Drive through a mangrove-lined road to find Matheson Hammock Park, a unique lagoon-like beach with magnificent views located in Coral Gables in the south part of Miami. The man-made atoll pool is fed by Biscayne Bay; the shallow waters and sandy beaches are great for families While in the park, which requires an admission fee, you can also bike, hike and kite board as well as grab some snacks or indulge in fine dining overlooking the beach in the evening.
Key Biscayne lies south of Miami Beach and east of Miami. Drive over the Rickenbacker Causeway to find several beaches. Just over the causeway on a barrier island, sits Virginia Key Beach Park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Opened in 1945 as the only beach, in what was then known as Dade County, open for the “exclusive use of Negroes.” Today, you can swim at the beach while enjoying the ocean views, ride the vintage carousel or take a miniature train ride. A small admission is charged. Drive farther into Key Biscayne to find the 2-mile long Crandon Park, popular for its wide sandy beaches and sandbar, which make it attractive for families. Lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours. You can check out the Family Amusement Center or take an Eco-Adventure tour. If you wish to get out of the sun, rent a cabana on a daily or longer basis, complete with a cold-water shower and picnic benches. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park sits at the very end of the causeway; you drive through the village of Key Biscayne to access it. This area also features a sandbar that helps create gentle waves, as well as rental chairs and umbrellas. Visit the historic lighthouse. Built in 1825, it is the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. As of this publication, guided tours are available twice daily. There is an admission fee to Bill Baggs Beach.
South Beach is arguably the best known beach in Miami-Dade County. Located between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean directly east of Miami, it includes the entire barrier Island, extending from Indian Creek south. The oceanfront Ocean Drive and several blocks east is a beehive of activity with bars, restaurants, shops and people watching. Many Art Deco hotels line the street. The crowded beaches are wide and have colorful lifeguard stands. Bathers might go topless, and there is a predominantly gay and lesbian beach around 12th Street. Finding parking can be difficult at times.
Several beaches are located north of South Beach up to the Broward County Line. The central area runs from 21st to 76th streets. Stroll, jog or skate on the elevated boardwalk that runs for about 20 blocks. Continue north to the North Shore Open Space Park, which is known for its green spaces and walking trails and lack of crowds. There is an abundance of parking as well in the metered parking lot. Visit Sunny Isles Beach found at the north end of the county. At this 2.5 mile-long beach, you can swim and engage in boating, fishing and tennis. Visit the classic Newport Fishing Pier or take your children to the children’s play area at the Samson Oceanfront Park.
