4 beaches near Miami: Where to go for sun, sand, and surf
With the possible exception of Hawaii, if you're looking for a beach destination in the United States, Miami is almost impossible to beat. Not only do you get the incredible beaches of Florida on your doorstep, but you also get a lively, vibrant city that combines everything that is best about the USA with the laid-back flair of Latin America.
In Miami, spending time on the beach is almost mandatory. And with the reliably warm Florida weather and the city's warm waters, you won't want to be anywhere else. Miami-Dade County has miles of beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean, so you can always find a Miami beach that suits you, whether you want to party with others or would prefer a quiet day by the ocean.
When visiting beaches in Miami, remember to be aware that some of the beaches are reserved for hotels. Don't take up a spot on a sun lounger that belongs to a hotel you're not staying at unless you want to get in trouble with the staff. Many beaches in Miami offer lounges and umbrellas you can rent, or you can bring your own equipment to enjoy your day.
Top 4 beaches near Miami
There are so many beaches in and around Miami that you'll be absolutely spoiled for choice. Hobie Beach, Samson Oceanfront Park, Virginia Key Beach, and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park are some of the best beaches around. Here are just a few more suggestions to get you thinking, but if you look around, you'll find tons of great places for beach day here.
Miami Beach
Miami Beach is one of the world’s most iconic and glamorous beach destinations, located on a barrier island connected to mainland Miami by a series of bridges. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Art Deco architecture, Miami Beach attracts visitors from all over the globe looking to enjoy the sun, surf, and unique culture of South Florida.
If you want, you can easily combine the two into a single day. The main attraction of Miami Beach is its miles of wide, sandy shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching, with its lively atmosphere and beautiful clear waters. The warm, tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, and the beach is always bustling. Beachgoers can rent sun loungers, umbrellas, or simply spread out a towel and enjoy the scene. The calm, warm waters of the Atlantic are a lovely break from the heat during the summer months.
Miami Beach is divided into several sections, with South Beach (SoBe) being the most famous and popular. South Beach, located at the southern tip of Miami Beach, is where you’ll find the heart of Miami Beach’s nightlife, high-end restaurants, and luxury hotels. The beach itself, especially at Lummus Park, is a hub of activity, with beach volleyball, water sports, and a constant flow of people enjoying the sun and surf.
For those interested in water sports, Miami Beach offers everything from jet skiing and parasailing to paddleboarding and snorkeling. There are numerous rental shops along the beach, making it easy for visitors to get out on the water and explore the Atlantic Ocean. In addition to water activities, the beach’s wide-open spaces are ideal for beach volleyball, soccer, and running along the shore.
Beyond the sand, Miami Beach is famous for its Art Deco Historic District, which spans several blocks along Ocean Drive. This area features beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, with pastel-colored facades, neon lights, and distinct architectural styles that give Miami Beach its unique charm. You'll enjoy walking or biking along Ocean Drive, taking in the sights of this vibrant neighborhood filled with cafes, bars, boutiques, and iconic hotels like the Versace Mansion.
Miami Beach is also known for its exciting nightlife, with world-renowned nightclubs, rooftop bars, and beachside lounges. South Beach, in particular, is famous for its energetic after-hours scene, with nightclubs attracting top DJs and celebrities. Whether you’re looking for upscale dining, casual beachfront cocktails, or dancing the night away, Miami Beach offers endless entertainment options.
For those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, Mid-Beach and North Beach (along Collins Avenue) offer a quieter, more family-friendly atmosphere compared to the lively South Beach. These areas are less crowded and feature beautiful parks, picnic areas, and walking paths, perfect for families or those looking to relax in a more peaceful setting.
For the quintessential Miami experience, you can't beat this beach. You can explore the city in the morning, and then spend the afternoon on the beach, and Bounce makes it easy by providing you with multiple Miami luggage storage locations where you can leave your bags behind.
Sunny Isles Beach
Sunny Isles Beach, often referred to as the "Florida Riviera," is a stunning coastal city located on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, just north of Miami Beach. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, luxury high-rise condominiums, and beautiful sandy beaches, Sunny Isles Beach is a more laid-back alternative to the vibrant energy of South Beach, while still offering plenty of activities and scenic beauty.
The beach itself is one of the main attractions, featuring two miles of pristine, golden sand and clear, warm waters. Sunny Isles Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the ocean breeze. The calm waters and less crowded environment offer a peaceful retreat compared to some of Miami’s busier beaches. Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring a safe environment for swimmers and beachgoers.
For those interested in water sports, Sunny Isles Beach offers a variety of activities, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Rentals and lessons are available along the beach, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the ocean in an active way. Fishing enthusiasts can visit the Newport Fishing Pier, a popular spot for fishing and taking in scenic views of the coastline. The pier also has a casual restaurant for a meal or drink while admiring the ocean.
Sunny Isles Beach also boasts several beautiful parks along the coastline, including Oleta River State Park, Florida's largest urban park, which is located just across the Intracoastal Waterway. Here, you can hike, bike, kayak through mangroves, and view wildlife when you need a break from the beach.
Since it's a little way outside of Miami itself and north of Biscayne Bay, you won't want to bring heavy bags to this stretch of soft sand. Instead, let Bounce look after everything for you so you'll have more space in the car for your traveling companions and beach here.
Crandon Park Beach
Crandon Park Beach, located on the northern tip of Key Biscayne, is a beautiful beach and one of Miami’s most family-friendly options, due to its perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and ample space for relaxation. Just a short drive from downtown Miami, this two-mile-long beach is part of Crandon Park, a 900-acre park that showcases the natural landscape of South Florida.
When you get here, you'll find wide, sandy shores, gentle waves, and calm, shallow waters, that are ideal for swimming, especially for families with young children. The beach is lined with palm trees, creating a tropical atmosphere, and the waters of Biscayne Bay are warm and clear - the perfect setting for a relaxing day at the beach. Crandon also has lifeguards and it sits at the southern end of the protected marine area of Half Moon Underwater Archaeological Preserve, with South Pointe Park forming the northern end, so this is also an incredible place for scuba diving.
Haulover Beach
Haulover Beach is one of Miami’s most famous and diverse beach destinations, located between Sunny Isles Beach and Bal Harbour along the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the expansive Haulover Park, this beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and a famously designated clothing-optional section.
The beach stretches for about 1.4 miles and is known for its pristine white sand, clear blue waters, calm surf, and lifeguards are stationed along the beach. Haulover Beach is especially popular among those looking for a quieter, less commercialized beach experience compared to the more vibrant scenes in South Beach or Miami Beach.
One of the unique aspects of Haulover Beach is its clothing-optional section, located on the northern end of the beach. This part of the beach is internationally recognized and attracts visitors who appreciate the freedom to sunbathe and swim without clothing. The clothing-optional area is well-marked and respected, offering a comfortable and welcoming environment for those who choose to participate.
If you prefer a more traditional beach experience, the southern part of Haulover Beach is designated as a family-friendly area. The beach’s wide-open spaces make it perfect for picnics, beach games, and relaxing by the water. There are also pavilions and picnic areas with BBQ grills available for use, making it a great spot for gatherings and family outings.
Wherever your beach plans take you near Miami, Bounce has your storage needs covered. Planning to hit a legendary golf course before the beach? We can store your clubs. Heading to a fancy dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel? We can store your beach gear. Whatever extra items you have, we can look after them for as long as you need!