Bustling South Beach is the place to be in Miami. Walking down Ocean Drive and Collins Ave with all of the restaurants and shops is something you should experience.
But if you’re the kind of person who doesn’t necessarily want to be in the place to be, there are other beaches. A half an hour south of Miami is Key Biscayne, a whole different scene. Bill Baggs Cape State Park [1200 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149] is a popular park, but it has more of a natural setting.
There is over a mile of sandy beach to spread out on and swim. You’ll find kayak rentals, hiking trails and biking paths (and bike rentals too). The Cape Florida Lighthouse is open for tours.
You can also see out to historic Stiltsville – a group of raised houses a mile off the coast.
It’s a prime location to watch the sunset into the ocean, which isn’t always common on the East Coast.
This multifaceted park is a great alternative to the party vibe on South Beach, for a more low-key day.
*Note there is a toll to cross onto Key Biscayne and an entrance fee to visit the State Park*