Adams Key in Biscayne National Park
Adams Key is the least popular of the developed islands in Biscayne National Park. It is open for day-use only, meaning that there is no overnight camping. The only way to visit the island for an extended period of time is to have your own boat. The Heritage of Biscayne Cruise operated by the Biscayne National Park Institute does pass by the island, but the tour group does not go ashore.
Biscayne National Park Institute’s sail boat docked at Adams Key
The island’s very well manicured grounds are home to a picnic pavilion with only a couple of tables, and there is a short hiking trail that passes through the maritime forest. The trail should be avoided due to a year-round mosquito population, and I certainly wouldn’t come here to picnic because there is nothing to do and the place is pretty isolated. Thus, on the surface it doesn’t seem like there is much of a reason to stop here, and for most people this is the case. However, there are some nice lagoons with all sorts of fish and other wildlife in the keys next to Adams, so this is a great home base for launching a paddling trip.
Canoe and kayak launch on Adams Key in Biscayne National Park
The island was once a popular vacation spot for the rich and famous, including presidents Harding, Hoover, Johnson, and Nixon. Today, there are two homes on Adams Key that are available for park Rangers and their families to live in if they would like to, though that doesn’t mean anyone does live in them. Both are in clear view, and regardless of whether they are occupied, they are closed to the public.
Ranger housing on Adams Key in Biscayne National Park
There is a restroom with modern plumbing. I am not sure if there is drinking water, so if you are picnicking, you need to bring your own beverages.
Restroom building on Adams Key at Biscayne National Park
A boat dock is available at Adams Key, but it is not in a protective harbor as are the docks at Boca Chita and Elliott Keys.
Adams Key boat dock, Biscayne National Park
I visited in January and early March. In January there were no mosquitoes, but in March the mosquitoes were bothersome, though not burdensome. They do tend to go away during the day in the open areas once things heat up, but they are around 24-7 in the surrounding maritime forest. A park employee told me that by May you won’t be able to function on any of the islands without full mosquito suits, which all employees wear. The Biscayne National Park website claims that they are year round pests. I was also told that gnats and biting flies will soon join the party.
Adams Key is a trash free island, meaning that you must take your garbage with you. Pets are permitted if kept on a leash.
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Last updated on October 30, 2023
