Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park protects the southernmost tip of Key Biscayne, offering visitors a rare glimpse of natural Florida coastline and maritime history. The park's centerpiece is the iconic Cape Florida Lighthouse, built in 1825 and the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. This beautifully restored beacon stands 95 feet tall and welcomes visitors to climb its spiral staircase for panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and the surrounding keys.

The park encompasses over 440 acres of diverse habitats, including pristine sandy beaches, mangrove forests, and shallow bay waters. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing and swimming along the Atlantic-facing shores, or explore the quieter bay side where calm waters are ideal for wading and observing coastal wildlife. Well-maintained trails wind through the park's natural areas, providing opportunities for walking, photography, and nature study.

Recreation options range from fishing and picnicking to snorkeling and wildlife viewing. The park's beaches are consistently ranked among South Florida's cleanest and least crowded. Whether you're interested in climbing the historic lighthouse, relaxing on pristine sand, or immersing yourself in coastal ecosystems, Bill Baggs offers an accessible retreat from urban Key Biscayne.

The park supports diverse coastal wildlife including wading birds such as herons, egrets, and roseate spoonbills, along with ospreys and bald eagles. Marine life in the shallow bays includes mullet, snapper, and various crustaceans. The mangrove shorelines provide critical nursery habitat for fish and serve as nesting sites for seabirds. Manatees and dolphins occasionally visit the bay waters, while terrestrial species like raccoons and rabbits inhabit the island's interior. Sea turtles nest on the beaches seasonally, and the clear waters support seagrass beds and coral formations.

• Visit the lighthouse during daylight hours; climbing typically closes at sunset and requires walking 95 steps up a narrow spiral staircase. • Arrive early on weekends and holidays, as the park has limited parking and fills quickly during peak season (November–April). • Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially during warmer months when mosquitoes are active in mangrove areas. • Pack snacks or plan a picnic; there is a small concession area but limited food options. • Check weather and water conditions before visiting, and note that some park facilities may close during hurricane season.