Key Biscayne, located just six miles from downtown Miami, is an island linked by bridges to the south Florida mainland. Measuring seven miles long and two miles wide, Key Biscayne offers several stretches of white sand beach, spectacular views of the downtown Miami skyline, championship golf and an historic lighthouse.
The beaches are the major attraction in Key Biscayne, and the island boasts two miles of white sand. The most popular beach is Crandon Beach, which encompasses the northern third of Key Biscayne. This scenic stretch offers dramatic views of the Miami skyline as well as picnic areas, an inline skating track, a jogging path and a sand volleyball court.
Other beaches on Key Biscayne include the beach at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area on the southern portion of the island, home to the Cape Florida lighthouse.
The 18-hole, championship Crandon Golf Course is the only public course on Key Biscayne. This par 72 course skirts the bay and mangrove stands and has been rated one of the top 10 courses in the United States by Golfweek magazine. Crandon has also been a stop on the Senior PGA tour for more than 15 years. Facilities at Crandon Golf Course include a pro shop, driving range, locker room and restaurant. Lessons and equipment rental are also available.
The most important -- and striking -- landmark on Key Biscayne is the Cape Florida lighthouse, built in 1846. The 95-foot tower, located on the southernmost tip of the island, is the oldest structure in Dade County. Today, visitors can take ranger-led tours of the lighthouse and the adjacent replica of the original keeper's house and the cookhouse.
Both the northern and the southern third of Key Biscayne are covered with parkland. In addition to being home to the two-mile beach mentioned above, Crandon Park on the island's north end is home to a diverse array of wild birds as well as a nature center, picnic tables and a family amusement area.
On the southern end of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs State Park offers biking and kayaking, fishing along the sea wall, hiking trails and a restaurant that serves Cuban cuisine.
