Best Beaches in Miami

By Dom Bewley
Best Beaches in Miami

If you're looking for the best beaches in Miami, check out our picks and find the perfect place to get your sun, sand, and sea fix!

Including:

  • South Beach
  • Bal Harbour Beach
  • Mid-Beach
  • Sunny Isles Beach
  • Soho Beach House
  • and more!
Image of Person, Swimming, Water, Water Sports, Swimwear, Summer, Boy, Child, Male, Face, Head, Photography, Portrait, Adult, Man, Nature, Outdoors, Sea,

Can you swim in Miami beaches?

Yes, you can swim at any of Miami's beaches. Some may be cleaner than others, but you're free to frolic in any of them!

What month can you swim in Miami?

If you're hitting Miami's beach scene between April and October, you'll experience the warmest seas on offer, making it the perfect time to go for a dip. Even in the off-season, the further south you head, the warmer you'll find the water.

Image of Swimwear, Balcony, Adult, Female, Person, Woman,

What beach do Miami locals go to?

Generally, South Beach is Miami's most popular beach for both tourists and locals alike. This is likely due to the sheer volume of hotels you'll find along the waterfront, coupled with the number of bars, clubs, and other hangouts that call it home.

Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Bride, Wedding, Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, Face, Happy, Head,

Best Beaches in Miami: South Beach

We couldn't start anywhere else, really. In the vibrant realm of South Beach, you'll discover an array of immaculately chiseled people, luxurious automobiles, daring swimsuits, and captivating Art Deco architecture.

This renowned two-mile expanse of pristine white sand constitutes Florida's most renowned beachfront. Additionally, this area encompasses Lummus Park, home to 18 volleyball courts and two open-air fitness facilities, making it the perfect beach for activity-seekers.

Beyond this bustling hub, locals often prefer the tranquility of the beachfront south of Fifth Street, away from the myriad hotels and tourists, where ample space remains for anyone seeking to lay down their beach towel.

Image of City, Cityscape, Urban, Summer, Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Landscape, Sky, High Rise,

Best Beaches in Miami: Bal Harbour Beach

Bal Harbour is one of Miami's most upmarket neighborhoods, so you probably have some idea of what to expect from its accompanying beach: designer garb, expensive boats, and plenty of money being flashed about.

If you feel like your current attire makes you stand out like a sore thumb, fear not. Bal Harbour Mall is a hop, skip, and jump from the beachfront, where you can burn hundreds if not thousands of dollars on swimwear, sunglasses, and other accessories that'll help you fit right in. Is it worth it? Only you can be the judge of that!

Image of Outdoors, Shelter, Countryside, Hut, Nature, Rural, Sky, Person, Beach, Coast, Sea, Shoreline, Water, Summer, Photography, Waterfront,

Best Beaches in Miami: Mid-Beach

Mid-Beach is the home of Miami's most chic and upscale hotels, attracting the city's fashionistas and more 'distinguished' travelers who want to avoid the crowds of South Beach.

As such, expect hefty displays of wealth, a largely international audience, and plenty of people spending their time at exclusive hotel beach clubs instead of the sand itself, meaning you should get a tanning spot rather easily.

Image of Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Sky, Beach, Coast, Shoreline, Scenery,

Best Beaches in Miami: Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

At first, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park might seem a bit unassuming. However, look beneath the surface, and you'll find some of the best hiking trails in Miami. They'll take you along the nearby beach, through the park, and then emerge above the city, giving you some of the best views of Miami around.

Regularly receiving plaudits as one of America's best beaches, it's the perfect city respite for active couples or families looking to beat the crowds.

Image of City, Condo, Housing, Urban, Building Complex, Cityscape, Person, Water, Waterfront,

Best Beaches in Miami: Sunny Isles Beach

Bordered by serene, sapphire waters and offering respite from the bustling crowds, this two-mile stretch of Miami beach is the epitome of chill.

Here, you'll find predominantly residential condos of varying shapes and sizes, though the residents don't flood the sand like they do in South Beach.

As such, Sunny Isles Beach is far enough away from the busier beaches that it's ideal for families and couples who just want a beautiful beach without the White Claws and EDM.

Image of Summer, Sign, Symbol, Hotel, Palm Tree, Tree, City,

Best Beaches in Miami: 12th Street Beach

12th Street Beach is your one-stop destination for LGBTQ+ fun, as it's the destination for gay beach revelers. If you're looking for a party vibe, you'll get it at 12th Street Beach.

Bluetooth speakers, BBQs, and myriad six-packs supplement the fun, and after dark, the nearby Nathan's Beach Club comes to life with cocktails, smooth jams, and plenty of loungers.

If you're looking for a laid-back time, it's best to head somewhere else.

Image of City, Condo, Housing, Urban, Office Building, High Rise, Apartment Building, Metropolis, Car,

Best Beaches in Miami: Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club

Miami's Four Seasons Hotel has hosted some of the most recognizable faces of the 20th Century, having put up the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Winston Churchill over the years. The hotel is a mainstay of the Miami skyline, but it's the location's Surf Club, which only opened a few years ago, which takes center stage on this list.

Found on the hotel's exclusive stretch of beach, it's a little slice of tropical paradise reserved for guests. Though, if you have the cash to splash, staying at the Four Seasons might be a treat in itself. The Surf Club is just the icing on the cake, allowing you that cocktail-sipping beach experience typically found in the Caribbean.

Image of Hat, Sun Hat, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Beachwear,

Best Beaches in Miami: Haulover Naturist Beach

If you're looking to let it all hang out in Miami, Haulover Naturist Beach is the one for you. And, as Florida's oldest official nudist beach, you'll be in good company.

It might not be the place to take the kids, unless you're alright with bits and bobs free from the prison of clothing.

Image of Glass, Alcohol, Beverage, Cocktail, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Cup,

Best Beaches in Miami: Soho Beach House

If you've not heard of Soho House, it's a chain of exclusive 'resorts' found all over the world. Built for media personalities, it foregoes a dress code (and actively bans suits and ties) for a laid-back escape for people in and around show business to grab a drink, relax on a rooftop, and avoid the prying eyes of journos, and the macho bravado of finance bros.

Miami has its very own location called Soho Beach House, where you can grab a drink, a bite to eat and beat the crowds in its exclusive surroundings.

But don't worry; even if you're not a member, you get access if you stay over at Soho Beach House's hotel.

And those are our picks of the best beaches in Miami! If you're looking to see the best experiences that Miami has to offer during your stay, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Miami's best bits for one low price!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

miami-hp (1).png
Blog

Things to Do in Miami for Adults

South Beach Ideas for Couples & Groups of Friends
Katie Sagal
Blog

Things to do in Midtown Miami

Miami is an unbelievable city: with perennial sunshine, great culture and fantastic attractions, every visit is an absolute joy. Even after multiple stays, there’s no shortage of things to see and do there. And whilst South Beach earned its crown long ago as the perfect spot to kick back and dip your toes in the sand, Midtown is known as the vibrant epicenter of Miami. A trendy modern district with a lot to offer, the neighborhood encompasses Wynwood and Edgewater and is known for its luxury waterfront high rises, cutting-edge galleries and world-class shopping opportunities. As one of the more exciting neighborhoods of the Magic City, this area is perfect for those who like to be in the center of all the action. If you’re planning to explore the area, but still aren’t quite sure where to begin don’t worry – we've got you covered! You might not be able to fit it all in, but hey - there’s no harm in trying, right? Get Cultured Once a gritty industrial sector, Midtown Miami has seen something of a renaissance over the past few years, with visitors flocking over to Wynwood to experience the city’s artsy side. Whilst the area has many fantastic creative attractions, one of our favorites has got to be Wynwood Walls, a massive outdoor urban art museum. Covering over 80,000 square feet of wall space, this attraction is known as one of the biggest of its kind. Walking around the space, you’ll be able to view some wonderful works by some of the world’s most prolific graffiti artists. The walls here are constantly changing, though past artists have included the likes of Shepard Fairey, Lady Pink and Miss Van. A total Instagrammer’s dream, this vibrant spot is just perfect for a fun day trip - we recommend sticking around to check out some of the surrounding area. Great for those with a passion for alternative art, this spot is not to be missed. Whilst South Beach might have the monopoly when it comes to riding the waves, there’s no better place in the city to see some grade A art than Midtown. There are countless galleries in the area, but one of the most popular ones is The Margulies Collection. Modestly housed in a converted warehouse, this unique space works to place emphasis on the artists and their work. The museum’s impressive and diverse collection features artists such as Cindy Sherman, Anselm Kiefer and George Segal. This spot specializes in contemporary art, though it doesn’t discriminate between styles – walking through the museum, you’ll be able to view everything from photography and video work to sculpture and installation. The staff here are very friendly and informative, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask away! Whether you’re a total art geek or looking to learn something new, this place provides a wonderful cultural experience to remember. Eat and Drink in Midtown If you’re anything like us, then one of your favorite parts of travelling is the food! Thankfully, Midtown presents some of the best places to eat in all of the city. Still, 1-800-Lucky in Wynwood is our ultimate go-to for its great Asian-inspired offerings and vibrant atmosphere. Often buzzing with people, this popular food hall has a fun and casual feel which makes it perfect for kicking back and enjoying a craft beer under the sun. With seven food vendors and two bars, there really is a lot to choose from – popular dishes include Filipino burgers, Chinese bao buns and Peking duck. 1-800-Lucky is one of the most popular food halls in all of the city and is worth a visit to Midtown all on its own. We should warn you though, that this spot can get pretty crowded, especially on the weekends, so just beware of that. Miamians love a good drink – and trust us when we say that there are many places to indulge around Midtown. And whilst the options are unending in the Magic City, there’s no place quite like Cerveceria La Tropical. Tucked away on a quiet side street, this huge multi-level brewery and garden is one of the most popular spots to grab a drink in the city. This place has an industrial feel with towering tanks and a taproom with over a whopping 800 varieties of beers to try. Aside from its long list of beverages, Cerveceria also has a Latin-inspired menu which pairs nicely with the drinks. There is a spacious outdoor courtyard, perfect for sipping a cold one with good company. Taking advantage of the Miami weather, the garden features a sprawling lush tropical wonderland with a wide variety of exotic flora. Fun, funky and sophisticated all at once, this place is a total winner. Try Something Different Those coming to Miami looking for art and culture will be delighted by what the city has in store. Midtown especially is home to some fantastic options for those who want to get in touch with their creative side, as it is home to the Wynwood neighborhood, which is bursting at the seams with cool things to do. Standing out as one of our favorites, O Cinema Wynwood is a trendy arthouse movie theater known for its carefully-curated programming. From total classics and dramas to niche indies and new releases, there really is a little something for everybody here. Offering something a little different and at a more affordable price than your run-of-the-mill movie theater, O Cinema pretty much has it all. Whether you’re looking to relax on vacation or seeking out the perfect date spot, this is where you’ll want to be. Not much of a wallflower, the Magic City is packed with exciting activities and events all year round for you and your loved ones. Midtown is the perfect place to explore on foot, with a myriad of fantastic cultural attractions, exciting shopping destinations and enticing food options all in one spot. Explore the area to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
Blog

Things to do Alone in Miami

In many ways, Miami is the perfect solo city. With its pristine beaches, fantastic cultural attractions and world-famous nightlife, the Magic City boasts no shortage of great things to do. And luckily for us, pretty much anything you want to do in the city can be done alone – it's just up to you to pick your favorite. If you’re an outdoorsy type, head over to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden to experience the true beauty of Florida. Or, if you want to inject a bit of education into your travel experience, check out the Rubell museum. And of course, no Miami vacation would be complete without a trip to the beach – we like South Beach for its energetic atmosphere. So you see, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a creative type, or a seaside lover, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Looking for the best things to do alone in Miami? Have a read though our list! See the Sites If you’re into architecture, you might just enjoy the next item on our list. Located in the scenic Coconut Grove area of the city, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a historic villa and estate well worth the visit. The magnificent structure was built in Mediterranean Revival style to resonate with the tropical climate. Though this beautiful spot once served as a private home to businessman James Deering, it is thankfully now open to the public for viewing. A feast for the eyes and excellently preserved, the museum features much of the original art and furniture from Deering’s private collection. Visitors will no doubt also enjoy ambling through the meticulously maintained extensive formal gardens, as well as the native woodland which surrounds the estate. A thoroughly unique experience, we love this spot for offering a glimpse into the life of luxury in a different time. With the city‘s perennial wonderful weather and clear blue skies, it’s only right to check out some of the local outdoor exhibits. A quintessential Miami mainstay and historical feature of the city, Coral Castle has been a longtime favorite for locals and visitors alike. In 1923, Edward Leedskalnin first began creating Coral Castle in secret following a difficult breakup with his fiancé. Since the structure is made of over 1, 000 tons of sedimentary rock in a time when no modern construction advances were available, this unusual attraction brings up many questions. To this very day, the site has many scientists, engineers and philosophers questioning the artist’s method of construction. The attraction was a spectacular success, and has been drawing in visitors from near and far ever since out of sheer curiosity. A thoroughly unique experience, this place is perfect for those who are craving something a little different. Soak Up the Sun A Miami vacation just wouldn’t be a Miami vacation without hitting the beach – are we right? Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or go for a dip, we recommend South Beach - almost for its beautiful scenery alone. Standing out from a lot of other beaches in the area, this spot is known for its pristine, palm-fringed shores and turquoise waters. Because of its inherent beauty, this spot is often used as a backdrop for modelling shoots, and many popular TV shows - walking down the beach, you might even catch some in action! For those who are looking to kick back and relax, sunbeds and umbrellas are available to rent upon arrival. You’ll also find that there are many activities at the beach, including surfing, paddleboarding, longboarding, and sailing. We suggest staying until the evening time, since the surrounding area has a lot of great bars and restaurants to be enjoyed. For those who want to take refuge in the beauty of the natural world, there’s no better place than Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Accountant Robert H. Montgomery first established this garden in 1936, naming it after his friend, renowned botanist and plant collector David Fairchild. Today, the park stretches over 83 acres, and still houses many of Fairchild’s tropical plant collection which was brought back from his travels. Think magnificent centuries-old oak trees, wild romantic trailing vines, and colorful flora of all kinds. The garden is also home to the largest palm collection in America, and the biggest tropical bamboo repository in the world, with over 125 species. Walking through the park, visitors will also enjoy viewing the wide variety of wildlife which thrives there. A tranquil urban oasis, this space is perfect for getting some fresh air and taking a little time for yourself. Get Creative There are some things that are certain in life, and Miami weather is one of them. If you’re looking to beat the heat, there’s no better option than checking out one of the city’s incredible cultural amenities. We particularly love the Rubell Museum for its impressive collection of contemporary art. In fact, its repository is the largest of its kind in North America. The institute houses many recognizable names, such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Barbara Kruger, and Cindy Sherman. Highlights include Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroee, 1967 and Damien Hirst’s Dance Naked, 1997. We recommend setting at least a couple of hours aside for this, so that you can truly take in the masterpieces here. No doubt one of the best museums in the city, this place works to provide a fantastic visual experience to remember. Another one of our favorite solo spots in the city is Wynwood Walls. Situated in the trendy Wynwood Art District, this fantastic outdoor art museum works to spotlight some of the best working urban artists today. Covering over 80, 000 square feet of wall space, this attraction is one of the largest open-art installations in the world. Visitors can expect to see everything from bold tagging pieces and stencils to wheat paste posters and ceramic tile works. The murals change constantly, but some names you might recognize include Shepard Fairey, Lady Pink, and Miss Van. We recommend sticking around to explore the surrounding area, where you’ll find quaint cafes, unique stores and of course, tons more galleries! A great stop for all artsy types, we love this space for bringing something new to the table. Miami is a mecca for millions of tourists per year – many of whom tackle the city solo! Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.