The 8 Most Beautiful Beaches in Miami!

Miami is not only a must-visit destination when traveling to Florida, but also the best spot to enjoy the Atlantic and relax... I assume you are naturally looking for the most beautiful beaches in Miami to enjoy swimming and sunny weather, but which one to choose? Fortunately, there will always be a spot that meets your desires, and this guide is here to inspire you a bit

Miami Beach is the most famous beach in Miami! Located in the South Beach area, it stretches about 14 kilometers along Ocean Drive. It's a well-maintained beach with white sand, turquoise waters, and a lively atmosphere all day long to unwind!

Here, you'll find colorful lifeguard huts and Art Deco hotels in the background that add character! And it's true, it goes without saying that this is the most touristy beach in Miami.

Many come to enjoy the palm-lined waterfront and the pedestrian promenade! I would especially recommend this beach for a first trip to Miami, even if it's not the most tranquil place... It is still the most beautiful beach in Miami and a must-see

Located at the northern end of Miami Beach, it is bordered by 63rd Street and Indian Creek Drive to the south and the terrace to the north! It's a neighborhood that hosts a lesser-known beach compared to South Beach but offers a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer crowds and a local vibe

The sand is just as pleasant with clear water and facilities for comfort! It's a good alternative for those who want to stay in Miami Beach while avoiding the tourist hustle! The neighborhood is more residential, where you can see hotels, convenience stores, and restaurants within walking distance. For swimming, North Beach is well monitored and suitable for families traveling to Miami with children

I highly recommend taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour to discover all the city's highlights! You will pass by several beaches, including North Beach. It's a way to discover them differently and see several things in just an hour and a half. This bus tour costs 40€ per person.

Crandon Park is located on Key Biscayne Island about 20 minutes by car from Downtown Miami. It's a remarkable historical site that once housed a large coconut plantation, served as a refuge for Indian tribes, and a zoo was established on this territory before being transferred to South Miami as MetroZoo ☺️

It's one of the most cherished beaches by locals for its natural landscape, long stretch of sand, palm-protected areas, and calm waters thanks to its coral reef. It's the best spot for swimming, picnicking, paddleboarding, and kayaking! Of course, Crandon Park is equipped: showers, restrooms, playgrounds, equipment rentals... all while providing a family-friendly atmosphere without going overboard.

However, you need to plan for a car and pay an entry fee for parking. It's 7 dollars on weekdays and 10 dollars on weekends! Otherwise, it's a great spot to step out of Miami while remaining close by.

Still on Key Biscayne at the southern tip, this beach is part of a protected state park. Less known to tourists, it features a wild setting with dense vegetation, walking paths, and a historic lighthouse: the Cape Florida Lighthouse which can be visited. It's a beach that appeals to those wanting to get away from overly touristy areas! You can rent bikes, walk to the lighthouse, sunbathe, and enjoy its clear water!

On the downside, there is a fee to enter, but the place remains very accessible. You will need to plan for 8 dollars per vehicle, limited to 2 to 8 people. It's not exorbitantly expensive, but it is a cost to anticipate Besides being one of the most beautiful beaches in Miami, know that its sunset is also worth lingering for!

Virginia Key Beach is located between Downtown Miami and Key Biscayne just a few minutes by car! It's also a beach preserved from mass tourism if you're looking for a quiet spot

Historically, it was long reserved for the African American community during segregation, and the site maintains a vintage atmosphere! You can even see a little tourist train, an old carousel, and an outdoor museum For relaxation, this beach is lined with palm trees, green spaces, and offers calm waters, even if it's nothing like South Beach or Crandon Park!

There is also an entry fee (8 dollars per car) but the area remains less crowded. On-site, you can rent cabins and barbecues for 65$, but there are packages for groups of 6 people.

One activity I recommend to discover Biscayne Bay is to take a cruise on the Bay to see the millionaire houses! This activity lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs 22€ per person. You will first pass by Venetian Island, South Beach, and Millionaire's Row.

So, if you're looking for a truly peaceful spot, you need to go to Surfside! This beach is situated between North Beach and Bal Harbour It's a residential area that features a wide, less frequented beach, a calm atmosphere with almost no activity! The sand is soft, the water very clear, and there are not many developed tourist facilities apart from showers, benches, and a path for pedestrians and bikes.

Even better: no restaurants on the sand, no bars... And beware, this area is not monitored, so always keep an eye on the kids if you're visiting this beach with family.

You will mainly encounter families and other locals enjoying the peace. It's also the best spot for those staying at Bal Harbour and one of the most beautiful beaches to visit in Miami

A unique activity that I recommend is to take a fly around Miami to see the different beaches, islands, and downtown! You'll soar over from South Miami to Bal Harbour Beach while passing by downtown and along the coast! This flight lasts 50 minutes for 87€. It's an opportunity to see the most beautiful beaches of Miami from a totally different perspective

So, don't confuse this northern neighborhood of Miami with Hollywood located in California! Despite the slight mix-up, you can enjoy its white sand beach just 45 minutes north of South Beach. It is also one of the most beautiful beaches in Miami to consider if you are staying in this part of the city!

It's ideal for finding a bit of calm while enjoying the palm trees, the promenade, and numerous shops: restaurants, bars, and boutiques... ☺️ The atmosphere is much less hectic, you can surf, stroll around, and enjoy the tranquility compared to Ocean Drive! The beach is less crowded and it seems the water is much cleaner than in South Beach! On site, you can rent chairs and umbrellas.

Even though it is about 45 minutes north of Downtown, Fort Lauderdale Beach is among the most beautiful beaches in Miami! In addition to being the departure point for the Bahamas, this locale boasts a white sand stretch that extends for 11 kilometers along a lovely promenade! Hotels, restaurants, palm trees, it's a spot to prioritize for those looking to escape the tourist hustle of Miami

Of course, the waterfront remains lively but without excess! You can enjoy its family-friendly and less flashy atmosphere It's an option if you have a car and want a change of scenery for the day. It's possible to stay in Fort Lauderdale if you plan a longer trip in South Florida.

If you're wondering where to stay in Miami or where to stay in the Keys, I have articles that might interest you! Meanwhile, here's a selection of perfect accommodations to stay near the most beautiful beaches of Miami:

The Plymouth South Beach is a beautiful hotel located in a modern art building with 4 floors situated at Miami Beach ️ You can enjoy its pool after a day lounging on its private beach. You'll also have a private parking available! Expect to pay at least 155€ for one night here.

The Monte Carlo by Miami Vacations are apartments located beachside in North Miami Beach! Therefore, you will have a breathtaking view of this beach Each apartment accommodates 4 people and includes a fully equipped kitchen, a living area, and a private bathroom. The property has 2 outdoor pools and 2 saunas. Expect to pay 355€ for one night here.

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is located on the 8km island of Key Biscayne! You will have access to an exceptional 2,300 m² spa that includes pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and a steam room ‍♀️ You will also find several restaurants, a gym, and tennis courts!

And there you have it, you now know the most beautiful beaches in Miami! And if you wish to discover how to visit the Bahamas from Miami, I have an article on that which might interest you