FLORIDA - If you're staying in Miami, you'll want to find the Best Beaches Near Miami, Florida. There are many to choose from, but this list will give you some ideas. If you're looking for a romantic stroll along a boardwalk, head to Mid-Beach. Here, you'll find people-watching opportunities and the chance to sneak a peek at some of the fanciest resorts. This section of the beach is home to the Faena Hotel and Miami Beach.
Beyond South Beach: A Guide to the 5 Best Beaches in the Miami Area
When you picture Miami, images of sun-drenched beaches and vibrant nightlife likely spring to mind. The city is a world-class beach destination, offering a diverse array of sandy shores to suit every type of traveler. Beyond the famous hotspots, you'll find everything from serene, family-friendly lagoons to lively, iconic stretches of sand buzzing with energy. Whether you're looking for a romantic stroll, a place for your dog to play, or a picturesque spot to soak up the sun, this guide will lead you to the best beaches near Miami.
1. Crandon Park Beach (Key Biscayne)
For a true escape, head over the causeway to the stunning island of Key Biscayne. Crandon Park Beach is a two-mile stretch of sand so picturesque that it's frequently featured in magazines and films.
- The Vibe: This is a family paradise. The beach is lagoon-style, with a wide offshore sandbar that protects the coast, creating calm, shallow waters perfect for children. The lush park setting with its swaying palm trees offers a more relaxed and natural feel than the bustling city beaches.
- What to Do: With 13 lifeguard towers, calm waters, and amenities like picnic areas with grills, restrooms, and watersport rentals, it's designed for a full day of family fun. The nearby Crandon Park Amusement Center, with its historic carousel and splash fountain, is another huge draw for kids.
- Pro-Tip: Rent a cabana for the day. These unique, two-story structures offer a private shower and a guaranteed shady spot, making your beach day even more comfortable and relaxing.
2. Homestead Bayfront Park Beach
Located in the heart of South Dade, Homestead Bayfront Park offers a taste of the Florida Keys without the long drive.
- The Vibe: This is a beautiful and relaxed family beach with a distinct local, tropical feel. It’s a place where you can enjoy the water, have a picnic, and feel a world away from the city's hustle.
- What to Do: The park features a natural atoll pool and a sandy beach, creating a safe and calm swimming area patrolled by lifeguards. It also boasts a full-service marina, a playground, and nearby boat ramps. For a taste of local flavor, you can grab a café cubano at the on-site concession.
- Don't Miss: The park is adjacent to the southern portion of Biscayne National Park, making it a great launch point for guided eco-adventures like kayaking and canoeing.
3. Lummus Park Beach (South Beach)
When you picture the iconic Miami Beach scene, you're likely thinking of Lummus Park. This is the postcard-perfect stretch of sand that runs along Ocean Drive from 5th to 15th Street.
- The Vibe: Energetic, vibrant, and always buzzing, this is the ultimate spot for people-watching. The beach is set against a backdrop of swaying palm trees and the world-famous Art Deco buildings of Ocean Drive.
- What to Do: This is a great beach for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. The park itself features sand volleyball courts, paved walking and biking trails, and an outdoor fitness gym known as "Muscle Beach South Beach."
- Pro-Tip: Rent a CitiBike and cruise the paved paths that wind through the park for the full South Beach experience. It’s a great way to see the sights and find your perfect spot on the sand.
4. Hobie Beach / Windsurfer Beach (Key Biscayne)
Located just off the Rickenbacker Causeway, Hobie Beach is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and dog lovers.
- The Vibe: This is one of Miami's most laid-back and active beaches. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, with a constant stream of windsurfers gliding across the water against the stunning backdrop of the city skyline.
- What to Do: As the name suggests, this is one of the premier spots in the region for windsurfing, with rentals and lessons readily available. It's also one of the few beaches in the area that is completely dog-friendly, allowing pups to run off-leash and play in the shallow, calm waters.
- Pro-Tip: Parking can be found along the causeway and is free, a rare find in Miami. Arrive early on weekends to snag a good spot.
5. 12th Street Beach (South Beach)
Located in the heart of South Beach, 12th Street Beach is proudly and famously known as Miami's gay beach.
- The Vibe: The atmosphere here is lively, inclusive, and incredibly friendly. It's a popular gathering spot for the LGBTQ+ community and attracts a diverse and energetic crowd.
- What to Do: This is a great place to relax, socialize, and soak up the sun. The beach is easily identifiable by the two large rainbow flags that fly near the lifeguard stations. It's a perfect spot to enjoy the beautiful water and vibrant social scene of South Beach.
- Pro-Tip: Parking in this area is notoriously difficult. Consider using a rideshare service or renting a CitiBike to get to the beach stress-free.
Sources:
- Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
- Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces
- The City of Miami Beach
- Florida State Parks
- Local and national travel publications and blogs
- Online review and travel planning websites