Black Point Marina

Black Point Park & Marina, oftentimes referred to as "Black Point," is the largest public marina located in Miami and it is part of the Miami-Dade Parks & Recreation department. The marina is also very close to Biscayne National Park. Black Point is a starting point for fishing and diving expeditions, especially among locals. The park consists of large picnic pavilions, grills, bikeways, jogging trails and a jetty, which extends 1.5 miles into Biscayne Bay.HistoryIn the early 1970s, Black Point was an isolated area where sailors anchored their vessels to take a break as they headed toward Key West. In 1972, a countywide referendum established that this site was to be turned into a marina. After 11 years of pulling permits and receiving government approvals, the site plan was finally accepted. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew destroyed the marina. Many doubted that the damage could be reversed. The businesses of fisherman and boats of sailors were devastated and some were never recovered.WildlifeSightings of the Florida manatee are common at Black Point Marina. Many manatees are brought to this "Manatee Sanctuary" for release and study. The manatee is an endangered species. Black Point Marina and Miami-Dade County have placed provisions and ordinances in place to ensure that they are protected in these areas. Saltwater crocodiles also frequent the area. Because of the danger they pose, management prohibits anyone from swimming in these waters.