Boca Chita Light

Boca Chita Lighthouse: A Historic Icon of Biscayne National Park

Boca Chita Key, located in Biscayne National Park, is a popular destination for boaters and nature enthusiasts. The key is home to the iconic Boca Chita Lighthouse, which was built by Mark Honeywell in the 1930s. The lighthouse is a historic landmark that has been guiding boats to the beauty and wonders of the park for many years.

The Boca Chita Lighthouse is an ornamental 65-foot tower that sits on the island's northwestern section, facing Biscayne Bay. The lighthouse is one of the three historic buildings that make up the Boca Chita Key Historic District. The district is delimited by Biscayne Bay in the north and west and a half-ruined stone wall on its southern side.

Visitors to the lighthouse can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The harbor has a bulkhead with cleats where boats may be tied, making it easy for visitors to access the lighthouse. While there are no facilities on the island, visitors can camp at the key's campground and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

History of Boca Chita Lighthouse

Boca Chita Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on Boca Chita Key, which is part of the Biscayne National Park in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The lighthouse was built by Mark Honeywell, a wealthy industrialist, in 1938. Honeywell purchased the island in 1937 and named it "Boca Chita," which means "little mouth" in Spanish.

The lighthouse was designed by architect Jesse Wallace, who also designed Honeywell's estate in Minnesota. The tower is 65 feet tall and has a focal plane of 75 feet above sea level. The light was originally powered by a diesel generator, but it was later converted to solar power.

The lighthouse played an important role in guiding ships through the shallow waters of Biscayne Bay. It was also used as a lookout during World War II. In the 1950s, the island was owned by Baruch Sailing, who rode out a hurricane in the lighthouse. Hurricane Andrew swept over the island in 1992, causing extensive damage to the lighthouse and other structures on the island.

Today, the lighthouse is part of the Boca Chita Key Historic District, which contains several historic structures, including the chapel and the open-air picnic pavilion. The stone wall and cannon are also notable features of the district. The island is a popular destination for boaters and campers, but there is no drinking water or electricity on the island.

Overall, Boca Chita Lighthouse is an important historical landmark in Miami-Dade County and a testament to the engineering and architectural skills of its builders.

Boca Chita Key and Surroundings

Boca Chita Key is a small island located in Biscayne Bay, just north of Sands Key. It is a part of the Biscayne National Park and is a popular tourist destination. The island is known for its iconic and historic lighthouse, which was built by Mark Honeywell in the 1930s. The lighthouse is 65 feet tall and is an ornamental structure that guides boats to the beauty and wonders of the park.

The key is the most visited island in the park, and it includes a campground. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, camping, and other outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that there is no drinking water or electricity, sales facilities, sinks, or showers available on the island. Visitors are advised to pack out all trash.

The harbor at Boca Chita Key has a bulkhead with cleats where boats may be tied. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the island, and as visitors approach Boca Chita, the first thing they see is the lighthouse overlooking the small harbor where the boat drops them off. Normally, visitors have about an hour to enjoy the surroundings.

The Boca Chita Key Historic District covers an area of 110 acres within the larger Biscayne National Park of 180,000 acres. The district is bounded on the southern and western border by the Biscayne Bay and the remnant of a stone wall. The key is surrounded by water, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of the bay and the other islands in the area.

Overall, Boca Chita Key is a beautiful and historic island that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Biscayne Bay. With its iconic lighthouse, hiking trails, and camping facilities, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Lighthouse Structure

The Boca Chita lighthouse is an iconic structure that was built by Mark Honeywell in the 1930s. It is the most visited island in the Biscayne National Park and a popular destination for tourists and boaters. The lighthouse stands tall at 65 feet and is a significant landmark in the area.

The lighthouse structure consists of four levels, including an observation deck at the top. The observation deck provides a panoramic view of the surrounding area, including the ocean and the nearby islands. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to reach the observation deck and enjoy the breathtaking view from the top.

The foundation of the lighthouse is made of concrete and rests on a shallow bedrock. The foundation provides stability to the structure, ensuring that it can withstand the harsh weather conditions and the strong ocean currents. Over the years, the foundation has undergone several repairs to ensure that the lighthouse remains standing.

One of the most notable features of the lighthouse structure is the lantern room. The lantern room houses the light that guides boats to the beauty and wonders of the park. The lantern room also includes a mechanism that rotates the light, ensuring that it covers a 360-degree area and is visible from all directions.

Unfortunately, the lighthouse has suffered some damage over the years due to prolonged exposure to the harsh environment. The iron railings on top of the lighthouse are damaged and in need of repair. The structure is currently closed to the public for safety reasons until the repairs are complete.

Rust is also a problem that has affected the lighthouse structure. Rust can weaken the metal components of the structure, making it vulnerable to damage and collapse. Regular maintenance and repair work are necessary to prevent rust and ensure that the lighthouse remains standing for years to come.

Boca Chita in Biscayne National Park

Boca Chita Key is a popular island located in Biscayne National Park, Miami-Dade County, Florida. The key is situated in Biscayne Bay, just north of Sands Key. The island is home to an ornamental 65-foot lighthouse built by Mark Honeywell in the 1930s, which is the most visited attraction on the island.

Visitors to the island should be aware that there is no drinking water or electricity, sales facilities, sinks, or showers. They are advised to pack out all trash to keep the island clean and pristine. Boca Chita Key also includes a campground where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

The Biscayne National Park Institute provides eco-adventures, including snorkeling at a shipwreck on the Maritime Heritage Trail and colorful coral reefs full of life, cruises to Boca Chita Key and lighthouse, sailing on beautiful Biscayne Bay, exploring the seldom seen wonders of Jones Lagoon, and more. Visitors can enjoy these guided tours to explore the island and learn about its history and culture.

Biscayne National Park is a national park located in southern Florida, and it is the largest marine park in the National Park Service. The park covers approximately 172,971 acres, and it is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including manatees, sea turtles, and over 500 species of fish. The park is also home to several shipwrecks that are part of the Maritime Heritage Trail.

In conclusion, Boca Chita Key is a beautiful island located in Biscayne National Park, and it is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting southern Florida. Visitors can enjoy guided tours provided by the Biscayne National Park Institute to explore the island and learn about its history and culture.

Visiting Boca Chita Lighthouse

Boca Chita Lighthouse is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and wonders of Biscayne National Park. The lighthouse, built by Mark Honeywell in the 1930s, is an iconic and historic landmark that guides boats to the park.

Visitors can reach the lighthouse by boat, and there are several tour operators that offer guided tours and cruises to the island. Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, to secure a spot on the boat.

Once on the island, visitors can explore the lighthouse up close and hike the short trail to get a panoramic view of the bay. Naturalists are available to provide information about the history of the park and the surrounding areas.

It's important to note that there are no facilities on the island, including drinking water and electricity, sales facilities, sinks, or showers. Visitors are advised to pack out all trash and bring their own supplies. The key includes a campground for those who want to stay overnight.

Overall, visiting Boca Chita Lighthouse is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the rich history and natural beauty of Biscayne National Park.

Activities at Boca Chita

Boca Chita Key is a popular destination for visitors to Biscayne National Park. The island offers a range of activities that cater to different interests. Visitors can enjoy the sun, beach, and wind while exploring the island's natural beauty.

The harbor at Boca Chita is a popular spot for boaters to dock and explore the island. The harbor entrance at low tide is approximately four feet, so deep draft vessels should exercise extreme caution. Visitors can also camp on the island at designated campsites.

For those who enjoy hiking, a half-mile hiking trail starts just east of the restrooms. The trail continues to the south end of the island and emerges near the pavilion. The hiking trail is a great way to explore the island's natural beauty and take in the stunning views of the surrounding waters.

Snorkeling is another popular activity at Boca Chita. Visitors can explore the coral reefs and marine life that surround the island. The crystal-clear waters make for excellent visibility, and snorkelers can expect to see a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.

The bridge that connects the two sides of the island is a great spot to watch the sunset. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the sunset over the water and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the island.

Swimming is another popular activity at Boca Chita. The clear waters and sandy beach make for a great place to cool off and relax. Visitors can also explore the island's historic lighthouse, which was built in the 1930s by Mark Honeywell.

Overall, Boca Chita Key offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to explore the island's natural beauty, relax on the beach, or enjoy the water activities, there's something for everyone at Boca Chita Key.

Wildlife and Nature

Boca Chita Lighthouse is located in Biscayne National Park, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife and natural wonders. Visitors to the park can observe a variety of birds, including herons, egrets, pelicans, and ospreys, as well as many species of shorebirds. The park is also home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, and a vibrant coral reef ecosystem.

Naturalists can explore the park's many hiking trails and observe the park's flora and fauna up close. The park's unique ecosystem provides a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including mangroves, seagrasses, and coral.

Visitors to the park can also explore the park's underwater world by snorkeling or scuba diving. The park's coral reefs are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks.

The park's waters are also home to a variety of dolphins, which can often be seen swimming and playing in the park's waters. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park's waters and observe these playful creatures up close.

Overall, Boca Chita Lighthouse and Biscayne National Park offer visitors a unique opportunity to observe and explore the park's diverse array of wildlife and natural wonders.

Practical Information for Visitors

Boca Chita Key is a popular tourist destination located in Biscayne National Park, Florida. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities on the island, including hiking, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. Here is some practical information to help visitors plan their trip to Boca Chita Key.

Getting There

The only way to reach Boca Chita Key is by boat. Visitors can either bring their own boat or take a ferry from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center in Homestead. The ferry runs from 9 am to 5:30 pm daily, and the round trip takes about 45 minutes. Visitors should note that there is no drinking water available on the island, so they should bring their own supply.

Things to Do

Boca Chita Key is home to a historic lighthouse that offers stunning views of the Miami skyline. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to take in the view. The island also has a picnic area, a boat dock, and restrooms for visitors to use.

For those who want to explore the island, there is a short hiking trail that takes visitors around the island. Visitors can also snorkel in the saltwater surrounding the island. However, they should be aware of the potential presence of mosquitoes and bring bug spray to protect themselves.

Rules and Regulations

Visitors should be aware that pets are not allowed on the island. Additionally, visitors should not bring any conch shells or other marine life back with them as souvenirs. The island is also home to a shipwreck and a cannon, which visitors should not disturb.

Weather and Safety

Visitors should check the weather forecast before heading to Boca Chita Key. Thunderstorms and high winds can make boating conditions dangerous. Visitors should also be aware that there is no fresh water available on the island, so they should bring enough drinking water for their entire trip.

Other Nearby Attractions

Visitors to Boca Chita Key will find that there are plenty of other nearby attractions to explore in the area. Here are some of the top attractions worth checking out:

Fowey Rocks Lighthouse

Located just a short distance from Boca Chita Key, the Fowey Rocks Lighthouse is a must-see for anyone interested in lighthouses and maritime history. The lighthouse was built in 1878 and has been in continuous operation ever since. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the lighthouse up close and learn about its history and significance.

Stiltsville

Stiltsville is a unique and historic community of homes built on stilts in the middle of Biscayne Bay. The homes were originally built in the 1930s and 1940s and have since become a popular attraction for boaters and tourists. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the homes up close and learn about their history and significance.

Cape Florida Lighthouse

Located on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, the Cape Florida Lighthouse is another must-see attraction for anyone interested in lighthouses and maritime history. The lighthouse was built in 1825 and has been in continuous operation ever since. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of the surrounding area.

Other Attractions

In addition to these top attractions, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the area around Boca Chita Key. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of Biscayne National Park, go fishing or boating, or simply relax on one of the area's many beautiful beaches.

Overall, Boca Chita Key and the surrounding area offer a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply soaking up the sun, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful corner of Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of Boca Chita Lighthouse?

The Boca Chita Lighthouse was built in the 1930s by Mark Honeywell, the founder of Honeywell Corporation, as a beacon to guide himself and his guests to the island. The lighthouse is an iconic and historic landmark in Biscayne National Park, and it has been restored by the National Park Service in recent years.

How do I get to Boca Chita Key from Coconut Grove?

Boca Chita Key can be accessed by private boat, as there is no ferry service to the island. The boat ride from Coconut Grove to Boca Chita Key takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the weather conditions.

Can you camp on Boca Chita Key?

Yes, camping is allowed on Boca Chita Key, but there are no facilities on the island. Visitors must bring their own food, water, and camping gear. The island has a campground with a capacity of 6-8 people, and camping is limited to a maximum of three nights.

What is the significance of Adams Key?

Adams Key is another island in Biscayne National Park, located south of Boca Chita Key. It is known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular destination for boaters and kayakers. The island also has a history of human habitation dating back to the Tequesta Indians.

Is there a ferry to Elliott Key from Boca Chita Key?

No, there is no ferry service between Boca Chita Key and Elliott Key. Visitors must travel by private boat or kayak to reach Elliott Key, which is the largest island in Biscayne National Park.

Who designed and built the Boca Chita Lighthouse?

The Boca Chita Lighthouse was designed and built by Mark Honeywell, the founder of Honeywell Corporation, in the 1930s. Honeywell was a wealthy industrialist who used the island as a private retreat, and the lighthouse was built to guide his boats to the island.