Miami’s beaches are famous for a good reason. The sunny weather, clear waters, and lively atmosphere attract visitors from all over the world. Whether you want to party, relax, or enjoy water sports, Miami has something for everyone.
In this guide, we will show you the best beaches in Miami. Each beach has its own special vibe, so you can find the one that suits you best.
1. South Beach
What’s Great About It:
South Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Miami. It’s known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful Art Deco buildings, and clear blue water. The beach is always busy, so there’s always something to see and do.
Things to Do:
You can relax on the beach, swim, or try jet-skiing. If you like to people-watch, South Beach is the perfect place.
Restaurants:
For seafood lovers, Joe’s Stone Crab is a great choice. If you want a nice meal by the water, head to The Lido Bayside Grill.
Hotels:
The Fontainebleau and the South Beach Hotel are both great places to stay.
Activities:
Visit Ocean Drive for shopping and nightlife, or join a game of beach volleyball. South Beach has something for everyone.
2. Key Biscayne Beach
What’s Great About It:
Key Biscayne Beach is quieter than South Beach. It’s perfect for families and people who want a peaceful day by the water. The beach is surrounded by beautiful views and calm water.
Things to Do:
You can cycle around the area, relax on the beach, or walk through nature trails.
Restaurants:
Try The Rusty Pelican for seafood or Boater’s Grill for a casual meal by the water.
Hotels:
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is a luxury hotel with amazing views.
Activities:
Visit Bill Baggs State Park for hiking, kayaking, or snorkeling in the clear water.
3. Crandon Park Beach
What’s Great About It:
Crandon Park Beach is perfect for families. The beach has wide, sandy areas and shallow water, so it’s great for kids. It’s not too crowded, making it a good place to relax.
Things to Do:
You can try paddleboarding, have a picnic, or take a walk along the nature trails.
Restaurants:
The Crandon Park Café is a casual spot with a great view of the beach.
Hotels:
The Grand Bay Hotel is close by, offering a comfortable stay.
Activities:
There’s a nature center to visit, and you can also go bike riding or watch for wildlife.
4. Virginia Key Beach
What’s Great About It:
Virginia Key Beach is quieter than most of Miami’s beaches. It’s perfect for people who want a more peaceful spot. The beach has clear water and is rich in history.
Things to Do:
You can swim, relax on the sand, or learn about the area’s history. The calm water makes it a nice place to swim.
Restaurants:
The Fish House offers delicious seafood with a great view.
Hotels:
For a more rustic experience, stay at the cabins at Virginia Key Beach Park.
Activities:
Take a historical tour, enjoy beachcombing, or try fishing at the beach.
5. Haulover Beach
What’s Great About It:
Haulover Beach has a clothing-optional section. It’s less commercialized than other beaches, giving it a laid-back feel. It’s perfect for people who want to avoid the crowds.
Things to Do:
You can sunbathe, fly a kite, or enjoy a picnic in the park area.
Restaurants:
Haulover Grill is a popular spot for a casual meal. The Dune is also nearby for food by the beach.
Hotels:
Stay at the Acqualina Resort & Residences for a luxury experience.
Activities:
Try kite surfing, enjoy the dog-friendly park, or just relax in the sun.
6. Surfside Beach
What’s Great About It:
Surfside Beach is a small, quiet beach with a neighborhood feel. It’s a great place if you want to avoid the big crowds but still have access to good food and shops.
Things to Do:
Relax on the sand, take a walk along the beach, or just enjoy the peaceful vibe.
Restaurants:
For a delicious meal, try Café Roval or The Surf Club.
Hotels:
The Four Seasons Hotel at Surfside is a luxurious place to stay.
Activities:
You can enjoy surfing, biking, or join a game of beach volleyball. Surfside Beach is perfect for a quiet, fun day.
7. North Beach
What’s Great About It:
North Beach is quieter than South Beach. It’s a long stretch of sand with calm waters, making it a perfect spot for those who want peace and less noise.
Things to Do:
You can sunbathe, try beach sports, or take a relaxing walk along the shore.
Restaurants:
Check out The Tavern at North Beach for a good meal in a relaxed setting.
Hotels:
The Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort is a good choice for a comfortable stay.
Activities:
Enjoy quiet walks, yoga, or paddleboarding. North Beach is perfect for those who want a calm day at the beach.
8. Matheson Hammock Park Beach
What’s Great About It:
Matheson Hammock Park Beach has a beautiful lagoon, which is perfect for swimming and cooling off. The beach is quiet, and the park surrounding it offers a peaceful escape.
Things to Do:
You can swim in the lagoon, have a picnic, or take a walk along the nature trails.
Restaurants:
The Sunset Grill is a casual restaurant with great views of the beach.
Hotels:
There aren’t many hotels nearby, so it’s best for those who want a quiet, nature-focused getaway.
Activities:
Take a scenic boat ride, explore nature trails, or go birdwatching. Matheson Hammock Park is a great place to relax.
9. Lummus Park Beach
What’s Great About It:
Lummus Park Beach is right in the middle of South Beach. It has beautiful views and a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want to be close to the action.
Things to Do:
You can join a game of beach volleyball, relax in the sun, or enjoy the nearby parks.
Restaurants:
Try The News Café or Mango’s Tropical Café for food with a lively atmosphere.
Hotels:
Stay at The Delano South Beach or The Shore Club for a luxurious stay.
Activities:
Enjoy the outdoor gym, bike along the coast, or play beach volleyball with friends.
10. Hobie Island Beach Park
What’s Great About It:
Hobie Island Beach Park is perfect for water sports. The beach is quiet and peaceful, but it also offers opportunities for activities like kiteboarding and kayaking.
Things to Do:
Try windsurfing, kayaking, or enjoy a relaxing picnic.
Restaurants:
There aren’t any restaurants at the beach, but you’ll find great places to eat nearby in Virginia Key.
Hotels:
Stay at Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay for a comfortable hotel close to the park.
Activities:
Kiteboarding, windsurfing, and fishing are popular activities at Hobie Island Beach Park.
Beach Safety Tips
Sun Protection
The Miami sun is strong, so it’s important to protect yourself. Always wear sunscreen with a high SPF. Reapply it every two hours. Hats help protect your face and neck, and sunglasses are a must for your eyes. Try to avoid being in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when it’s at its strongest.
Swimming Guidelines
Before swimming, check the water conditions. Many beaches have lifeguards, especially at popular spots like South Beach. Pay attention to the flag colors. A red flag means strong currents, and a green flag means calm waters. Always swim in the designated areas, and if you’re not a strong swimmer, use flotation devices.
Local Wildlife
Miami’s beaches are home to various animals. Be aware of jellyfish, especially in warmer months. If you see one, stay away. Jellyfish stings can hurt. Also, sea turtles nest on the beaches. If you spot one, admire it from a distance. Don’t disturb the nests, as they are protected.
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Beach Amenities
Facilities
Most Miami beaches offer important amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Popular beaches like South Beach and Crandon Park have these. You can also rent things like umbrellas, chairs, and towels to make your day more comfortable.
Accessibility
Miami provides special accommodations for visitors with disabilities. Many beaches have wheelchair ramps and accessible paths. Some beaches also offer beach wheelchairs for rent. Popular spots like South Beach and Key Biscayne are easy to navigate for people with mobility needs.
Also read: The Ultimate Guide to San Francisco: Sights, Eats, and Insider Tips
Family-Friendly Activities
Kid-Friendly Beaches
Miami has many beaches that are great for families. Crandon Park Beach is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it perfect for young children. Virginia Key Beach also offers a quieter, more relaxed vibe. These beaches have gentle waves and are great for families with kids.
Activities for Kids
There are many fun activities for children on Miami’s beaches. You can build sandcastles, play frisbee, or join a beach volleyball game. Crandon Park has a nature center where kids can learn about animals. Key Biscayne also offers bike rentals for family rides along scenic paths.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Evening Activities
Miami’s beaches stay alive at night. Many beachside restaurants and bars offer live music and entertainment. Mango’s Tropical Café on Ocean Drive is a lively spot to enjoy dinner and a show. For a more relaxed evening, visit Nikki Beach on South Beach, where you can enjoy drinks and music by the sea.
Events and Festivals
Miami hosts many fun events by the beach. The Miami Beach Food and Wine Festival is a big event with delicious local food. South Beach also hosts Full Moon Parties, where you can dance and enjoy the night sky. Be sure to check for other seasonal events, like Art Basel Miami Beach, which sometimes includes outdoor beach activities.
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Environmental Considerations
Conservation Efforts
Miami is dedicated to keeping its beaches clean and safe. Many local groups organize beach clean-ups to protect the coastline. Miami Waterkeeper helps protect local waters, including the beaches. Some beaches even have programs that teach visitors how to care for the environment and protect sea life.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Visitors should also help keep Miami’s beaches clean. Always throw trash in proper bins and avoid using single-use plastic. Bring a reusable water bottle instead. Don’t disturb wildlife, especially sea turtles and their nests. Respect nature, and try to leave only footprints behind.
Nearby Attractions
Cultural Sites
Miami has many interesting places to visit after a day at the beach. The Perez Art Museum has modern art and beautiful views of the water. The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a historic house with beautiful gardens. You can also visit Little Havana to experience Cuban culture, music, and food.
Shopping and Dining
After a beach day, you can shop and eat nearby. Lincoln Road Mall has many shops, cafes, and restaurants. If you want luxury shopping, visit Bal Harbour Shops. When it comes to food, Miami has many great options. For seafood, try The Spotted Pig, or for a fancy meal with a view, go to Juvia, a rooftop restaurant.
Conclusion
Miami has some of the best beaches in the world. Each beach offers something special, from the lively atmosphere of South Beach to the peaceful vibes of Key Biscayne. Whether you want to party, relax, or try water sports, you’ll find the perfect beach in Miami. So grab your sunscreen and head to one of these amazing beaches for your next adventure!
Things to do in Miami
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Snorkeling Adventure in Miami – $79.99 Experience the underwater wonders of Biscayne Bay on a guided snorkeling tour. Explore vibrant coral reefs and relax on a private island beach. A fun and safe adventure, perfect for beginners. |
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Jetcar Experience: Discover Miami – $155.00 Hop into a thrilling 1-hour jetcar ride and cruise along Miami’s coastline. Feel the rush as you drive a 4-seater jetcar, with stunning views of mansions and beaches. |
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Private 4-hour Miami Tour – $459.21 Discover Miami’s best spots like South Beach, Wynwood, Little Havana, and more on a private 4-hour tour with a driver/guide. Enjoy personalized commentary and convenience. |
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Private Sightseeing Tour in Luxury Minivan – $390.00 Cruise through Miami’s iconic spots in comfort, visiting South Beach, Little Havana, Wynwood, and more in a luxury minivan. A customizable and intimate tour. |
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Hop On Hop Off Boat Tour – $30.00 Take a scenic boat ride through Biscayne Bay. Enjoy views of Star Island, the Miami skyline, and more on this water shuttle between Miami Beach and downtown. |
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90-minute Miami Sightseeing Cruise – $35.99 Cruise along Biscayne Bay and see Miami’s skyline, Millionaire’s Row, and the Venetian Islands. A relaxing tour that offers a unique view of the city’s landmarks. |
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Natalia Castro, a tech-savvy writer, seamlessly blends her passions for technology, travel, and business in her concise and insightful pieces. Her dynamic perspective adds a fresh voice to the ever-evolving world of content creation.