Boca Chita Key

The stone lighthouse on Boca Chita is the island's signature feature, but it was never an official aid to navigation. It was built in the 1930s by industrialist Mark Honeywell, who owned the island as a private getaway, as an ornamental structure to enhance his island retreat. The Coast Guard reportedly required its light be extinguished, since it was not an authorized navigation aid.

Today the picturesque lighthouse is a beloved landmark, and when it is open, visitors can climb the spiral stairs to the top for a view over the island, the harbor, and the water toward Miami. It gives Boca Chita its distinctive, storybook character.

Boca Chita Key can only be reached by boat, since there is no ferry service, so most visitors arrive on private boats or, at times, on ranger-led boat trips or tours. Boaters tie up in the small harbor to spend the day or camp overnight in the grassy area, enjoying picnics and the views.

The island has restrooms but no fresh water, no store, and limited facilities, so visitors must bring everything they need, including water, food, and supplies, and pack out their trash. With its history, harbor, lighthouse, and skyline views, Boca Chita rewards the effort of getting there by boat with a delightful island experience.

The closest Boutel™ stays, so you can turn this stop into an overnight. Each is a place we chose through independent editorial review, never a paid placement.

Boca Chita Key is a small island in Biscayne National Park, Florida, best known for its ornamental stone lighthouse, built in the 1930s by wealthy industrialist Mark Honeywell as a decorative feature for his private island retreat, rather than as a working navigation aid. Reached only by boat, the key has a snug harbor, a grassy picnic and camping area, and sweeping views of the distant Miami skyline across the water. Today it is a popular spot in the park for boaters, who tie up to picnic, camp, and climb the lighthouse when it is open. With its quirky history, pretty setting, and mix of wild island and city-skyline views, Boca Chita is a charming and memorable stop in the park.

Yes, when it is open, visitors can climb the Boca Chita lighthouse. The ornamental stone tower has a spiral staircase leading to a viewing area at the top, from which you can enjoy views over the island, the harbor, and the water toward the Miami skyline. However, the lighthouse is not always open; access depends on staffing and park operations, and it may be open only at certain times or during ranger-led visits. Because of this, it is a good idea to check current information with the park before your trip if climbing the lighthouse is important to you. Even when the tower is closed, the picturesque lighthouse is a highlight to admire from the outside, and the island's harbor, picnic areas, and skyline views make Boca Chita worth visiting regardless.

Boca Chita Key can only be reached by boat, as there is no bridge or regular ferry service to the island. Most visitors arrive on their own private boats, tying up in the island's small harbor. At times, the park or concessioners may offer ranger-led boat trips or tours to the island, which is a good option for those without a boat, though availability varies, so it is worth checking current offerings with the park. Because the island has limited facilities, with restrooms but no fresh water or store, visitors must bring everything they need, including water, food, and supplies, and carry out their trash. Boaters should also be prepared for open-water conditions in Biscayne Bay and check the weather before heading out to this lovely but remote island.

Yes, camping is allowed on Boca Chita Key, and it is a popular way to enjoy the island. Campers pitch tents in the grassy area near the harbor and lighthouse, spending the night on this small island with views of the water and the distant Miami skyline, which is especially beautiful when the city lights come on after dark. Camping is primitive: the island has restrooms but no fresh water, no showers, and no store, so campers must bring all their own water, food, and supplies and pack out everything they bring in. Camping fees and any permit requirements apply, and because you can only reach the island by boat, you will need your own boat or arranged transportation. Checking current camping rules, fees, and conditions with the park before your trip is recommended.