17 Best Beaches In Miami To Have Fun

If you're looking to soak up some rays and experience the best that this tropical paradise has to offer, look no further. From the iconic South Beach to hidden gems off the beaten path, this guide will take you on a tour of the best beaches in Miami. There are several beaches in Miami with long lengths of sandy beachfront, turquoise waters, soft white sands, and year-round sunshine. Now, get ready to discover your new favourite beach hangout, where the only worry is whether to order another pina colada or not.

Top 17 Beaches in Miami for Sun, Sand, and Fun

From lively spots with music and bars to quiet stretches of sand where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful sound of the waves, Miami has a beach for everyone (when we say it, we mean it!). Let's take a closer look at the 17 best beaches in Miami. Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor, these best Miami beaches are sure to impress you with their stunning beauty and range of amenities.

1. South Beach, Miami Beach

What is it best for: Sunbathing, enjoying the lively beach scene
The vibe: Lively and vibrant, with a touch of glitz and glamour
Best places nearby: Art Deco Historic District, Ocean Drive, and Lincoln Road Mall
Activities: Beach volleyball, swimming, sunbathing, walking/biking, dining
Address: South Beach, Miami Beach, FL 33139  

South Beach, one of the best and most famous beaches in Miami, is a must-visit destination for travellers. Renowned for its vibrant lifeguard towers, picturesque surroundings, and energetic vibe, this nicest beach in Miami offers a fantastic location for jogging, biking, or simply lounging in the sun while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.

2. Mid Beach, Miami Beach

What is it best for: A relaxed yet trendy beach experience, hotel beach clubs, and nightlife
The vibe: Fashionable, upscale, and lounge atmosphere that transitions from day to night
Best places nearby: Stylish hotels like Miami Beach Edition and Soho Beach House
Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, enjoying hotel beach club amenities, dining, and nightlife
Address: Collins Avenue between 23rd and 46th Streets, Miami Beach, FL

Mid Beach, a vibrant stretch of coastline in Miami Beach, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a lively and energetic beach experience. Among the best beaches in Miami, Mid Beach offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. This nicest beach in Miami boasts a wide expanse of soft, golden sand and crystal-clear waters, providing ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and various beach activities.

3. North Beach, Miami Beach

What is it best for: A laid-back, local vibe with plenty of small businesses and fewer crowds
The vibe: Chill, sleepy beach town feel
Best places nearby: North Beach Oceanside Park, Ocean Terrace Beach, Allison Park, Miami Beach Bandshell
Activities: Relaxing on the beach, attending full moon parties, dining at local restaurants
Address: North Beach area, Miami Beach, FL (around 73rd-86th Streets)
Contact: (844) 752-0987

One of the best beaches in Miami for peace is North Beach, which offers a more relaxed vibe than the busy South Beach neighbourhood. Many parks and green areas are along this best beach in Miami Florida, which is one of its best features. Because of this, it's a fantastic place for families to spend a day taking in the scenery and one of the best beaches in Miami. Due to the existence of North Beach, Miami is definitely one of the best places to live in Florida.

4. Haulover Beach

What is it best for: Family-friendly beach activities, kite flying, skate park, dog beach
The vibe: Diverse mix of family fun and clothing-optional culture
Best places nearby: Skyward Kites, skate park, pump track, bark park
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, kite flying, skating, walking dogs, people watching at the nude beach
Address: 10800 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33154 (Nude beach between lifeguard towers 12-16)

For those seeking a different kind of beach experience, Haulover Beach is considered to be among the best beaches in Miami. This beach, which lies between Sunny Isles Beach and Bal Harbour, is regarded as one of the best beaches in Miami, especially for kiteboarders and surfers. There is plenty of room for sun worshippers to spread out and take in the sun on probably the cleanest beach in Miami. 

5. Surfside

What is it best for: Small-town, residential beach vibe with a tight-knit community feel
The vibe: Sleepy, laid-back enclave where everyone knows each other
Best places nearby: Residential neighbourhoods right off the beach
Activities: Community gatherings like music, food, and kid-friendly events on Summer Fridays (first Friday, June - August), relaxing beach days
Address: Surfside, FL 33154, United States

Situated north of Miami Beach, Surfside is a hidden treasure among the best beaches in Miami. For those seeking a more sedate and relaxed beach experience, this small, family-friendly seaside town is a terrific choice. It is one of the cleanest beaches in Miami, with white sand and the clearest water in Miami. Swimming, tanning, and unwinding in the tranquil setting are all enjoyable for guests.
Travelling abroad for vacation? Check out the best beaches in Australia for some more fun in the sand!

6. Sunny Isles Beach

What is it best for: Calm, luxurious beach experience with a large Russian expatriate community
The vibe: Upscale and serene, with some architectural kitsch
Best places nearby: Luxury beachside condos, fine dining restaurants, Newport Fishing Pier, Samson Oceanfront Park
Activities: Relaxing on the beach, taking kids to the oceanfront park, dining at high-end restaurants
Address: Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160 (Between 163rd & 191st St along Collins Ave)

Surfside harbours a hidden gem among the best beaches in Miami - Sunny Isles Beach, an undiscovered treasure situated on the southern tip of Florida. This nicest beach in Miami offers a complete experience with amenities like restrooms, showers, and beach chair rentals. Sunny Isles Beach is an excellent choice for families with children and pets, as it features a dog park, picnic tables, a fishing pier, and a playground within its well-maintained park area. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day by the ocean or a fun-filled family outing, this Miami beach has something for everyone.

7. Bal Harbour Beach

What is it best for: An ultra-luxurious, exclusive beach experience catering to the wealthy
The vibe: Affluent, pristine, and upscale
Best places nearby: Luxury resorts like St. Regis Bal Harbour, Bal Harbour Shops mall
Activities: Relaxing on the immaculate beaches, valeting at high-end resorts, shopping at the famous Bal Harbour Shops
Address: Bal Harbour, FL 33154 (North of Surfside, along Collins Ave)

Bal Harbour Beach is not as famous as other beaches in Miami, such as South Beach or Key Biscayne, but it offers a unique atmosphere that is perfect for those who want to relax and unwind. One of the main attractions of Bal Harbour Beach is the Bal Harbour Shops, an exclusive shopping mall that features high-end designer boutiques and luxury brands.

8. Crandon Park Beach

What is it best for: Family-friendly beach with abundant nature activities, ideal for a relaxing day out
The vibe: Classy locals' park with beautiful views of Key Biscayne
Best places nearby: Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center, Bear Cut Preserve, and abandoned Crandon Park Zoo
Activities: Barbecues, hiking, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, relaxing on the beach with rentals, dining at beachside restaurants
Address: 4000 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Contact: +1 305-361-5421

One of the best beaches in Miami that offers a variety of activities is Crandon Park Beach. The park also features a marina where you may hire boats and jet skis, a tennis centre, and a golf course. The nature centre is a must-see for everyone interested in animals. The centre gives guests a chance to learn about the distinctive ecosystems on the island through educational programs and guided tours.

9. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

What is it best for: Nature lovers, history buffs, and active/outdoor enthusiasts
The vibe: Tranquil escape from modern Miami into Florida's natural and historical roots
Best places nearby: Cape Florida Lighthouse (1825), The Cleat beachside grill
Activities: Climbing the lighthouse for views, touring the keeper's cottage, beachgoing, hiking
Address: 1200 South Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Florida. Situated near Key Biscayne's southernmost point, it is renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. One of the best beaches in Miami, the park spans more than 400 acres and is home to a variety of animals, such as dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles. 

10. Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

What is it best for: A unique beach experience steeped in Miami's cultural history
The vibe: Serene and laid-back with family-friendly activities
Best places nearby: Wetlands nature trail, biking trails, kayaking/paddle boarding areas
Activities: Riding the mini train, hiking/biking trails, kayaking, paddleboarding, renting cabins
Address: 4020 Virginia Beach Dr, Miami, FL 33149
Contact: +1 305-960-4600

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, another one of the best Miami beaches, is a great place for families to spend a day in the sun, sand, and sea. Easily accessible from downtown, the beach is located on Virginia Key, an island off the coast of Miami. This Miami beach is ideal for visitors because of its excellent accessibility and reputation as one of the best beaches in Miami.

11. Hollywood Beach

What is it best for: Family-friendly beach day with convenient amenities along the boardwalk
The vibe: Lively beachfront scene with hotels, dining, and bars along the palm tree-lined Broadwalk
Best places nearby: The Hollywood Beach Broadwalk itself with its restaurants, bars, hotels
Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, walking/exploring the Broadwalk, dining, bar-hopping
Address: Hollywood Beach, Hollywood, FL 33019 (Around Hollywood Beach Broadwalk)

Hollywood Beach, one of the nicest beaches in Miami, is a true coastal gem that should not be missed. Situated in the heart of Hollywood, this beach offers a pristine stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and a variety of water sports. The famous Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, an iconic oceanfront promenade lined with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, adds to the star-struck vibes and atmosphere of this Miami beach with its family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds, beach volleyball courts, and designated dog areas.

12. Lummus Park Beach

What is it best for: Miami beach experience with beautiful views and an iconic, buzzy atmosphere
The vibe: Famous, nostalgic vibe that has been featured in movies/TV shows
Best places nearby: Surrounding hotels, restaurants and happening areas of South Beach
Activities: People-watching, sunbathing, swimming, beach sports/activities, dining/drinking
Address: Lummus Park Beach, South Beach, Miami Beach, FL (Between 5th and 15th Streets)

Lummus Park Beach is one of the best Miami beaches. It is situated in the heart of South Beach and is a must-visit destination in Miami. With its lively atmosphere and diverse crowds, Lummus Park Beach is an excellent spot for soaking up the local culture and meeting all kinds of people. 

13. South Pointe Park Pier Beach

What is it best for: A family-friendly beach experience with amenities like a playground, picnic areas, and opportunities for crabbing
The vibe: Relaxed and scenic at the southern tip of Miami Beach
Best places nearby: Joe's Take Away for seafood, Nikki Beach for day beds and celeb-spotting
Activities: Picnicking, crabbing, strolling the 450-ft pier, dining at local eateries
Address: 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 (Southernmost tip of Miami Beach)
Contact: +1 305-673-7006

Situated at the southernmost point of South Beach, South Pointe Park Pier Beach offers breathtaking views of the Miami cityscape and the vast ocean. This nicest beach in Miami stands out among the best beaches in Miami for its exceptional cleanliness and safety, making it a preferred choice for many visitors. South Pointe Park Pier Beach provides ample amenities, including beach chair rentals, showers, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.

14. Collins Park Beach

What is it best for: Art museums, cultural events, and proximity to Collins Park
The vibe: Artistic and cultural
Best places nearby: Bass Museum of Art, Miami City Ballet
Activities: Visiting nearby art museums and cultural institutions, attending events, relaxing on the beach
Address: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 (Between 21st and 22nd Streets on Collins Ave)
Contact: +1 305-521-9300

Collins Park Beach is a fantastic place for people seeking a more tranquil beach experience, yet it's just in the middle of Miami Beach. Like other Miami beaches, this one is kept up nicely, has showers and facilities, and is one of the best Miami beaches. There are some amazing sculptures and art projects in the park as well.

15. Oleta River State Park Beach

What is it best for: Kayaking, exploring nature, and a unique beach adventure for families
The vibe: Outdoor haven for nature enthusiasts within Miami's urban setting
Best places nearby: Sandspur Island, Beach Cove, Mangrove Trails
Activities: Kayaking through mangroves to Sandspur Island, wading/splashing
Address: 3400 NE 163rd St, North Miami Beach, FL 33160
Contact: +1 305-919-1846

Oleta River State Park Beach is located in North Miami Beach and is a great spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The natural and outdoor vibe offered by this beach makes it one of the best beaches in Miami for adventurous people. Additionally, just like every other best beach in Miami Florida, this one also joins the list as one of the cleanest beaches in Miami.

16. Samson Oceanfront Park

What is it best for: Family-friendly beach day away from the crowds
The vibe: Quiet, pristine beach park
Best places nearby: Sunny Isles Beach area
Activities: Lounging on the beach, playing beach volleyball, having oceanfront picnics
Address: 17425 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160
Contact: +1 305-792-1706

Samson Oceanfront Park is a true hidden gem among the best beaches in Miami. This tranquil oasis offers a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle, providing visitors with a peaceful stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. Despite its relatively unknown status, Samson Oceanfront Park boasts well-maintained facilities, including showers, restrooms, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable and convenient beach experience. 

17. Hobie Beach (Windsurfer Beach)

What is it best for: Windsurfing, bringing dogs to the beach, skyline views
The vibe: Active beach with great views of Miami's skyline
Best places nearby: Located between Brickell, Downtown Miami, and Key Biscayne
Activities: Windsurfing, walking dogs on the beach, taking in the city skyline views
Address: 5000 Rickenbacker Cswy, Virginia Key, FL 33149
Contact: +1 305-361-2833

Hobie Beach, also known as Windsurfer Beach, is a true paradise for water sports enthusiasts and one of the best beaches in Miami. This nicest beach in Miami is renowned for its ideal windsurfing conditions, attracting thrill-seekers from around the world. Whether you're an experienced windsurfer or simply seeking a breathtaking beach experience, Hobie Beach promises unforgettable moments amidst the azure waters and stunning natural surroundings.

From Miami Beach to Haulover Beach, South Beach to Sunny Isles Beach, and everywhere in between, these 15 beaches in Miami are definitely worth a visit. So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and head to Miami to discover these beautiful and best Miami beaches for yourself. If the many amazing beaches in Miami have convinced you to move there and pursue your higher education, then have a look at some of the best student housing in Miami options and make your stay a memorable one.