Got a free day in Miami? A self‑drive into Everglades National Park lets you see gators, wading birds, and endless sawgrass at your own pace. Start at the airport with a Miami car rental, and—if you prefer British English—compare Miami car hire options as well.
Two easy entrances from Miami
- Shark Valley (US‑41/Tamiami Trail): Roughly 30 miles west of Miami. Park at the Visitor Center and choose the narrated tram or bike the paved 15‑mile loop to the observation tower.
- Homestead/Ernest F. Coe Entrance: Access boardwalks like Anhinga and Gumbo Limbo and continue to Flamingo for bay views and paddling.
Simple 1‑day itinerary
- Morning at Shark Valley: Bike or tram the loop, then snack at the patio. Hydrate—heat and humidity are real.
- Afternoon near Homestead: Drive east on US‑41, then south via Krome Ave. to the Coe Entrance for short boardwalks and wildlife viewing.
- Evening: Return to Miami for dinner on Calle Ocho or the beach.
Know before you go
- Seasons: Dry season (Dec–Apr) brings milder temps and more wildlife activity; wet season (May–Nov) has fewer crowds but more mosquitoes—plan accordingly.
- Tolls: Reaching US‑41 from central Miami may involve tolled expressways; your Hola Car Rentals booking includes transparent toll handling and eligible cashback.
- Parking: Lots at Shark Valley can fill on peak weekends; arrive early or consider the tram.
Wrap the day with a coastal detour through Miami Beach or a quick photo stop in Little Havana. Then return your vehicle at the same location or another Hola Car Rentals pick‑up point in South Florida.
Why Hola Car Rentals: All‑Inclusive+ maximum coverage, free travel insurance up to US$150,000, no hidden fees, and Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up. Compare city car rental in Miami, swing by the sands with a quick stop on Miami Beach, or plan a longer Florida loop via our Florida network.
CTA: Book your Miami vehicle with Hola Car Rentals and explore the “River of Grass” responsibly.
Packing list & safety
- Hydration & sun: Bring more water than you think you need—shade is limited on the loop.
- Wildlife distance: Alligators often bask beside the road; admire from afar and never feed wildlife.
- Bike strategy: Ride out to the observation tower first, then stop for photos on the return when sun angles are better.
Logistics that save time
- Arrive early: Parking at Shark Valley can reach capacity on winter weekends; earlier arrival shortens waits.
- One‑way flexibility: Pick up in Miami and return in Fort Lauderdale to shave time off your last day.
Entrance fees & passes
Everglades National Park charges an entrance fee that covers multiple days per vehicle. If you’re visiting several parks on your Florida road trip, consider an annual America the Beautiful Pass.
How long is the drive?
From central Miami, Shark Valley is roughly an hour via US‑41; the Coe Entrance is a similar window via the Turnpike and local roads. Factor in time for parking, restroom stops, and the tram schedule if you’re not biking.
Responsible travel
Pack out all trash, keep to boardwalks and marked trails, and give wildlife room. Even short strolls can be memorable—Anhinga Trail frequently delivers close‑up views in just 20–30 minutes.
