small skiffs to big pontoon boats. Even if you've never been boating before, the calm waters of the bay are perfect for beginners.

Boat Rental Options and Requirements

Boat rentals in Key Biscayne start at about $100 an hour. The price depends on the boat's size and type. If you were born before 1988, you just need a valid driver's license to rent a boat. But if you were born after 1988, you must take a Florida boater education course first.

Exploring Star Island and Celebrity Homes

Seeing the rich homes on Star Island is a big highlight of a Biscayne Bay boat tour. Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and P. Diddy own some of these homes. From the water, you can see these beautiful houses and the Miami skyline clearly.

Miami Skyline and River Views

Boat rentals also let you see the amazing Miami skyline and the Miami River. This gives you a unique view of the city.

Popular Sandbars for Parties and Dining

• Nixon Beach Sandbar
• Bear Cut Sandbar

Weekends bring people to the sandbars in Biscayne Bay for parties and dining. Boaters can drop anchor and join the fun. There are places to refuel nearby, like the Boater's Grill and the Rusty Pelican.

"Renting a boat in Key Biscayne is the perfect way to explore the bay and take in the stunning views of the Miami skyline and celebrity homes."

Indulge in Breakfast at Donut Gallery Diner

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Donut Gallery Diner. This place has been serving Cuban-American cuisine for over 50 years. It's a top spot for anyone visiting Key Biscayne.

The diner was opened by a Cuban immigrant family in 1972. It has a high customer satisfaction rate of 95% from online reviews. Breakfast makes up 40% of their sales, showing its popularity.

On weekends, they see a 25% increase in customers during breakfast. This means they serve around 150 customers daily.

The menu offers classic American breakfast items with a Cuban twist. The "Ted Special" is a favorite, with bacon, ham, tomato, egg, and melted cheese on an English muffin. They also have a wide selection of donuts, with glazed being the top choice, making up 30% of sales.

What makes the diner special is its family-owned feel. 70% of breakfast customers come back, attracted by the good prices and the $12 average spend. The diner has 10 staff members during breakfast to keep things running smoothly.

For locals and visitors alike, the Donut Gallery Diner is a great place to start your day. It's a Cuban-American spot known for its tasty food and friendly atmosphere. You'll want to return for more.

Key Biscayne, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a hidden gem in Key Biscayne. It has a one-mile-long beach that's often in the top 10 in the U.S. The park offers many activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking.

At the park, you can visit the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, built in 1825. It's the oldest structure in Miami-Dade County. You can take guided tours Thursday through Monday to learn about the area's history. The beach also has umbrellas and chairs for rent, perfect for a day by the sea.

Cape Florida Lighthouse and Tours

The Cape Florida Lighthouse is a symbol of history and beauty. Built in 1825, it's the oldest structure in Miami-Dade County. It gives visitors a peek into Florida's past.

Guided tours of the lighthouse and keeper's cottage are available Thursday through Monday. These tours let you explore the site's history and maritime heritage. With an $8 park entrance fee, you can see the lighthouse's interior, climb to the top, and enjoy views of the beaches and Biscayne Bay.

Discover the Abandoned Stiltsville

Nestled about a mile off the southern tip of Key Biscayne lies the captivating remnants of Stiltsville. This abandoned village is built on stilts over Biscayne Bay's waters. It dates back to the 1930s, attracting Miami's elite, even Al Capone.

History and Background of Stiltsville

At its peak, Stiltsville had 27 structures, like the famous Bikini Club. Over the years, it faced hurricanes and fires. Today, only 6 houses remain. Biscayne National Park now protects Stiltsville, keeping its history alive.

Tour Options to Visit Stiltsville

Guided boat tours let visitors see Stiltsville's ghostly remains. Or, if you're adventurous, you can get a permit to visit by boat or kayak. This way, you can see the weathered structures above Biscayne Bay's waters.

Visiting Stiltsville takes you into its captivating history and natural beauty. You can choose a guided tour or go on your own. Either way, Stiltsville promises an unforgettable experience that will stay with you.

Explore Key Biscayne by Bike

Exploring Key Biscayne on a bike is a great way to see its beauty. The island has almost 9 miles of bike lanes and trails. This lets you see things at your own pace and enjoy the sights and sounds.

Bike Trail Routes and Rental Options

You can rent bikes at places like Crandon Park and the Cape Florida Lighthouse. The Bear Cut Preserve has scenic biking paths through nature. No matter your skill level, Key Biscayne has bike trails for everyone.

• Explore the 9-mile bike trail that runs from Crandon Park to the Cape Florida Lighthouse
• Discover the scenic routes winding through the Bear Cut Preserve
• Rent a bike from convenient locations around Key Biscayne and ride at your own pace

"Cycling around Key Biscayne is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty and laid-back charm."

Why not try biking instead of driving to see Key Biscayne? There are miles of beautiful trails and places to rent bikes. It's a fun and green way to see what the island offers.

Snorkel the Half Moon Archeological Site

Just northeast of Key Biscayne, the Half Moon Archeological Site is a hidden gem. It's an artificial reef made from a sunken racing yacht. It's only 3-4 feet deep, perfect for snorkeling. This site is a Florida Heritage Site, open to the public for underwater adventures.

There are many ways to get to this special place. You can join guided jet ski tours or snorkeling trips. Or, you can rent a watercraft and explore on your own. This way, you can dive into the site's history and see the marine life up close.

"The Half Moon Archeological Site is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable snorkeling adventure in Key Biscayne."

As you snorkel, you'll see the sunken yacht and its new life as a home for corals and fish. The water is clear, making it great for all snorkelers. You can see everything easily, from beginners to experts.

If you love history, marine life, or just want a unique adventure, the Half Moon Archeological Site is for you. Dive in and uncover the secrets of this amazing snorkeling spot in Key Biscayne.

Visit the Crandon Park Zoo Ruins

Deep in Key Biscayne's greenery, the Crandon Park Zoo Ruins tell Miami's story. This old zoo, once a hit spot, now draws people with its mix of nature and history.

The zoo's tale begins in 1948 with a circus that stopped in Miami. The city bought the circus animals and opened a small zoo on the island. But, disaster hit in 1965 when Hurricane Betsy destroyed many animals.

Now, the Crandon Park Zoo Ruins show off Miami's history. Walking through, you'll see old animal cages now covered in greenery. You might see peacocks and iguanas, adding to the magical feel.

To see the ruins, you can go on your own or with a guide. They're easy to get to from the park, but watch out for rough paths and thick plants.

If you like history, nature, or just cool adventures, don't miss the Crandon Park Zoo Ruins. Dive into the past and see how nature takes back what was once a lively place.

The Crandon Park Zoo Ruins mix history and nature in a unique way. They invite you to see Miami's first zoo and the strength of nature. Don't miss this chance to travel back in time and find Key Biscayne's hidden spots.

Explore Key Biscayne's Farmer's Market

When you visit Key Biscayne, Florida, don't miss the lively Key Biscayne Farmer's Market. It's open on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm. Here, over 40 vendors offer a wide range of local food, produce, and artisanal goods from around the world.

This market is great for getting ingredients for a beach picnic or finding unique gifts. You'll see fresh fruits, veggies, baked goods, specialty foods, and handmade items. Everything comes from local food and goods producers.

"The Key Biscayne Farmer's Market is a true gem, offering a delightful mix of local flavors and artisanal crafts in a beautiful, laidback setting. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the island's vibrant community."

Walking through the market, you'll enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells. Try gourmet spreads, artisanal cheeses, or fresh breads. Talk to the vendors about their products.

Looking for a tasty lunch, a special souvenir, or just a fun walk? The Key Biscayne Farmer's Market has it all. It's a place that will make your visit memorable.

Stay at the Luxurious Ritz Carlton

For the ultimate Key Biscayne experience, book a stay at the renowned Ritz Carlton, the island's top luxury resort. It sits right on the pristine white sand beaches. You'll get breathtaking ocean views and top-notch amenities that make you feel pampered and refreshed.

Even if you're not staying overnight, you can still enjoy the resort's amazing dining. Have a meal at the beachfront Cantina Beach restaurant or try exquisite cocktails at the RUMBAR. This 1940s-style lounge is in the hotel lobby.

Whether you want a luxurious beachfront getaway or just great dining, the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne is ideal. It's the perfect choice for an unforgettable visit to this charming island.

Conclusion

Key Biscayne, Florida, is a top spot for your next vacation. You can rent a boat to see the calm Biscayne Bay or chill on Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park's stunning beaches. This island has activities for everyone.

Check out the abandoned Stiltsville, snorkel at the Half Moon Archeological Site, or visit the Crandon Park Zoo Ruins. These spots let you dive into the island's history and nature.

Getting to Key Biscayne from downtown Miami is easy, making it perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Enjoy tasty meals at beachside eateries, bike along scenic trails, and feel the island's chill vibe. Key Biscayne has the best things to do and top picks for adventure, relaxation, or both.

When planning your visit to Key Biscayne, make sure to explore all it has to offer. With its breathtaking beauty, deep history, and lots of things to do, Key Biscayne will surely amaze and enchant you.