Plan a Beach Day On Key Biscayne And Virginia Key
- February 26, 2026
Greater Miami & Miami Beach is known for its expansive 20-mile stretch of beautiful beaches, from Sunny Isles to South Beach and everywhere in between.
For a beach day rooted in nature, history and outdoor adventure, head to Key Biscayne and Historic Virginia Key. Just minutes from the city, these waterfront destinations offer calm waters, scenic views and a wide range of activities on and off the sand.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Home to the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park offers outdoor recreation, calm waters and beautiful coastal views.
Things to Do:
- Tour the lighthouse and climb 109 spiral steps for panoramic views
- Fish, bike or explore nature trails
- Spot birds and marine life
- Lounge or paddle in calm waters
The park features picnic areas with accessible grills.
Catch sunset at No Name Harbor (located inside the park), which also offers overnight boat anchoring ($20 per boat per night).
Dine Onsite:
Parking: $2 – $8 depending on vehicle type
Accessibility: Free beach and swimming wheelchairs are available on a first come, first serve basis in the park’s bicycle rental area
Crandon Park Beach
Crandon Park Beach blends a wide sandy shoreline with protected wetlands and mangroves.
What Makes It Special:
- Birdwatching (ospreys, hawks and songbirds)
- Fossilized reefs and vibrant marine life
- Calm areas for wading and snorkeling
Activities:
- Kiteboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing
- Self-guided nature walks and hammock hikes
- Miami EcoAdventures offers bike and hike tours
At the north end, visit the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center for interactive exhibits and educational programming.
Beyond the beach, you’ll also find:
- Crandon Park Tennis Center
- Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne
- Crandon Marina
- Playground and vintage carousel at Crandon Park Amusement Center
Parking: $7 weekdays | $10 weekends
Accessibility: Beach wheelchairs are available on a first come, first serve basis
Nearby Dining:
Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
Surrounded by Biscayne Bay, Historic Virginia Key Beach Park is known for its scenic shoreline and natural setting.
Visitors can enjoy:
- A mile-long beach with bay views
- Swimming and sunbathing
The park is also popular for mountain biking trails that accommodate riders of all experience levels.
Water activities include kayaking and paddleboarding through mangrove wetlands.
Parking:
- $5 Monday – Thursday
- $10 Friday – Sunday
- $12 holidays
Nearby Dining:
- Rusty Pelican – Waterfront dining with skyline views and craft cocktails
Hobie Beach (Windsurfer Beach)
Known for steady breezes and shallow waters, Hobie Beach is a favorite for wind-powered water sports. Rent equipment or schedule lessons at Padl Sail Club.
Popular Activities:
- Windsurfing (lessons available)
- Kiteboarding, kayaking and paddleboarding
- Off-leash, dog-friendly beach areas
Located across from Brickell and Downtown Miami, Hobie Beach also offers exceptional skyline views.
Parking: Free roadside parking
Nearby Eats:
