Sunny Isles Beach Guide

Laid-back beach vibes. A lively pier for fun and fishing. Parks for play and entertainment. Plus, upscale hotels offering elevated dining and pampering spa treatments. Set amid towering luxury condos and resorts, Sunny Isles Beach is a polished retreat that can be as relaxed or as active as you desire. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do.

Beautiful Beach Days

With two miles of glorious shoreline, Sunny Isles Beach is a retreat that appeals to families, couples and groups of friends. Depending on where you set up on the sand, you can find peace and quiet, with only the sounds of the waves, or opt for a livelier scene near the Newport Fishing Pier. Spend the day swimming or snorkeling in the clear, calm water. Multiple public access points make it easy to reach the sand, with public restrooms and showers available at Samson Oceanfront Park. Easy parking can be found at the pier, city parking lots and the garages at Gateway Park and Heritage Park.

Top Dining Options

Restaurants range from beach casual to high-end places that are worth dressing up for. The new Sandbar by The Sunny hotel, perched atop the pier, offers unbeatable waterfront views. It’s a perfect spot for cocktails and an all-day menu of classics like burgers, chicken tenders and salads. Inside the five-star Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach, you’ll find a diverse collection of standout restaurants, including upscale Italian favorite Il Mulino New York and Mediterranean beauty Avra.

Locals favor St. Tropez Bistro & French Bakery, run by a French couple who make incredible croissants and pastries, and Rose Café & Restaurant near the beach. Enjoy seafood dishes and global tapas paired with ocean views at BALEENkitchen at Solé Miami. If you prefer to cook at your accommodations or pick up items for a picnic, shop at family-owned Milam’s Market.

Things To Do

The cherished landmark of Sunny Isles Beach is the Newport Fishing Pier, where you can stroll above the blue-green Atlantic for free, or cast a line for a fee (it’s free to fish if you live in Sunny Isles Beach). You can’t miss exploring the waterways by boat, paddleboarding, or even surfing, with rentals at Sunny Isles Beach Watersports. For a slower pace, treat yourself to an indulgent spa day at the Acqualina Spa, which is known for its pampering treatments from massages to facials, as well as its private outdoor pool and hot tub.

Popular Public Parks

Sunny Isles Beach stands out for its 11 community parks. The five-acre Gateway Park is a popular gathering spot for concerts on the performing arts stage. It also has a playground, picnic tables, grills and a butterfly garden with vibrant blooms. Heritage Park is another family-friendly park with two playgrounds and a splash pad, ample picnic spots and a performance stage. There’s even a dog park. If you want to pair a park day with a beach day, Samson Oceanfront Park is a dreamy waterfront park with a playground and grassy open area for kids to romp.

Shopping

Drop into shops like Boutique Flirt for popular brands of clothing and swimwear for women, men and kids. You’ll also find clothing, beach accessories and homewares like candles at the upscale boutique located inside the Acqualina Spa. Sunny Isles Beach is also just minutes from some of the best shopping in Miami, including the Aventura Mall and the luxury outdoor mall, Bal Harbour Shops.