The Barnacle Historic State Park is the oldest home in Miami-Dade County still on its original site, a remarkable 1891 pioneer homestead built by Ralph Munroe on a bluff overlooking Biscayne Bay in the heart of Coconut Grove. The five-acre park combines a beautifully preserved Victorian-era home with a waterfront lawn shaded by ancient native trees, creating a ceremony setting of genuine historic and natural character. Events on the bayside lawn frame spectacular bay views through the tree canopy, with the historic boathouse and dock extending into the water for cocktail hour. The park accommodates up to 100 guests for private ceremonies and receptions and requires advance booking through the Florida State Park Service.
Best seasons to marry here
Starts in 5h 26m
Sunset faces
South-facing bay; dramatic evening light
Capacity
Up to 80
Price
$
Setting
Outdoor
Airport
Miami International Airport (MIA) · 9mi
Accessibility
ADA Accessible
Best for photos
1891 pioneer homestead facade, ancient hardwood hammock trees, Biscayne Bay shoreline, int…
Sunrise
10:44 AM
Solar Noon
5:17 PM
Sunset
11:51 PM
Amenities & Inclusions
Catering
Open vendor policy; no commercial kitchen on site
Bar / Alcohol
Beer and wine permitted; licensed server required
Music Curfew
Dusk
Rental Hours
4 hrs included
Vendors
Florida State Parks guidelines apply
Rain Backup Plan
Historic home can shelter guests; no full indoor event option
Hurricane Season Note
June–November; bayfront; historic structure; check state park closure policies
Verify Before You Book
State park — permits required; small intimate venue only; ceremony-focused rental
Rob Craven
Lead Photographer · Prospect Photography
Sunset faces
South-facing bay; dramatic evening light
Shade coverage
Old-growth hardwood hammock provides dense shade
Best shots & hidden gems
1891 pioneer homestead facade, ancient hardwood hammock trees, Biscayne Bay shoreline, intimate bayfront clearing, Coconut Grove old Florida atmosphere
3485 Main Hwy
Coconut Grove, Miami
Parking
Small on-site lot; street parking
Nearest Airport
Miami International Airport (MIA) · 9 mi
Guest Hotels
Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Mayfair Hotel, Sonesta Coconut Grove