Miami, in South Florida, is known for its sunny weather and beautiful white sand beaches. The city is a vibrant mix of cultures, colors, and flavors, offering a range of beaches to explore. Whether you enjoy nightlife, nature, or simply relaxing in the sun, Miami’s coastline has something for everyone.
Embrace the opportunity to discover Miami’s shores and create lasting memories. Each beach provides a unique experience, turning a typical beach day into an unforgettable adventure. And when the weather holds you back, check out how a hotel day pass can help you achieve supreme surfside relaxation.
1. South Beach
Miami Beach, situated on a narrow barrier island stretching nine miles along the Atlantic Ocean, contains three unique neighborhoods. South Beach, extending from South Pointe Park to 23rd Street, stands out as the most well-known. If you’ve seen Miami Beach in movies, you’re likely imagining the famous South Beach neighborhood.
This area features sandy beaches, clear water, palm trees, and the iconic pastel-hued Art Deco structures, making it a picturesque and recognizable destination. From the exhilarating thrill of water sports by day to the pulsating beats of world-class nightlife after sunset, South Beach offers a one-of-a-kind experience for anyone.
No trip to South Beach would be complete without a visit to the fabulous Lummus Park. Running alongside the iconic Ocean Drive, this 10-block stretch of paradise gives you a lot of options for activities.
There are two outdoor gym areas, several beach volleyball courts, and paths perfect for walking, biking, or skating. You can take a walking tour centered around Miami Beach’s world-famous MiMo and Art Deco architecture or head oceanside to kick back, relax, and people-watch instead.
Here are some of the best local hotels in the South Beach area:
- The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club
- The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach
- Bala Beach Club at Mondrian South Beach
- Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel
- The Sagamore Hotel South Beach
2. North Beach
Venture a bit further from South Beach and up through Mid-Beach to discover North Beach, Miami’s calmer beach area. This relaxed area provides an escape from the busier tourist spots in the city, offering a day of calm relaxation and leisure. The neighborhood features a mile-long boardwalk ideal for a casual walk or run.
Unlike neighboring areas to the south, this spot is recognized for its expansive, family-friendly beach area, abundant green spaces, and laid-back atmosphere that appeal to those who need a little relaxation and rejuvenation.
With its welcoming waters, plentiful picnic areas, and convenient facilities, you can enjoy a comfortable and stress-free beach day.
Here are some of the best local hotels in the North Beach area to visit, rent a cabana, and enjoy a daycation for the history books:
- Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Beach Surfside
- Hilton Cabana Miami Beach Resort
- Grand Beach Hotel
- AC Hotel Miami Aventura
3. Sunny Isles Beach
Explore Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. This area combines pristine beaches with upscale living, featuring a skyline of condos and resorts that blend modern luxury with a relaxed beach atmosphere.
Sunny Isles Beach features acclaimed restaurants, nightlife venues, theaters, cultural sites, a fishing pier, and, notably, its beaches. The area offers breathtaking ocean views with expansive white sandy beaches and well-maintained public parks.
The expansive white sand beach and clear waters attract swimmers, sunbathers, and nature enthusiasts. Sunny Isles Beach offers a refined beachfront lifestyle with top-notch amenities, including beach cabanas and upscale dining, ensuring a sophisticated experience by the sea.
When not bathing in the sun, visitors can easily access museums, shopping centers, spas, sports facilities, golf courses, tennis courts, boating opportunities, and diving excursions, contributing to Sunny Isles Beach’s charm.
If you travel a little further south of Sunny Isles Beach, then you can experience the wondrous varieties of Haulover Beach. From nude beaches and boat rentals to dog parks and skate parks, Haulover Park has a little bit of everything for your beach vacation.
Here are some of the best local hotels in the Sunny Isles Beach area to rent cabanas and enjoy a little more luxury:
- Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Sunny Isles Beach
- Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort
- Trump International Beach Resort
4. Crandon Park Beach
Located on Key Biscayne, Crandon Park Beach provides a tropical escape separate from Miami’s busy mainland. This beach stands out with its lush greenery, mangroves, and peaceful Biscayne Bay waters.
The beach is well-known for its white sand, turquoise waters, long promenade, snack bars, numerous picnic spots equipped with tables and grills, and ample parking space for more than 3,000 cars.
Known for its family-friendly environment, the beach features a carousel, playground, and picnic areas, perfect for a day out with loved ones. The gentle waters are great for swimming, and the sandbar offers a unique beach experience, especially enjoyable for kids to play and discover.
For adventure seekers, Crandon Park Beach provides plenty of opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, inviting you to discover the natural wonders of Key Biscayne from a new perspective.
If you were to venture a little further down Crandon Boulevard and through downtown Key Biscayne, then you would find Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on the southern tip of the island. Here, you can climb to the top of the nearly 200-year-old Cape Florida Lighthouse for a breathtaking view of the island and the ocean.
Here are some of the best local hotels in the Crandon Park Beach area to snag a spot in the sun and relax under a cabana:
5. Bal Harbour Beach
Located along Bal Harbour Causeway, Bal Harbour Beach offers an exclusive and elegant retreat by the Atlantic Ocean, away from the nightlife of Miami. Known for luxury, the beach has a pristine shoreline, upscale condos, and top-notch amenities.
Bordered by Haulover Inlet to the north, Biscayne Bay to the west, and the vast Atlantic Ocean to the east, the scenery offers picturesque views from every angle.
Whether you’re savoring a gourmet meal at one of the nearby beachfront restaurants, pampering yourself with a spa treatment, or simply basking in the sun, Bal Harbour Beach promises an unparalleled beach experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to keep exploring.
Here are some of the best local hotels in the Bal Harbour Beach area that you can utilize with a day pass:
6. Hobie Beach
Located on Virginia Key, Hobie Beach is a watersport haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. Named after the popular Hobie Cat sailboats along its shores, this beach attracts windsurfers, kayakers, and paddle boarders eager to explore Biscayne Bay’s calm waters.
Hobie Beach is also well-known as a beloved dog-friendly spot in Miami. It’s a perfect place for your furry friend to enjoy time on the sandy shore. With shallow waters, dogs can safely play in the surf without concerns about strong currents.
Situated between Brickell, Downtown Miami, and Key Biscayne, Hobie Beach (Windsurfer Beach) offers fantastic skyline views. This off-road beach features concession stands and complimentary parking, providing beach enthusiasts with a pleasant and convenient experience.
Whether you’re an experienced watersport lover chasing waves or a sunbather seeking a peaceful retreat with your dog, Hobie Beach provides a top-notch beach experience.
Here are some of the best local hotels in the Hobie Beach area to grab a day pass and relax under a cabana:
7. Virginia Key Beach Park
Located in Biscayne Bay, Virginia Key Beach Park is a hidden spot worth discovering. This historical beach park offers a peaceful retreat from Miami’s urban hustle, encouraging guests to enjoy its unspoiled shores and lush surroundings.
With a mile-long white sand beach, visitors can sunbathe, have picnics, and explore the coast. The calm waters of Biscayne Bay are suitable for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Green spaces and mangrove trails within the park provide chances for hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography, allowing visitors to connect with the area’s natural splendor. Virginia Key Beach Park also boasts a rich history, having served as one of the few beaches in Miami open to African Americans during the era of segregation.
Today, the park continues to honor its legacy through educational programs, cultural events, and the Virginia Key Beach Park Trust, which works to preserve and protect this historic landmark for future generations.
Here are some of the best local hotels in the Virginia Key Beach Park area to relax at for the ultimate beach daycation:
- The Gabriel Miami South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton
- Hilton Garden Inn Miami Brickell South
- Novotel Miami Brickell
8. Matheson Hammock Park
Right near Biscayne Bay, Matheson Hammock Park provides a peaceful escape from Miami’s city life. This natural area is recognized for its greenery, trails, and charming lagoon, welcoming guests to enjoy Florida’s native plants and animals.
While walking through Matheson Hammock Park, you’ll find a variety of natural marvels. The park’s pathways wind through dense mangrove forests where birds and butterflies add color to the surroundings.
The calm lagoon, surrounded by palm trees and oak trees, provides a peaceful spot for activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and observing wildlife. For beachgoers, Matheson Hammock Park boasts a unique feature: the man-made atoll pool filled with crystal-clear water from Biscayne Bay during high tide.
This calm, shallow pool provides a safe and inviting environment for swimming, wading, and floating, making it perfect for families with young children or those seeking a relaxing dip in the water and ocean views.
Here are some of the best local hotels to lounge at in the Matheson Hammock Park area:
- Mayfair House Hotel and Garden
- DoubleTree by Hilton Ocean Point Resort
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Miami International Airport
What Can I Do on a Stormy Day in Miami?
When the weather is bad or going to the beach isn’t an option, ResortPass offers a convenient way to enjoy a high-end spa experience near your home. You can now have a luxurious retreat without the need to travel far, thanks to ResortPass.
One of the key benefits of ResortPass is its easy access to upscale amenities for those looking to relax and unwind without going too far. By teaming up with well-known hotels and resorts like Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Westin, and Fairmont, ResortPass provides a range of luxurious experiences, including pools, spas, and fitness centers in your local area.
With the combined effort of tech and hospitality professionals, ResortPass has connected over 1.6 million people with opportunities for relaxation and luxury, emphasizing the importance of restful experiences and accessible retreats in everyday life.
Ready for a Day at the Beach?
Ready to embark on your own beach adventure in Miami? Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches in America, and it’s time to explore them.
Seize the day and plan your next getaway to one of Miami’s best beaches. Whether you’re seeking the luxurious allure of Bal Harbour Beach, the laid-back charm of Hobie Beach, or the family-friendly atmosphere of Crandon Park Beach, there’s a beach experience waiting for you.
Don’t let another day pass by without treating yourself to the beauty and serenity of Miami’s breathtaking beaches — your beach adventure awaits!
