Surfside FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Surfside, Florida.
1. Surfside Beach
TRANQUIL FAMILY BEACH
Surfside Beach offers visitors crystal-clear waters and soft, expansive white sand, creating a peaceful and inviting environment perfect for families and solo travelers alike. The beach is known for its calm waves, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, jogging along the shore, or simply relaxing in the laid-back, safe atmosphere of this quintessential beach town. Surfside Beach's proximity to restaurants, shopping, and a charming pedestrian-friendly community further enhances its unique, small-town appeal.
2. Bal Harbour Beach
LUXURY OCEANFRONT ESCAPE
Bal Harbour Beach is renowned for its pristine shoreline, lush landscaping, and tranquil setting, offering a more exclusive beach experience just north of Surfside. Visitors enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, and walking on the scenic, well-maintained beachfront path that runs parallel to the Atlantic. The beach's elegant ambiance is complemented by its proximity to upscale shopping and dining at the nearby Bal Harbour Shops.
3. Haulover Beach Park
VAST URBAN BEACHFRONT
Haulover Beach Park is celebrated for its wide, sandy stretches, clear blue water, and vibrant local scene just a short drive from Surfside. The park features areas for swimming, kite flying, picnicking, and even an officially designated clothing-optional section, making it one of the most diverse beach destinations in the area. Nature trails, a marina, and plentiful parking complete its appeal for visitors seeking both relaxation and recreation.
4. North Shore Open Space Park
NATURAL COASTAL SANCTUARY
North Shore Open Space Park provides an uncrowded, lushly landscaped beachfront ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying nature in a peaceful urban oasis. The park features picnic areas, walking and biking trails, and expansive green spaces shaded by palm and sea grape trees. Its unspoiled, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a favorite for those seeking a more tranquil Miami Beach experience.
5. Oleta River State Park
URBAN WATERFRONT ADVENTURE
Oleta River State Park, Florida's largest urban park, offers a unique mix of waterways, beaches, and wooded landscapes just inland from the ocean. Visitors can kayak, paddleboard, swim, or even mountain bike along scenic coastal trails, immersing themselves in this natural retreat within the city. Its serene waterfront picnic spots and rental facilities make it a perfect escape for active families and outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Crandon Park Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ISLAND BEACH
Crandon Park Beach delights with its calm turquoise waters, soft sand, and swaying palms on the scenic island of Key Biscayne. The beach is known for its safe swimming areas, cabana rentals, and a variety of recreational facilities including nature trails and a family amusement center. Its unique setting, protected natural habitats, and gentle surf make it a beloved destination for locals and tourists of all ages.
7. Virginia Key Beach Park
HISTORIC ISLAND RETREAT
Virginia Key Beach Park offers a blend of history, lush tropical scenery, and expansive sandy beaches along the Biscayne Bay shoreline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and kayaking, or explore the area's nature trails and historic landmarks. Its relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere and panoramic bay views make it a unique waterfront getaway close to downtown Miami.
8. South Pointe Park Beach
SCENIC SOUTHERN TIP BEACH
South Pointe Park Beach sits at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, offering sweeping views of Fisher Island and the Miami skyline. The beach is favored for its soft sand, vibrant social scene, walking paths, and a picturesque pier perfect for fishing or watching cruise ships pass by. Its blend of city energy and oceanfront relaxation creates a lively yet scenic escape.
9. Matheson Hammock Park Beach
LAGOON-STYLE WATERFRONT
Matheson Hammock Park Beach features a unique man-made atoll pool naturally filled by the tidal action of Biscayne Bay, set in a tranquil park shaded by mangroves and palms. Visitors can enjoy swimming in calm, protected waters, picnicking, or launching a kayak into the bay. The park's scenic lagoon and rustic charm make it a favorite spot for families and nature lovers.
10. Greynolds Park
HISTORIC RIVER RETREAT
Greynolds Park, located along the Oleta River, offers a lush escape with freshwater swimming areas, canoe rentals, and miles of nature trails. The park's serene landscape is dotted with ancient oaks and rolling terrain, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and historic character. Families and adventurers appreciate its playgrounds, picnic spots, and the opportunity to paddle or fish in a tranquil riverside setting.