Parks & Recreation - Parks & Beaches
There is no shortage of outdoor space in Miami. Parks and beaches can be found almost anywhere and even areas secluded from sand find ways to capitalize on the nearly year-round sun. It goes without saying that certain times of the year simply don’t cater to outdoor fun, namely hurricane season and summer heat, but most of the time these spaces are integral to tourists’ and locals’ lives. Whether it’s a day of sunbathing or a day of hiking, with such a diverse landscape, there are plenty of activities for every lifestyle. Miami’s plethora of parks and beaches is also ideal for travelers on tighter budgets; after all, sunshine, crystal blue water, and exotic vegetation are free for all. Thrifty tourists can stop by a local grocery store, pack a lunch and be set for the day. Keep in mind that Miami Beach’s beaches run from the south tip of South Beach and up, mostly accessible via Ocean Drive or Collins Avenue.
Parks & Recreation - Recreation
Miami’s landscape couldn’t cater better to a slew of recreational activites—both indoor and outdoor. Adventurous types can explore the deep seas on one of the city’s many charter boats. Golfers can channel their inner Jack Nicklaus on a PGA Tour golf course. Or, for a one of kind Miami experience, head out to Jimbo’s for a game of bocce ball. The year-round sun makes open-air activites ideal, from ballooning to boating, but there is plenty to do when the weather isn’t so nice; art classes, bowling, and book signings, to name a few. This chapter will clue you in to the best activities regardless of the weather.
1. Bal Harbour
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (305) 866-4633
Description: Despite its recognizable moniker, this exclusive enclave is only a third of a square mile and a perfect getaway if your goal is to escape from the trendiness and crowdedness of South Beach. The mile-long, sinewy beach is perfect for jogging and walking. Those looking for something less strenuous can perch under an umbrella and take in the sights. Be sure to keep your eye out for celebrities as the village is a favorite of the rich and famous. Too much sun? Head over to the popular Bal Harbour Shops.
2. Hobie Beach
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (305) 361-2833
Description: The beach’s inlet location provides constant winds to navigate which makes sense of its nickname: Windsurfer Beach. There are also rentals of other water paraphernalia including Jet Skis and sailboats as well as restrooms, shower facilities, and concession stands. Those not interested in water sports can fish, swim, or stroll along the narrow beach. Honeymooners and those who profess to be fans of “long walks on the beach” should be sure to stick around until sunset to take in the picturesque views of the Miami skyline. This beach is also one of the few dog-friendly beaches in Miami. There is a toll for the causeway leading to the beach.
3. Lummus Park Beach
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Description: Often referred to as Glitter Beach, don’t expect to see beer-bellies on these strips of sand. Instead, expect fit volleyball players (though volleyball nets are open and available to the public) and a gay beach at 12th Street. The area is a prime location for photo shoots, so camera crews and models are common sights. There are umbrellas and chair rentals for those wishing to sit back and take in the attractive scenery. A sandbar, located just a few feet offshore, gives beachcombers a place to cool off while the promenade provides a runway for in-line skaters, joggers, and bikers. Nearby Ocean Drive is full of cafes and restaurants as well as restrooms, showers, and metered parking. Also to be noted, while Lummus is not a nude beach like Haulover, topless bathing is allowed.
4. Sunny Isles Beach
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Description: Sunny Isles Beach is one of the northernmost points in Miami that is still relatively close to South Beach and offers plenty of beachfront. Despite retaining a distance from South Beach, a fair share of souvenir shops still exist. The neighborhood’s large Russian population has earned it the nickname “Little Moscow.” Relax along 2.5 miles of sandy beach or visit the landmark Newport Fishing Pier. The area has recently undergone a real estate boom with luxury condos and hotels replacing old beachfront motels. These high-rises have attracted new restaurants, bars, and even the Donald, who is heavily invested in the area.
5. Surfside
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (305) 864-0722
Description: This 1-mile beach is another quieter beachfront that attracts locals and those seeking a low-key retreat. Also known as a topless beach, visitors will witness this from time to time, though topless sunbathers typically stay farther south. The site also has recreational facilites, including tennis courts.
6. Belle Meade Mini Park
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Description: Belle Meade park is a favorite for families with children who want to utilize the playground. There are also shaded picnic tables, which make for an ideal day-trip spot. The neighborhood is known to be low-key so the surroundings are also pleasant.
7. Florida Adult Softball
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Description: This organization is the go-to resource for adult softball in the state and has over 30 teams and several divisions including one that is co-ed. Team names like “Quit Your Pitchin” and “I’d Hit That” keep the atmosphere friendly and not too competitive.
8. The Miami Sport And Social Club
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (800) 497-1852
Description: The Miami Sport and Social Club is the city’s largest co-ed sports league offering everything from the standard softball, basketball, and soccer to elementary school classics like kickball, dodgeball, and ultimate Fribee. There’s even a bar sports team for beer pong pros. There are no membership fees; participants just pay for the events they would like to participate in. Games are kept friendly and fun, so don’t worry about overly competitive teammates or sore losers. Ideal for singles and people new to Miami, the club organizes plenty of activities to socialize off the field like pub crawls, happy hours, and trips to professional sporting events like Miami Heat and Dolphins games. Utilize the free sign-up and search available on the website.
9. South Florida Sports League
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Description: A flat rate covers seasonal programs, which are available for adults and children. Youth sports include soccer, basketball, cheerleading, and both tackle and flag football.
10. Sportsvite
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Description: This sports social network allows local teams to connect with potential players and vice versa. Those looking to start a team or find other teams to play against can also post on the site’s bulletin boards.
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
13. Books & Books
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Insider Pick:
Description: Perhaps the best-known bookstore and go-to book talk venue in the city, Books & Books is a Miami staple that is not to be missed. Big names such as Bill Clinton have stopped at this spot for national tours. The bookstore caters to all types of genres with a focus on art, design, fashion, and architecture. In addition to author visits, there are also live music events. Join the store’s book club and get access to exclusive movie screenings, author luncheons, and receptions. There are three locations total: 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables (305-442-4408); 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour (305-864-4241); and 927 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach (305-532-3222).
14. Miami Book Fair International
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Description: Some of the top literary figures have given talks for book debuts and the event hosts an extensive schedule of book talks throughout the event. Be sure not to miss the festival’s street fair where more than 350 authors read and discuss their works. There’s also a Children’s Alley with theater, storytelling, and arts and crafts. Approximately 250 publishers and booksellers also set up at the fair exhibiting and selling books including rare manuscripts and first editions. The fair is free but tickets are typically required for private author talks. Check the website for more information.
15. Meditation Miami
City: Miami, FL
Category: Parks & Recreation
Telephone: (305) 891-9933
Description: Meditation techniques are “heart-centered” and aim to quiet the mind gradually rather than the use of repetition or a mantra. Breathing and yoga are also incorporated into the classes. Taking a shower beforehand and wearing loose-fitting clothing are both recommended. Check the website for schedules.