No list of the best beaches in Miami would be complete without South Beach. Famous for its electric energy and pastel-colored Art Deco buildings, this stretch of sand draws guests from around the world. Sunseekers lounge along the broad, golden shore while swimmers drift in the gentle surf, and a walk down Ocean Drive places you in the heart of Miami’s vibrant culture.

Beyond the beach, there’s no shortage of things to do. Explore the Art Deco Historic District on foot, grab stone crab claws at Joe’s Stone Crab, or settle in for fresh ceviche at Larios on the Beach, a Cuban restaurant. For a perfect afternoon retreat, rent a shaded cabana and soak in the scene before South Beach transforms into one of the city’s liveliest nightlife hubs, where music and neon lights spill into the warm evening air.

For a laid-back beach day with natural beauty and plenty of space to roam, Crandon Park Beach on Key Biscayne is a must-visit. This two-mile stretch of shoreline is framed by palm groves and shallow, calm waters that make it ideal for families and casual swimmers.

Beyond the sand, guests can explore the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center, a hands-on educational center near the dunes. Crandon Park also offers picnic areas, cabana rentals and a scenic boardwalk that winds through mangrove forests. Parking is easy to find, especially on weekdays, with weekend rates around $7. It’s the perfect place to slow down, spot wildlife and savor Miami’s more relaxed side.

Matheson Hammock Park feels like a secret retreat hidden just minutes from downtown Miami. Shaded by swaying palms, the park’s man-made atoll pool is fed naturally by the tides of Biscayne Bay, creating a calm, shallow swimming area perfect for young children and beginner swimmers.

Past the beach, guests can wander scenic trails or enjoy a picnic beneath the banyan trees. The park is just a short drive from the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, where exotic blooms and rare palms create a colorful display year-round. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful swim or a quiet afternoon among nature, Matheson Hammock Park offers a beautiful change of pace from Miami’s busier shores.

Tucked away near Biscayne National Park, Homestead Bayfront Park is a peaceful spot where families can swim, picnic and explore nature. The beach features a shallow, protected atoll pool that's perfect for wading or a relaxed afternoon float.

Guests can also visit the nearby Herbert Hoover Marina, a popular launch point for boating and snorkeling trips into the bay. With palm trees lining the shore and grassy areas for barbecues, Homestead Bayfront Park offers a slower, quieter pace that feels miles away from Miami’s busier beaches.

At the southern tip of Miami Beach, South Pointe Park offers wide-open green spaces, a scenic pier and sweeping views of the city skyline. The beach here is smaller and quieter than South Beach, making it a favorite for guests looking to stroll, swim or simply watch the cruise ships gliding out to sea.

After a walk along the water, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at Smith & Wollensky, a waterfront restaurant known for its prime steaks and sunset views. The park’s playgrounds, splash zones and shaded paths make it easy to spend an afternoon here before heading out to explore the nearby art galleries and boutiques of South of Fifth.

Known locally as Windsurfer Beach, Hobie Beach offers calm waters, breezy shores and one of Miami’s most popular dog-friendly stretches of sand. Guests can bring their dogs to splash in the shallow surf or relax under the palms with the Miami skyline just across the bay.

Windsurfing rentals are available nearby for those looking to add a little adventure to the day. The easygoing atmosphere and convenient location along the Rickenbacker Causeway make Hobie Beach a perfect spot for both two-legged and four-legged visitors to unwind.

At Haulover Beach Dog Park, playful pups rule the shore. This dedicated dog-friendly beach offers fenced areas for both large and small dogs, plus shaded picnic spots for guests who want to linger by the water.

After some off-leash fun, visitors can head to the open beach where dogs are welcome to splash in the waves. With easy parking and open views of the Atlantic, Haulover Beach is a favorite spot for locals and travelers looking to share a perfect beach day with their four-legged companions.

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park blends natural beauty with a powerful story. Originally established as Miami’s "colored only" beach during the segregation era, it now stands as a tribute to resilience and community spirit. Guests can walk along quiet nature trails, ride the vintage carousel or explore the miniature train that winds through the park.

The shoreline is lined with soft sands and calm surf, making it an easy place to spend a relaxing afternoon. Birdwatchers often spot sandpipers darting along the water’s edge, and a shaded boardwalk offers scenic views of the mangroves and bay beyond.

North Beach Oceanside Park offers a quieter side of Miami, where open green spaces meet a wide, sandy shoreline. Guests can stroll shaded walking trails, spread out for a beach picnic or simply enjoy the gentle waves without the crowds found farther south.

The park’s relaxed atmosphere makes it feel more like a small beach town than a major city. With playgrounds, plenty of grassy areas and easy beach access, it’s a favorite among locals looking for a peaceful afternoon by the sea.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park feels worlds away from the bustle of Miami. Located at the southern tip of Key Biscayne, it’s home to one of the oldest standing structures in the area — the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, built in 1825.

Guests can climb to the top of the lighthouse for sweeping ocean views or relax on quiet stretches of sandy beach. The park’s scenic bike trails, shaded picnic spots and calm waters make it perfect for a laid-back day outdoors. It's a place where Miami’s history and natural beauty come together in a truly memorable way.

Nearby Attractions

When you’re ready to explore beyond the beach, Miami offers plenty of nearby attractions. Visit the colorful streets of Little Havana, stroll the lush grounds of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or dive into science and history at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. For nature lovers, Biscayne National Park and the Everglades are just a short drive away.