Best Beaches in Miami
Miami’s beaches offer a great opportunity to get some exercise or just enjoy some time in the sun! In this article, I take a look at a few of my favorite beaches, including a couple of lesser-used spots where you’ll be able to avoid the tourist crowd.
1. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Bill Baggs State Park, located on the south end of Key Biscayne, is home to the famous Cape Florida lighthouse. The park provides sunbathing, swimming and history in the same spot! You can spend some time on the beach and enjoy a guided tour of the lighthouse. Fishing is also allowed from the seawall. The park also hosts Boater’s Grill, a full service restaurant.
2. South Beach
South Beach is the quintessential Miami beach experience. It’s the place to see and be seen and show off the product of months in the gym. South Beach isn’t clothing optional, but topless bathing is permitted. The beach is located on Ocean Drive, across the street from many of Miami Beach’s famous nightclubs.
3. Virginia Key Beach
Virginia Key Beach is one of the most interesting beaches in South Florida. It’s located right off the Rickenbacker Causeway (on both the north and south sides) near the Miami Seaquarium. The location makes for easy access and some areas become crowded, but there are plenty of secluded spots, if you’re willing to explore a bit.
4. Haulover Beach
Haulover Beach, located on Miami Beach between Sunny Isles Beach and Bal Harbour, is known around the world as Miami’s only legal "clothing optional" nude beach. If you’re skittish about shedding your swimsuit, never fear. The beach offers traditional sunbathing as well and the nude beach is clearly marked to avoid accidents! Haulover Beach is a fantastic surfing spot.
5. Homestead Bayfront Park and Marina
Homestead Bayfront Park is a great option if you’re looking to avoid the tourist scene. Located in the southern portion of Miami Dade County, Bayfront Park offers swimming and boating options with a full-service marina. It’s located at 9698 SW North Canal Drive.
1. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Bill Baggs State Park, located on the south end of Key Biscayne, is home to the famous Cape Florida lighthouse. The park provides sunbathing, swimming and history in the same spot! You can spend some time on the beach and enjoy a guided tour of the lighthouse. Fishing is also allowed from the seawall. The park also hosts Boater’s Grill, a full service restaurant.
2. South Beach
South Beach is the quintessential Miami beach experience. It’s the place to see and be seen and show off the product of months in the gym. South Beach isn’t clothing optional, but topless bathing is permitted. The beach is located on Ocean Drive, across the street from many of Miami Beach’s famous nightclubs.
3. Virginia Key Beach
Virginia Key Beach is one of the most interesting beaches in South Florida. It’s located right off the Rickenbacker Causeway (on both the north and south sides) near the Miami Seaquarium. The location makes for easy access and some areas become crowded, but there are plenty of secluded spots, if you’re willing to explore a bit.
4. Haulover Beach
Haulover Beach, located on Miami Beach between Sunny Isles Beach and Bal Harbour, is known around the world as Miami’s only legal "clothing optional" nude beach. If you’re skittish about shedding your swimsuit, never fear. The beach offers traditional sunbathing as well and the nude beach is clearly marked to avoid accidents! Haulover Beach is a fantastic surfing spot.
5. Homestead Bayfront Park and Marina
Homestead Bayfront Park is a great option if you’re looking to avoid the tourist scene. Located in the southern portion of Miami Dade County, Bayfront Park offers swimming and boating options with a full-service marina. It’s located at 9698 SW North Canal Drive.