Top 15 Must-Visit Beaches in Miami

The most appealing aspect of beaches in Miami is their accessibility to the public. Whether one is seeking a tranquil retreat or prefers the vibrancy of a bustling tourist beach, Miami satisfies all preferences, offering a diverse selection of beach locations.

Miami’s beaches are adorned with palm trees, providing a shaded respite, while others are ideal for attaining that coveted summer tan. However, what unites these beaches is their breathtaking natural scenery.

Most beaches in Miami are supervised by trained lifeguards ensuring the safety of all visitors. Given the strength of the winds and tides, lifeguard stations utilize a flag system to alert guests to sea conditions.

Moreover, there are numerous public parks along the coastline equipped with a variety of amenities including restrooms, picnic areas, and barbecue grills. For those seeking more active pursuits, Miami’s beaches offer an array of water sports and are in proximity to restaurants, bars, and other attractions.

Let us explore the best beaches in Miami:

1. Lummus Park Beach

Situated on the eastern side of Ocean Drive, Lummus Park Beach serves as an excellent locale for observing people, playing volleyball, and sunbathing. Revamped in the mid-1980s, this beach offers grassy spaces along with fitness equipment for the active as well as palm trees for those seeking shade.

Stroll along the picturesque promenade separating the grassy area from the beach, and enjoy dining at numerous restaurants along the boardwalk. Lummus Park Beach is also a favored spot for photography and filming, with scenes from the acclaimed show “Miami Vice” shot here.

Numerous lifeguard stations dot the beach, offering amenities including showers and restrooms.

2. South Pointe Park Pier

South Pointe Park Pier encompasses a 17-acre park equipped with a playground, a fishing pier with washing facilities, and numerous picnic areas. It is an inviting space for individuals wishing to escape the frantic pace of downtown Miami.

Surrounded by the Government Cut channel and the Atlantic Ocean, the park offers various amenities such as outdoor showers, quality dining options, and a children’s playground for entertainment.

Prepare your camera for stunning views of Fisher Island and Biscayne Bay, which are exceptionally picturesque on clear days. For snacks, consider indulging in delicious crab claws during the crab season.

3. Surfside

For a charming small beach town atmosphere, visit Surfside, which is home to approximately 6,000 inhabitants, thus creating a cozy oceanfront community.

This beach attracts both locals and tourists, providing various entertainment options, including the Surfside Community Center, which hosts one of the finest water parks in the area.

Guests will appreciate the presence of lifeguards during the summer season, and a beachside picnic area is readily available. Visitors can expect to interact with locals who gather here to enjoy live music, relax on the beach, and socialize at nearby bars.

4. Haulover Beach

As one of the most picturesque beaches in the city, Haulover Beach features landscaped dunes, picnic areas, and numerous lifeguard towers. Nestled between Sunny Isles and Bal Harbour, its breathtaking scenery draws travelers from around the globe.

Visitors seeking a nudist experience will be pleased to discover a designated clothing-optional section on Haulover Beach. Should you visit on a Tuesday, expect a modest food truck festival showcasing local vendors along with live music performances.

For surfers, this area is favorable when conditions are right, offering optimal surfing experiences.

5. Sunny Isles Beach

Situated just beyond Haulover Beach Park and north of Miami Beach, Sunny Isles Beach encompasses two miles of public shores, upscale accommodations, and an array of souvenir shops.

Previously considered an affordable beach community, this area now boasts luxury resorts such as the Trump International Beach Resort, alongside similar opulent beachfront properties.

Sunny Isles Beach is also renowned for its prestigious restaurants, theaters, and nightclubs. Its oceanfront setting allows easy access to a multitude of attractions, including museums, sports venues, tennis courts, and shopping centers.

6. 21st–45th Street Beach

21st–45th Street Beach presents a modest stretch of sand, conveniently located within walking distance of some of the most luxurious hotels and beach clubs in Miami. At the entrance, visitors will discover a small Art Deco snack bar and several shower facilities.

An advantageous feature of this beach location is the large parking facility nearby, charged at a modest rate of $1.50 per hour. For those in search of a easily accessible spot that avoids heavy crowds, 21st–45th Street Beach deserves consideration.

Additionally, there is an excellent jogging trail in the vicinity for fitness enthusiasts planning to enjoy a morning run.

7. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Located on the southern side of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park boasts several beautiful beaches frequently highlighted in travel publications listing the “best beaches.”

Besides enjoying a day at the beach, visitors can explore the surrounding area and visit attractions such as the Cape Florida Lighthouse, the oldest structure in South Florida.

Water enthusiasts can partake in fishing, windsurfing, and kayaking activities. Its serene surroundings on Key Biscayne make Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park an ideal destination for those seeking peace and relaxation.

8. Crandon Park

As one of Miami’s treasured parks, Crandon Park, situated on Key Biscayne, is known for its clear, shallow waters. It is an excellent destination for families and includes winding boardwalks, a nature center, and a family amusement center.

Nonetheless, the beach remains the main attraction at Crandon Park. Visitors can engage in beach volleyball or enjoy a picnic using the provided grills.

For those wishing to rent a cabana, it is advisable to head to the southern section of Crandon Park Beach, where showers and parking facilities are also available.

9. Fort Lauderdale Beach

Fort Lauderdale Beach comprises a sandy promenade ideal for cycling, skating, and jogging. Visitors are met with towering coconut palms and splendid views of the azure ocean.

This location is arguably one of the finest for observing people, enriched by the lavish properties adorning the coastline. Although Fort Lauderdale Beach was once a youthful college area, it has evolved into one of Miami’s most fashionable beach destinations.

Vacationers will find lifeguards available during peak season, as well as essential facilities, including showers and restrooms.

10. Oleta River State Recreational Area

Recognized as Florida’s largest urban park, Oleta River State Recreational Area lies on Biscayne Bay and serves as a serene escape from the chaos of downtown Miami.

Visitors can enjoy extensive walking paths, numerous cycling trails, and several secluded beach areas. Rentals for canoes and kayaks are available for those eager to explore the region, along with picnic tables equipped with grills.

For those intending to spend an entire weekend, charming cabins are available for rent, some of which offer ocean views from the bedroom!

Additional popular activities at Oleta River State Recreational Area include saltwater fishing, off-road biking, and exploring the mangrove forest that houses diverse flora and fauna.

11. Matheson Hammock Park

Matheson Hammock Park, located just south of Coral Gables, is celebrated for its picturesque landscape, featuring swaying palms, mangroves, and ancient oak trees.

Notable attractions include a man-made atoll pool, a scenic marina, and a stunning beach conducive for various water sports like kiteboarding and paddleboarding.

For dining options, consider having lunch or dinner at the exquisite Red Fish Grill overlooking the water. To work off those generous portions, explore one of the many nature trails winding through this attractive park.

A boating and sailing school is also available within Matheson Hammock Park.

12. Virginia Key Beach

Virginia Key Beach represents one of Miami’s most enchanting stretches of sand and surf, attracting visitors who relish swimming and sunbathing. This beach appeals to both locals and tourists, who are ferried around the site via a quaint miniature train.

Additionally, a charming antique carousel remains operational, and the beach frequently hosts events, such as live music performances and community fairs. A pavilion with a dance floor is also available for private events. Furthermore, several shelters align the beach, which can be rented for a day.

Generally, Virginia Key Beach is bustling with families due to the presence of two large playgrounds that are particularly popular with children.

13. 85th Street Beach

If you’re seeking a location away from the bustling crowds of tourists, consider visiting 85th Street Beach along Collins Avenue.

This beach is among the few stretches of sand in Miami devoid of condominiums or hotels, making it an appealing retreat for vacationers looking to escape the clamor of more crowded beaches.

Limitations on facilities do exist with only a few restrooms available; hence, it is prudent to pack essentials for your day such as beverages, food, and beach items. Nonetheless, lifeguards oversee 85th Street Beach during the summer months.

14. South Beach

Highly regarded as one of the most frequented beaches in Miami, South Beach is an iconic venue known for its celebrity presence, located on Ocean Drive, adjacent to some of Miami’s renowned nightspots.

This vibrant beach draws all types of travelers eager to view the historic Art Deco architecture and enjoy gourmet dining at some of the state’s top restaurants.

Additionally, don’t forget to visit the adjacent Haulover Park—a great area for biking, tennis, golf, and fishing activities. Accommodation options in South Beach can be quite expensive; therefore, budget-conscious travelers may wish to stay elsewhere and visit for the day.

15. Homestead Bayfront Park and Marina

Visitors who prefer to avoid the typical tourist environment often find Homestead Bayfront Park and Marina an excellent retreat.

Located just north of the Florida Keys, this park provides ample water activities, including boating and swimming. Relax under palm shade with a refreshing drink at the beachside snack bar, or take a boat shuttle to Elliott Key, a popular camping destination.

With its idyllic setting and full-service marina, Homestead Bayfront Park and Marina is undoubtedly a beach destination deserving of a visit during your time in Miami.