Top 5 Miami Beaches
Miami, Florida is known for its great restaurants and vibrant nightlife, but it's the city's beautiful beaches that keep visitors coming back for more. From family-friendly sands to more secluded, less touristy beaches, we've created a list of the top five beaches of Miami.
Crandon Park Beach: If you're searching for a family-friendly beach in Miami, look no farther. This three-mile long beach has 13 lifeguard towers to keep an eye out, playgrounds, and covered picnic areas with grills. You can also find concession stands, chair/umbrella rentals, and walking trails. There's usually a great sandbar a few yards out which is perfect for playing in the water. Or if you prefer to stick to land, bring a volleyball and take advantage of the nets they have set up. Note: $5+ admission fee. Located at 4000 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne.
South Beach: No trip to Miami is complete without visiting world-famous South Beach. It's got all the essentials (concession stands, chair/umbrella rentals, restrooms, showers, volleyball, lifeguards) but more importantly boasts some great people watching primarily due to the amazing mix of cultures. It truly is the place to see and be seen! In addition to people watching, it's an excellent spot to view the cruise ships sailing out to sea and snap a picture in front of the famously colorful lifeguard stands. Need a break from the sun? Walk over to Ocean Drive to grab a bite and cocktail at one of the dozens of delicious restaurants or cafes. Located at Ocean Drive & 5th St to Collins Ave & 21st St, Miami Beach.
Virginia Key Beach: It's important to point out that there are two entrances for Virginia Key Beach... we'll be describing the second one (located across from the Miami Seaquarium). Although tricky to find, this beach is perfect if you want to escape tourists. It's ultra-secluded, calm, and surprisingly peaceful (considering it's a beach in Miami). In fact, you may find it's only you, a lifeguard tower, and some birds. The beach also has nature trails, a nearby bird sanctuary, and a tiny restaurant only known by a few locals. It's a well-kept secret called Jimbo's (order the smoked fish of the day- it's amazing). Note: $5+ admission fee. Located at Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne (across from the Miami Seaquarium).
Matheson Hammock State Park Beach: During the day, this is also a great option for a family-friendly spot. Although it's arguably not a true beach, Matheson Hammock has an atoll (a man-made lagoon) that's perfect for young kids to splash around and play in the sand. It's a gorgeous spot located right on the ocean and even has romantic waterfront dining (order any seafood at the Red Fish Grill and you won't be disappointed). Matheson Hammock is also a very popular spot in Miami for water sports. While relaxing on the sand near the atoll you can pass the time by watching dozens of kite surfers in the waters nearby. Note: $5+ admission fee. Located at 9610 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Beach: Located at the very southern tip of Key Biscayne, the beach inside Bill Baggs State Park has plenty to do including several walking and biking trails, concession stands, restrooms, picnic tables, showers and great fishing. Don't forget your camera: there's also a historic lighthouse you can climb that has great views of Biscayne Bay, the Miami Skyline and Stiltsville. Note: $4+ admission fee. Located at 1200 S. Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne.