The best walks and hikes around Miami Shores

The Bal Harbour Beach Scenic Path offers a delightful coastal experience, guiding you along pristine white-sand beaches with calm, aquamarine waters. This easy 1.3-mile (2.2 km) hike, with a minimal 7 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, is a flat and wide path, perfect for a leisurely 32-minute stroll. You'll enjoy unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean, spot pelicans near the Bal Harbour Pier, and pass by beautifully landscaped sections shaded by sea grape trees.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is easily accessible and well-maintained. It's an ideal choice for all ages and abilities, including those with strollers, thanks to its flat terrain. While it's part of the extensive Miami Beach Walk, the Bal Harbour section is often less crowded, providing a more tranquil escape. Look for amenities like benches for resting and convenient showers at various access points.

What makes this route particularly special is its blend of natural beauty and thoughtful design, including a 25-foot wide, paver-lined path at the 102nd Street and Collins Avenue access point. This trail is a fantastic option if you're looking for an easy hiking experience that combines stunning ocean vistas with a peaceful atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of busier Miami beaches.

Embark on the Ocean Drive, Miami Beach – South Pointe Park Pier loop from Surfside for an immersive coastal and urban walking experience. This extensive route guides you along pristine white sand beaches, past the iconic colorful lifeguard stands, and through the vibrant Art Deco District, showcasing its unique pastel-colored buildings. You'll enjoy continuous ocean views and the lively atmosphere of Miami Beach, with the journey culminating at South Pointe Park, offering stunning vistas of the South Beach shoreline and the Downtown Miami skyline.

Planning your visit for this 16.6-mile (26.7 km) hike, which typically takes 6 hours and 43 minutes, means preparing for a long but generally flat excursion with only 102 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain. While rated difficult due to its sheer length, the trail is mostly paved and ADA-accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of users. Public restrooms, water fountains, and dining options are readily available along the route, particularly near Ocean Drive and South Pointe Park. For the most scenic experience, consider an early morning start to witness the sunrise over the Atlantic or an evening finish to catch the sunset over downtown Miami.

This trail is largely integrated into the Miami Beachwalk, an 8-mile oceanfront promenade, providing a seamless and amenity-rich journey. Beyond the architectural and beach highlights, keep an eye out for wildlife near South Pointe Pier, where manatees have occasionally been sighted, and appreciate the park's turtle-safe lighting designed to protect marine turtle reproduction. The route offers excellent opportunities for cruise ship watching as vessels navigate Government Cut, adding another layer of interest to this dynamic Miami Beach adventure.

Experience the best of Miami Beach's coastal charm on the Miami Beach Trolley – Ocean Terrace Public Beach loop from Surfside. This easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) route offers continuous ocean views, taking you along the Miami Beachwalk and the soft sands of Ocean Terrace Public Beach. With only 36 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, it's a perfect leisurely stroll that can be completed in about 1 hour and 36 minutes, ideal for families or anyone seeking a relaxing seaside adventure.

One of the best aspects of this route is its seamless connection to the free Miami Beach Trolley system, allowing you to easily access different sections and customize your journey. The area around Ocean Terrace Public Beach is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms and outdoor showers, making it a convenient stop. For the most comfortable experience, plan your visit during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the peak heat.

This unique loop stands out by blending natural beach beauty with urban convenience, showcasing the redeveloped Ocean Terrace area with its pedestrian pathways and green spaces. You'll find charming details like the sea turtle sculptures in Allison Park along the way. It's a fantastic option for those who want to explore Miami Beach's vibrant coastline without the need for a car, offering a blend of tranquil beach time and accessible local establishments.