People know Miami for its beautiful beaches. Miami Beaches With pristine waters, soft, welcoming sands, and vibrant scenes. Miami beaches are among the world’s best. Whether you want a party vibe or a peaceful haven, there’s a beach for everyone. Here is a guide to the 10 best beaches in Miami you must visit, with a vibe and beauty all their own.
South Beach: The Signature of Miami Beach
South Beach is the most famous beach in Miami, with good reason. Famous for its iconic Art Deco architecture, vibrant nightlife scene, miles of sandy beaches, and celebrity-heavy nightclubs, it’s a must-see for any visitor to the city. The miles-long beach has ample room to sunbathe, swim, or take a long walk along the coast. South Beach is also home to the iconic Ocean Drive, lined with expensive restaurants, clubs, and busy people-watching hotspots.
Why visit? It is the heart of Miami’s beach culture. South Beach Style Whether you’re a water sports fanatic, sun worshipper, or night owl, South Beach has a little something for everyone.
Tip: If you go early in the morning, you can escape the crowds and find some peace at the beach before it gets slammed.
North Beach: A Quieter Alternative
If you’re averse to the noise on the Strip but still want to maintain the energy level high, go to North Beach, a stretch of sand punctuated by a few popular bars. North Beach A chilled-out alternative to the frenetic South Beach, North Beach is located just to the north. The beach is less crowded and ideal for anyone in search of a relaxing day by the water. There is also an abundance of parks nearby, including North Shore Open Space Park, featuring scenic walking trails and picnic spots.
Why visit? North Beach ticks all the boxes for visitors who want to escape the masses on South Beach. It’s perfect for families or anyone who seeks an easygoing, peaceful escape.
Tip: Take in the scenery on a walk or bike ride along the sandy cycle-path boardwalks that meander the coastline.
Crandon Park Beach: A Family-Friendly Treasure
Dr. Crandon Park Beach is situated on Key Biscayne, not far from downtown Miami. Popular for its gentle waters and soft sand, it’s a family-friendly beach and great for swimming and picnicking. The park itself has lots to offer with playgrounds, picnic benches, and walking trails. It’s also the site of the Crandon Park Tennis Center, so maybe catch a match or the view.
Why visit? The water is peaceful, which makes it perfect for families with small kids. The park offers enough room for playing and for lazing about.
Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk—or bike ride—along the sandy boardwalk that runs in front of the beach.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park: A Scenic Escape
Key Biscayne can also find Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. It is revered for its breathtaking natural beauty, including towering palm trees, picturesque walking paths, and the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse. South Beach is a lot quieter, and so the beach lacks the noise from SOBE. It’s also an excellent place for biking, picnicking, or wandering through the verdant landscape.
Why visit? If you’re a history buff or nature lover, Bill Bags has a bit of both history and beauty. The lighthouse has stunning views of the surrounding area.
Tip: Do not miss a trip to the Cape Florida Lighthouse, established in 1825. It’s one of Miami’s original buildings, with an amazing view of the ocean.
Sunny Isles Beach: A Tropical Paradise
Sunny Isles Beach: Just a short drive north of Miami Beach, Sunny Isles Beach has a more laid-back, tropical feel. Famous for its crystal-clear waters and endless sand, it’s the ultimate no-frills beach. The luxury resorts that line the beach make it a relatively quiet area compared with those that draw tourists. People can swim, sunbathe, and play beach volleyball.
Why visit? You can easily escape the madness and find harbor in the peace and beauty of Sunny Isles Beach. It’s perfect for a beach holiday in a calmer environment.
Tip: Head to nearby Oleta River State Park for some kayaking or nature walks. It’s an excellent way to experience Miami’s natural beauty outside of its beach.
Key Biscayne Beach: Quiet and Pretty
The Key Biscayne Beach is one of Miami’s most beautiful and peaceful beaches. This totally unpretentious beach on little Key Biscayne has clear water, white sand, and peace and quiet. Great for a swim, a sunbath, or a leisurely walk along the shoreline. Baywatch: Yes, the beach is in Crandon Park, so beachgoers can have access to both the beach and the park’s other sites.
Why visit? For something a bit quieter and more off the beaten path, try Key Biscayne. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the swirl and just spend a relaxing day at the beach.
Tip: Check out the nearby nature trails and tropical nature after beach downtime.
Haulover Beach: A Unique and Diverse Spot
Haulover Beach Haulover Beach in Miami is a great beach for all. Haulover Beach is best known for its clothing-optional area. The beach offers ample amenities, such as picnic areas, food stands, and restrooms. It’s also a great place to fly a kite and has one of the best views of the nearby skyline. The beach is clean, and the waters are good for swimming and lounging.
Why visit? Haulover Beach is one of Miami’s more unique beaches, offering both a clothing-optional and a more traditional family-friendly section.
Tip: If you’re curious about the clothing-optional area, make your way to the designated section. The rest of the beach is more typical and family-oriented.
Virginia Key Beach: A Historic and Peaceful Spot
Virginia Key Beach One of Miami’s most historical beaches, Virginia Key Beach is perfect for anyone wanting to get a taste of old-time Miami while catching some rays. This is Virginia Key Beach, a short drive from downtown Miami, said to be the first beach where Black Miamians could relax and frolic among their own. It is famous for its history as one of the few beaches open to African Americans during segregation. Today we have a lovely, laid-back setting with picnic areas, walking trails, and endless options for relaxation.
Why visit? Virginia Key Beach is a mix of history and natural beauty. It’s a serenely uncrowded option for travelers who prefer to have paths mostly to themselves.
Tip: Spend some time with the beach’s history at the Virginia Key Beach Park. The historical displays are a good way to take in the history of the beach.
Lummus Park Beach: A Popular Hangout Spot
Lummus Park Beach, in South Beach, is one of the most popular beaches in Miami. A spectacular place for people-watching, catching some sun, and feeling the energy of the city. Lummus Park Beach also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as volleyball, fitness classes, and bike rentals. It’s a colorful, bustling little neighborhood, a microcosm of everything some folks come to Miami’s fabled, iconic beach to be.
Why visit? Lummus Park Beach is a festive beach with lots to do and an opportunity to be smack in the middle of the action.
Tip: For which to eat You don’t need to go far to find cafes and food stands at the beach.
Surfside Beach: A Peaceful Beach Town
Surfside Beach is a Miami Beach hidden gem just north of the city. What is it? Surfside has a “small-town feel.” It’s more “tranquil” and “family-friendly,” say locals, than the tourist-packed South Beach. The beach is fairly clean and quiet — an excellent option for travelers who would like to enjoy some peace without too many beachgoers. Surfside Beach itself is dotted with quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Why visit? This Miami beach is decidedly more low-key than the tourist-heavy beaches closer to South Beach. It’s perfect for families or anyone seeking a quieter day by the water.
Tip: Check out Surfside Village nearby for a charming experience of local shops and diners.
Conclusion
Miami beaches are among the highest quality on Earth, with options ranging from upbeat vibes to quiet, private relaxation. Whether you want to experience the scene of the iconic South Beach or sunbathe at the less relaxing Virginia Key Beach, there’s a Miami beach for every type of traveler. With plenty of gorgeous beaches to choose from, it’s easy to see where you can find the perfect place to relax in the sun, sand, and surf. So toss some sunscreen in your bag, throw down a towel, and let’s take you through the top 10 beaches you ‘must visit’ in Miami!