tours from miami to everglades national park

Exploring Beyond the City: Day Trip to the Everglades from Miami

Book a Miami Everglades Tour

Welcome to a journey beyond the bustling streets and vibrant nightlife of Miami. Venture into the heart of one of the world’s most remarkable natural treasures: The Florida Everglades . The river of grass is an entirely different world and only a short drive from skyscrapers with an Everglades day trip from Miami.

The Everglades, a UNESCO World Heritage site ¹, boasts a unique ecosystem unlike any other on the planet. With over 1.5 million acres of sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and wetlands, teeming with an extraordinary array of wildlife. On a Miami Everglades tour, alligators bask along the waterways, exotic birds soar above, and rare plant species flourish. This delicate balance of flora and fauna makes the Everglades not just a natural wonder, but a vital part of our global ecological system.

Take an Everglades Day Trip

In the constant rush of city life, it’s easy to forget the tranquility and rejuvenation that nature offers. A day trip to the Everglades from Miami is more than just an escape; it’s a reconnection. It’s about swapping the sound of traffic for the symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves, exchanging urban landscapes for endless green vistas.

As you transition from the metropolitan energy of Miami to the wild, serene expanse of the Everglades. Prepare to immerse yourself in a Miami Everglades tour that is as educational as it is awe-inspiring. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or simply someone seeking a moment of peace, an Miami Everglades day trip offers an adventure that resonates with every soul.

Join us as we explore the magic of this natural paradise, and discover why an Everglades day trip from Miami is an essential addition to any Miami itinerary.

Planning an Everglades Day Trip from Miami

Embarking on a day trip to the Everglades from Miami is an adventure that requires a bit of planning to make the most of your experience. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, these tips will ensure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Best Time of Year to Visit

The Everglades offers distinct experiences throughout the year, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit largely depends on what you want to see and do.

The Dry Season (November to March): This period is the ideal time to make a Miami Everglades day trip. With cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, the dry season provides comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. It’s the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water holes and are more easily spotted.

The Wet Season (April to October): If you don’t mind warmer temperatures and occasional rain, the wet season offers its own unique charm during a day trip to the Everglades. The landscape is lush and vibrant, and the fewer visitors during this time mean a more solitary experience with nature.

Essential Items to Bring

A day trip to the Everglades requires some essential items to enhance your experience and ensure your safety :

• Comfortable Clothing and Footwear: Wear light, breathable clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes for walking.
• Sun Protection: Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the Florida sun.
• Insect Repellent: The Everglades are known for mosquitoes, especially during the wet season.
• Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized throughout your trip.
• Camera and Binoculars: Capture the stunning landscapes and get a closer look at the wildlife.
• A Map or Guidebook: Navigate the park and learn about its diverse ecosystems.

Transportation Options for a Miami Everglades Tour

Getting to the Everglades from Miami is convenient, with various transportation options available:

Driving: Driving is the most flexible option if you have access to a car. It’s roughly a 45-minute to one-hour drive to the Everglades from downtown Miami . Parking is complimentary and first-come, first-serve at the park. 

VIP Tour with Transport: Everglades Holiday Park offers Everglades tours with transportation from Miami . This is a great option for those without a vehicle, traveling in a group, or preferring the comfort of an Everglades shuttle from Miami. 

Public Transportation: While more limited, it’s possible to use public transportation for part of the journey. Bus ² and train ³ schedules vary, and it is strongly suggested to check each transportation website to assist with arranging. 

Top Activities in the Everglades for Day Trippers

Airboat Tours: An Exhilarating Way to Explore

Embark on an adrenaline-fueled journey with an airboat ride in the Everglades . This iconic experience offers a unique perspective of this vast and vibrant wetland. As the boat skims over the shallow waters at thrilling speeds, you’ll feel the rush of wind and the captivating pulse of nature around you. Airboat tours provide excitement and a chance to witness the intricate waterways and diverse habitats that make the Everglades so unique. Led by experienced airboat captains, these tours are not just about speed; they’re an opportunity to learn about the area’s ecology and history. Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, a Miami Everglades tour highlight is always an airboat adventure.

Wildlife Viewing: Spotting Alligators, Birds, and More

Wildlife enthusiasts, prepare for a treat when you embark on a Miami Everglades Tour. The Everglades is a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, and day trippers have a golden opportunity to witness these creatures in their natural habitat. The wildlife viewing opportunities are endless, from the iconic American alligator basking on the riverbanks, a common yet thrilling sight for visitors, to various bird species such as the majestic Great Blue Heron, egrets , and ospreys.

Each encounter provides a unique insight into the lives of these fascinating animals. The quiet observer might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Florida panther or a playful otter, making every visit a unique experience. Remember to bring your binoculars and keep a respectful distance to ensure these animals continue to thrive in their environment.

Guided Nature Walks: Learning About the Ecosystem

Guided nature walks are invaluable to appreciating the complexity of the Everglades truly. Led by knowledgeable guides ⁴, these walks offer an educational journey through this unique ecosystem. You’ll learn about the delicate balance of flora and fauna, the importance of wetlands for the environment, and the ongoing conservation efforts. The guides’ expertise brings to life the stories of the Everglades, making it a richly informative experience. It’s an opportunity to connect with nature and better understand this extraordinary environment.

Photography Opportunities: Capturing the Natural Beauty

For the photography enthusiast, both amateurs and professionals, a Miami Everglades tour is a dream come true. The landscape is a haven for capturing stunning landscapes, dramatic sunsets, exotic wildlife , and lush vegetation. The interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colors of the flora, and the candid moments of animal life offer endless opportunities to capture breathtaking images. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or simply love taking pictures, the Everglades provides a picturesque backdrop that will inspire, ensuring that your photographs will be as memorable as your visit.

Educational Programs: Ranger-Led Talks and Exhibits

The Everglades isn’t just about outdoor adventures; it’s also a place of learning and discovery. The educational programs offered by Everglades National Park ⁵ are both insightful and engaging. Ranger-led talks⁶ provide a deeper understanding of the Everglades’ history, environmental challenges, and conservation efforts. These programs are informative and engaging, suitable for all ages, and perfect for anyone looking to connect with the Everglades beyond its surface beauty or understand the challenges of this fragile ecosystem.

Everglades Holiday Park: A Must-Visit Destination

Nestled at the edge of the expansive Everglades, Everglades Holiday Park is more than just a gateway; it’s an immersive destination that brings you face-to-face with this unique ecosystem’s raw beauty and thrilling wildlife. The park is a treasure trove of experiences, making it a highlight for anyone venturing into the Everglades.

Overview of the Park’s Features

Everglades Holiday Park is a comprehensive stop for exploring the region’s natural wonders. The park’s layout is thoughtfully designed, allowing visitors to access a range of activities easily. Extensive facilities include picnic areas, an Everglades gift shop brimming with souvenirs, and convenient amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. The park is a starting point for numerous guided airboat tours, each promising an adventure through the winding waterways of the Everglades, in addition to an array of Everglades attractions . 

Unique Experiences Offered

As an essential stop for anyone interested in a Miami Everglades tou, this Everglades Park offers the longest Everglades airboat tours available⁷; in addition to being the only covered airboat tours in the Everglades – allowing extra comfort and desired shade visitors seek.

With a blend of adventure, education, and comfort, the park also offers unique experiences making it a Miami destination you cannot miss.

Wildlife Encounters

The park offers an unparalleled opportunity to interact with the diverse wildlife of the Everglades. Our Everglades animal encounters allow visitors to get up close to 5 animals, including foxes , bearded dragons, tortoises, and snakes; visitors can even hold a baby alligator ! Learn fun facts from expert animal handlers and receive a complimentary professional photo to savor your memories. 

Gator Boys Live Alligator Show

This famed show is a highlight of any visit. Featured on the popular Animal Planet TV show “ Gator Boys ,” this live demonstration showcases the fascinating and daring interactions between humans and alligators. Our Gator Park show is entertaining and educational, highlighting the importance of these creatures in the ecosystem.

Fishing Boat Rentals

For those who love fishing, the park offers boat rentals, allowing visitors to venture out into the rich fishing grounds of the Everglades. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying it for the first time, fishing in the Everglades is an experience filled with excitement and serenity.

Visitor Testimonials

Everglades Holiday Park is not just popular; it’s acclaimed. Boasting over 12,500 five-star reviews , the park is celebrated for its exceptional experiences and customer service. Visitors often rave about the thrill of the airboat rides, the awe-inspiring wildlife sightings, and the captivating Gator Boys show. Many testimonials highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, who add a personal touch to the adventure. Families, photographers, nature enthusiasts – the park caters to all, leaving each visitor with lasting memories.

Here’s what one visitor said: “Our family visit to Everglades Holiday Park was the highlight of our Florida trip! The airboat ride was exhilarating, and the alligator show was both thrilling and informative. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the Miami area!” ⁸

Safety and Conservation Tips

Exploring the Everglades offers an adventure into a unique and fragile ecosystem. While it’s a place of immense beauty and wonder, it’s crucial to approach your visit with respect and caution. Understanding that visiting the Everglades is a privilege that comes with the responsibility of adhering to safety guidelines and conservation practices, ensuring your well-being, and preserving this natural wonder and irreplaceable ecosystem for future generations.

How to Stay Safe During Your Visit

Respect Wildlife: Always keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Remember, this is their home. Feeding or trying to touch animals can be dangerous and is strictly prohibited.

Stay on Marked Paths: For your safety and the protection of the ecosystem, stick to designated trails and boardwalks. Venturing off-path can lead to getting lost and damaging sensitive habitats.

Be Weather Aware: The Everglades can experience sudden weather changes. Bring waterproof clothing, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Check weather forecasts and be prepared for the subtropical climate.

Have a Plan: Cell service can be spotty, especially in remote areas. Inform someone about your plans and expected return time. Always have a map and a basic first aid kit.

Practices for Environmentally Friendly Tourism

Leave No Trace: Carry out everything you bring in. Littering disrupts the ecosystem and can harm wildlife.

Use Eco-friendly Products: When packing for your trip, opt for biodegradable and eco-friendly products, especially sunscreen and insect repellent, to minimize chemical impact on the environment.

Support Responsible Tours: Choose an airboat tour operator who demonstrates environmentally responsible practices, such as Everglades Holiday Park, and respects the ecosystem.

Importance of Preserving the Everglades’ Natural Beauty

The Everglades is not just a stunning natural area; it’s a crucial habitat for a vast array of wildlife and a vital natural resource. Its wetlands play a significant role in water purification, flood control, and carbon storage. Preserving its beauty and ecological health is essential for maintaining biodiversity and the overall health of our planet.

Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the challenges facing the Everglades, including invasive species, pollution, and climate change. Share your knowledge with others to spread awareness.

Support Conservation Efforts: Consider contributing to organizations dedicated to preserving the Everglades. Even small actions can make a big difference.

Take a Miami Everglades Tour

As we conclude this guide, it’s clear that the Everglades offer an enriching and unforgettable experience. From the thrilling airboat rides and wildlife encounters to the educational and conservation opportunities, this unique ecosystem presents a world of adventure and learning. Everglades Holiday Park stands out as a premier destination, providing an all-encompassing gateway to the wonders of this natural paradise.

Booking Your Trip to the Everglades from Miami

Now is the perfect time to plan your visit to the Everglades . By choosing Everglades Holiday Park, you’re setting yourself up for an adventure filled with excitement, beauty, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking to explore beyond the city’s limits, this park caters to all interests and ages. Book your trip today and take the first step towards an adventure in the heart of one of the world’s most unique natural environments.

Miami Everglades Tour Resources

To assist you in planning your trip, here are some valuable resources:

• Website: Visit Everglades Holiday Park Official Website for comprehensive information on tours, shows, and attractions.
• Booking Portal: Ready to book your adventure? Buy Everglades Tickets online . 
• Contact Information: For further inquiries or specific requests, contact Everglades Holiday Park at [email protected] or call (954) 434-8111 .

Map of the Everglades

Download a detailed map of the Everglades Park

This map highlights key areas of interest, tour pathways, and essential facilities, helping you navigate and plan your visit effectively.

Schedule of Events and Activities at Everglades Holiday Park

Everglades Holiday Park is buzzing with activities and events year-round. Below is the current schedule:

• Daily Airboat Tours: Depart every 20 minutes from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
• Gator Boys Alligator Show: Show times vary. 
• Jon Boat Rentals: Available daily for a rental duration minimum of 5 hours Mon-Fri, and 8 hours on weekends and holidays.
• Gift Shop, General Store, and Bait/Tackle Shop: Open daily from 7 a.m – 7 p.m 

Citations and References

• UNESCO World Heritage Convention. Everglades National Park. ¹
• Miami Dade County. Transportation and Public Works, Metrobus Routes & Schedule. ²
• Miami Dade County. Transportation and Public Works, Metrorail . ³
• National Park Services. Permitted Guides. ⁴ 
• National Park Services. Education Programs . ⁵ 
• National Park Services. Ranger Lead Programs. ⁶
• Everglades Holiday Park – 60 Minutes
• Captain Jacks – 50 Minutes
• Wootens – 30 to 50 Minutes
• Everglades Safari Park – 40 Minutes 
• Everglades Holiday Park. Google Reviews . ⁸

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THE 10 BEST Everglades National Park Tours & Excursions

Everglades national park tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Photography Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 60 min. Everglades Airboat ride & pick-up ,small group +pro guide

2. Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Small Group Kayak Tour

3. 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour

4. Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Experience with roundtrip transfer

5. 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park

6. Small Group Motorboat Eco Tour of the Everglades

7. Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours

8. Big Cypress National Preserve Audio Tour Guide

9. Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour

10. Dolphin and Manatee Boat Tour in 10,000 Islands NWR

11. Everglades National Park Biologist Led Hike, 2 boat trips + lunch

12. Everglades National Park Biologist Led Adventure: Cruise, Hike + Airboat

13. Everglades National Park Boat Tour

14. Everglades Day Safari from Ft Lauderdale

15. 2Hr Private Boat Rental in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

16. Everglades National Park Self Guided Driving Audio Tour

17. Miami Combo: City Tour, Biscayne Bay Cruise and Everglades Airboat Ride

18. Boat Ride in 10,000 Islands + Biologist Led Walk in the Everglades Small Group

19. Everglades Tour in Miami

20. Manatee, Dolphin and 10,000 Islands Sunset Cruise!

21. Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour (2 hours)

22. Everglades Express Small Group Tour from Miami with Airboat Ride

23. Full-Day Kayak Adventure in the Everglades

24. Enchanting Key West Tour in a Small Group from Miami

25. Four Hour 45 Yacht Tour in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

26. Ultimate Florida Self Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle

27. Everglades Airboat with or without pick-up

28. Full Day Everglades: Biologist Led WET walk + 2 boat trips + lunch small group

29. ULTIMATE Key West Dolphin Watch and other boat options

30. 50' Yacht Rental in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

What travelers are saying.

• Nikhil M 0 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Top notch experience at Everglades + Air Boat ride This was a great experience! It wasn't too long or short, and we got to see a lot of amazing wildlife along the Everglades. Lindsey, our tour guide was very knowledgeable and courteous, not to mention, a great driver! The separate air boat ride was surreal! This was supposedly longer than other air boat experiences offered, but certainly worth it. We got to see additional wildlife up close. It also helped that the weather was perfect for this kind of excursion. My friend and I both had a great time. We highly recommend this to others! Read more Review of: 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park Written May 1, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• 60 min. Everglades Airboat ride & pick-up ,small group +pro guide
• 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour
• 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park
• Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Small Group Kayak Tour
• Everglades National Park Self Guided Driving Audio Tour
• Florida Outdoor Adventures - Guided Everglades Kayak Tours
• German Tours Everglades LLC
• Everglades Birding

The 5 Best Everglades Tours From Miami – [2024 Reviews]

The Everglades National Park is not only one of the largest national parks in the US, but it’s also the largest naturally formed tropical wetland in the world. Unique features of flora and fauna are easily seen.

Both alligators and crocodiles live in the Everglades and this is the only area where they live side-by-side. Learning to distinguish one from the other can take a few tries, but your expert guides will certainly help.

Touring the Everglades National Park up close via an airboat is not only unique but something you may not have the opportunity to experience again or anywhere else.

Best Everglades Tours From Miami

Quick answer: the 5 best everglades tours from miami.

• Florida Everglades Small Group Adventure Tour
• From Wilderness to Wealth: Everglades & Miami Adventure
• Miami: Everglades Airboat & Wildlife Tour with Pickup
• Everglades National Park: 3.5-Hour Adventure Tour
• From Miami: Florida Everglades Small Group Boat Tour

Best Everglades Tours From Miami Reviewed

We’ve reviewed the top tours of the Everglades from Miami. Whether you are looking for a short airboat tour to see things up close or you would rather spend an entire day learning about this unique ecosystem, there’s something for everyone.

#1 Florida Everglades Small Group Adventure Tour

• Departure Point : Pickup and dropoff service
• Departure Time : Between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM
• Duration : 9 hours (approx.)
• Includes : guide, all entrance fees, 2 boat trips, beverages with snacks and lunch, sunscreen and insect repellent available, use of binoculars

You’ll learn more about the Miccosukee and how they’ve adapted to thrive in this harsh environment. You will also experience that environment up close with a hike through both Big Cypress National Preserve and the Everglades National Park.

In addition to the hike, your complimentary lunch comprised of locally grown produce will help energize for even more exploration.

You and your small group will stop by a local art gallery featuring some of the region’s most talented artists as well the smallest post office in the United States.

The visit to the Trading Post will allow you plenty of opportunity to grab a few souvenirs for yourself and those back home.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, #2 1-hour air boat ride and nature walk with naturalist in everglades national park.

• Departure Point : 500 SW 177th Ave, Miami / Hotel pickup available
• Departure Time : 7:00 AM
• Duration : 5-6 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Naturalist guide, airboat ride through the Everglades, tour of native village

Not only will you be able to experience the Everglades from an airboat, you’ll also take a short hike along the Jungle Trail. From this trail, you’ll be even closer to many species as well as flora and fauna.

Your guide will show you the local birds and alligators that in inhabit the area as you walk around the park. After which you will take a guided tour of a Native tree island village. Here you will learn their way of life that has changed little in the last few hundred years.

#3 Everglades National Park Biologist Led Adventure: Cruise, Hike + Airboat

• Departure Point : Hotel pickup
• Departure Time : 9:00 AM
• Duration : 9.5 to 10 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Van transportation to Everglades National Park, airboat ride, park ranger guide, alligator show

A private van will drive you the 50 minutes from Miami to the Everglades. Once there, hop aboard an airboat and learn more about the 30 species of snakes, 120 species of trees, and over 300 species of birds that live here. With your camera at the ready, you might even be able to snap some pics.

The Everglades National Park is unique in that it is the only place on Earth where both crocodiles and alligators cohabitate.

Your park ranger guide will help you learn how to tell the difference between them.

After your airboat ride, head to an animal show to not only learn more about the many birds, amphibians, mammals, and other types of residents in the Everglades, but you’ll enjoy a show as well.

If you’d like to add a trip to a local Native American village and museum, you can experience even more of the culture of southern Florida.

#4 Everglades National Park: 3.5-Hour Adventure Tour

• Departure Point : Hotel pickup available
• Duration : 3.5 – 5 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Transportation, entry fee, airboat ride, wildlife show

A short airboat ride allows you to see some of the wildlife that calls the Everglades their home. You will also most likely be able to see both crocodiles and alligators, which your guide will help you to distinguish.

After the airboat tour, you’ll have a chance to enjoy an educational wildlife show. Both educational and fun, this show is great for families.

The animal experts will introduce you to a few of the many animals, fish, amphibians, and birds that call this tropical wetland their home.

Once the show concludes, you can enjoy lunch at the park, including the famously unique fried alligator tail sandwich. For those not quite as adventurous when it comes to food, many other options are available or you can bring your own sack lunch.

#5 From Miami: Florida Everglades Small Group Boat Tour

• Departure Point : 075 Biscayne Blvd, Miami
• Departure Time : Variety available
• Duration : 3 hour (approx.)
• Includes : Guide, airboat ride, bottled water

Listening through provided headphones, as the airboat can be quite loud, you’ll learn about the wildlife, flora and fauna that thrive in this harsh environment.

If you have the opportunity to see both a crocodile and alligator, your guide can help you learn to distinguish the differences. Also be on the lookout for the otters that play and splash in the wetland, often incorporate travelers in their fun.

Your guide will also tell you what newest changes have been seen in the environment and what future changes they expect.

If you’d like to spend a bit more time in the Everglades National Park and learn more about it, there is also a 90-minute airboat tour available that meets at the same location. However, there are 4 meeting times that are different from those for the 1-hour tour. [/expand]

Everglades Tours From Miami Guide

Airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions.

Miami is a city that thrives of nightlife but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of things to do that are family friendly. In fact, a vacation in Miami might even be educational for all travelers, in a fun and not so obvious way.

Whether you plan on spending your time in Miami at the beaches, partying at the Clevelander or at South Beach, or you plan on taking in the cultural and historical aspects of the city, Miami is a place everyone can enjoy.

If you are flying into Miami, you’ll likely land at Miami International Airport , dubbed MIA. This airport is very busy every day of the week and 24 hours a day. In fact, over 1,000 flights depart or return here each day. This means that things can get hectic, but there is usually staff around that can help point you in the right direction.

When leaving the airport, you have several options. If your hotel offers a free airport shuttle, this is going to be your best bet for getting to your accommodations quickly and affordably. If they don’t and you don’t mine ridesharing, there are several shuttle services leaving the airport often. You can choose from SAS Transport Service or Go Airport Shuttle.

If you are flying into Miami from another country, you will need your passport as well as authorization. If you will be staying less than 90 days, which most visiting travelers do, you will need to apply for an ESTA, Electronic System for Travel Authorization . Essentially, this is waiving your visa that you would need if you intend to stay for more than 3 months.

It’s important to keep several things in mind when planning your vacation to Miami. If you have other tips for those who will be visiting the Magic City, or if you have questions about your trip that aren’t answered in this guide, we would love to hear from you in the comments!

Tip #1: Miami vs Miami Beach

The City of Miami and Miami Beach are two different places. While you may want to spend time in both places during your stay, you should choose accommodations in the place where you intend to spend the most time. The easiest way to get from one to the other and back again is with either Uber or Lyft. It’s also the most affordable.

Tip #2: Choose Local & Day Trip Tours

Just as with any city that attracts many travelers each year, there are plenty of tours available. You might want to take a guided tour of several different museums, or of the art district. You can even take a day trip tour away from the hustle and bustle of Miami and head to the Keys or even to several botanical gardens in the area.

Tip #3: Spend at Least One Day at the Beach

Even if you aren’t going to Miami to sit on the beach the entire time, you should spend at least one day there. There are many beaches up and down the coastal areas of Miami and Miami Beach so you’re sure to find one that has the vibe you’re looking for. Don’t really want to sip cocktails all day under an umbrella? Try a more family-friendly beach instead.

Tip #4: Get Wrapped Up in the Cuban Influence

The Latin American influence is everywhere in Miami, from food and drink to music and dancing. Most likely, you won’t get the same authentic Cuban experience anywhere else outside of Cuba so soak in the culture.

Try a cafecito, a strong and delicious Cuban coffee. Be mindful of the caffeine kick, however. Try various Cuban meals. And even if you only go just to listen and watch, step into a Cuban bar or nightclub one night just to get a feel for the flavor.

Tip #5: Safety First

Leave any expensive items you won’t need while you’re out and about back in your hotel room. If you won’t need them on your trip at all, you might want to think about leaving them at home. Try not to flaunt flashy jewelry and or an expensive camera. Not only do these things indicate you’re not local, but they can also make you a target for theft.

Because you most likely won’t be familiar with the areas of Miami you will be visiting, grabbing an Uber or Lyft to get to where you are going is probably the best idea. This way you get where you need to go without getting lost.

You may also want to ensure your health insurance will cover you while you are in Miami. If it won’t, supplemental health insurance plans for travelers is available.

There’s no denying the Latin American influence in Miami. Even if you only pick up a small lunch from a food truck to try a bit of Cuban flare, you should at least try something with the Cuban kick. In Miami, you will find everything from modern restaurants ran by celebrity chefs to food trucks that offer anything you can imagine.

Some of those celebrity chefs at work in Miami are Tom Colicchio at the Beachcraft restaurant and Paul Qui at Pao by Paul Qui. Want a modern throwback? The Wynwood Diner is a modern take on the classic roadside diner. Then you also have gastro-pubs such as Finka Table & Tap .

While there are plenty of nightclubs up and down the beach as well as in several areas of the city, you’ll also find plenty of dive bars with a laid-back vibe as well as some craft brewery options that have finally made their way to Miami.

Craft beer is a newcomer to the nighttime scene in Miami. As a “cocktail town,” Miami is the perfect place to find the classic cocktails alongside new, modern cocktail inventions. No matter what style of late-night entertainment you enjoy, you’ll find it in Miami.

One recommendation: The Ball & Chain . Once a favorite watering hole for the likes of Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and others, this bar and lounge will take you back through history just by walking in the door.

Driving in Miami may be more stressful than helpful. Many locals get frustrated with tourist traffic and many of those who decided to rent a Ferrari or Lambo usually get frustrated with the locals who don’t drive as fast as they want to. This means that renting a car isn’t your best option.

You also won’t want to depend on public transportation. It’s not very reliable and oftentimes won’t get you where you need to go.

The two best options are either a traditional taxi or the modern equivalents, Uber and Lyft. A taxi will most likely cost you much more than an Uber or Lyft ride, and Uber or Lyft will come to pick you up. This is much easier than trying to hail for a taxi.

You’ll find a wide range of accommodations in both Miami and Miami Beach. Luxurious high-rises are just as common as smaller, boutique hotels. If your trip is centered around the beach, you may even want to rent a bungalow.

When staying in Miami for a longer period of time, perhaps a week or more, then home sharing services such as Airbnb are a great option. You get to live like a local and save a few dollars as well, being able to cook a few meals at “home.”

The hotel where a party is always happening is The Clevelander . If you’ve come to Miami to party, that’s where you’ll want to stay. Then there are the classics like the Fontainebleau Hotel with its unique architecture. Frank Sinatra was a regular guest there and even today you may bump into a few familiar faces.

The perfect time to visit Miami is between March and May. If you’re still dealing with the cold and it’s been a long winter, head to Miami for a few days to warm your toes in the sand. The summer months can get pretty hot and humid, but some say that just makes the party even better.

Starting in the fall, you’ll encounter hurricane season so unless you have travel insurance in the event of poor weather, booking your trip to Miami in the Fall may not be best.

However, it doesn’t matter when you visit, there will always be something going on in Miami. Miami Fashion Week and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival are popular, annual events. If you’d like to visit during the time of a specific event, there’s really not a horrible time to visit.

Snorkeling, scuba diving, and other watersports are a popular activity for families, couples, and groups alike. The waters off the beaches of Miami and Miami Beach are known for being clear and cool, perfect for enjoying the sight of some beautiful marine wildlife.

The art scene is huge in Miami. There are many galleries, and art museums as well, around the city. However, most are located in the art district. There are tours that can take you to several of these locations. Sometimes you can even get discounted entry into several locations all for one, bundled price.

Tour Diversity

Price value.

We chose the Florida Everglades Small Group Adventure Tour as our Editor's Choice for the best Everglades tour from Miami.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 7 best key west snorkeling tours [2024 reviews], the 8 best maui & molokini snorkel tours [2024 reviews], 🚁 the 7 best oahu helicopter tours [2024 reviews], top 15 things to do in maui.

NO WALK-IN RESERVATIONS - ALL RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE ONLINE!!

Miami Everglades Tours

Best miami everglades airboat tours & rides.

Our authentic Everglades guided airboat tour through the grasslands of the Everglades is not to be missed! You will see the animals of the Everglades in their natural habitat. See an alligator show and take a picture with a baby gator if you wish to! Come join us for a once in a lifetime experience!

• Likely To Sell Out

Everglades Eco-Adventure Tour

• User English
• Clock 4 hours

There is no better way to experience the unique and vibrant environment of the Everglades than by taking an Airboat Ride. Journey deep into nature’s mysterious wilderness aboard an airboat & come face to face with alligators & other exotic wildlife as you glide through the Everglades. Tour includes:

• Hotel pick-ups & drop-offs from hotels in Miami Beach
• Shared 60-minute airboat ride with Captain
• Live gator show
• Highly Rated Tour

Everglades Airboat Adventure & Miami Sightseeing Cruise

This eight-hour excursion combines an eco-adventure in an airboat on the shallow waters of the Everglades with a cruise along Biscayne Bay, where you’ll see the homes of Miami’s millionaires as well as the Port of Miami and the beautiful Miami skyline. It’s the best of Miami on the Water.

• Family Friendly

Everglades Park Admission Tickets

• Clock 2 hours.

Visit the Florida Everglades premier and most complete airboat ride attraction!

Entrance Ticket Includes:

• Shared 30-minute air boat ride
• Live alligator wildlife show
• Jungle Trail access

*Transportation is not included*

Your Everglades Airboat Adventure Starts Here!

Climb aboard for an Everglades airboat ride in Miami , and go on an adventure in the Florida Everglades. Your airboat ride is guided by one of our highly-trained, experienced captains, who takes you on a thrilling ride. During your Everglades airboat tour , listen to fun facts about this impressive ecosystem while you take in the exciting sights.

You may even catch a glimpse of the wildlife as you skim across the glassy water on your adventure. Keep your eyes peeled as you cruise through the unbridled wild beauty of the Florida Everglades. Feel free to let your spirit soar as you view nature at its finest on the best Miami everglades tour !

Everglades Sightseeing

Gators are Florida’s most popular residents, however, you will also experience a variety of different wildlife in their natural habitat. You will also see frogs, snakes, and lizards – as well as some of the most plentiful and varied bird and fish populations in the entire world.

Airboat Tour Guide

Your Miami airboat tour guide will get you as close to the action as is safely possible, all the while educating you and your family about everything that you are seeing along the way.

The Everglades ecosystem provides a natural habitat for alligators and crocodiles, and it is the only place on the planet where these reptiles coexist in the wild.

EXPLORE THE EVERGLADES

Experience a one in a lifetime adventure on the best Everglades tours in Miami ! See alligators, ride an airboat, see a live gator show, see lush vegetation, hold a baby alligator (for a fee), and more. Let our experienced tour guides show you the mystery and ecology of the Everglades.

Fun Facts about the Florida Everglades  

The Florida Everglades National Park is incredible, and it’s easy to see why people travel from all over the world to take an Everglades tour through the wetlands. The Everglades is incredible to see in person, with their unique vegetation and exciting wildlife. Despite the recent focus on the ecosystem, there is still much to learn about its contribution to South Florida and beyond. Here are three fascinating facts about the Everglades gleaned from park experts that may surprise you.

• The Everglades is a river: Believe it or not, the Everglades is a constantly moving river, which is ideal for an Everglades airboat tour . Water trickles from Lake Okeechobee to the south, forming a slow-moving river sixty miles wide and a hundred miles long. However, the “River of Grass” is much smaller than it used to be. Construction and related drainage projects have destroyed up to 50% of the wetland habitat.
• It is the only location on the planet where alligators and crocodiles coexist:  The Everglades are home to both crocodiles and gators. Crocs are mostly found in small numbers along the ‘glades’ coast, whereas alligators prefer to stay inland, near freshwater. Despite this, the Everglades ecosystem provides a natural habitat for both, and it is the only place on the planet where these reptiles coexist in the wild.
• There are 9 habitats providing a home to 16 endangered or threatened species: The Florida Everglades may be complex, but it’s that complexity that makes them so spectacular. The Florida panther and alligator are just two of the endangered animals that the Everglades ecosystem protects. With nine distinct habitats, the Everglades is also home to more than 16 species of birds, a variety of mammals, reptiles, plants, and a wealth of unique flora. America’s wetlands are spectacular and a fantastic learning environment for adventurous families, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

If you want to learn more and a trip through the Everglades sounds like fun, a narrated tour could be the answer! Visit our Best Everglades Tours in Miami , featuring 60-minute airboat ride, live alligator shows and a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Florida’s finest.

Why Choose Miami On The Water™?

Safety & experience.

Our Miami airboat rides are properly maintained, and our safe, knowledgeable captains are Coast Guard-licensed.

Alligators & Animals

Take a closer look at some of the animals that call the Florida Everglades home during our interactive Wildlife Nature Show.

Our expert guides share their experiences and discuss the unique abilities and adaptations the local wildlife use to survive in nature.

Jungle Trail

Explore Everglades National Park on Foot.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along our winding Jungle Trail. Have your camera ready to quickly capture the moment, the Everglades is teeming with exotic birds, reptiles and fish species.

Make sure to stop along the way and absorb the breathtaking views in all their splendor.

GUESTS LOVE US!

Saw some gators and had a show at the end. Boat was fun, gave us ear plugs for the fan. Didn’t get wet.

Great place, awesome tours of the Everglades, guided airboat tour was great fun. Great informative show, lovely nature trail, managed to get within 3ft of a 'gator to get a quick selfie!

Very informative Everglades tour in Miami. Great park to walk around. Good show commentated by a knowledgable member of staff. Saw 3 alligators as well while doing the wind boat tour. It was very exciting. Great day in the swamp area. Next time we might book their shark valley private tour.

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The 9 best everglades airboat and swamp tours.

See much more than alligators during one of these exciting trips.

The Top Everglades Airboat & Swamp Tours

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If you're planning a trip to Miami or Fort Lauderdale, Florida , visiting Everglades National Park should be on your to-do list. The South Florida national park is known for its expansive beauty, as well as its varied population of wildlife that includes everything from bobcats to alligators.

To see all the Everglades has to offer, sign up for a guided tour. U.S. News consulted both traveler sentiment and expert opinion to identify the top Everglades tours. Before you go, make sure you read through the National Park Service's Wildlife Viewing Ethics to keep both yourself and the animals safe during your time in the park. When choosing the best Everglades tours, we avoided recommending operators that promote wildlife shows or encourage feeding or holding the animals for photo-ops.

Visitors should plan to pay a fee to enter the park, as it may not be included in the price of the tour ticket. You should also keep in mind that many of these tour operators are located at least 30 miles west of Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Tours that run on airboats – open-air vessels with huge fans at the back that propel the boat – can be very loud. Companies will generally offer ear protection, but if you or your companions are sensitive to loud noises, contact the tour provider to discuss options before you book.

The Best Everglades Airboat and Swamp Tours

Everglades swamp tours – one hour group tour.

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $30 Duration: 1 hour

This sightseeing trip takes you out on an airboat to cruise through the Everglades' main waterways in search of alligators, birds and interesting vegetation. Throughout the ride, knowledgeable guides share facts about the area's history and ecology. Many travelers recommend booking this tour, describing it as fun and informative, with plenty of wildlife sightings. Departures generally take place daily at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., but availability may vary by month.

Children 5 and younger can ride for free, but still require a reserved seats. Also check out Everglades Swamp Tours for private airboat tours that last up to two hours.

Check prices & availability on:

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures – 30-Minute Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $30 Duration: 30 minutes

Located at the headwaters of the Everglades in Kissimmee, Florida (about 40 miles south of Orlando), Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures earns praise from reviewers for its personable, experienced staff and the family-friendly environment. On the airboat ride, you and up to 16 other passengers will glide through the tall grass in search of eagles, alligators, raccoons and more. In addition to airboat rides, the site houses a replica of a Jororo Tribe village, as well as a gem and fossil mining activity for kids.

Tours depart throughout the day from 9 a.m. to 5 pm. You can buy your tickets online, but there are no reservations for this tour. For a longer adventure, consider the company's hourlong airboat ride. There are also sunset and night tours, if you're hoping to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Marsh Landing Adventures – 90-Minute Everglades Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $60 Duration: 1.5 hours

For wildlife lovers who want more than half an hour to experience the Everglades, this 1.5-hour airboat ride from Marsh Landing Adventures is an excellent experience. Located in Kissimmee on Lake Tohopekaliga, Marsh Landing Adventures promises travelers an in-depth look at the headwaters of the Everglades and the plants and animals that inhabit its waters. What's more, the company says it can reach areas of the Everglades that are inaccessible to larger boats because of its small crafts. Travelers give kudos to the boat captain for their educational and entertaining delivery. Many call the experience the highlight of their Florida vacation.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations are required, and there is a 1% fuel surcharge added to each ticket. Marsh Landing Adventures also offers hourlong, two-hour and four-hour airboat rides.

Everglades City Airboat Tours

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $31 Duration: 1 hour

Everglades City Airboat Tours sets itself apart from other companies by offering participants two-way headsets, which allow passengers and guides to better engage with one another throughout the hourlong ride. As you navigate through narrow creeks and shallow bays, you may spot alligators, manatees and birds. Tourists enjoy the ride and appreciate the headsets. Reviewers are also complimentary of the boat captains, who they describe as entertaining and knowledgeable.

Tours depart multiple times Monday through Saturday, although timing may be modified based on the season. It's a good idea to reserve your tour in advance. Everglades City Airboat Tours is located approximately 85 miles west of Miami and 35 miles southeast of Naples, Florida.

Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours – 45-Minute Standard Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $27.50 Duration: 45 minutes

For an excursion that combines cultural immersion and wildlife viewing, consider this outing from Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours. The Miccosukee family-owned company's standard tour focuses on introducing visitors to the homelands of the Miccosukee people: an American Indian tribe that migrated to Florida before it became a state. During the tour, you'll not only see local wildlife, but also will get to see a Miccosukee Indian camp and take a nature walk. Visitors recommend the tour, describing it as an amazing experience thanks to the small, intimate group size.

Tours run daily at multiple times between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The company also offers private outings.

Everglades River of Grass Adventures – Semi-Private River of Grass Airboat Tours Everglades

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $45 Duration: 1.5 hours

One perk of this tour is that it is capped at six to eight travelers per boat. During the excursion, you'll get the chance to see the famous flora and fauna of the Everglades, including herons and alligators. Visitors say this is a family-friendly tour and call the trip "memorable" and "amazing."

These tours run seven days a week; since they're semiprivate, you must call or email to find out the best times to depart. River of Grass Adventures also offers sunset tours of the Everglades.

Other Popular Everglades Tours

Shurr Adventures Everglades – Three Hour Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour Small Group Adventure

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $99 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Enjoy an up-close view of animals and nature, and get some exercise in too, on this kayak tour of the Everglades' mangroves. As you paddle your way through the mangrove tunnels, you may spot orchids, birds and, of course, alligators. Kayakers say this tour is excellent and appreciate the patient, experienced guides who share a wealth of information about the plants and animals that reside in this unique ecosystem. What's more, reviewers appreciate that the tours are limited to just eight participants.

Tours are available Monday through Saturday from August to April; times vary by season. Children must be at least 7 years old to participate. Tourgoers will enjoy three to 3.5 hours out on the water but should plan to spend a total of four hours on-site from start to finish. Shurr Adventures Everglades also offers a full-day tour of the mangrove tunnels, as well as a motorboat tour in the Ten Thousand Islands region of Everglades National Park, among other options.

Shark Valley Tram Tours

Price: Adults from $31; kids from $16 Duration: 2 hours

These naturalist-led excursions not only include a tour around Everglades National Park in an open-air tram, they also give tourgoers the chance to explore on foot. Halfway through the tour, participants can climb a 45-foot-tall observation deck to see sweeping views of the surrounding vegetation. During the two-hour tour, travelers also have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife. Tourgoers enjoy learning about the Everglades from the expert guides and say riding the tram is part of the fun. Many also recommended taking a morning tour to avoid the midday heat.

From mid-December through late April, tours depart on the hour daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From May through mid-December, tours depart at 9:30 and 11 a.m. and 2 and 4 p.m. Shark Valley Tram Tours also offers self-guided bike tours. (Note that you'll have to pay a separate fee to enter Everglades National Park for any tour.)

Everglades Florida Adventures – Ten Thousand Islands Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $29 Duration: 3 hours

If you're hoping to see the Everglades by boat, but want something a little quieter than an airboat ride, consider this cruise. Departing from Port of the Islands Marina in Naples, this 45-foot passenger catamaran glides across the Faka Union Canal while guides share information about the history and ecology of the area. Tourgoers report spotting lots of birds, turtles, dolphins and manatees. They also call out the insightful crew and clean, comfortable boat as highlights.

Cruises are offered Monday to Friday at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Everglades Florida Adventures also offers kayak and canoe rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Like any other form of transportation, riding an airboat may come with some risks. To stay safe on your Everglades airboat tour, be sure to choose a company run by experienced, professional boaters (most of which undergo special training and are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard) and adhere to all rules set forth by your guide. Parents should keep a close eye on children and be sure they are properly fitted for their life jackets, and all passengers should protect against the heat by wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated. Commercial airboats typically do not exceed speeds of 30 to 40 mph to ensure a safe, smooth ride, and most operators will reschedule your tour in the event of lightning or other inclement weather. Tour companies will also generally provide riders with proper ear protection, as the boats are quite loud.

Typically, passengers will feel the most comfortable in lightweight, sleeveless clothing and shorts while on an Everglades airboat tour. If you are taking a wintertime tour, keep an eye on the weather – pants and long sleeves may be a better option, but you likely won't need a heavy jacket. Be sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen and water to protect yourself from the effects of the sun; you may also want a hat to provide further shade and keep hair in place. Passengers with long hair are advised to wear it in a ponytail or bun to keep it from becoming knotted in the wind. Tourgoers may also wish to apply some bug spray prior to embarking on their adventure.

Airboat tours last about an hour, though duration will depend on the tour company.

An airboat's top speed is about 30 mph.

Not normally, but you run a small risk of getting misted with water. If you take a tour when it is raining, expect to get wet.

In winter, you'll want to time your visit for midday, when it warms up. In summer, you'll want to visit in the morning or later afternoon when it's coolest. Visiting at these times can increase your chances of seeing wildlife, but you'll likely see all kinds of critters no matter when you visit year-round.

You might also be interested in:

• Best Miami Tours
• Best Miami Boat Tours
• The Top Museums in Miami
• The Top Things to Do in Florida
• The Best Medical Travel Insurance

Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Travel , Florida

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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🐊 Everglades Park Tour (With Airboat Ride & Gator Show)

The only 1-hour airboat ride.

• Adults $ 59  –  $ 64
• Children ( Ages 3 - 17 ) – $ 54
• Infants   (Under 3 years) – Free

Book Now — SAVE $5

View photos.

Listen to the tour introduction before you go

The main pick-up spot, hotel pickup and return, your tour includes....

• Holiday Park admission (a $41 value!)
• 1-hour airboat tour (50% longer than other places)
• Live show by the Gator Boys from Animal Planet TV
• Free professional grade group photo (a $7 value)
• Luggage storage on the bus

Customer reviews

What you should do now.

• We have already escorted a group much like yours . (We've been guiding tours around Miami for over 10 years.) 5-star reviews are fairly common. So if you'd like us to be your guide —to dramatically improve the experience of everyone in your group— check availability now . If you prefer to buy tickets by phone, call us directly at 305-260-6855.
• Still have questions? We appreciate how hard it can be to take a tour with a company you just met, so here is how we made it easy: you contact us letting us know what you need. You don't need to provide anything, if you just have some questions.
• If you want to receive a proposal, please tell us the dates, amount of people, and what you want to do. For example, the name of this shared tour is the "Everglades Adventure" . All tours are covered by our Bad Weather Guarantee, which is described here . Why wait? Check availability now.

Everglades Tours

If you are in Miami or  Fort Lauderdale , explore the tropical wilderness of Everglades National Park with the best Everglades Tours. Embark on an amazing journey on a comfortable airboat across the river of grass while being surrounded by wild animals in their natural habitat. These airboat tours are fast-paced, with tons of fresh air and excitement to keep the entire family on their toes. At  Gray Line Miami , you can choose from our various top-rated Everglades tour Miami according to your preferences, time limit, and budget. Discover a unique ecosystem – a total of 1.5 million acres of saltwater marshes, hardwood hammocks, sawgrass prairies with our unforgettable tours.

Cruise Through the Stunning Everglades with Our Guided Tour

Gray line Miami  offers 60 minutes, 1 hour, 4-5 hours, full-day and even night Everglades Boat Tours where you can spot wildlife such as alligators, turtles, deer, wild hogs, racoons, otters, snakes and much more. Just sit back and relax while allowing the sights and sounds of nature to amaze you on the Everglades airboat tour. Experience South Florida’s most beautiful natural attraction on well-maintained airboats that are sure to exceed your expectations. Choose our open airboats when the weather is nice, or stay protected while exploring the sunny terrains on airboats with closed canopy to stay protected. 

Educational Everglades Airboat Tours for All Ages

Learning is fun with our guided Florida Everglades airboat tours! Our tours through the Everglades are perfect for parents looking to treat their kids to an educational trip that is fun at the same time. There is so much to know about the history of Everglades, its lush vegetation and exotic wildlife that it would be impossible to cover everything in one trip. Many of our tours also include the Wildlife Nature Show, Jungle Trail, Observation Platform, Alligator Show and Exhibits at the end of the airboat tour. Our guides will share details on everything there is to see. Whether you are 9 or 99 years old, Everglades National Park tours will not disappoint!

Perfect for Nature Enthusiasts and Thrill Seekers

Whether you want to enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of the mangrove forests or looking for that adrenaline rush on an airboat by getting close to live alligators in the wild, Everglades Tour Miami will offer you the perfect break from city life. It is the perfect way to get close and personal with the wonderful wildlife and the beautiful nature in this part of the world. You can even get your picture taken with a baby alligator and even hold one if you like. 

Searching for the Perfect everglades tours Deal? Look No Further

Gray Line Miami offers great deals on Everglades Tour to allow you to make beautiful memories without stretching your budget. We also provide reliable transportation services to and from the Everglades National Park in selected locations with our guided tours. Book your Everglades City airboat tours with  Gray Line Miami  and take the cruise through the scenic  Biscayne Bay  – the stunning views are going to live in your memory for a long time.

Everglades Airboat Adventure Tour with Transportation

A trip to miami is not complete without visiting the everglades - nature at its best.

Everglades Airboat Adventure with Transportation & Biscayne Boat Tour

A trip to miami is not complete without visiting the everglades and the city skyline from the bay.

Everglades Night Tour - Sawgrass Recreation Park

Come see the everglades when it is at its best, at night.

Everglades Admission Ticket - Sawgrass Recreation Park

Visit the sawgrass recreation park and discover exotic wildlife.

Miami City Tour & Everglades Airboat Adventure

Wondering what to visit in miami see it all from the everglades to the city.

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How to Get From Miami to Everglades National Park

The Everglades are one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world and are within driving distance of Miami.

If you’re considering a visit, this post covers how to get there, park entry fees, and tips on the best time to visit.

• How to Get Here
• Park Entrance Fees
• Best Time to Visit
• On Your Own or With a Tour?
• Nearby Hotels
• Everglades Tours

Given the relatively short distance between the two places, an Everglades day trip from Miami is more than possible -- it’s a great idea!

It’s about 42 miles to Everglades National Park from Miami. The exact distance depends on your starting point. 

The drive can be as little as an hour, but again this depends on your starting point and how much traffic there is. 

Give yourself 90 minutes at a minimum and more if you want to stop along the way.

There are three entrances to Everglades National Park. The two entrances closest to Miami are the Homestead entrance and the Shark Valley entrance.

Everglades National Park Directions from Miami

Using the Shark Valley entrance:

The Shark Valley entrance is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6 pm. The Shark Valley Visitor Center is open daily 9 am to 5 pm.

The park is open 24 hours, but vehicles do not have access after 6 pm.

The entrance fee is collected at the gate. Read about entrance fees below .

Driving directions:

• Take the Florida Turnpike going west (FL-836 W).
• Get off at Exit 25A onto U.S. 41 (Tamiami Trail / SW 8th St).
• Drive 25 miles west to Shark Valley Loop Road.

Use this Google Maps link for exact directions to the Shark Valley entrance from your departure point. 

If using GPS, punch in this address: 36000 SW 8th Street, Miami, Florida 33194.

Note that there is a small toll for using the Florida Turnpike. Find out how much using the SunPass Toll Calculator .

Using the Homestead entrance

The Homestead entrance is open 24 hours a day. The entrance fee is collected here. Read about entrance fees below .

The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is open from 9 am to 5 pm (April through mid-December) and 8 am to 5 pm.

• Take the Florida Turnpike (Route 821) south until it merges with U.S. 1 at Florida City. 
• Turn right at the first traffic light onto Palm Drive (State Road 9336/SW 344th St).
• Follow the signs to the park.

Use this Google Maps link for exact directions to the Homestead entrance from your departure point.

If using GPS, punch in this address: 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034.

Everglades National Park Entrance Fees

The fee for an entry pass is $30 per car. 

Your pass is good for 7 consecutive days from the day of purchase so you can exit and re-enter the park as many times as you would like within that period.

You can pay the fee at the entrance to the park (credit/debit cards only) or save time and purchase a digital entrance pass in advance. 

Purchase your Everglades National Park Site Pass here .

It is free to enter the park on these days:

• Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• First Day of National Park Week
• Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
• National Public Lands Day
• Veterans Day

Consult a calendar to see what date these holidays fall on as they differ year by year.

Best Time to Visit the Everglades

The best time to visit the Everglades is from early December to April.

This is the dry season when temperatures are comfortable, you’ll have a better chance of spotting wildlife and there will be way fewer mosquitoes!

One downside of visiting in the dry season is that the weekends can be quite busy. 

Even if traffic is good, there may be congestion at the entrance and it can be difficult or impossible to find a parking spot. 

If possible, plan your day trip for a weekday and arrive before 10 am. If you must come on the weekend, arrive as early as possible.

Though the park is open 24 hours a day every day of the year, you shouldn’t go in the middle of the night to get a parking spot!

But you can go early in the morning. 

Two things to keep in mind if you plan to leave at the crack of dawn:

Be sure to purchase your entry pass in advance as the visitor center doesn't open until 9 am.

Have your route through the Everglades planned in advance. 

Visiting the Everglades on Your Own or With a Tour From Miami?

A visit to the Everglades from Miami on your own rather than going on a tour that departs from Miami isn't necessarily less expensive (see the cost comparison below ).

It may not be as satisfying as taking a guided tour with round-trip transportation from Miami.

The Everglades are best experienced on a tour where a knowledgeable guide will point out animals along the way. 

Guides also tell you about the unique ecosystem of the Everglades. Some tours include live animal shows and the chance to hold a baby alligator.

Guided tours take care of the driving and entry fees so you can sit back and relax.

You get priority entrance so you don't have to wait in line with other cars to enter the park.

You also won’t have to worry about finding a parking spot which can be very difficult. 

Having someone else deal with these things means your time and energy are devoted to one thing only: getting close to the incredible animals and nature of the Everglades.

Comparison of costs:

The cost for two people to drive from Miami to the Homestead entrance is $20 round-trip (gas and tolls) plus the entry fee of $30. 

That’s $50 total. If you divide by two, that’s $25 per person. 

This does not include any tour of the park other than a self-guided tour in your car or on foot. 

Add on the cost per person for the least expensive Everglades tour (either airboat or tram) that you take once inside the park and you are looking at a total of $55 per person.

For the same $55 per person, you could take this Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show, with Roundtrip Bus from Miami . 

This includes:

• Transportation from Miami
• A live guide
• Priority entry to Everglades Park
• A 45-minute airboat ride
• A wildlife show with animal experts
• Souvenir photo with a baby alligator

For the same price, you get a lot more for your money when you take a guided tour from Miami. 

Our post, 5 Ways to Tour the Everglades from Miami , can help you decide if taking a tour is the best way for you to enjoy the Everglades.

Hotels Near Everglades National Park

There are quite a few hotels near both the Homestead and Shark Valley entrances. 

If you plan to stay overnight, especially in the busy season, be sure to book in advance to guarantee you have a room for the night.

Note that there is nowhere to stay overnight in Everglades National Park unless you camp. 

Hotels near the Homestead entrance

• Hampton Inn & Suites Homestead Miami South 
• Courtyard by Marriott Miami Homestead 
• Hilton Garden Inn Homestead
• Travelodge by Wyndham Florida City/Homestead/Everglades 
• Super 8 by Wyndham Florida City/Homestead/Everglades 

Hotels near the Shark Valley entrance

• Hilton Miami Dadeland 
• The Palms Inn & Suites Miami, Kendall, FL 
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Miami Kendall, an IHG Hotel 
• TownePlace Suites Miami Kendall West 
• Best Western Plus Kendall Hotel & Suites 

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May 09, 2022

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Everglades Day Trip from Miami – All You Need to Know

• Post author: Svet
• Post category: Road Trips
• Post published: June 8, 2022

Are you planning to visit the Everglades in one day?

Yes, this is absolutely possible. You can do an Everglades day trip from Miami and explore the stunning wildlife of this U.S. national park.

In fact, with an early arrival and an appropriate plan, you can make the most of your time in the Everglades.

This detailed guide will show when to visit, how to get there, and all the different activities you can do in the park.

Ready to discover how to see the Everglades in one day?

Let’s dive right in!

Note : This article contains affiliate links . In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

Things to Know Before You Go to the Everglades

The Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance.

The fact that it’s one of the few places in the world that belongs to all three lists makes it a must-visit destination in Florida .

The Everglades combines coastal mangroves, pine flatwoods, and sawgrass marshes with manatees, alligators, birds, and panthers in a fantastic fusion. Its 1.5 million acres of wetlands make it the third-largest park in the contiguous United States after Death Valley and Yellowstone.

Wanna know the most surprising fact about the Everglades, though? It’s not a swamp, marsh, or wasteland. The Everglades is a shallow, wide, and slow-moving river that constantly flows from north to south.

Locals call this body of water the River of Grass . It flows at a speed of about one meter per hour, making it the slowest-moving river in the world .

No matter when you decide to do your Everglades day trip from Miami , don’t forget to bring sunglasses and a light jacket because it can get quite windy in the swamps.

You’re most likely to spot an alligator or two basking in the generous Florida sun regardless of the season. At first, the majestic reptiles might seem lethargic, but beware as they can be quite quick when defending themselves.

We recommend you keep a safe distance when exploring the wildlife in the park. First, because you might lose a thumb or more. And second, because you’re a smart traveler, and you don’t want to disturb the creatures in their natural habitat.

If you plan on discovering the park further, we recommend you bring some snacks and beverages as you won’t find any food stalls in the wetlands.

If not, you’ll have plenty of food options close to the park entrances. The must-tries include alligator burgers and sausages, catfish, frog legs, and gator tail.

The park is open 365 days a year, but the different entrances have different opening hours .

Tip : If you’re arriving by Uber, Taxi, or Lyft to any of the main entrances of the Everglades, don’t forget to arrange return transportation with your driver. Why? Because public transportation doesn’t service many of these entry points.

The Best Time to Do an Everglades Day Trip

The Everglades National Park is open all year round. Two major seasons characterize the park: a winter dry season and a summer wet season .

The best time to visit the Everglades is during the winter season because you’ll have more tour options.

The summer season is not only hotter and wetter. It also comes with many restrictions and tons of mosquitoes.

One Day in the Everglades National Park – What to Visit

Everglades National Park is among the largest US national parks. For this reason, one day will be enough to only see some of the attractions the park offers. We recommend doing a guided airboat or kayak tour for the best chances to spot wildlife, as well as walking to get a good mix of activities.

With an early start and a good plan, you can cover a lot of ground in the Everglades. Let’s discover which are the must-visit spots, so you can make the best of your time.

If you want to explore every area of the park, we recommend spending three days in the Everglades National Park .

Shark Valley Visitor Center

You’ll find Shark Valley Visitor Center on Highway 41 (Tamiami Trail / SW 8th St.) 25 mi (40 km) west of the Florida Turnpike.

The visitor center is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Shark Valley Tram Tours operate from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

The Shark Valley Visitor Center is among the best spots to view animals in the Everglades. There, you can expect to see birds, turtles, and tons of alligators.

Don’t miss visiting the Observation Tower as it gives you the best vantage point for animal spotting in the area.

You can get to the tower by walking, cycling, or hopping on a tram. Use this website to rent your bikes or book your tram tour.

Gulf Coast Visitor Center

The Gulf Coast Visitor Center operates daily from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM all year round. It serves as a gateway to discovering the Ten Thousand Islands, which is a maze of waterways and mangrove isles.

In 2017, Hurricane Irma destroyed the original Gulf Coast Visitor Center. Nowadays, you can find a temporary Visitor Contact Station in its place.

Tip : Bring your own food and beverages.

If you don’t want to go to the Ten Thousand Islands, another cool thing to do from this entry point is a 3-hour mangrove tunnel kayak tour . Book it in advance via this website as it sells out pretty quickly.

To reach the Gulf Coast Visitor Center, get on Highway 41 and head east for 80 mi (129km). Then, turn left on County Rd 29, and drive 5 mi (8km) south. The center will be on your right.

Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center

If you want to avoid the crowds, plan an early arrival at 8:00 AM from mid-December through March, and at 9:00 AM from April through mid-December. The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is open all year round.

Inside the visitor center, you’ll find orientational movies, educational displays, and informational brochures. Only a short drive from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, you’ll find a series of great walking trails.

To reach the visitor center from Miami, take Florida Turnpike (Route 821) south until it merges with U.S. 1 at Florida City. Then, turn right at the first traffic light on Palm Drive and follow the signs to the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center.

Flamingo Visitor Center

The Flamingo Visitor Center is open between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

The visitor center offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, boat tours, canoe and kayak rentals, as well as cycling.

One of the best places to admire the famous American crocodile is the canal that goes from the marina.

If you like strolling by the ocean, don’t miss the Guy Bradley Trail . The views there are to die for.

The physical address of the Flamingo Visitor Center is 1 Flamingo Lodge Hwy, Homestead, Florida 33034.

It takes around an hour to drive southeast from the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center to the Flamingo Visitor Center.

How to Do an Airboat Tour in the Everglades

Fancy an airboat tour around a wetland teeming with alligators? Then, we highly recommend visiting Gator Park . You have a few options to get there from Miami:

• If you’re traveling by car, get on FL-836 W and US-41 W, and head west. The drive takes around 40 minutes and is a little over 28 mi (45 km).
• Uber/Lyft will cost you around $80-100 depending on your starting location in Miami. However, bear in mind you might not have mobile reception in Gator Park. You can ask to use Gator Park’s phone to call a taxi back as Uber/Lyft cars don’t lurk in the area.

The airboat tour lasts about 40 minutes and takes you around the canals. Chances are, you’ll spot several alligators and crocodiles basking in the sun.

The tour also includes a fantastic 30-minute wildlife and Alligator show. The park ranger feeds the reptiles and lets you hold a baby gator. So, if you want to impress your friends, make sure someone snaps a photo of that moment 😉

Before you finish your day trip from Miami to the Everglades Park, don’t forget to stop at the restaurant near the exit. The food delicacies include alligator burgers and sausages, frog legs, fried alligator tail, and other finger-licking dishes.

We highly recommend booking your airboat tour in advance via this link .

Tip : If you’re wearing a hat on the boat, please make sure you hold it tight because the boat reached up to 25 mph (40 km/h). But don’t worry about the engine noise. You’ll get earplugs with your ticket 😉

Where to Stay for an Everglades Day Trip from Miami

The Everglades National Park is a little over an hour away from Miami. This means you’ll have plenty of options to stay.

We recommend spending at least 3 days in Miami to feel the Sunshine City’s chill vibes and have plenty of time to plan a day trip to the Everglades.

Little Havana, Edgewater, Brickell, and Coconut Grove are among the best areas to stay in Miami .

If you’d like to stay closer to the park, we recommend booking your visit in Homestead at the Courtyard by Marriott in the southern part of Miami.

Everglades Day Trip from Miami – a Great Way to Explore Florida’s Wildlife

This wraps up our guide on how to see the Everglades in one day .

From marveling at majestic alligators to bird spotting, and from pumping your adrenaline on airboat tours to leisurely trekking the park’s numerous trails, there’s one thing for sure – you’ll have a blast exploring the Everglades.

Just make sure to bring a hat, some sunscreen, and your good mood, and you’ll enjoy every minute of your one day in the Everglades National Park.

Have you been to the Everglades before?

Comment below to let us know.

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The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

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Wonderful place, excellent your guide and really awesome Alligator show. Highly recommend!!! Will definitely be back

Wondering What to Do When Visiting the Everglades?

From airboats to camping, we've listed our top picks in our latest article: Top 7 Things to Do in the Everglades!

On Vacation & Need A Ride? We Can Help!

We recommend Xpedition Tours! They provide reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

So fun!  Beautiful tour flying around the everglades on an airboat!  Wear the ear buds they give you. And you can hold Snappy!

This place is awesome!  We saw a Snail Kite, momma alligator and her nest. The boat ride was sooo much fun. We actually drove by it and turned around just to see the place.

Planning Your Visit? Woo!

Find out everything you can do during your visit to the florida everglades, from airboats to nature walks, wildlife shows to gator bites, we offer family fun in the warm florida sun all year long. we're sure your experience will be unforgettable., ever wonder what that alligator is doing.

Top 7 Things to do in the Everglades

If you ask anyone about the Everglades, they will most probably say that it is the greatest swamp in Florida. They are close but not exactly right! It is a slow-running river that entails around nine contrasting, elegant ecosystems.

History of Airboats

In 1930, airboats started becoming popular in the United States. Many Floridians made them famously known when they began to invent them independently, these Floridians mostly lived in or near the Florida Everglades.

Ultimate Guide: Animals of the Everglades

Did you know the Florida Everglades sustains a unique environment that provides safe refuge to the wildlife that inhabits the wetlands, some of which are not found anywhere else in the world? This guide tells you all about them!

The Ultimate Guide to Everglades National Park

With so much to do in South Florida, it’s easy to miss the adventure that can be found in our very own backyard. In this article, we will shed light on one of the hidden gems often overlooked by visitors and residents alike; the Florida Everglades.

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12 things to know before visiting Everglades National Park

Mar 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Here's what you should know before setting out on the waterways of the Everglades © Maridav / Shutterstock

Around an hour's drive from Miami on Florida's  southern tip, Everglades National Park offers 1.5 million acres of natural wonder. Covering an area the size of Rhode Island , this complex and vital ecosystem of wetlands, swamps, mangroves and forests is North America 's  biggest protected sub-tropical wilderness reserve.

Teeming with wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, manatees and birds, the park is laced with hiking and biking trails, dotted with campsites and has waterways navigable by kayak, canoe and boat. On any given day, you can hear airboats whizzing by, wading birds splashing about and fishing rods whirling in the wind as they're cast. In the park's more silent and serene nooks, you're likely to hear nothing at all.

Amid the awe, however, there are plenty of ways to get the most out of your trip here. Having lived nearby for nearly a decade, guiding friends and families deep into the Everglades, I've gotten to know a few dos and don'ts, tricks and tips. Here's everything you need to know before you visit Everglades National Park.

1. Avoid the "snowbird season" crowds

There's a joke in South Florida from the fall through early spring (October–March): the leaves don't change, but the colors of the car license plates do. That's because while the rest of the Eastern USA is freezing, Florida remains warm, so travelers – known locally as snowbirds – migrate down here for the cooler months. Expect the Everglades National Park to be particularly busy during this time.

The best way to avoid the crowds in the Everglades is to get up early during the summer months (June–August) and visit in the morning. Note that the park is often muggy by noon, and temperatures regularly reach at least 90°F (32°C).

2. There are four entrances to the park, so find the best one for your journey

The Everglades only has four entrances . Two are in Homestead: the Flamingo Visitor Center, which is a gateway to an extensive network of canoeing facilities; and the Royal Palm, which is primed for walking adventures. The latter also has several paved and well-packed dirt trails nearby. 

The other two entry points are found west of Miami. Shark Valley is the busiest and is known for its gator-surrounded, 15-mile bike trail; the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City, meanwhile, attracts fewer people. It is primarily a gateway for boating and exploring the nearby series of mangrove islands. Depending on where you are traveling from in Florida and the traffic levels, it can take hours to drive between each park entrance, so plan wisely.

3. To access most of the Everglades, you'll need an airboat

Airboats – flat-bottomed watercraft with giant fan propellers at the back – aren't just kitschy tourist vehicles for gawking at gators. They are actually vital in delicately navigating the wet prairies, both in terms of helping preserve the vegetation and avoiding debris that would otherwise damage a fishing boat. Should you want to plan an excursion, there are three authorized airboat businesses in the park itself that provide services: Coopertown Airboats , Everglades Safari Park and Gator Park .

4. Snag a permit ahead of time if you want to fish solo

The Everglades are a mix of saltwater and freshwater landscapes, equating to a fishing utopia. When fishing independently, you'll need a license for both saltwater and freshwater fishing – two separate permits in Florida that you obtain from the Florida Fishing and Wildlife Conservation Commission . Cell service is extremely limited in the park, so save a potential headache by registering for the right license online ahead of your visit. If you are embarking on a chartered journey, your captain should already have a license, but check beforehand.

5. Support and book excursions with local tribes

The Calusa, Tequesta, Seminole and Miccosukee tribes all have deep roots in the Everglades region. Along the Tamiami Trail (US Hwy 41), you'll see a number of Miccosukee destinations – notably the Miccosukee Casino & Resort , as well as the Miccosukee Village and Airboat Rides . At the village, there is a museum where you can learn more about the tribe and tour exhibits of their earliest clothing, tools and beadwork.  

6. Don't bring pets – they're not allowed on the trails 

What do the popular Otter Cave Hammock Trail , Rowdy Bend Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail have in common aside from awesome names? You can't bring your pets with you… or on any of the walking trails in Everglades National Park. Besides, they probably wouldn't fare too well with a camouflaged gator anyway. 

7. Opt for an ethical animal sanctuary

The Everglades has a number of wildlife sanctuaries, but not all are animal-friendly, so do your research before visiting. Aside from spotting blue herons in their natural environment along the Anhinga Trail or manatees coasting in the Florida Bay , Everglades Outpost is an ethical option if you want an up-close encounter . The nonprofit rehabilitates injured gators, reptiles and more from the nearby land before releasing them back into the environment.

8. Give wild animals their space

If you do have an encounter with a manatee in the open waters or a gator quietly lurking in the mangroves, leave them alone. Refrain from feeding the animals, and if there is a visibly sick or young creature with parents nearby, tread lightly as their defense mechanisms may kick in. Additionally, bird nests – for the likes of wood storks and herons – are a common sight. Let those be, too.

9. Yes, there is a Cold War missile site in the park that you can visit

Constructed after the Cuban Missile Crisis in the early 1960s, the HM69 Nike Missile Base was once a hub for protecting the US against a possible attack by the Soviet Union. The site has three missile barns, an assembly building, barracks and two missiles today. The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center   runs tours from December through March.

10. The Everglades is vital to the entire state, so help where you can

As well as being home to endangered or threatened species, such as the Florida Panther and West Indian Manatee, the Everglades provides drinking water for more than eight million Floridians. When you visit, remember that your actions – and what you may leave behind – have a lasting impact.

If you're looking to support the park's vitality, The Alliance for Florida's National Parks accepts donations, with funds supporting youth environmental education programs, ranger-guided tours, habitat protection programs and more. 

11. Please, please, please bring sunscreen and sun gear

Too many tourists and locals that let their guards down do it every year; they forget their sunscreen and sun gear and end up looking like a painful ripe tomato in the ensuing days. Pack more than enough sunscreen and protective gear like hats, sunglasses and sun-protective shirts for your adventure, and set a timer for reapplying sunscreen. Whether canoeing the Flamingo District or birdwatching Paurotis Pond , you'll need it. 

12. Don't swim in the water and keep your limbs inside boats

It's the same mantra in every national park: don't touch the wildlife. Well, that notion comes in various forms in Everglades National Park. During the scorching summer months, it can be incredibly tempting to take a quick dip in seemingly calm waters, but just remember that there may be alligators, crocodiles, snakes, reptiles and more lurking in the waters. In the same vein and as any guide will tell you, keep those limbs inside the airboats. The wildlife will generally leave you alone, so long as it's reciprocal.

Keep planning your trip to Everglades National Park:

Figure out the best time to visit Get up close with nature on  these hikes Add  these experiences  to your itinerary Take a road trip to the park on  these drives through Florida  

This article was first published Jan 23, 2023 and updated Mar 26, 2024.

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Everglades Airboat Tours

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Capture the wild spirit of the Florida Everglades with this tour from Miami. Explore the Everglades on an airboat, operated by an engine and aircraft propeller. English or Spanish guide on the bus, English speaking park ranger on the boat.

The Most Exciting Way to Discover the Everglades

When you think of the Everglades, you probably imagine the iconic airboats that zip through the wetlands.

An airboat tour is the most exciting way to discover Everglades National Park, allowing you to take in the stunning sights and spot impressive wildlife along the way.

Not only are airboats thrilling to ride, but they’re also eco-friendly, protecting this vital habitat that is home to rare species. You can’t skip an airboat ride when visiting the Everglades!

The Ultimate Everglades Experience

With its wetlands, swamps, forests, and mangroves, Everglades National Park is full of natural wonders and unique wildlife, including alligators, manatees, birds, turtles, and more. This national park is one-of-a-kind, and there’s no better way to discover it than on an eco-friendly airboat tour . See more of the park as you travel quickly and safely across the water with an experienced captain who shares their knowledge about the ecosystem and its inhabitants.

As you ride on an exciting open-air boat , take in the beautiful surroundings, learn about the local wildlife, and keep your eyes peeled for large alligators! Everyone in the family is sure to have a great time, from young naturalists to seasoned adventurers. Feel the wild spirit of the Everglades as you discover what makes this national park so fascinating and why it’s so important to protect it.

Come enjoy the ultimate Everglades National Park experience with the whole family! Browse through our airboat tours , including private rides and half-day tours , and book yours online today . It’s a day you’ll never forget!

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Everything you need to know about Everglades National Park

Plan your trip to the southern tip of Florida to visit the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

Why you should go to Everglades National Park

Sprawling between South Florida’s Lake Okeechobee and the Gulf of Mexico, the Everglades is one of the world’s largest tropical wetlands. About 20 percent of the region is protected within the confines of Everglades National Park , the third largest national park after Death Valley and Yellowstone in the lower 48 states. While the park’s main purpose is preserving wilderness, Everglades also provides plenty of scope for outdoor adventure.

Although technically a wetland , perhaps it’s best to think of the Everglades as the nation’s slowest, widest river—a constant stream of freshwater roughly 60 miles wide, moving at a speed of around 2.5 miles per day as it makes its way south to Florida Bay. The Seminole people called the region Okeechobee (“river of grass”). And while a large part of the Everglades is covered in razor-sharp sawgrass, the region also encompasses mangroves , tropical hardwood hammocks (island forests), pine and cypress forests, freshwater prairie, and various marine and estuarine habitats.

(This ambitious new trail will someday connect South Florida’s two national parks.)

“A visitor with an untrained eye—especially one used to the dramatic vistas of some western national parks—might arrive at Everglades National Park and think ‘What's the big deal?’” says Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades. “It's a park that requires you to really train your eye and be mindful and be present. When you do that, you can experience some really incredible and subtle nature.”

Where to find the best views in the park

With elevation ranging between sea level and eight feet, it’s not easy to snatch a lofty view of the park anywhere other than the 70-foot-high Shark Valley Observation Tower . Opened in 1984, the futuristic spiral renders views of up to 20 miles across the Everglades.

Fourteen miles west of Coe Visitor Center along the Main Park Road, the Pa-Hay-Okee boardwalk and elevated shade shelter provides another wide view across the river of grass.

One of the best coastal views is from the second-floor breezeway of the Guy Bradley Visitor Center in Flamingo.

Where to find the park’s best trails

Located near Coe Visitor Center, the Gumbo Limbo Trail (0.4 mile) and Anhinga Trail (0.8 mile) meander through Royal Palm hammock, while the 22-mile Long Pine Key Trails   penetrate the park’s largest stand of native pines.

Dead flat and paved, the 15-mile Shark Valley Trail varies between sawgrass marsh and tropical hardwood hammocks. Despite the name, there aren’t any sharks, just snoozing gators to step around (at a safe distance, of course).

Where to spot wildlife

Flamingo village is surprisingly good for wildlife. Osprey hatch and raise their young on nesting towers beside the marina, while manatees and American crocodile are sometimes spotted in the bay and nearby mangrove channels.

Alligators   routinely emerge from the swamp and sun themselves on or beside the Shark Valley Trail . It’s also a primo bird habitat for creepy-looking wood storks, gorgeous roseate spoonbills, and anhinga “snakebirds.”

Other places to watch gators and birdlife are the Anhinga Trail and Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk   in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park adjacent to the national park.

(Go on a wildlife odyssey through the Everglades and Key West.)

How to visit the park like a Nat Geo Explorer

National Geographic Young Explorer and conservation biologist Gabriela Tejeda has guided visitors along the park’s Florida Bay coast in boats, kayaks, and on paddleboards.

Her favorite way to explore inland areas is "slough slogging." It entails hiking in knee-to-waist-high water through sawgrass to reach secluded hardwood hammocks   or cypress domes —flora and fauna rich arboreal islands in the sawgrass.

When viewed from above, the domes form a rough circle around a pond. “What I didn’t know the first time I explored a dome,” Tejeda recalls, “is that the water in the middle is an ‘alligator hole’—a place where they hang out in the winter when the rest of the Everglades is drying out.”

“[The cypress domes] are unlike anything I had ever seen,” Tejeda continues. “I like to equate them to a fairy tale—a little fairy dome where you just feel like there’s going to be something magical flying around.” No fairy sightings so far. “But I always see owls and alligators and snakes.”

She highly recommends joining a ranger-led slough slog to Double Dome or other cypress domes along the Main Park Road.

Notable activities and excursions

Driving:   The Main Park Road runs through a variety of Everglades ecosystems—freshwater prairie, cypress forest, mangrove, and coastal marsh — on a 38-mile journey between the Coe Visitor Center and Flamingo . Along the way are sideroads to the Royal Palm trails, Historic Nike Missile Site , the   Mahogany Hammock boardwalk trail, and West Lake Boardwalk .

Tours:   Shark Valley offers two-hour narrated tram tours that stop at the Shark Valley Observation Tower. January through April, rangers lead Full Moon/New Moon Bike Rides and other activities.

Narrated boat tours depart from Flamingo and Everglades City . The latter is also homebase for private outfitters offering airboat tours, including Everglades City Airboat Tours. History buffs should visit the town’s small but interesting Museum of the Everglades .

Paddling:   Flamingo and Everglades City bookend the Everglades’ ultimate kayak/canoe experience —the Wilderness Waterway —a 99-mile meander through mangroves and marshes with raised platform “chickee hut” campsites along the way. Everglades City is also the starting point for self-guided paddles along the Turner River Canoe Trails .

Best things to do for families

Bikes & boats:   If keeping kids active is your mission, rent bikes and dodge snoozing alligators along the Shark Valley Tram Trail or explore Florida Bay and the mangroves by boat. Flamingo Adventures   offers canoe and kayak rentals in two-hour increments, as well as full-day pontoon boat rentals.

Tours:   Hop aboard a narrated boat tour of Florida Bay (from Flamingo Marina) or the Ten Thousand Islands (from Port Everglades); or feel the wind in your face during an adrenaline-pumping airboat ride from outfitters around the periphery of the park.

Junior Rangers:   Offered in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, the park’s Junior Ranger Booklet features hands-on and self-guided activities including a scavenger hunt to spot wild animals that call the park home.

The park also participates in the Every Kid Outdoors program that provides vouchers for fourth graders and their families in the U.S. to visit the Everglades (and other national parks) free of charge for an entire year.

Where to stay

Hotels: Destroyed by a hurricane in 2005, Flaming Lodge is open again with new waterview rooms. Outside the park, the closest hotels are in Homestead and Doral (on the eastern edge of the park) and Everglades City, Marco Island, and Naples (beyond the western edge).

Houseboats: Modern, six-person, 42-foot houseboats at Flamingo Marina are equipped with a bathroom (and with shower), an indoor galley, outside grill, air conditioning, bedding, and fish-cutting tables.

Camping: Long Pine Key Campground is open November 1 to April 30. Flamingo Campground is open year-round. Both feature bath houses, dump stations, and potable water. Reservations highly recommended. For camping with the comforts of home, Winter Glamping Tents are available November-April in Flamingo.

Wilderness camping is allowed on certain ground or beach sites or “chickees” (elevated camping platforms). Most sites are accessible only by water and all require wilderness permits. Reservations at Recreation.gov .

Here’s what else you need to know

Access: Although the entire coast is open to exploration via watercraft, land-bound visitors have three options for entering the park: Everglades Homestead in the east, Shark Valley in the north, and Gulf Coast in the northwest.

When to visit:   The dry season (December to March) is when most ranger programs and park concessions are available. This is also the best time to see wading birds and other wildlife. The wet season (April to November) is hot, humid, buggy, and has fewer park services.

“Many people prefer the winter for the terrific weather,” says ranger Allyson Gantt. “But each season offers something special. The shoulder seasons of fall and spring are less busy and may offer more solitude. Summer is especially great for boating and other water activities.”

Closures: A multi-year construction project to raise the level of the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) often features delays. Shark Valley parking is often full by 10 a.m. Check out the latest road, trail, and parking lot conditions, plus weather and prescribed burning alerts at the park’s   conditions page.  

Fishing: Unless you’re under 16 or a Florida resident 65 or older, a state fishing license is required. Anglers casting south of Nine Mile Pond need a saltwater fishing license; from Nine Mile Pond northwards, a freshwater fishing license is mandatory.

Swimming: Swimming and snorkeling are forbidden anywhere inside the park.

Remote control aircraft: Drones, model airplanes, and similar unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park.

Read before you go:   Originally published in 1947, the definitive Everglades book remains The Everglades: River of Grass ,   by Florida writer and conservationist Marjory Stoneman Douglas.

Are pets allowed?  

Because of the park’s wildlife-rich environment—and the potential threat that it poses to both pets and wild animals—pets and service animals are only allowed in parking lots, on boats, and in the campgrounds and picnic areas at Flamingo and Long Pine Key.

How accessible is Everglades?

Among the accessible sites and services are seven trails, all four visitors centers, two developed campgrounds and one backcountry campsite, narrated boat tours, and the Shark Valley Tram Tour. Visitor information via TDD is available at (305) 242-7740.

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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8 NATIONAL PARKS NEAR MIAMI, FLORIDA

A re you wondering what National Parks are near Miami, Florida? Don't worry we have you covered with all of the National Parks near Miami and some State Park suggestions too.

National Parks near Miami

Miami Dade County is home to Biscayne National Park along with some great Florida State Parks.

From Downtown Miami you can reach a National Park pretty quickly and be in one of our national treasures.

Each of these South Florida parks is within a day's drive of the Miami-Dade County area. 

Miami is known for South Beach, great food, epic clubs, and beach time but some of the best parks in the National Park System can be reached easily. 

If you are visiting the City of Miami area, Fort Lauderdale, Florida City, or surrounding communities these national parks are near you! 

Biscayne National Park

Distance from - 38 miles

Top Attractions - Maritime Heritage Trail, hiking trails, white sand beaches, Elliott Key, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, boat tour, and fishing

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges in Biscayne National Park

Camping-  There are two campgrounds in Biscayne National Park; both are on islands.

Park Address - 9700 SW 328th Street Sir Lancelot Jones Way Homestead, FL 33033

One of the most exciting things to do here is to check out the Maritime Heritage Trail, a snorkeling and diving trail that showcases six shipwrecks and an abundance of colorful marine life. And don't forget to explore the park's mangrove forests, which are home to all kinds of cool birds and wildlife.

The park is teeming with a variety of plant and animal species, and its clear blue waters make it an excellent place for all kinds of water activities, including swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.

You can take a guided boat tour to get the lay of the land, or if you prefer to keep your feet on dry ground, walk along the trails or relax on the white sand beaches.

Head out on a Stiltsville Boat Tour in the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay to see these historic buildings. Look for West Indian Manatee and more in one of the largest marine parks. 

Take a Boca Chita Key boat tour to see the lighthouse and epic views of Miami in the distance. 

Scuba dive the coral reefs and coastal waters looking for sea turtles, manatees, and tropical fish. 

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a chill escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Biscayne National Park has got you covered. Come on down and experience the beauty of this amazing destination for yourself!

The Dante Fascell Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your visit. 

Everglades National Park 

Distance from - 48 miles

Top Attractions -  wildlife viewing , bird watching, boat tours, fishing, hiking trails, kayaking, and a World Heritage Site. 

Lodging - Apart from the camping grounds and Flamingo Lodge, the Everglades do not provide any other options for overnight lodging.

Camping-  Camping is a year-round activity in Florida, and inside Everglades National Park, there are two options: Flamingo and Long Pine Key campsites

Park Address - 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034

Everglades National Park is a premier attraction in Florida, drawing millions of visitors every year. Spanning over 1.5 million acres, the park provides visitors with a rare opportunity to explore a distinct landscape featuring an impressive diversity of flora and fauna.

Numerous hiking trails, boardwalks, and waterways throughout the park offer opportunities to observe indigenous wildlife. Visitors can also engage in a range of activities such as kayaking, boating, and fishing.

Make sure to walk along the Anhinga Trail to see alligators, birds, and more! This is one of the best National Parks for wildlife watching. 

Everglades Boat Tours is a fantastic opportunity to explore different areas of the park. 

The Shark Valley Tram Tour takes you out into the park and provides the opportunity to learn more about one of the largest subtropical wilderness areas. The guided tour is relaxing and a great way to learn more about the park. 

If you are really lucky you may see the elusive Florida Panther. 

For history enthusiasts, the park houses several archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into the lifestyles of the Calusa Indians who once inhabited the area.

Everglades NP is the third largest National Park in the contiguous United States after Death Valley and Yellowstone. 

Overall, Everglades National Park is a must-see destination for its unique, unparalleled experience that is unmatched by any other location worldwide.

Big Cypress National Preserve  

Distance from - 58 miles

Top Attractions - a scenic drive along the Tamiami Trail, hiking trails, The Loop Road, fishing, airboat rides, kayaking, and wildlife viewing

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park

Camping-  There are eight front country National Park Service campgrounds available at Big Cypress National Preserve.

Park Address - Nathaniel P. Reed Visitor Center 33000 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, Florida 34141

Big Cypress National Preserve in southern Florida is a breathtaking natural treasure that both nature enthusiasts and adventurers should explore.

The Loop Road is also well-liked and offers the chance to witness black bears and Florida panthers. Explore the marshes, prairies, and woodlands along the Tamiami Trail, go on a hike in the swamp, or spot alligators and many bird species in this amazing habitat.  

Fishing, airboat rides, and kayaking are available to water sports lovers. If you want to see Florida's wildlife up close and personal, this place should be at the top of your list.

Big Cypress National Preserve is the ideal location whether you're looking for adventure or simply want to take in the breathtaking beauty of nature.

Big Cypress is one of our favorite National Parks near Miami . It is so worth spending time exploring. 

Canaveral National Seashore 

Distance from - 210 miles

Top Attractions - lagoons and wildlife. swimming, fishing, hiking, surfing, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing

Lodging - There are no National Park lodges within the park 

Camping-  Primitive camping can be found on an island in Mosquito Lagoon, which can be reached through the Apollo Beach District or through nearby boat ramps.

Park Address - 212 S Washington Ave, Titusville, FL 32796, United States

Canaveral National Seashore, located on Florida's east coast, is a breathtaking nature reserve sprawling over 57,000 acres, home to beautiful beaches, serene lagoons, and thriving wildlife.

The reserve offers diverse activities, including swimming, fishing, hiking, surfing, bird watching, and wildlife spotting, catering to everyone's interests.

The habitats are unique, preserving soft ocean beaches, rolling dunes, marshes, mangrove forests, and hardwood hammocks, giving a safe haven to many endangered plant and animal species.

This ecological destination is significant, attracting visitors to observe and appreciate the natural environment. Exploring the Canaveral National Seashore will undoubtedly be a memorable and educational experience for all visitors enjoying Florida's magnificent coastline.

De Soto National Memorial 

Distance from - 248 miles

Top Attractions - archaeological exhibits, educational programs, and hiking trails 

Lodging - De Soto National Memorial does not offer any lodging within its site.

Camping-  Camping facilities are not available at De Soto National Memorial. The park premises are off-limits to the public during nighttime hours, from sunset to sunrise.

Park Address - 8300 Desoto Memorial Hwy, Bradenton, FL 34209, US

The De Soto National Memorial in Bradenton, Florida, pays homage to the first organized European exploration of the United States led by Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto in 1539.

Established in 1948, this national monument is a tribute to de Soto's incredible journey through the Southeastern United States.

The visitor center features fascinating archaeological exhibits and an indoor theater, while the reconstructed 16th-century village provides a vivid glimpse into the daily lives of the native people who crossed paths with the Spanish.

Guided tours, educational programs, and hiking trails with picturesque views of the surrounding area are also available for visitors to enjoy.

By celebrating the cultural and historical significance of the people encountered by de Soto, the De Soto National Memorial offers a unique perspective on this important period in American history.

Fort Matanzas National Monument 

Distance from -- 298 miles

Top Attractions - living history, fishing, nature trails, boat tour, stunning views, and coastal wildlife

Lodging - There are no National Park lodges within the park

Camping-  Fort Matanzas National Monument does not offer camping within the park grounds. However, there are several camping grounds located nearby for those who wish to explore the park and its surrounding areas.

Park Address - 8635 A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Fort Matanzas National Monument is a must-see attraction for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Located on Florida's east coast, visitors can explore the fort and learn about its role in defending the city of St. Augustine during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The fort itself is a unique example of Spanish colonial military architecture and features stunning views of the surrounding salt marshes and coastal wildlife.

Visitors can also take a boat tour to nearby Rattlesnake Island to explore the pristine beaches and natural beauty of the area.

Castillo De San Marcos National Monument  

Distance from -- 312 miles

Top Attractions - historic weapons and demonstrations, stunning views, and amazing sunsets

Lodging - There is no lodging available within the Castillo De San Marcos National Monument

Camping-   The Castillo de San Marcos does not have any designated camping areas

Park Address - 11 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084, USA

The Castillo De San Marcos National Monument in St. Augustine, Florida is a popular spot for those who love history and architecture. Built in the late 1600s using coquina, a local sedimentary rock, this impressive construction boasts multiple rooms and corridors that visitors can explore. Interesting features include the gun deck and chapel.

Throughout the year, the fort offers demonstrations and reenactments that give guests a chance to experience life as it was for soldiers and civilians during its active years.

Not only is the fort historically significant, but visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the marshland and waterfront.

If you're looking for an unforgettable experience full of history and architecture, consider adding the Castillo De San Marcos National Monument to your itinerary.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Distance From - 165 miles to Key West, then you will need to take the Dry Tortugas Ferry or a float plane to the island. 

Top Attractions - Historic Fort Jefferson, Snorkeling, Dry Tortugas Ferry, Bird Watching. 

Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges in the park. 

Camping - Dry Tortugas Camping offers the opportunity to camp on a remote island. It is a bucket list experience. 

Park Address - The park address is the main park office not the location for the visitor center which is located on Garden Key.

Dry Tortugas National Park is located almost 70 miles from Key West. The park includes 100 square miles of water and seven small islands. 

The only way to reach the park is via seaplane or a boat (private or the Dry Tortugas Ferry). While it can be an adventure to reach the park it is well worth it!

Seeing Fort Jefferson in the distance from the ferry is awe-inspiring. Once you reach the island it is amazing to think of people living so far away from the mainland of Florida.

This park is the polar opposite of the hustle and bustle of downtown Miami and South Beach. Here you can enjoy a peaceful day wandering the fort, snorkeling, and soaking in epic views.

Florida State Parks near Miami

There are quite a few Florida State Parks near Miami that are well worth visiting. 

• Marjory Stoneman Douglas House
• The Barnacle Historic State Park
• Oleta River State Park
• Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
• Collier-Seminole State Park

A little farther south heading toward Key West you will find the following Florida State Parks

• Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
• Bahia Honda State Park 
• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
• Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
• Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
• Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
• Long Key State Park
• Curry Hammock State Park
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Frequently Asked Questions about Miami National Parks

What is the closest National Park to Miami?

The closest National Park near Miami is Biscayne National Park. A close second is Everglades National Park located near the city of Homestead, Florida.

What activities are available in Miami National Parks?

The epic National Parks near Miami offers the opportunity to enjoy guided boat tours, hiking, wildlife and bird watching, snorkeling and scuba diving, beach time, and so much more.

Are there entrance fees to visit Miami National Parks?

Yes and No, Biscayne National Park does not have an entrance fee and is free to visit.

Everglades National Park along with Dry Tortugas National Park both have an entrance fee.

Planning a National Park vacation? America the Beautiful/National Park Pass covers entrance fees for an entire year to all US National Park Sites and over 2,000 Federal Recreation Fee Sites.

The park pass covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites and for up to 4 adults for per-person sites.

Buy on  REI.com  and REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.

Free Entrance Days  -Mark your calendars with the five free entrance days the National Park Service offers annually. 

What is the best time of year to visit these national park sites?

We all know summer in South Florida means hot humid days. These can be the perfect day for taking a boat tour or heading out snorkeling or scuba diving.

If you are interested in wildlife we suggest visiting in the early morning so the weather is cooler and the wildlife is more abundant.

Winter is a fantastic time to visit. There are fewer mosquitoes and the weather is cooler. That being said winter is the busiest time of year for tourism so the parks may be crowded.

We hope you enjoy visiting these amazing National Parks near Miami, Florida! Let us know your favorite park to visit. 

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Oil drilling has endured in the Everglades for decades. Now, Miccosukee Tribe has a plan to stop it

Within a thicket of the Big Cypress National Preserve, established a half-century ago to protect the marshes and sloughs here that make up a vital part of the Florida Everglades, a series of wells extracts oil from more than two miles underground.

The oil field is situated deep within a pine forest of the preserve—the first in the country—which channels more than 40 percent of the water flowing into Everglades National Park and shelters iconic and imperiled species like the fabled ghost orchid and Florida panther, the official state animal. The wells penetrate thousands of feet beneath an underground aquifer, an important drinking water source, and draw up oil from the so-called Sunniland trend, a reserve stretching across southwest Florida from Miami to Fort Myers, although most of the reserve is situated beneath Big Cypress.

READ MORE: There's a new plan to end decades of drilling in Big Cypress

For decades oil production has endured in this corner of the fragile Everglades, a watershed that spans much of the peninsula and is the focus of a $21 billion federal and state restoration effort, one of the most ambitious in human history. Big Cypress is among some 10 percent of federally protected lands nationwide where the government owns the surface terrain while private entities retain the mineral rights underneath.

“Big Cypress National Preserve is very sacred to us,” said Talbert Cypress, elected chairman of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, a federally recognized tribal nation located in the Everglades. “We have a lot of ceremonial grounds that have been in Big Cypress National Preserve, burial grounds, places where we gather our traditional medicine. So just seeing that sort of damage in a place that really matters to us a lot, it’s sad to see it.”

Now the Miccosukees, longtime environmental stewards in Florida who perhaps most notably helped steer stringent water quality standards for their sacred river of grass, have a plan for phasing out oil drilling within Big Cypress.

The tribe has joined with WildLandscapes International, a nonprofit land conservation group, to engineer a multi-million-dollar deal with the Collier family, which owns the vast majority of the mineral rights beneath the preserve. If the agreement is finalized, the family would give up the mineral rights associated with some 465,000 acres to the federal government.

“Unfortunately I cannot share. It’s under a non-disclosure,” said David Houghton, director of WildLandscapes International, when asked about the details. “The deal includes all the lands that the Colliers own the mineral rights on, minus what they currently have under lease.”

The proposal comes amid interest in expanding oil exploration and development within Big Cypress, even as rising global temperatures associated with fossil fuel emissions represent yet another threat to the Everglades, a watershed responsible for the drinking water of some 9 million Floridians. Most recently a Texas oil and gas company submitted a permit application to the National Park Service for two new sites within the preserve.

“We think we’ve got a deal here. We don’t know that, but we think,” Houghton said. “We’ll get a number, and that number either will work or it won’t—and I think it will.”

The Everglades are Florida’s most important freshwater resource. The watershed spans central and south Florida, encompassing the Kissimmee River, Lake Okeechobee, sawgrass prairies to the south and Florida Bay. It includes several federal- and state-protected lands including the Everglades Headwaters National Wildlife Refuge, Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park. Various efforts over the last century to drain the Everglades, the largest steered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, have made modern Florida possible and left the river of grass drastically altered.

The Humble Oil and Refining Company, a predecessor of ExxonMobil, discovered oil in Southwest Florida in 1943, after the governor and cabinet at the time offered a $50,000 reward to those who first found oil in the state.

Today Florida is responsible for less than 0.04 percent of the nation’s oil production, according to a report the Conservation Economics Institute, a nonprofit research organization, prepared for the Natural Resources Defense Council. The industry employs fewer than a thousand members of the state’s workforce and accounts for $25.4 million or 0.0002 percent of its gross domestic product. A separate study by the American Petroleum Institute concluded the oil and natural gas industry contributes nearly $22.1 billion to the Florida economy and supports nearly 266,800 jobs.

The vast majority of the state’s oil production occurs in the Panhandle, according to the Conservation Economics report. The two oil fields within Big Cypress, Bear Island and Raccoon Point, together were responsible for 585 barrels a day in 2020, about one-seventh of the state’s daily total. Oil was discovered at Bear Island, which is located partially within the preserve, in 1972, before the preserve was established, and production began a year later. At Raccoon Point, southeast of Bear Island, oil was detected in 1978. Production began in 1981, and the field was expanded in 1992.

Big Cypress was established in 1974. Two years later the Collier family, for whom Collier County, where a large portion of the preserve is situated, is named, conveyed 76,790 acres to the National Park Service to help create the preserve, with the family maintaining the underground mineral rights. The Colliers can trace their family tree to the early 20th century advertising magnate Barron Gift Collier, at the time the largest landowner in Florida. In 1996 the family conveyed an additional 83,000 acres to the National Park Service to expand Big Cypress. Today Big Cypress encompasses more than 700,000 acres, including much of the western Everglades.

In 2003 the federal government agreed to purchase the Colliers’ mineral rights for $120 million, but the purchase fell through. At the time various appraisals valued their mineral rights beneath Big Cypress, the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge and Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge at between $5 million and $475 million.

The oil here is of the heavy-sour variety, with a consistency of liquid tar, according to a website of the Collier Resources Company, which manages the family’s mineral holdings. When refined, the oil is used in auto, aviation and diesel fuels, lube oils and asphalt. Edward Glab, director of the Global Energy Security Forum in the School of International and Public Affairs at Florida International University, characterized the oil as not high-grade or worth a lot of money. Multiple phone calls to the Collier Resources Company were not returned.

“To me it makes no sense drilling for oil anywhere in the Everglades,” Glab said. “It just doesn’t because the reserves are simply not going to be there to justify that sort of investment.”

“It’s a lot of trouble for something that’s not producing a ton of oil, and it’s not like premium-grade oil. It’s like machinery oil, the kind used for heavy machinery,” said Cypress, chairman of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. “For us when we see the amount of work that goes into the extraction, the damage that they do, it doesn’t seem worth it.”

Acidizing rather than fracking is more likely to be used in Florida to extract oil because of the state’s geology, which is characterized by porous limestone that harbors underground aquifers, according to the Conservation Economics report. Acidizing involves injecting the oil-bearing rock formations with a mixture of acid, water and other chemicals, dissolving the formations and allowing the oil to flow more easily to the well. Some 93 percent of the state’s population depends on groundwater for drinking water, far more than any other state in the nation.

Wastewater from such techniques can contain pollutants and threaten the groundwater, although the Collier family says multiple precautions are taken throughout the drilling process to protect the sensitive environment here, according to the Collier Resources Company website. For instance, to safeguard the aquifers a series of steel casings and thick layer of cement surround all oil-producing wells. At the well sites a limestone pad is constructed with a berm around it to prevent stormwater runoff from carrying pollutants into the environment. The pads also include a liner to protect the groundwater. The Collier family website also says water sampling has revealed no evidence of groundwater contamination.

But spills have occurred. A spill at Raccoon Point in October 2018, caused by corrosion in a production well, released 2,000 gallons of wastewater mixed with oil. The operator at the time, under lease with the Collier family, said the fluids stayed within a bermed area, and most of the fluids were recovered, according to a Florida Department of Environmental Protection report .

“There’s just so many potential damages that can happen here, and when it’s such a small amount of oil that’s being produced it does not make economic sense,” said Evan E. Hjerpe, executive director of the Conservation Economics Institute and author of the report. “It’s kind of an antiquated or artifact of previous times, and it would benefit the public much greater to move forward without having these potential risks going on.”

'The reason we survived'

For hundreds of years the Miccosukee people hunted, fished and held religious ceremonies among the soaring cypress swamps and sweeping sawgrass prairies of Big Cypress. During the First and Second Seminole Wars, in the first half of the 19th century, they were pushed deep within the watery wilderness and found sanctuary on the tree islands scattered here.

“We have a mother-child relationship with the Everglades because it helped us survive the removal era as well as the termination era, and so without it we would not exist as a sovereign entity. We would have either been annihilated or removed to the West,” said Curtis Osceola, chief of staff for the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida. “Our land is the reason we survived. It is the reason why we’re here, and so we have a duty to the land that once protected us. And so that’s what it is to be Miccosukee, is to serve and protect the lands of our environment.”

Today most of the 600-member tribe lives on tribal lands within Everglades National Park, although some 100 to 200 Miccosukees, members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida and other native people of Miccosukee and Seminole heritage live in 15 villages within Big Cypress. About eight of the communities, as well as a school, are situated downstream from Raccoon Point, raising concerns that spilled oil could flow in their direction, affecting surface water and the underground aquifer, which some residents have tapped with residential wells. Osceola said back when Big Cypress was established and the Collier family maintained the underground mineral rights, the Miccosukees were left out of the negotiations.

“Part of our culture tells us that the land should rest, and those fluids beneath the land should go undisturbed. That includes natural gas, oil, things like that,” he said. “So the extraction of oil is a very unnatural act.”

Oil drilling within Big Cypress is the latest environmental issue the tribe has taken up. After the federal government sued the state in the 1980s over water pollution in Everglades National Park and the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, the Miccosukees got involved in the issue as defenders of the river of grass. The litigation led to a monumental state cleanup effort, which remains in progress today.

The tribe’s pending deal with the Colliers would halt all future drilling within Big Cypress, although existing production could continue at least for now. The agreement likely would upend a plan for two new sites in Big Cypress that Burnett Oil Co., Inc., an oil and gas company based in Fort Worth, Texas, is pursuing.

In 2017 and 2018, Burnett, under a lease with the Collier family, conducted an off-road seismic survey of 110 square miles of Big Cypress. The survey involved applying vibrating plates to the ground and sending seismic signals deep beneath the surface to map potential oil. To access the remote area, 33-ton vibroseis trucks were used. The hefty vehicles sank into the soft, water-soaked soils, leaving deep ruts, consequential in an ecosystem where the boundary between land and water is blurred and inches of elevation can mean vast differences in habitat. The effort also harmed slow-growing mature dwarf cypress trees. As many as 500 of the trees were cut down to allow the trucks to move through the area, according to a 2023 report by the National Parks Conservation Association.

“This would be creating brand new fossil fuel infrastructure in a time where we need to be transitioning away from that.” Christina Reichart, senior attorney in the Florida office of Earthjustice

Six years later the landscape has not recovered, the report said. The survey left lasting scars including soil compaction and deep twisting furrows, and almost none of the felled cypress trees has shown signs of regrowth. The National Parks Conservation Association wants the National Park Service to compel Burnett to replant the trees and address the other problems. Burnett did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

The two new sites Burnett is proposing would be similar to that at Raccoon Point, according to the company’s permit application to the National Park Service. The document said the project is designed to minimize environmental impacts and avoid historical, cultural and archeological resources, including Miccosukee and Seminole areas.

If the National Park Service were to approve Burnett’s plan, that would contradict the Biden administration’s demonstrated commitment to confront climate change, said Christina Reichart, senior attorney in the Florida office of Earthjustice, a nonprofit litigating environmental issues.

“It doesn’t match up to the promises that we’re hearing and the focus that this administration should be having on fighting the climate crisis. This would be creating brand new fossil fuel infrastructure in a time where we need to be transitioning away from that,” she said. “Wetlands are carbon sinks. One of the things they do is absorb carbon from the atmosphere and store it. So it doesn’t make sense to destroy wetlands and then build fossil fuel infrastructure.”

Hjerpe of the Conservation Economics Institute said closing an oil well can be difficult and costly, sometimes making it more advantageous to continue operating the well even when the oil is not of the highest quality. He said it is possible Burnett’s lease agreement with the Collier family mandated exploration plans or focused on increasing new development.

“When you see the path forward, and there’s certainly potential for a buy-out of your minerals and buy-out of your operations, then it completely makes financial sense to make sure that you are heavily invested in the area and that you keep producing and illustrating the value and increasing the value of your operations,” he said.

Climate change associated with fossil fuel emissions is poised to have a big impact on the Everglades. Rising temperatures will increase evaporation, stressing the watershed that already is pressured by explosive population growth and development. The hotter temperatures also will lead to precipitation changes, raising concerns about whether the water management infrastructure here, some of the most complex in the world, is up to future challenges.

The agreement involving the Miccosukees, Colliers and WildLandscapes International includes three phases. Under the first phase, completed last year, the Collier family sold 11,141 acres including the mineral rights, to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and South Florida Water Management District. The second phase, focused on the mineral rights beneath Big Cypress, still faces several steps, said Houghton of WildLandscapes International.

“The way the deal is set up we have a floor value, and if the appraisal meets that or above then the Colliers are obligated to sell,” he said. “If the appraisal is below, the Colliers could get out.”

If the agreement moves forward, Congress would appropriate the funding, which could take a few more years. The money would come from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a federal program that puts earnings from offshore oil and gas leasing toward land conservation. The third phase involves land near Everglades City, a small town outside of Big Cypress.

Cypress, chairman of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, said future plans go further. Eventually the tribe wants to stop all oil drilling within Big Cypress for good.

“Florida is going to need more freshwater, more drinking water, and we don’t have that without the Everglades,” he said. “It matters to everybody in Florida.”

This story was produced in partnership with the Florida Climate Reporting Network, a multi-newsroom initiative founded by the Miami Herald, the South Florida Sun Sentinel, The Palm Beach Post, the Orlando Sentinel, WLRN Public Media and the Tampa Bay Times. Copyright 2024 WUSF 89.7. To see more, visit WUSF 89.7 .

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Miccosukee Tribe member faces federal charges after shooting on reservation

Amanda Batchelor , Digital Executive Producer

Chris Gothner , Digital Journalist

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A Miccosukee Tribe member appeared in federal court in Fort Lauderdale Monday after he was arrested in connection with a shooting, the U.S. Department of Justice announced Tuesday in a news release.

According to court documents, Sutanga Rex Cypress, 42, is charged with assault with intent to commit murder, assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury.

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According to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue dispatch records, the shooting happened at around 3:30 p.m. last Friday on the reservation, located in the Everglades off the Tamiami Trail.

Medics airlifted the victim to a Miami-Dade trauma center, according to MDFR. Miccosukee police said in a statement posted to X that the victim was “stable.”

According to court documents, Cypress was arguing with the victim outside his home when he pulled out a gun, pointed it at the victim and then shot the victim in the abdomen.

It’s unclear what the two were arguing about prior to the shooting, but part of the altercation was captured on cellphone video, authorities confirmed.

If convicted, Cypress faces up to 20 years in federal prison.

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About the Authors

Amanda batchelor.

Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.

Chris Gothner

Chris Gothner joined the Local 10 News team in 2022 as a Digital Journalist.

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