The best beaches in Miami that not everyone knows about
When we think about going to the best beaches in Miami, many imagine South Beach. It’s true, on this beach the white sand and the lively atmosphere give it a special touch. But in Miami there is much more to discover. Secret and quiet beaches are waiting for you, whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a Miami lover looking for new experiences.
Here we tell you which deserve to be on the list of the best beaches in Miami. It’s not just about natural beauty, we also want you to experience other things. Some are quieter, others ideal for water sports, or hidden gems.
At Rentennials we want your trip to Miami to have a different touch, so in this article we give you all the information you need to reach the best beaches in the city of Florida.
Why look for other beaches in Miami?
Many times when we travel to Miami we stick to what we already know. But there are moments when we want to go beyond the usual. That’s why, when someone thinks about the best beaches in Miami, we shouldn’t just settle for the postcard of South Beach. And that’s fine, because that beach has a unique magnetism. However, if we don’t venture to other places, we would miss the B-side of the city.
Exploring lesser-known beaches brings us closer to:
- Tranquility: many of them are wider or have fewer visitors.
- Nature: several are in state parks or surrounded by mangroves.
- Experience something more local: these beaches have a more resident than tourist vibe.
- Have other experiences: from kayaking to walking along natural trails.
Ultimately, daring to go beyond the typical allows you to discover a more intimate and natural Miami.
What are the best beaches in Miami?
Choosing the best beaches in Miami was not easy, but one of the main criteria we considered was that they shouldn’t be the most famous and touristy. We looked for places that offer different experiences and allow you to discover another side of the city.
Now, here are the must-visit beaches in Miami.
Crandon Park Beach (Key Biscayne): nature and calm on a nearby island
We chose to start with Key Biscayne, one of the best beaches in Miami and a must on any list. Just 15 minutes from downtown, this island feels like a world apart. However, we must especially mention Crandon Park Beach, within Key Biscayne.
Here you’ll find calm, shallow waters, ideal for swimming. In addition, the mangroves and palm trees make the environment unique and perfect for connecting with nature.
What to do at Crandon Park Beach?
Unlike South Beach, here people come to relax. You can also see manatees and seabirds, which makes Crandon Park a beautiful place for nature lovers.
You can rent bikes, explore natural trails, or go kayaking in calm waters.
How to get to Key Biscayne? The best way is by car. It’s just a few minutes from downtown Miami.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, where history meets turquoise waters
Also located in Key Biscayne, at the southern tip of the island, is another of the best beaches in Miami: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. This park combines history and beach, where the oldest lighthouse in southern Florida stands, built in 1825.
Like many beaches in this area, the sand is soft, the waters are calm, and the crystal-clear color is striking. What makes this place different is that the surroundings are protected from urban development, allowing families and travelers to escape the crowds.
What to do at Bill Baggs?
In the morning, you can start by climbing the lighthouse and enjoy beautiful panoramic views. There are also trails for walking or cycling. If you enjoy fishing, this area is great for relaxing with this activity.
Many locals say this is one of the most authentic beaches in Miami, far from mass tourism—something increasingly rare.
How to get to Bill Baggs? The best way is by car. You can reach the southern tip of the island in just a few minutes.
Matheson Hammock Park, a lagoon that invites relaxation
Matheson Hammock Park is one of those hidden gems and of the beaches in Miami that most surprise. It’s very close to Coral Gables and has the particularity that the park has an artificial lagoon filled with seawater and renewed by the tides.
Surrounded by a natural reef, the water is very calm, making it perfect for travelers with children.
Why go to Matheson Hammock?
It’s one of the beaches preferred by many locals to escape daily work, giving it a special touch. Also, the atmosphere is calmer than beaches closer to downtown.
Don’t miss the incredible views of the Miami skyline at sunset.
How to get to Matheson Hammock Park? As with many of the best beaches in Miami, the best way is by car. It’s very close to downtown.
Virginia Key Beach: a bit of nature and African-American history
Not far from downtown Miami is Virginia Key Beach, on the island of the same name. What stands out about this corner of the city is its enormous historical value, something that for some makes this beach very special. During the racial segregation era in the United States (approximately until 1960), this was the only beach open to the African-American community. That’s why today it’s a place full of history that invites reflection on that period.
Why go to Virginia Key Beach?
The calm waters and shallow depth make it ideal for families. In addition, there are usually music festivals and many cultural activities. And, due to its location, it has a special view of downtown Miami.
How to get to Virginia Key Beach? It’s on the way to Key Biscayne, so an ideal plan is to make a stop to explore this place.
Surfside Beach, close and peaceful
To the north of Miami Beach, about half an hour by car, is Surfside Beach, which combines modern luxury beachfront hotels with more local options. Even today, despite its modern towers, its atmosphere is very calm (especially compared to South Beach).
Why visit Surfside Beach?
As in many of the best beaches in Miami, the sands are clean and the waters transparent. You can also take a walk or bike ride along the sea. Don’t miss the restaurants and cafes offering different options to enjoy peacefully.
They say Surfside still maintains the classic Miami spirit, which is why we like to recommend it so you can experience something more local.
How to get to Surfside Beach? You have to take the same route that leads to North Beach. Once there, it’s just a few more blocks.
Hobe Sound Beach, distant but accessible
The last one we chose is the farthest, but not less accessible. About two hours (a little more) from Miami is Hobe Sound Beach, a place where tranquility reigns, with no pretensions other than connecting with nature. From the access on SE Bridge Road, surrounded by a natural tree tunnel, you can already feel the difference.
Why go to Hobe Sound Beach?
Here you’ll find not only a beach with basic services but also wild areas like the National Wildlife Refuge, where sea turtles nest in the sand. But there’s one reason above all to convince you to come here: experience calm, intact landscapes, and feel Florida from another perspective.
How to get to Hobe Sound Beach? We won’t lie, you have to drive about two hours north of Miami, but we assure you it’s worth it. Just pay attention to the entrance to Hobe Sound Beach so you don’t miss it.
Tips for enjoying the best beaches in Miami
This list has to end with some recommendations to enjoy the best beaches in Miami without problems:
- Avoid peak hours: many beaches get crowded on weekends. Arriving early ensures a better spot.
- Use sunscreen because the Miami sun is strong all year round.
- Always respect nature. Several of these beaches are in natural parks, so it’s essential to care for the surroundings.
- Dare to go beyond the touristy. While this was the spirit of this article, have your own experience—surprises are everywhere.
Rent a car in Miami and get wherever you want
There are destinations that are very well known, but even when visited repeatedly, they always have something new to offer. Miami is one of those places: hundreds of beaches and little corners worth reaching.
The best way to get around Miami and nearby areas is by car. That’s why we recommend renting with Rentennials, where we make the process easy. Discover a new way to rent a car, simpler and more sustainable.
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