South Miami FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near South Miami, Florida.
1. South Beach (Lummus Park)
ICONIC MIAMI BEACH SCENE
South Beach's Lummus Park is the quintessential Miami beach experience, featuring sandy strands, swaying palms, and pastel-colored Art Deco buildings as its backdrop. Visitors can enjoy the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere that has made this area world-famous. The beach is perfect for swimming, people-watching, and experiencing the energetic South Beach culture that attracts tourists from around the globe.
2. South of Fifth Beach
LOCAL'S FAVORITE ESCAPE
South of Fifth Beach is a more relaxed alternative to the busy sections of South Beach, preferred by locals seeking a quieter day by the ocean. Located at the southern tip of Miami Beach, this area offers beautiful views of the Atlantic and a more laid-back atmosphere than its northern neighbors. Visitors can experience the same beautiful waters and sand without the crowds, making it ideal for those wanting a more peaceful beach day.
3. Haulover Beach Park
PRISTINE UNDEVELOPED SHORELINE
Haulover Beach Park contains the largest remaining stretch of undeveloped beachfront in Miami-Dade County, situated between Bal Harbour and Sunny Isles Beach. The 1.4-mile beach park is known for its pristine white sand shores, open ocean surf, and beautiful coastal vegetation. Visitors can enjoy food concessions, beach chair and umbrella rentals, picnic areas with tables and grills, and a variety of recreational activities including fishing opportunities along the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and Baker's Haulover Cut.
4. Crandon Park Beach
NATIONALLY RANKED PARADISE
Crandon Park Beach is consistently named among the top ten beaches in the nation, featuring a beautiful two-mile stretch of pristine sand and calm waters. The beach is celebrated for its winding promenade, concession stands, multiple picnic areas, cabanas, and a beachside carousel that adds to its family-friendly appeal. Crandon's famous offshore sandbar protects swimmers from crashing surf, making it an ideal spot for safe swimming and water activities.
5. Sunny Isles Beach
CLEAR WATERS AND RECREATION
Sunny Isles Beach features a pristine two-mile long stretch of sand with several access points along Collins Avenue from 157th to 193rd Street. Its clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and various water sports, making it a haven for aquatic enthusiasts. Visitors can also take a stroll on the Newport Fishing Pier or try their luck fishing in the abundant waters surrounding this popular Miami beach destination.
6. Oleta River State Park
URBAN WATERFRONT SANCTUARY
Oleta River State Park is Florida's largest urban park, encompassing 1,043 acres nestled against the Oleta River on Biscayne Bay. The park boasts a 1,200-foot sandy beach where visitors can swim in a tranquil setting away from ocean waves. Nature lovers can explore the clear, placid waters via canoe or kayak (rentals available onsite) or enjoy miles of off-road bicycle trails ranging from novice to challenging levels.
7. Matheson Hammock Park
ATOLL POOL PARADISE
Matheson Hammock Park offers a unique beach experience with its man-made atoll pool, which is flushed naturally with the tides of Biscayne Bay. The calm, shallow waters make this an ideal spot for families with small children looking for a safe swimming environment away from ocean currents. Visitors can enjoy the scenic palm-fringed beach area while taking in beautiful views of the Miami skyline across the bay.
8. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSE BEACH
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park features over a mile of Atlantic beachfront consistently ranked among the top beaches in the United States. The park is home to the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, offering visitors a chance to combine beach recreation with cultural exploration. Guests can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and fishing in the clear waters, or rent bicycles to explore the scenic paths throughout this natural paradise at the southern tip of Key Biscayne.
9. Homestead Bayfront Park Beach
SOUTHERN MIAMI-DADE HIDDEN GEM
Homestead Bayfront Park Beach offers a secluded atoll beach experience in the southern reaches of Miami-Dade County, providing a less crowded alternative to Miami's more popular beaches. The park features a protected swimming area with calm, shallow waters ideal for families and less confident swimmers. Visitors can enjoy picnicking facilities, fishing opportunities from the shore or marina, and spectacular views of Biscayne National Park across the bay.
10. North Beach Oceanside Park
TRANQUIL COASTAL RETREAT
North Beach Oceanside Park provides a peaceful beachfront experience along a beautiful stretch of Atlantic coastline in the northern section of Miami Beach. The park combines natural beach areas with grassy spaces shaded by palm trees, creating a perfect balance for those who want both sun and shade during their visit. Visitors appreciate the local atmosphere, less crowded shores, and abundant recreational opportunities including walking paths, picnic areas, and playground facilities adjacent to the pristine beach.