Miami is a city built on movement, color, and light, but its beaches are the true heartbeat of the destination. From the high-energy glamour of South Beach to the quiet, turtle-nesting sands of the north, the coastline offers a distinct rhythm for every type of traveler. Finding your perfect stretch of sand here isn’t just about swimming; it is about matching the vibe of the neighborhood to your mood.
The geography of Miami-Dade County creates a unique coastal ecosystem. Barrier islands protect the mainland, resulting in calm, turquoise waters that stay warm year-round. Because the city sits on the Gulf Stream, the water temperature rarely dips below 70 degrees, making it a viable beach destination even in the winter months.
However, not all Miami beaches are created equal. Some are designed for people-watching and socializing, while others are preserved for nature lovers and families seeking a quiet escape. Understanding the difference between the bustling boardwalks and the hidden residential enclaves is the key to planning a successful trip.
Parking, access, and amenities vary wildly from one block to the next. While some beaches offer sprawling parking garages and rental chair services, others require a bit of local knowledge to find a spot. Planning ahead for logistics ensures you spend more time in the water and less time circling the block.
Whether you are a first-time visitor looking for the iconic Art Deco backdrop or a local searching for a new dog-friendly spot, this guide breaks down the diverse coastal landscape. We have analyzed the sand quality, water conditions, and surrounding infrastructure to bring you the definitive list of the best spots to soak up the Florida sun.
Below, you will find a curated selection of the top coastal destinations, followed by essential tips for navigating the shoreline like a local.
South Pointe
| Address | 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (305) 673-7779 |
South Beach is one of the most iconic and beautiful destinations in Miami. The beach is absolutely stunning, with soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and plenty of space to relax and enjoy the ocean.
The entire area is full of energy, with a fantastic mix of restaurants, cafés, shops, and the famous Ocean Drive just steps away. Whether you're looking to swim, walk along the shoreline, ride a bike, or simply watch the sunrise or sunset, South Beach offers something for everyone.
The beach was clean, well maintained, and had a lively yet enjoyable atmosphere. It's a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. If you're visiting Miami, South Beach is an absolute must-see. The combination of beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and endless things to do makes it a true five-star destination. I can't wait to come back!
Wow! Welcome to miami - This beach feels safe, beautiful and HOT! All the girls in thongs and some even topless makes this the best beach in the USA! I highly recommend vacation where you can have it all ....but prepare to pay for this area!
Not really much to add about this place , beautiful views , beach .. go take a look .
Nice beach 🏖️, the sand is beautiful after they rake the seaweed each morning. The waves 🌊 are small relative to west coast or Hawaii so no real surfing. Over makes for a nice meet up and October break with friends. Would recommend visiting at least once.
Someone else said it’s a vibe - and it really is. The crowd is largely local and a nice mix of families, couples, friend groups, and singles just looking to swim and soak up some rays. Very chill and respectful. While it does get busy, it doesn’t feel overcrowded, particularly the farther towards the pier you go. It’s a wide beach with pale golden sand and clear, turquoise water with minimal seeweed. Cruise ships pass by occasionally on their way out to sea, which also adds to the charm. There are ice cream shops and restaurants nearby, as well as a playground and a nice walking/running path next to the beach. A really nice place to spend an afternoon.
Lummus Park
| Address | 1130 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
🌴🌊🌳☀️🏝️⛅️ Lummus Park literally draws a line between the iconic Ocean Drive and the rolling edge of South Beach. Stretching along much of Ocean Drive, the park complements the area’s most recognizable landmarks while connecting the city’s vibrant street life to the shoreline. It’s also the site of Miami Beach Pride and is deeply rooted in South Beach’s LGBTQ history. The palms offer pockets of shade before the path opens up, guiding you through the sea grapes and out toward the horizon, where the light shifts and the waves take over.
Very large and sandy beach area around Lummus Park. There's lot's of deckchairs and drinks pop ups along the length of the beachfront. There's a few little training areas wandering around the Miami beach and it's a green oasis. The ocean is maybe 100 metres away and unfortunately has lot's of gatherings of seaweed you have to navigate going for a dip. Plenty of outdoor seating at various places. There's quite a few roped off areas protecting the sea turtles eggs laid in a burrow underneath the sand
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An Absolute Masterclass of an Event! Best Miami Trip Ever!
I have been to Miami several times, but this recent trip for the 2026 Hyundai Air & Sea Show completely blew everything else out of the water! We spent our time at Lummus Park right on Ocean Drive, and it proved to be the absolute ultimate vantage point for the entire event. The energy of the crowd, the iconic Art Deco backdrop, and the crystal-clear ocean views made the perfect setting for a world-class show.
The weather could not have been more perfect—gorgeous, sunny South Florida skies with a beautiful ocean breeze that kept us comfortable all day long.
Honestly, I was expecting a logistical headache with an event this massive, but Miami Beach absolutely nailed it. Parking was an absolute breeze! It was incredibly well-situated throughout the area, there were plenty of spots available, and the pricing was shockingly reasonable for a major holiday weekend. It took all the stress out of the day right from the start.
As for the main event—outstanding doesn't even begin to cover it. The organization was flawless, but the absolute highlight for me was the stealth fighter jet demonstrations. Seeing those cutting-edge machines scream across the blue sky right above the beach was awe-inspiring and downright awesome. The sheer power and precision left everyone on the beach completely speechless.
If you have never experienced the Air & Sea Show from Lummus Park, put it at the very top of your bucket list. An unforgettable experience, a flawless weekend, and easily one of my best trips to Miami yet! I will definitely be back.
Every-time I go to Miami and walk Lummus Park, I’m happy that it’s kept up, clean and kept beautiful! We were there to support Norway vs England for the World Cup; we love seeing the row chant!
Very clean park. Definitely a great place to spend a day at the beach. Lots of access points from parking. The walking/ biking path is a great way to see the sights.
Miami Beach - South Beach
| Address | Miami Beach - South Beach, Florida 33139 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Beautiful beach but spoiled by the influx of Sargassum seaweed while we were there. The beach was not too crowded on this particular Sunday late afternoon, tho can see how it could be very crowded. Other than the seaweed, sand was very well maintained. Walked between volleyball courts and players on the way to and from the beach. All good.
Absolutely love South Beach! Early morning sunrise walks on the beach are the best, I’ve been many times at different times of year the full moons is gorgeous so many places to eat, shop and sight see
Good beach, especially if you’re staying nearby or spending the day in Miami Beach. The water and atmosphere are great. Just don’t expect parking to be easy, finding a spot nearby can be a challenge, especially during busy hours.
South Beach is the heart of Miami Beach and famous worldwide for its white sand, turquoise water, and lively atmosphere.
The beach is wide, clean, and perfect for walking, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the ocean view.
When you head toward the beach through Lummus Park, the stretch of green really welcomes you. You do have to walk quite a bit to reach the sand—it’s surprisingly far from Ocean Drive. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a large distance between a main road and the beach before, but honestly, that’s part of its charm.
Palm trees, colorful lifeguard towers, and the Art Deco skyline create the classic Miami postcard scene. Whether you visit for sunrise or sunset, the vibe here is always energetic.
Parking: Take my words: Park at ‘Miami Beach Parking Garage [7th St]’, its your best bet
On my first day in Miami, after I checked late afternoon, by 10 pm, I had walked 8 miles through Miami Beach area across mainly Collins Park all the way to Lummus Park. Miami Beach offers a seamless blend of high-energy clubs and restaurants, iconic late-night party spots, and sophisticated rooftop lounges. For an all-in-one experience, prioritize places such as Mango’s Tropical Cafe or Sola Miami Beach, both with so many others, which feature live entertainment 24/7.
Miami Beach
| Address | Miami Beach, Florida |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Miami Beach is one of the most iconic destinations in Florida and definitely a place everyone should experience at least once. The beach is absolutely beautiful, with soft white sand, warm turquoise water, and an incredible atmosphere both day and night. Whether you want to relax by the ocean, walk along the boardwalk, enjoy the nightlife, or simply people-watch, there is always something happening.
The area is very lively and full of energy, especially around South Beach, where the famous Art Deco buildings, restaurants, cafés, and palm-lined streets create a unique Miami vibe. The sunsets are stunning, and the ocean views are unforgettable. The walking paths and the Miami Beach Boardwalk are perfect for jogging, biking, or just enjoying the sea breeze.
There are also quieter areas like North Beach for those looking for a more peaceful experience away from the crowds. Overall, Miami Beach combines relaxation, nightlife, culture, and amazing scenery better than almost anywhere else in the United States. Definitely a must-visit destination when traveling to South Florida.
Miami Beach is exactly what you imagine when you think of a perfect beach destination. Clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and palm trees everywhere — the vibe is just unreal.
The atmosphere is lively but still relaxing. You can walk along the beach, enjoy the ocean, or just sit and watch the scenery. South Beach, in particular, has a unique energy with music, people, and iconic lifeguard towers.
It’s clean, well-maintained, and perfect for both daytime chilling and sunset views. Definitely one of the best beaches in the U.S.
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"Miami Beach is an amazing place to relax and enjoy the ocean. The beach is wide, clean, and full of life - from sunrise walks to vibrant nightlife nearby. You'll find soft sand, warm water, and plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment spots within walking distance. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers. Parking can be tricky on busy days, so it's good to come early.
I imagined the beach very differently. The beach was disgusting. There was an extremely large amount of seaweed everywhere, just like in the videos. I have never seen such an ugly beach in my life.
Horrible beach. No access path to the sea. Unpleasant sand and the smell of fish. The whole beach is covered in algae. It is better to go to the beach in Tel Aviv or go to Dubai to an artificial beach
Hobie Island Beach Park
| Address | Old, Rickenbacker Cswy, Miami, FL 33149 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (305) 361-2833 |
🌅 Absolutely Magical Beach Day at Hobie Island! 🌊
If you’re looking for a beautiful coastal escape that feels both relaxing and adventurous, this place delivers in every way! From the moment we arrived, the stunning views of the water and skyline set the tone for an unforgettable day. The beach has shallow, calm waters that are perfect for wading, paddleboarding, or just lounging with friends and family.
What sets Hobie Island apart is the welcoming atmosphere — it’s family-friendly, pet-friendly (bring your dog!), and ideal for picnics, sunsets, and laid-back beach vibes. The open space gives everyone plenty of room to relax, explore, and enjoy the day without feeling crowded. Rentals for paddleboards and kayaks make it easy to get out on the water, and the views — especially at golden hour — are truly breathtaking.
Whether you’re soaking up the sunshine, trying a new watersport, or watching the sunset over the tranquil bay, this beach park deserves every one of its five stars. Can’t wait to come back! 😎🏖️👏
If you are heading toward the tranquil shores of Key Biscayne, you absolutely have to make a quick stop at Hobie Island Beach Park. Located right off the Rickenbacker Causeway, it serves as the perfect gateway to the island. While many people rush past it to get deeper into the Key, stopping here is one of the best decisions you can make for a relaxing Miami afternoon.
The area is a very nice beach that offers a different vibe than the crowded stretches of South Beach. One of the standout features is the shallow, calm water, which makes it an ideal spot for wading or simply enjoying the breeze. Because it faces the bay, you get an incredible, unobstructed view of the Miami skyline that is particularly breathtaking during the "golden hour."
The convenience factor is a huge plus. It’s incredibly accessible, making it a great place to stretch your feet or let your dog run around, as it is one of the most famous dog-friendly beaches in the area. Whether you are looking to launch a kayak, watch the windsurfers, or just take in the scenery on your way to Key Biscayne, this park delivers a serene, picturesque experience. It is a hidden gem that perfectly balances natural beauty with easy city access.
Habit Island Beach Park was a peaceful little escape that even my Bengal cat, Loki, loved. The sand was incredibly soft, and he happily explored and lounged like he owned the place. The water was calm and flat, adding to the relaxing vibe, while the palm trees gently clinked in the breeze. Simple, quiet, and surprisingly memorable.
the scenery here is beautiful. its on a little side path, we arrived by taxi during our visit. quiet and relaxing, locals jogging, theres an area for picture taking and also a paddle board shop i believe
This beach is so nice to go anytime with your kids, dogs and the whole family. Really nice ambiance and view. Ideal for kids and dogs. They sell food.
Crandon Park
| Address | 6747 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (305) 361-5421 |
We had an amazing family day at Crandon Park Beach! The beach was spacious, clean, and very family-friendly. The restrooms were well maintained, and the picnic areas were perfect for spending the whole day outdoors.
We reserved Shelter 5, which came with a grill, and we had a great barbecue cooking ribs, chicken, and sausages. There was plenty of space for everyone to relax, play volleyball, and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere.
Everything was organized and comfortable, making it a perfect spot for family gatherings and weekend fun. We truly had a wonderful time and will definitely be coming back!
The view of the Miami Skyline is hands down one of the best in the entire city — especially at sunset! 🌇 It’s that magical contrast between the untouched nature of the park and the modern architecture shimmering in the distance that makes it so special. ✨
• Pure Bliss: Leave the stress behind and just breathe. 🧘♂️
• City Lights & Ocean Breeze: Best of both worlds! 🌊🏙️
• Golden Hour: Perfect for your soul (and your camera!) Unfortunately, the sky was cloudy today."
Crandon Park is popular for its beautiful beach, rich coastal environment, unique fossilized mangrove reef, protected wetlands, birding sites and extensive range of sports and outdoor activities.
Crandon Park is home to various ecosystems, from dunes and mangroves to coastal hammock and seagrass beds and rare plants like the Biscayne prickly ash and beach peanut. Underwater, fossilized reefs and colorful sea life give divers and snorkelers plenty to explore.
Crandon Park comprises the northern portion of Key Biscayne (almost 7 miles southeast of Miami). The key began as a coconut plantation, before being donated with the stipulation that Miami-Dade County uses the land as a public park.
With its golf and tennis facilities, unique eco-adventures and breathtaking beach, Crandon Park offers something for everyone
Parking: Weekdays $7 and Weekends $10
One of my absolute favorite places to go bird watching in this area. Provides a variety of areas across several habitats like wooded area, open fields, trails, and beach. Expansive park that has a lot to offer. I love the Indian Peafowl just walking around in large grouping. Lots of parking with public restrooms. A must visit for everyone.
Basic facilities upkeep.
Poorly kept beach. The seaweed had a toxic stench.
Fixed all day parking rate $12 fees included,. Unavoidable toll to get there. Noticeable ticket violations on cars. Paid parking in parks deters short regular visits, especially the health visitors(walking, jogging, yoga, etc) which is usually 1hr to 2hrs.
North Beach Oceanside Park
| Address | 8328 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Phone | (305) 861-3616 |
This place is spectacular and has changed for the best. So many things to do like walking trail, exercise spots,and playground for the children. Has onsite clean restrooms. Grill to feed the families. Of course you can't forget the ocean. Not the best ocean due to the seaweed but all in all its ok.
This park has everything you need from grills to benches to volleyball courts and children’s playground even a dog park for small and large dogs . It’s a great place for family gatherings ,barbecues and birthdays.
I love it! A lot of shape and picnic tables. Everything clean and nice. The playground was great
North Beach Oceanside Park is a magnificent place! A tranquil park in Miami Beach. The beach is wide, clean, and never too crowded. The park offers many amenities: picnic areas with barbecues, a nice playground for children, perfect trails for walking or running, and even a dog park. There is also direct access to the beach with lifeguards, restrooms, drinking fountains, and plenty of shaded benches. It's the ideal place for families, couples, or anyone looking for some peace away from the crowds of tourists. Highly recommended!
Lots of seaweed but pretty relaxing once on the beach. Plenty of city parking at an affordable price per hour, to pay by phone. Very noisy park. Every family has a speaker with different music genres at a time. I don't understand why people smoke marihuana on public parks where kids are playing around. And they have their own kids with them too.
Haulover Park
| Address | 10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33154 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (305) 947-3525 |
Haulover Park is a good spot to relax and most times we've been it was not busy. There is a lot of parking across the road and good access with crosswalk. The parking often hosts food trucks and has a fun and safe atmosphere. The park has skate park as well and great access to the beach.
Haulover Beach is honestly one of the most beautiful beaches in Miami. The water is usually gorgeous, the sand is nice, and there’s so much space to relax, walk around, swim, or just enjoy the ocean and the Miami sunshine. I especially love how peaceful it can feel even though you’re still so close to the city, and seeing the boats and yachts passing through Haulover Inlet makes the views even better. It’s definitely a place where you can spend hours without getting tired of the scenery. One important thing to know before visiting is that Haulover has a designated clothing-optional/nude section, so if you’re coming with children or you’re not comfortable with nudity, I personally wouldn’t recommend that specific area; there are other sections of the beach you can enjoy instead. Overall, it’s a beautiful, relaxing place with amazing ocean views and easily one of my favorite beaches in South Florida. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Great park with plenty of facilities. Beautiful clear water at the jetty, white sandy beaches throughout the super long oceanside. Plenty of seating benches dotted around the coastline. The picnic area near the jetty is super crowded so don't expect to be able to grab a table unless you arrive early.
**Fantastic spot right by the inlet!**
We arrived by 8:00 AM and managed to snag the very last picnic table closest to the inlet, which made for an incredible morning view. Watching the boats pass by right from our spot was amazing.
The only real drawback is the lack of a water supply in the picnic area for quick cleanup. When you're grilling and eating outdoors, every BBQ area really should have a common water source to wash hands or wipe down tables.
Other than that, it's a beautiful, scenic location. Just be sure to get here early if you want a prime spot, and bring extra wet wipes or jugs of water for cleanup!
Haulover Park is well known for it beautiful environment and nice beach and ocean view, the park is tourist attractions and for everyone that love ❤️ going to beach⛱️ to enjoy swimming on the ocean water. And the sunshine. there a walk path to do walking distance, jogging, skating boarding,biking and exercise item to do a good 👍 workout, the park be having events skate boarding. like party, birthday, music Dj entertainment and family gatherings and so on. Also clean public restrooms,There, a grill on the park to do cooking, barbecue & chicken. and steaming food with a pot or pan. Haulover park is a very nice place to bring friends, love one, family and kids to enjoy the park. I highly recommend everyone to go to Haulover beach park by @KINzPro.
Miami Beach - North Beach
| Address | Miami Beach - North Beach, Florida |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
I loved staying on North Beach. However, my stay was ruined by ilios rental company. Do not rent from ilios rentals a short term rental management company. After booking unit 705 at 72 Park through Expedia, the management company sent a request to pay a refundable deposit of $250 as a hold on my credit card. This was not a hold but an actual charge. A few days after check out they said they were not refunding my $250 deposit due to a broken plastic refrigerator shelf. They sent a picture that was dated prior to my stay. Upon further research, the part they claimed I broke was less than $50 to replace. I have asked numerous times for a receipt of the replacement and was ignored. They basically stole $250 from me with no justification. The unit was not stocked with any necessities and no one was there to check me in even though I arrived on time. They didn’t even post the correct WiFi log in information so I couldn’t work until the second day of my stay. Run from any rental they are managing. You can see by my photos I took, I left the unit in great condition.
I enjoy North Beach in Miami Beach, because it’s calmer and clean. No one was blasting music on their speakers or running around acting silly. Instead most were either sunbathing by themselves or a small groups of friends/family. There are several places in the vicinity in which you can rent a beach chair, but the sand is clean enough that you can use a Turkish towel on the ground and call it a day.
Spent an incredible sunny day at North Beach, Miami Beach with my nephew and it was absolutely perfect. The water was crystal clear, calm, and there was a natural sandbar where the water only reached knee level—like a splash pool made just for kids.
So peaceful, clean, and beautiful. A great spot for families, relaxing walks, and safe water play. North Beach truly feels like a hidden gem.
View is great but there are so many seaweeds. I cant swim at all. It disturbs me so much.
I went for the first time last weekend, and had a wonderful time. The water was very clean and clear- and not too much seaweed. There was some seaweed in clumps in the water, but just try to stay away from it, and none cluttering the shore. Parking nearby in some public lots are just a little over a dollar per hour- I spent a whole afternoon for $3.50.
There's a nearby Publix as well for last-minute shopping essentials. It's in a safe area, and not too crowded. I definitely recommend checking it out!
Key Biscayne Beach
| Address | Key Biscayne Beach, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
You have to pay $2 pp or $8 per vehicle as of October 2025. Be prepared to rent a chair/umbrella or bring your own. Beach was pretty packed but not sure why. Water did not look inviting. A lot of the beach looked more like an eyesore. Positives: You do get a view of the lighthouse. Sand is fine and soft. It was cool seeing the lizards and iguanas nearby.
A beautiful, clean, calm and peaceful beach. Less crowded. Umbrella and beach chairs are available for rental for $40 a day. The beach area isn’t pebbly so water shoes aren’t required. There is a light house at the beach and it makes the scenery look even more beautiful. The water is just perfect and since there is no alcohol allowed at the beach it is even more cleaner since no can and bottles are seen around. Overall, a beautiful beach if you are looking to stay away from the crowd and take it slow.
The movie “Treasure Without a Name” was filmed on this beautiful beach. The water is shallow. Gorgeous park and a long shoreline 🥰
It’s a great beach area very family oriented open until 8 PM, has the bikes that you could rent has the restaurant right across the beach
We had an amazing time at this beautiful beach! The lighthouse was a highlight, and we loved learning about its history. They also offer chair and umbrella rentals, which was a nice convenience. Also had to pay to access the state park.
Playa Miami Beach
| Address | 465 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
The tower is Art Deco geometry in neon green and yellow, built when someone decided a lifeguard station should announce itself instead of disappear. It’s functional equipment that became icon. That’s rare. The beach itself is crowded, commercial, shaped by decades of tourism infrastructure. The sand is maintained. The water is water. The lifeguards are actually watching.
The tower is why you’re here. You photograph it. People have been photographing it for forty years. The light hits different in late afternoon, hits different when the sky is clear, hits different every time. It’s not better on Instagram than in person, it’s just a different format of the same thing, which is: this is what aesthetic commitment looks like at public scale.
The beach works because the tower works. The infrastructure holds. The maintenance is real. Nobody’s selling you an experience here, they’re just keeping the tower standing and the beach open.
The beaches were clean and there were plenty of people around. You can rent two beach chairs and an umbrella for $79.
The downside is that it’s currently seaweed season. During the three days we were there, there was a lot of seaweed washed up on the shore, and it started to smell unpleasant. Even by the evening, it still hadn’t been cleaned up.
Another major drawback is that there are only two outdoor showers, and they’re located behind the beach. There’s usually a long line, which makes it very inconvenient, especially for families with children.
Having travelled the world over and staying at some exclusive resorts, I have to say I’m very impressed with South beach. Definitely a top tier beach with soft sand, crystal clear waters and the perfect temperature to take a swim. Top 10 beach in the world no doubt in my mind
Miami Beach is famous for a reason — it’s beautiful and totally worth a visit. We rented two chairs and an umbrella for the whole day for $65, which felt fair for the convenience and service. The beach stands don’t sell alcohol, but drinks were about $5 each — honestly not bad for being right on the sand. The staff set everything up for us and made it easy to just relax and enjoy the day. The water is warm (great for some, though I personally prefer cooler water), but overall we had an amazing time and it was worth every dollar.
Iconic South Beach a part of the city of Miami Beach is probably one of the greatest eclectic spots in the US.
The food is very good almost everywhere you go and the weather is, well Miami! You have to love the art deco architecture as well, it is everywhere and reminds you of a bygone era.
Nixon Beach Sandbar
| Address | Biscayne Bay, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Beautiful for boat day, we went for my birthday✨ the water so clear and perfect day🤩☀️🏝️
Amazing spot to go on boat any day!
Great boating and swimming place. A little crowd on week end but very private during the week. A meeting place for local boaters.
Sometimes it gets pretty packed and with a bunch of loud little kids. If you want to relax, Nixon Beach is a hot or miss. If you’ve never been, it’s definitely time to go.
One of the best sandbars in Miami for a relaxing day! No strong currents and shallow areas for safe swimming.
South Pointe Beach
| Address | South Pointe Beach, Florida 33139 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
it’s a nice beach but not as good as destin navarre or pensacola. it’s very crowded as well but earns full marks bc it has an amazing boardwalk and sunset view. it also has playgrounds for kids and there’s pic opportunities everywhere. hot during the day but very breezy around sunset.
Lot of green space in the heart of Miami Beach, good for walk, bike, splash pad for kids and eat a bit. Good access to the beach too plenty of space
Love this place and it’s my daughter’s favorite playground too, as the free waterpark is always fun and next to the kids play area and great small cafe with great healthy ice creams and snacks.
The beach at South pointe always cleaner and attractive than at other beaches nearby
Very good place to visit if you are in Miami. You can see the cruise and also go to beach,
Perfect place picture
Amazing to take your family to. Being from Kentucky it was one of the prettiest oceans I’ve seen. I loved the sand and the weather. I got a great tan. Great atmosphere with respect to others. Was sand wash off area along with bathrooms. Great Parking areas along with plenty of space. Would recommend to visit if you come to Miami. I will be back next time I’m there.
Miami Beach Boardwalk
| Address | Miami Beach, FL 33140 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (305) 673-7714 |
Beautiful views😇and excellent weather, especially if you go early in the morning when it’s not too crowded. The only downside is the parking—you have to pay for a full day at $20.35, which feels pricey if you’re only staying for a couple of hours. If anyone knows a better parking spot, I’d love some tips! Other than that, it’s a great place for running🙃
It’s a pretty short pier but has amazing views and you can see the fish!
Beautiful clean soft sand beaches that are shallow almost to the buoy line....on rough sea days, the life guards are very cautious and aim to keep people safe. If you have littles, know that there IS a likely possibility that there will be topless woman, and even the chance of fully naked people...
But other than that, people are great about cleaning up after themselves(even the few homeless we saw were amazingly clean) and everyone was pleasant and respectful.
I went there in the evening. Not as crowded as southern part of the beach but beautiful. Water is a bit steep in some part but ok to swim. I saw people fishing near the rocks. Good spot for taking photos.
The boardwalk is incredible! Filled with vibrant people having fun walking, riding bikes, and walking dogs. The beach is beautiful as well as all the fun little tiki bars and restaurants. There’s no place quite like Miami Beach. The boardwalk is seven miles long and takes you right to South Beach. There are water fountains and bathrooms along the way. There are a few parks and parking lots. They have places for kids to play. Walk right onto the white sand beach. In the evening, the boardwalk has lights. It’s the perfect time to walk after dinner and see what’s going on.
Miami Florida
| Address | Miami Florida, Miami Beach, FL 33139 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
My 1st flight and my 1st time to Miami Beach! Everything was Everything! I can't wait to go back. That city never sleeps!! All the restuarants on Ocean Drive had tables set up and big screen Tvs in front of their businesses where soccer fans could gather and watch the games. The atmosphere was lit!!
Such a great clean beach! Fun, great for people watching, dancing, relaxing. So many choices for food as well. I felt safe and had a great time!
The beach is amazing. The water is so clear and the sunrises are spectacular. You can walk all of Ocean Dr, and walk down to South Point where you can see beautiful sunsets. Be sure to walk Ocean Dr once during the day to see the hotel, restaurants and take in the architecture. Walk it at night to see it again with all the lights in an array of colors. There are so many restaurants there, many independent, and the food is amazing.
Emblematic place to experiment one time in your life.
Crowded. Dirty. Hot. But the kids still had a great time. Great place to watch cruise ships 🚢 coming and going.
Essential Tips for Visiting Miami Beaches
Before you pack your cooler and towel, there are a few critical local insights that will make your day at the ocean significantly smoother. Miami’s beach culture is distinct, and knowing how to handle the sun, the parking, and the tides will save you both time and money.
1. Master the Parking Situation Early
Parking is the single biggest hurdle for a Miami beach day. South Beach relies heavily on municipal garages located on 7th, 13th, and 16th Streets, which fill up quickly on weekends.
If you are heading to Key Biscayne or North Beach, look for metered street parking, but download the PayByPhone app before you arrive to avoid hunting for change. Arriving before 10:00 AM is the safest strategy to secure a spot within walking distance of the sand.
2. Respect the Rip Currents and Flags
The water in Miami is generally calm, but rip currents can form suddenly, especially near inlets like Haulover or Government Cut. Always check the colored warning flags flying at the lifeguard stands.
A red flag means high hazard, yellow means moderate, and purple indicates dangerous marine life (usually jellyfish or man-o-war). Swimming near a lifeguard tower is always the best practice, regardless of your swimming ability.
3. The Sun is Stronger Than You Think
The subtropical sun in South Florida is intense, even on overcast days. UV rays reflect off the white sand and water, causing burns faster than in most other parts of the country.
Use a reef-safe, high-SPF sunscreen and reapply every 80 minutes, especially after swimming. Many locals prefer to hit the beach early in the morning or after 4:00 PM to avoid the peak intensity between noon and 3:00 PM.
4. Bring Cash for Chairs and Umbrellas
While you can rent loungers and umbrellas at major hubs like South Beach and Lummus Park, the vendors often operate in cash. Expect to pay between $20 and $40 for a daily set-up depending on the location.
If you are planning to visit multiple beaches during your trip, buying a cheap umbrella and sand anchor from a local pharmacy is far more economical than renting every day.
5. Watch for Sea Turtle Nesting Season
Between May and October, Miami’s beaches become nesting grounds for loggerhead, green, and leatherback sea turtles. If you are on the beach at night during this period, avoid using white flashlights or flash photography, as they disorient the hatchlings.
Fill in any holes you dig in the sand and remove all trash and furniture, as these become deadly obstacles for baby turtles trying to reach the ocean.
The beauty of Miami’s coastline is that it refuses to be a monolith. You can spend your morning surfing off the jetty at Haulover and your evening watching the sunset over the bay from a quiet spot in Coconut Grove. The city’s diversity is reflected in its sandbars, boardwalks, and hidden coves.
Ultimately, the best beach in Miami is the one that fits your specific travel style. Whether you crave the thumping bass of a DJ set or the silence of a mangrove-lined shore, the perfect patch of sand is waiting for you. Just remember to pack your sunscreen, arrive early, and respect the ocean that makes this city so special.
