Miami is famous for its powder-soft beaches and water so clear you can see to the bottom (as Will Smith sang in Miami). Best of all, the beaches are all open to the public, so you can hop between as many as you please.
There’s a slice of sand to suit every sunbather – here are our top picks…
CRANDON PARK
This beach is known for its shallow, paddle-friendly waters, making it the ideal spot for families. As well as being the perfect place for those sandcastle-making competitions, it lines up a nature center where little ones can learn about Florida’s sea life, and a family amusement centre with a restored carousel and roller rink. Beach volleyball games and barbeques are regular occurrences on this beach, and you can rent a cabana and picnic table for your whole party.
LUMMUS PARK BEACH
You might recognise Lummus Park as the ‘Miami Beach’ from some of your favourite movies and TV shows, including Miami Vice. This picturesque stretch of sand tends to take the spotlight whenever a film crew comes to town, so make this beach your number one choice for star spotting. It’s always lively, and an ideal place for people-watching and soaking up the buzzing atmosphere. Plus, the emerald waters are perfect for water sports – try your hand at wakeboarding, paddleboard, and even hover board flights.
Beach Loop (Blue) Route, Stop: South Beach 1
SOUTH POINTE PARK PIER
This 17-acre park at the tip of Miami Beach boasts a wide stretch of sand, plenty of greenery and a fishing pier. You’ll get amazing views of the Miami skyline from here, so it’s a great place to take snaps of the scenery. There’s also a playground with water features for little ones and designated picnic areas. Art lovers will enjoy spotting the modern art sculptures dotted around the park and the unique designs of the benches and loungers.
Beach Loop (Blue) Route, Stop: Shops at 5th & Alton
SOUTH BEACH
SoBe, as the locals call it, is a legendary hangout at the southern tip of Miami Beach. The lively spot is full of colourful characters, activities galore, and water sports to get stuck into. You can try your hand at jet skiing, powerboat rides and parasailing, to name a few. And, there are hundreds of Art Deco buildings to explore in the area too, which are beautifully illuminated at night. SoBe happens to be one of Miami’s best places to party, so stick around for the pool parties, cocktail lounges and nightclubs after dark.
Beach Loop (Blue) Route, Stop: Lincoln Road
HAULOVER BEACH
This mile and a half long beach is known for being a top surfing spot, a prime kite-flying location, and the home of Miami’s number one ‘clothing optional’ beach. Yep, if you want to banish those tan lines for good, head to Haulover’s nudist beach and sunbathe swimsuit-free. Every Tuesday from 5.30pm to 9pm there’s a food truck festival where you can try dishes from local vendors and enjoy live music performances too.
Ready to top up that tan and discover Miami’s best stretches of sand? The city makes the perfect beach and sightseeing destination. Browse our bus routes for more inspiration on what to do in this buzzing city.
