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Miami Top Beaches

July 8, 2024

Miami Top Beaches You Can’t Miss for Sun, Surf, and Sand

Looking for family-friendly Miami top beaches or luxury hotels near the best beaches? This list has got you covered for sun, surf and relaxation. From busy South Beach to peaceful North Beach, find out where to go for your perfect beach day. It’s all about the best beaches in Miami!

Quick Facts

South Beach is famous for its white sand, art deco buildings, nightlife and proximity to shopping districts. The turquoise waters of South Beach are a major attraction for visitors looking for a picture perfect beach.
North Beach is a quiet spot with a family friendly vibe, with green spaces, cultural attractions and calm waves.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on Key Biscayne has beaches and historical landmarks including the Cape Florida Lighthouse.

South Beach

Miami Beach’s crown jewel. A playground for the rich, famous and anyone who wants to experience Miami’s energy. The white sand beaches are iconic, stretching out like a blanket along the Atlantic Ocean. The beach itself is busy but it’s the area around it that makes South Beach special. The art deco architecture is a visual treat, taking you back in time with its pastel coloured buildings and neon lights.

South Beach with its turquoise waters has legendary nightlife. With nightclubs and artsy cocktail bars lining Ocean Drive the area comes alive as the sun sets. Whether you’re dancing the night away or sipping a sophisticated cocktail South Beach has something for everyone. And let’s not forget Lummus Park Beach, a famous filming location for movies and TV shows that adds a touch of Hollywood glamour to your beach day.

Once you’re ready to take a break from the sun and sand you can explore the Lincoln Shopping District which has over 200 shops and restaurants with everything from high end fashion to great dining options. If you want to stay close to the action the Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach is a luxurious beachfront hotel within walking distance to all the local hotspots.

Peace and quiet at North Beach

While South Beach is the party, North Beach is the peace and quiet. This area is a family friendly retreat for those looking for tranquility. It has a small town feel that’s perfect for families and those looking for a more relaxed beach experience. The soft sand and calm waves of North Beach is ideal for a day by the water.

North Beach has plenty of green spaces with room for picnics and outdoor activities. The 9 block green area is perfect for family outings with picnic pavilions, barbecue grills and a playground. The North Shore Park & Youth Center adds to the family friendly vibe with indoor and outdoor recreational facilities.

If you like a little culture with your beach day North Beach has:

The Miami Beach Bandshell with various performances
Walking trails and bike paths so it’s a nature lover’s paradise
The famous full moon party at North Beach Oceanside Park

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Scenic Beauty

Nature lovers and history buffs will find a haven in the scenic beauty of Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Located at the southern tip of Key Biscayne this park is a beach away from the Miami madness. The white sand beaches here are pristine, regularly ranked as one of the best in the country.

The historic Cape Florida Lighthouse built in 1825 is one of the park’s main attractions. Climbing the 109 steps to the top gives you panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and the Miami skyline. It’s a photographer’s dream and a great place to soak up some history.

For the more adventurous Samson Oceanfront Park has plenty of outdoor activities to offer. Some options are:

Biking or hiking on the 1.5 mile paved bike path
Boat camping and watching the sunset at No Name Harbor
Enjoying fresh seafood with oceanfront views at Boater’s Grill or Lighthouse Cafe.

Luxury at Bal Harbour Beach

Luxury and sophistication is what Bal Harbour Beach is all about. Known for its luxury hotels this mile long beach is lined with luxury hotels, condos and high end shops making it the go to destination for those looking for a more upscale beach experience. The soft sand and clear blue water is the perfect backdrop for relaxation.

Staying at Bal Harbour Beach means you’ll be treated to the best of the best. The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour and The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort are just two of the many luxurious options available, each with lavish amenities and oceanfront pools. The beauty of Bal Harbour is enhanced by the views from these resorts and restaurants.

Shoppers will love the Bal Harbour Shops, an iconic open air mall with luxury boutiques like Chanel, Prada and Gucci. After a day of shopping you can enjoy fine dining at one of the many restaurants in the area. Bal Harbour Beach has it all luxury, relaxation and beauty.

Family Fun at Crandon Park Beach

Located on Key Biscayne Crandon Park Beach is a gem for family activities. This beach has everything you need for a fun day for the whole family:

Picnic tables
Cabanas
Volleyball nets
Playground

Crandon Park Beach has it all.

Nature lovers will enjoy the different ecosystems here; dunes, mangroves and coastal hammock. The beach is a bird watcher’s paradise with herons, ospreys and hawks frequently visiting. The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center has exhibits and public events so it’s a great place to learn and explore.

For the adventurous Crandon Park Beach has:

canoeing
snorkeling
windsurfing
kiteboarding
stand-up paddleboarding
kayaking

The tennis center and golf course is also an option for family fun and recreation.

Dog-Friendly Hobie Beach

Also known as Windsurfer Beach Hobie Beach is a paradise for windsurfers and dog owners. This beach has sun, surf and fun for everyone including your furry friends. One of the few dog friendly beaches in Miami so it’s a popular spot for pet lovers.

The beach’s windsurfing prime location attracts water sport enthusiasts from all over. Whether you’re an experienced windsurfer or a beginner looking to try something new Hobie Beach has everything you need to catch some waves. With its laid back atmosphere and beautiful views Hobie Beach is a beach day like no other.

South Pointe Park’s Views

Located at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach South Pointe Park is a scenic escape with views. This park has views of the South Beach shoreline, PortMiami’s cruise ships and the Downtown Miami skyline. The views are perfect for a day out whether you’re walking, biking or just taking in the views.

The park has:

A playground
A mini water park
Picnic areas
450 foot pier for fishing with turtle safe lighting viewing stations
Off-leash dog park for dog owners to let their dogs run and play.

South Pointe Park also has walking trails, picnic tables and a cafe. South Pointe Beach has colorful lifeguard towers and umbrella and beach chair rentals. Whether you want to relax, play or explore South Pointe Park has it all.

Virginia Key Beach Park Historic Charm

Virginia Key Beach Park has more than just beauty; it has history and charm. Established in 1945 it was a beach for African Americans during segregation and a retreat for people of color at the time. Today it still has its historic charm and has:

Swimming
Picnicking
Fishing
Kayaking
Biking
Nature trails

Come visit this historic beach park!

You can enjoy a mile of beach, an antique carousel and beachfront cabins at historic Virginia Key Beach. The park hosts events that showcase local culture and history and environmental conservation. Virginia Key Beach Park has it all; history, beauty and fun.

Surfside Beach Community Feel

Surfside Beach is known for its community feel, small town atmosphere and clear turquoise waters. It’s also uncrowded so it’s the perfect spot for an intimate beach day. The pedestrian friendly streets and luxury hotels with ocean views add to the charm.

Community events are a big part of Surfside’s charm. Residents gather on the beach on the first Friday of every month from June to August. They listen to music, eat and have kid friendly activities. These events create a neighborhood feel that Surfside Beach doesn’t have with other Miami beaches.

Haulover Beach’s Uniqueness

Famous for its clothing optional section Haulover Beach is one of the best nude beaches in the world. This unique feature along with its dog friendly area attracts visitors looking for a liberating beach experience. The clothing optional area is between lifeguard towers #12 and #16 so it’s a safe and comfortable environment for all.

In addition to its clothing optional section Haulover Beach has expansive sand and a dog beach. The 99 acre park is perfect for flying kites and sun and surf. Haulover Beach has something for everyone.

Mid Beach Luxury

Less crowded than its more famous neighbors Mid Beach has an equally beautiful beach and is a hot spot for luxury hotels and fine dining. The area is known for its eclectic mix of high end restaurants and nightlife often referred to as MiMo (Miami Modern).

Luxury hotels galore in Mid Beach one of the best beaches in Miami. Faena Miami Beach has rich decadent interiors with late decco period styling, private beach and 3 restaurants. Miami Beach EDITION has 2 open air pools, ice rink, nightclub, spa, gym, outdoor cinema and bowling alley. And of course the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Mid Beach one of the best beaches has it all, luxury, relaxation and entertainment like Hollywood Beach.

Sunny Isles Beach: Florida’s Riviera

Clean, uncrowded and family friendly, Sunny Isles Beach is often referred to as Florida’s Riviera. Families and nature lovers alike will love it. The beach has expansive ocean views so it’s a photographer and nature lover’s paradise. The playground at Sunny Isles Beach has modern play structures so kids will have fun and be safe.

The famous fishing pier at Sunny Isles Beach is for the seasoned angler and the beginner. With its views and family friendly amenities Sunny Isles Beach is the perfect spot to get some sun and surf in a peaceful atmosphere.

Conclusion

Miami’s Best beaches has something for everyone, from the nightlife of South Beach to the tranquility of North Beach, from the historic Virginia Key Beach Park to the luxury of Bal Harbour Beach. Many of these beaches have luxury hotels and are family friendly so there’s something for everyone. Each beach has its own charm and Miami is the ultimate beach destination. Whether you want to relax, explore or party Miami’s beaches won’t let you down. So grab your sunscreen and get ready to find out what Miami’s best beaches have to offer.