Rubicon Keys is a group of small, densely wooded coral islands located within Biscayne National Park, approximately eight to nine miles off the southeastern coast of Florida at the mouth of Biscayne Bay. These keys are part of the northernmost Florida Keys and are accessible solely by boat, being roadless, waterless, and practically uninhabited. The area is characterized by its undeveloped, unspoiled nature, preserved as part of the national park. For paddlers, a primary access point for reaching these waters is Homestead Bayfront Park, from which boaters launch to access the flats around the keys. The paddling environment here is primarily open bay and coastal, with exposure to the winds and fetch across Biscayne Bay. Tidal currents are a significant factor, and paddlers must plan trips around tide stages, aiming to paddle against the tide on the way out and with the tide on the return, or vice versa, to conserve energy. The area features sensitive shallow flats, and there are discussions and potential regulations regarding no-combustion zones to protect these resources from powerboat damage; these zones could restrict motorized boat traffic in certain shallow areas, potentially reducing boat traffic hazards for paddlers in those specific locations. The keys are part of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail, indicating established paddling routes. Wildlife viewing and bird-watching are notable activities in this area of mangrove islands and clear waters. There are no facilities or amenities on the keys themselves, so paddlers must be self-sufficient, carrying all necessary water and supplies. The overall experience is one of remote, natural exploration in a protected marine environment.