Stiltsville: An Offshore Hideaway at Biscayne National Park

Set against the backdrop of Miami’s skyline, six structures rise from the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay. Rugged and isolated, these houses on stilts are an unexpected site in the midst of a national park water world that was designated to preserve the coral reefs, seagrasses, mangrove forests, and other natural features. Cormorants and herons perch on the houses' roofs, railings, and pylons. Dolphins and manatees swim between them. 

Together, these six structures are all that remain of Stiltsville's whimsical history, although none are among the original twenty-seven that formed this curiosity in the midst of a national park that is ninety-five percent water. 

How did such a village come to exist and what does the future hold for these few relics that remain?

By Lauren Eisenberg Davis

Hosted by Jason Epperson

Visit LLBean.com to find great gear for exploring the national parks. 

Use promo code PARKS20OFF to get $20 off your next purchase of $200 or more at solostove.com.