Drive past the ranger station and through the gates of Oleta River State Park and a feeling of tranquility washes over you as you enter a quiet world of tangled, tidal mangroves in this protected river estuary. Oleta River State Park is one of Florida's largest urban parks, encompassing 1,033 acres of green space set against Biscayne Bay, located just between North Beach and Sunny Isles Beach. The park is ideal for kayaking, biking, walking, swimming, fishing and camping and offers plenty of tours so you can explore the park with knowledgeable guides.

Heading out on kayaks

Kayaking, Paddleboarding & the Marine Ecosystem

To experience a bit of what makes South Florida's ecosystem so unique, opt for an Oleta River Outdoor Center guided kayaking eco tour excursion during your day at Oleta. The center, located inside the park, also offers kayak, canoe and standup paddleboard rentals. The flat, calm waters of the park's estuary are ideal for paddle sports and suitable for all skill levels.

Florida's native mangroves line the riverbanks, creating a cool, shaded, cave-like atmosphere . Mangroves are the only salt-water-resistant plant that utilizes prop roots to filter out salt in a reverse osmosis process. When looking at this tree, you will notice a yellow leaf – a “sacrificial leaf” where all the salt is pumped. Mangroves are a protected species because they play an integral role in maintaining Florida's shorelines from erosion and hurricane damage and offer essential nesting and feeding habitats for virtually all of Florida's juvenile fish and migratory birds.

Take your time paddling and keep your eyes and ears open for the sights and sounds of nature surrounding you. You may spot tiny black crabs scurrying along the mangrove roots, fish jumping out of the water or a wading bird, like a heron, egret or ibis. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a manatee or dolphin.

Mountain biking on the trail

Mountain Biking & Bike Rentals

For Miami's population of mountain biking enthusiasts, Oleta is an unrivaled destination. With 15 miles of biking trails, from novice to expert, coursing across the park, there’s something for everyone. Upon entering the park, ask the ranger for the trail map and find a bike path that looks right for you. There are a variety of single-track trails (i.e., one-way), double tracks (i.e., two-way) and paved trails to choose from. There are even a few courses designed for dirt bike-style riding with jumps for tricks. Feel the wind in your hair as you cruise through the twists and turns on the trails. If you need a bike, Oleta River Outdoor Center also rents mountain bikes, from hardtail bikes for the more advanced rider to cruisers for the beginner. Kid-sized bikes are also available for those looking to explore the trails with children.

Wooden Walkway

Walking, Picnicking, Fishing & Swimming

The park is also an ideal place for a walk or run on its three miles of paved and dirt trails, lined with mangroves, gumbo trees and colorful wildflowers. Enjoy the sun on your shoulders as you wind along the water with beautiful views of Biscayne Bay and the yachts docked across the water at Haulover Park's marina. Be on the lookout for native butterflies and native birds, like pelicans and blue herons .

Take a break at one of the many picnic tables that lines the nature trails or reserve a covered picnic pavilion for a large party. If you’ve packed food, there are also grills available for your use. One of the walking trails along the southwest curve of the park's peninsula leads to a beach with calm, clear water – perfect for taking a refreshing dip after lunch.

If you’re looking to fish, bring your own supplies and head to the small fishing pier on the beach's south side, where you can catch snook, snapper, mullet or even barracuda. A fishing license may be required, and all fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season .

Camping

Oleta River State Park offers 14 rustic, air-conditioned cabins as well as a primitive youth campground for those who want to have a more immersed-in-nature experience. While the cabins don't have bathrooms, there is a central restroom with hot showers on the grounds. There are also no kitchens, so follow the Boy Scouts' motto and be prepared with premade food or anything you plan to grill on-site. The park is pet friendly, and those wanting to bring their furry best friend will want to be familiar with its pet policy.

By: Shayne Benowitz | December 1, 2023

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