The Best Beaches in Miami: Beautiful Places for Swimming and Relaxation

One of the world’s most popular resorts is located on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. There’s no such thing as a “peak season” here — you can enjoy the beach all year round. The warm Gulf Stream helps soften the subtropical climate, which is otherwise known for frequent rain and strong winds from late spring to fall.

The coastline stretches for miles, offering fantastic opportunities for an active and diverse vacation. Local beaches feature wide strips of fine, white sand with very few shells, calm waters near the shore, and clear, warm ocean perfect for swimming. The best beaches in Miami have something for everyone.

5 Best Beaches in Miami

There’s a sort of unofficial ranking among beaches, and Miami Beach undoubtedly tops the list. But what makes it so special? This comfortable resort town is just 20 minutes from the local airport. It's common to see both locals and tourists riding bikes or leisurely strolling along the boardwalk, where the wooden path gently blends into soft, white sand.

South Beach

This is the most famous of all Miami beaches, stretching along Ocean Drive from 5th to 21st Street. South Beach is the true tourist hub of Miami Beach, surrounded by luxury hotels and often compared to Vegas for its party-all-night vibe. It's also a popular filming location for shows about luxury living, which can sometimes lead to parking difficulties. It’s also one of the most sought-after spots for water activities.

South Beach is arguably the most iconic beach in Miami and one of the best in the world. Tourists flock here for the powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and lively nightlife. The historic Art Deco hotels along Ocean Drive make this beach a cultural landmark.

Highlights:

• Location
  Situated in the heart of Miami Beach, the beach is surrounded by top restaurants and shops.
• Miami Beach Broadwalk
  The iconic Ocean Drive boardwalk offers scenic strolls among colorful Art Deco buildings.
• Nightlife & Parties
  A vibrant atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options for visitors.

Hollywood Beach Broadwalk

Located just 30 minutes from Miami, Hollywood Beach is famous for its long pedestrian promenade where you can rent a bike and enjoy ocean views. The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk strikes a perfect balance between activity and relaxation. The walkway is lined with restaurants, cafés, and shops, making it an ideal spot for families.

Main Features of Hollywood Beach:

• Hollywood Beach Broadwalk
  Stretching about 2.5 miles (4 km) along the beach, the promenade is perfect for walking, biking, or skateboarding.
• Dining Options
  From casual eateries to fine dining, you’ll find a variety of restaurants with ocean views.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere
  This beach is known for its peaceful vibe and cozy spots, ideal for relaxing with loved ones away from the city buzz.

Sunny Isles Beach

Sunny Isles Beach is often described as a “condo canyon” — a 5-kilometer stretch filled with sandy shores, residential high-rises, shops, and souvenir stands. This beach is known for its clean sand and peaceful atmosphere. Ideally located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, it offers a great escape from the city rush. It’s especially family-friendly thanks to its calm and warm waters.

Highlights:

• Sandy Shoreline
  Stretching for miles, the soft white sand is perfect for sunbathing or long walks along the beach.
• Luxury Resorts
  The area is home to Miami’s most luxurious hotels, including the Acqualina Resort and the Trump International Beach Resort, both offering exclusive services.
• Tranquil Vibe
  Unlike South Beach, this area is free from noisy parties, making it ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.

Bal Harbour & Surfside Beaches

These two upscale neighboring suburbs are known for their exclusivity — a favorite among the affluent. Beach time here often goes hand-in-hand with luxury shopping. With natural beaches framed by low-rise buildings, this area is perfect for those who value privacy and a quiet retreat far from the bustling tourist zones.

Unlike the livelier Miami Beach coastline, Bal Harbour and Surfside maintain a calm, peaceful vibe — ideal for relaxing, meditating by the ocean, and enjoying the sea without crowds.

Highlights of Bal Harbour & Surfside:

• Peaceful Ambiance
  Clean, less crowded beaches offer a more private and serene environment.
• Shops & Restaurants
  Home to high-end boutiques and restaurants that appeal to discerning visitors.
• Beachside Promenade
  Great for biking, strolling, and outdoor activities along the scenic beach path.

Key Biscayne Beaches

The beach on Key Biscayne is a treasure of natural beauty and historical charm. Visitors can explore an old lighthouse and enjoy the tranquility of a remote island surrounded by lush greenery and crystal-clear waters. It's a must-see destination for anyone who loves nature and serene landscapes.

Main Attractions on Key Biscayne:

• Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
  Famous for its historic lighthouse and beautiful beaches, the park also features kayak rentals, walking trails, and shaded picnic areas with BBQ facilities — perfect for family outings.
• Quiet Beaches
  Key Biscayne offers peaceful beaches with ocean views, ideal for secluded relaxation. Nearby Virginia Key is more crowded and popular with pet owners due to its proximity to downtown Miami.
• Outdoor Activities
  In addition to kayaking and swimming, biking and hiking are also very popular here.

A Few More Beautiful Spots

Beaches in Park Areas

• Crandon Park
  A favorite among kids thanks to its uniquely shaped lagoon. It also features a long sandbar, amusement areas, picnic spots, and small shops. A perfect spot for families with children.
• Matheson Hammock Park
  One of Miami’s original recreational areas, established in the 1930s. It offers a man-made atoll pool surrounded by shaded mangroves — perfect for sunbathing and learning to surf. The park also includes a large beach, picnic pavilions, and lush greenery.
• Oleta River State Park
  Known for its scenic bike and rollerblading trails. A top choice for kayaking, fishing, and family picnics.
• Lummus Park
  A lively area with nearby beaches and sports courts. You can rent gear for water activities or grab a bike for a self-guided ride. Volleyball courts and a rubberized kids’ play zone make it great for all ages.
• South Pointe Park
  This shady park features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a beach next to a fishing pier. It offers scenic views of luxury cruise ships and is perfect for those looking to unwind after the city buzz.
• Hobie Beach
  A top destination for water sports lovers — especially kiteboarding and windsurfing. One of the few beaches in Miami where dogs are welcome.

Nude Beaches in Miami

• Haulover Beach
  Miami’s official clothing-optional beach. Stretching for kilometers, it features soft white sand, clear ocean waves, and a relaxed, natural vibe. Nearby is the namesake Haulover Park, which also has areas for surfing and fishing.
• Virginia Key Beach
  Not officially a nude beach, but favored by those seeking privacy and natural beauty. Located slightly off the tourist path, it's perfect for peaceful sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear water beneath swaying palms.

Local Tips: Unique Features of Miami Beach

• Collins Avenue runs north to south, while numbered streets run east to west, from 1st to 192nd. Every beach access point is equipped with public restrooms and showers.
• Mid-Beach is a wide, relatively quiet spot in the heart of the city. Budget-friendly hotels and restaurants, along with relaxing music, make it perfect for families. A city parking garage is located near 42nd Street.
• The area between 53rd and 63rd Streets offers a peaceful stretch of beach, great for family time and away from the bustle of Collins Avenue.
• The beach between 21st and 35th Streets is ideal for runners. The wooden boardwalk smoothly transitions into paved paths. You’ll find everything here — from lifeguard towers to trendy beach bars serving tropical cocktails and gourmet snacks.
• North Shore Park near 85th Street is a serene spot often overlooked by tourists. It features shady trails, workout stations, BBQ grills, and sand dunes — perfect for quiet retreats and local gatherings.

Activities on Miami Beach

The beaches of Miami Beach aren’t just a paradise for sun, sand, and sea lovers — they’re also a hub of exciting activities for every taste. Whether you're craving the thrill of extreme sports or prefer a peaceful walk along the ocean, Miami Beach offers something for everyone.

• Skydiving
  For those seeking an adrenaline rush, skydiving is the ultimate way to experience Miami’s coastline from a bird’s-eye view. A parachute jump over the ocean guarantees unforgettable memories and a true sense of freedom.
• Parasailing
  Water sports enthusiasts will love parasailing — soaring behind a speedboat with a parachute. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean while feeling weightless above the waves.
• Kitesurfing & Wakeboarding
  These high-energy water sports have become beach staples in Miami. Test your skills with a kite and sail, or go wakeboarding while a boat creates perfect waves for riding.
• Jet Skiing
  Miami Beach’s calm waters are ideal for jet skiing. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, you can rent a jet ski and race along the coast, soaking up the sun and sea spray.
• Yacht & Boat Charters
  Prefer a more refined, relaxed experience? Miami Beach offers yacht and boat rentals for romantic cruises or full-day ocean adventures with stunning sunset views.
• Volleyball & Soccer Courts
  If you're into team sports, many beaches are equipped with volleyball and soccer courts — perfect for a friendly match and staying active during your vacation.

Family Areas & Comfort

Miami Beach is well-prepared to ensure safety and convenience for all visitors. Each beach section has kid-friendly zones with soft rubber flooring, making them safe for toddlers and young children. Umbrella and lounge chair rentals are available, so you can relax and enjoy the sun without a worry.

Bars along the beach serve eco-friendly bottled water and light snacks. Alcohol is prohibited. The area is regularly cleaned, with public restrooms and showers available. For those who enjoy tanning topless, there are specially designated areas where that’s welcome.

Flag System on Lifeguard Towers

All Miami beaches are equipped with a flag warning system to inform visitors about water conditions:

• Green — Safe for swimming.
• Yellow — Caution, conditions may be dangerous.
• Purple — High presence of marine life, such as jellyfish or fish.
• Red — Swimming is strictly prohibited.

Lifeguard towers are an essential feature on these beaches. The areas are fenced off, and signs usually indicate that the beach is open for visitors from 5:00 AM to midnight.