Last Updated on March 31, 2024
The city of Miami conjures up images of the ocean scene and a party atmosphere.
Among the shoreline of Miami, many beautiful beaches fit the bill for family-friendly locations.
With white sand beaches and plenty of activities, Miami is sure to guarantee a good time for the family.
While there are many beach locations in South Florida, several in Miami-Dade County make the list of the best beaches for families.
We even have several that welcome the four-legged members of your family in our dog parks section.
As someone who loves the beaches of Florida and visits them often, I hope these spots in Miami are ones that your entire family will love.
Explore the list below to help you identify the best family beaches for your perfect day out at the ocean!
14 Best Beaches In Miami For Families!
1. Crandon Park
Located in Key Biscayne, the two-mile stretch at Crandon Park Beach is relaxing and family-friendly. It often ranks as one of the best beaches in the USA.
This location is just 10 minutes out of downtown Miami. Parking is available near the grassy picnic areas.
Walk by geckos and peacocks on your way to the beach. Spend the afternoon making sand castles with the soft sand, or have a relaxing day in the shallow water.
There is even a nearby golf course at Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne.
Family features at Crandon Park
BBQ grills
Boardwalk
Cabana rentals
Concession stand
Kayak rentals
Kiteboard rentals
Nature center
Parking is plentiful with over 3,000 spaces
Picnic tables
Restrooms
Volleyball courts
The Crandon Family Amusement Center features a 1949 carousel, roller rink, and splash fountain.
This makes Crandon Park the best place for a family vacation that mixes beach fun with amusement park enjoyment.
Playground hours are 10:30 a.m.until 5 p.m. The carousel operates on weekends and holidays.
The Beach Experience At Crandon Park
The beautiful white sand beach offers a tropical island feel. Palm trees provide natural shade in this tropical island-like environment. You can even rent beach chairs and umbrellas via a mobile app.
A sandbar located offshore shields swimmers from rugged surf conditions. This provides safer wading conditions for the little ones.
Clear waters make for ideal snorkeling conditions, especially at high tide. Swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty.
The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center is great for adding a bit of learning for young kids while visiting the beach.
Naturalist-led trips here include exploring fossil reef tidal pools and hiking. Inside the nature center, you’ll find interactive exhibits, aquariums, and a mangrove habitat.
Nature lovers can explore Crandon Park Gardens. 200 acres at the park’s south end feature lush vegetation and a habitat filled with birds and wildlife.
Kids enjoy viewing the iguanas and peacocks which roam about the area.
Tips For Visiting Crandon Park
Parking can be challenging on summer weekends. Come during the week, when you’re less likely to find crowded conditions.
Sign-up at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center for the summer walk and experience sea turtle hatchlings released into the water.
Book a memorable beach experience with a private 100-square-foot cabana rental with an appointed parking spot and private shower. You’ll find some of the best pizza and ice cream in Miami here.
Do not bring personal kayaks and paddleboards, as only floatation devices rented at the concession stands provided by tour companies can be launched at this beach.
Location:
6747 Crandon Blvd.
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Photo Credit- Miami and Beaches
2. North Beach Oceanside Park
Located between 78th Street and 87th Street in Miami Beach, this gem has a row of dunes leading to the peaceful beach.
The tranquil park provides plenty of room to spread out your beach gear where you can soak up the sun and listen and listen to the waves.
Family features at North Beach Oceanside Park
BBQ grills
Bicycle rentals nearby
Boardwalk
Dog runs at the north end of the park
Picnic tables in the shade of old-growth sea grape trees
Playground with swings
Restrooms
Three pavilions rentable for picnics and party
Walking path with shaded tree canopy
Water fountains
The Beach Experience At North Beach Oceanside Park
Whether you want to lay on the beach and read a book under the shade or stroll the walking paths, there’s plenty to do for families seeking a relaxing beach day.
Kids can split time between the beach and the park’s playgrounds, making it easy to spend many entertaining hours here.
The North Beach Bandshell features live music. You’ll find several restaurants within easy walking distance.
Tips For Visiting North Beach Oceanside Park
This park is pet-friendly. Dogs can accompany you if your furry friend is on a leash. There is ample street parking near the park, payable via the Park Mobile app.
Location:
8328 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33141
3. Lummus Park
The scene may look familiar as Lummus Park has shown up in movies including “Burn Notice” and “Miami Vice.”
With the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Ocean Drive on the other, Lummus Park beach is convenient for families staying at nearby hotels.
Younger kids can have fun in the park’s playgrounds – one is designed for toddlers, while a second caters to bigger kids.
The photogenic park features clean white sand. You can enjoy biking, rollerblading, and walking along the sidewalks when you’re not soaking up the rays on the beach.
Family features at Lummus Park
Beach
Cabanas
Lifeguards
Playgrounds
Umbrella and beach chair rentals
Walking trails
Volleyball courts
The Beach Experience At Lummus Park
Spend an afternoon relaxing in a rented chaise under the shade of a beach umbrella. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, bike and skate rentals are available.
Tips For Visiting Lummus Park
For a family-friendly trip, you will likely want to avoid the section between 5th and 11th streets, as this area allows topless sunbathing for women. Visit on the weekend to enjoy the artisan markets.
Watch the calendar for various annual events hosted here, including Art Basel Miami Beach satellite fairs, Hyundai Air & Sea Show, Miami Beach Preservation League’s Art Deco Weekend, South Beach Mango Festival, and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival.
Location:
1130 Ocean Dr.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
4. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and Beach is a family-friendly destination. Along 1.3 miles of beautiful Atlantic shoreline, a white sand beach featuring palm trees, and a serene relaxing environment.
You can also dine at one of several restaurants in the area and visit a historic lighthouse. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is easy to reach from Miami.
This is an excellent destination for a day trip with a bonus of history and nature experiences.
Family features At Bill Baggs
BBQ grills
Bike trail
Bicycle rentals
Bird watching
Concession stands
Fishing
Hiking trails
Hydrobike rentals
Kayak rentals
Oceanfront restaurants
Pavilions (covered) – you can reserve up to one day prior by paying the fee at the park entrance station.
Pet-friendly – pets must be on a 6-foot leash and cannot be left unattended. Pets can accompany visitors to trails and picnic areas in the park. They are not allowed at the beach, lighthouse, playground, or restaurants.
Picnic tables
Playground
Restaurants (Lighthouse Café and Boaters Grill)
Restrooms
Showers
Swimming
Amenities for visitors with physical challenges include two beach wheelchairs and a swimming wheelchair.
Both are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the bicycle rental area.
The Beach Experience At Bill Baggs
The perimeter of the beach features dunes that make way to the white sand and shallow beach waters.
Aided by a reef six miles offshore, the water here is calm and suitable for snorkeling. Be aware that this beach does not have lifeguards.
A 1.5-mile bike trail at Bill Baggs is paved and mostly level. Rent individual bicycles or check out a quad bike for the family.
History At Bill Baggs
Visit the Cape Florida Lighthouse. Built in 1825, it’s the oldest structure in South Florida.
The lighthouse is open for tours Thursday-Monday and kids enjoy making their way up the 109 steps to the top of this 95-foot high structure.
This park is a recognized site for the historic Underground Railroad Network to Freedom site.
Enslaved persons found boats here to escape to the Bahamas. You can learn about this part of U.S. history when you visit Bill Baggs.
Tips For Visiting Bill Baggs
Be watchful for Portuguese Man-of-War jellyfish, which are common in this area, especially in winter.
Check the official park website for events during your visit.
Stay late to see an impressive sunset over the bay.
Location:
Bill Baggs is located in Key Biscayne, just a short drive south of Miami.
1200 South Crandon Blvd
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
5. South Pointe Park Beach
Marvel at impressive views of downtown Miami and Fisher Island (the wealthiest ZIP code in the USA).
There is plenty of green space for relaxing off the sand here too. In addition to enjoying the beach, kids can enjoy getting wet by spraying water cannons at the splash pad.
With Miami’s reputation as the world’s cruise capital, visitors of all ages can watch the cruise ships docking nearby and yachts sailing in the water.
If you like a higher-end dining experience, you may be delighted to dine at the Smith and Wollensky Steakhouse located in the park.
Family features at South Pointe Park Beach
BBQ grills
Beach chair and umbrella rentals
Bicycle rentals and bike trail
Cafe
Dog park
Fishing
Food: Café, Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse
Lifeguards
Pier
Picnic areas
Restrooms
Showers
Walking trails
Water playground for kids
The Beach Experience At South Pointe Park Beach
With clear water for swimming and minimal seaweed, South Pointe Park Beach is a beautiful beach and a great place to get into the Atlantic water.
This beach is also a great spot for snorkeling. The splash pad at the park is an excellent option for parents who want their little one to experience water but not necessarily in the ocean.
With ample green space, South Pointe Park makes for a perfect place to enjoy a picnic.
Nearby, you’ll find a number of restaurants from which you can order take-out for your lunch at the beach.
The park has an ocean-front paved walkway perfect for biking, running, walking, and skateboarding.
In just a 10-minute walk from the park entrance, you can arrive at the Miami Beach Marina, where you can rent a jet ski.
And if you participate in a jet ski tour, you can ride on nearly 45 miles of water.
Tips For Visiting South Pointe Park Beach
Stroll to the pier where you can admire one of the best views of Miami Beach. Visit on a Sunday mid-afternoon for the best opportunity to watch cruise ships where you can give departing cruise passengers a festive bon-voyage wave.
Since a portion of the park faces west, this is a superb location in Miami Beach to watch the sunset.
To avoid crowds, the best time of day to visit South Pointe Park Beach is early in the morning or late afternoon before sunset.
And during the summer, these times will help you escape the heat of the midday sun.
If you’re looking for a particularly memorable visit, you’ll find many hotels nearby, including several top-rated luxury hotels.
Location:
1 Washington Ave
Miami Beach, FL 33139
6. Haulover Beach Park
This 1.5-mile-long area of beach provides a place for kids to build sand castles, splash around in the water, or romp in the playground. Kids can also participate in kite-flying workshops at Haulover Beach.
Family features at Haulover Beach Park
BBQ grills
Beach chair and umbrella rentals
Concession stand
Lifeguard
Pavillions
Picnic areas
Playground
Restrooms
Showers
Tennis courts
The Beach Experience At Haulover Beach Park
The beach is wide with plenty of space to walk without feeling crowded. Underfoot, the sand at Haulover Beach Park is a beautiful white. The waters here are crystal blue.
You’ll likely find seaweed washed onto the shore when you visit. There’s also a kite concession, fishing charters, and boat rentals just across the street from Haulover Beach.
Tips For Visiting Haulover Beach Park
Mark your calendar to visit in February for the annual Haulover Kite Festival.
During July-September, you can participate in conversation efforts for sea turtles. Hatchling releases are held at Haulover Beach Park.
Contact Miami Ecoadventures Website for details and reservations.
Visit during the week to experience more solitude than is available on the weekends.
Note: The north section of Haulover Park Beach is designated as a nude beach. Still, you can spend the whole day here with grandparents and the littles and not see a single unclothed person.
Leave your flotation devices at home as they are not permitted in the water here.
Location:
10800 Collins Ave
Miami Beach, FL 33154
7. Indian Beach Park
Spend time strolling or biking on the walkway near the beach. Sunsets are gorgeous at this location.
Family features at Indian Beach Park
Beach chair and umbrella rentals (cash only)
Concession stand
Lifeguards
Playground
Restrooms
Showers
Water fountain
The Beach Experience At Indian Beach Park
This quiet and typically less crowded destination is among the nicer beaches in Miami’s Mid-Beach area.
That makes Indian Beach Park a top choice for a Miami beach experience, where you will likely avoid loud music and noisy beach visitors.
You’ll find clear and calm waters here. The shallow surf lets visitors walk out a good distance into the ocean. Seaweed accumulation is typical.
While called a park, this area is more of a parking lot with a small sand section and a few beach amenities. You won’t find much shade or green space.
Tips For Visiting Indian Beach Park
While there is a small concession stand, you’ll likely want to pack your own food for a trip to Indian Beach Park, as the selection here is limited. Be aware that parking fees nearby are high.
Location:
4601 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33140
Photo Credit- Biscayne Nature Center
8. Marjory Stoneman Douglas Ocean Beach Park
Parents can sit under a shaded area while watching kids in the playground. If you want to enjoy a coffee-based beverage, you’ll find a Starbucks just beyond the park’s south end.
Family features at Marjory Stoneman Douglas Ocean Beach Park
Playground
Restrooms
Water fountain
The Beach Experience At Marjory Stoneman Douglas Ocean Beach Park
The park is within steps of the beach. It’s a perfect spot for reading and relaxing. The playground is beautiful for families with little ones.
Location:
225 Ocean Dr.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Photo Credit- Virginia Beach Park
9. Virginia Key Beach
While this place is perfect for relaxing on the beach, there are so many more opportunities that make it a great place for the whole family.
Additional kid-friendly activities include kayaking, riding the carousel and mini-train, and a playground.
Family features at Virginia Key Beach
BBQ grills
Bike trails
Cabana rentals
Carousel
Concession stand
Kayak rentals
Mini-train
Paddleboard rentals
Pavillions
Picnic area
Playground
Showers
The Beach Experience At Virginia Key Beach
The water here is relatively warm though sections are deep, and caution must be exercised for the possible undertow.
This is a wading beach only. Swimming and fishing are not allowed.
Tips For Visiting Virginia Key Beach
Check the park calendar as they host an events series that includes art exhibits, concerts, and festivals.
Parking can be challenging when events are held. At other times, the beach is typically uncrowded.
Location:
4020 Virginia Beach Drive
Miami, FL 33149
10. Hobie Island Beach Park
This location is also popular with windsurfers, giving it the nickname “Windsurfer Beach.” And rentals at the park allow options for many water activities.
Family features at Hobie Island Beach Park
Bike rentals
Concession stand
Free parking
Kayak rentals
Paddleboard rentals
Pet-friendly
Restrooms
Showers
Windsurfing rentals and lessons
The Beach Experience At Hobie Island Beach Park
Hobie beach is perfect for littles as the water is shallow and relatively warm. You can enjoy calm waters here and not worry about strong currents.
The soft sand is great for the kids to build sand castles. You can enjoy beautiful views of Coral Gables as you relax in the shade of a palm tree.
Tips For Visiting Hobie Island Beach Park
Bring your dog – Among the best things about Hobie Island Beach Park is that it is a dog-friendly beach. Yes, you bring your dog on the sand and in the water.
Remember, this is a salt-water environment, so bring drinking water for your dog. Also, bring clean-up bags to scoop up after your dog.
Arrive early to ensure a parking spot, as this is one of the few dog-friendly beaches in Miami.
A toll is collected to cross the causeway over to the beach when coming over from Miami.
Location:
Rickenbacker Causeway
Miami, FL 33149
11. Hollywood Beach
The beach town is a popular spot for shopping, restaurants, and bars, and a vibrant arts & culture scene.
Family features at Hollywood Beach
Bicycle rentals
Fishing pier
Jet ski rentals
Picnic area
Playgrounds
Restaurants
The Beach Experience At Hollywood Beach
Hollywood Beach is a perfect place to prop up your umbrella, lay on your towel, and enjoy the rays of the Florida sunshine.
Beyond relaxing at the beach, a popular activity here is spending time on the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk.
This 2.5-mile-long promenade attracts visitors to enjoy walking, bicycling, running, and rollerblading while enjoying the scenic views.
Near this area, you’ll find additional attractions, including boutique shops, Charnow Park, Hollywood Beach Theatre, restaurants, and entertainment.
Tips For Visiting Hollywood Beach
Finish your day with a ride on the trolley to tour the downtown area. You’ll wind up back at the beach at the end of your ride.
Location:
Hollywood Boardwalk spans from Jefferson St. to Sheridan St.
Hollywood, FL 33019
12. South Beach
Located just off iconic Ocean Drive, it’s a popular place that attracts crowds, so expect a festive environment.
Family features at South Beach
Beach chair and umbrella rentals
Boogie board rentals
Kayak rentals
Lifeguards
Jet ski rentals
Restaurants
The Beach Experience At South Beach
The spacious area of sand at this spot on the Atlantic Ocean allows plenty of room for beach chairs and spreading out with your family.
Besides splashing in the ocean, kids can be entertained via various water sport rentals available nearby South Beach.
Tips For Visiting South Beach
Beach access is free, though you will be charged for parking if you leave your car at a metered street spot or nearby parking garage.
The area has 27 public parking lots and 9 public parking garages.
Plan on extra time to visit the nearby Art Deco Historic District – the first urban historic district included on the National Register of Historic Places.
You’ll find the iconic Art Deco buildings associated with Miami close to South Beach.
Location:
The beachfront area runs from 5th to 23rd streets.
13. Oleta River State Park
This family-friendly park accommodates biking, hiking, kayaking, and paddle boarding, among the various things you can do here.
Family features at Oleta River State Park
Barbecue grills
Bike rentals and 15 miles of biking trails
Canoe rentals
Concession stand
Fishing
Guided eco-tour excursions
Hiking trails
Kayak rentals
Nature trails
Picnic pavilions
Standup paddleboard rentals
The Experience At Oleta River State Park
Getting here is more common to a state park entrance than an urban beach. You’ll drive past a ranger station as you enter this peaceful domain that is home to tidal mangroves in a protected river estuary.
Over 1,000 acres of green space provide a large area for recreation. The water at Oleta River State Park is shallow and calm, making it perfect for little kids.
The soft white sand is also great for making sandcastles. Look out into the waters of Biscayne Bay, and you may see dolphins and manatees here.
Tips For Visiting Oleta River State Park
Ask the ranger for a trail map to find the bike paths available in the park. The park has single-track, double-track, paved biking trails and a few dirt bike style riding courses.
Explore the native mangroves which line the riverbanks. These protected species are the only saltwater-resistant tree and aid the Florida shoreline from erosion and hurricane damage. They also provide a natural habitat for many fish and migratory birds.
Hiking in the area will let you get close to gumbo limbo trees native to South Florida. Turn your visit into a memorable outdoor experience by booking a rustic air-conditioned cabin.
The park has 14 cabins available, supplemented by a central campground restroom with hot showers.
Location:
3400 NE 163rd Street
Sunny Isles Beach, FL, 33160
14. Allison Park Beach
Allison Park Beach is found in the North Beach area of Miami Beach.
Family features at Allison Park Beach
Dog area
Food options nearby
Lifeguards
Playground with ADA play components
Restrooms
Showers
Walkway for biking, jogging, skating
Water fountains
The Experience At Allison Park Beach
This public beach and park have no entrance fee. The beach features fine white sand and crystal-clear water. It’s a great place for swimming and wading in the water. Seaweed on the shore is common.
Tips For Visiting Allison Park Beach
Great news for dog owners – you can bring your dog to Allison Park Beach, as the park has a designated dog area.
Parking is paid on a metered parking lot. The parking cost here is lower than on other
beaches in Miami. Allison Park Beach is ADA-accessible.
Location:
6500 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33141
What Other Places Are Family-Friendly Near Miami Beaches?
Fort Lauderdale Beach Area – As an alternative to beaches in Miami, Fort Lauderdale’s beach scene offers many family-based activities. Among additional experiences to entertain the family are:
Bluefoot Pirate Adventures – enjoy an interactive treasure hunt about a pirate ship cruise
Flippo’s Family Fun Center – fun for kids of all ages with climbing, slides, and a laser maze
Museum of Discovery & Science – One of the most popular Florida museums, it features an IMAX theater and many special events throughout the year.
Matheson Hammock Park and Marina – Located 6 miles south of Coconut Grove in Coral Gables, there is a recently renovated artificial atoll pool at this location.
Underneath a series of palm trees, this saltwater swimming hole fills from the bay’s tides.
You’ll find relatively shallow water here. A lifeguard is on duty to watch for your safety and admission is free.
Miami Seaquarium – Visit South Florida’s best aquarium and see amazing shows where mammals, dolphins, and sea lions entertain guests of all ages.
World-class exhibits feature manatees, penguins, rays, sea turtles, and more.
Are There Dog-Friendly Beaches In Miami?
Absolutely. Several beaches in Miami are pet friendly and welcome your furry family members.
Read our descriptions of the following beaches in this post to narrow your selection to a dog-friendly location:
Allison Park Beach
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
Hobie Island Beach Park
North Beach Oceanside Park
South Pointe Park Beach
Final Thoughts- Best Beaches In Miami For Families
There’s something special about a day out with the family at the beach in Miami.
Whether you’re searching for the best peach for building sandcastles or a place by the ocean that offers family-friendly outdoor activities, every beach on this list has something to offer to every family seeking a day in the sun!
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