Discovering Miami Beach: The Best Walking & Hiking Trails
Miami Beach is globally renowned for its pristine coastlines and vibrant nightlife, but it also boasts some of South Florida's most picturesque hiking and walking trails. Whether you are a resident looking for a new morning routine or a visitor seeking a break from the sand, these trails offer a unique way to explore the natural beauty and architectural charm of the area.
From scenic beachwalks that span the length of the island to lush nature trails just a short drive away, there is a path for every pace.
Explore the Trails
Trails Near Me: A Quick Guide
Not sure where to start? Here is the best trail based on your location:
- 📍 Near South Beach:
The Art Deco District Walk or the southern tip of the Miami Beachwalk (South Pointe Park). - 📍 Near Mid-Beach & North Beach:
The Miami Beachwalk offers a quieter, more scenic oceanfront experience here, perfect for long-distance running. - 📍 Just Across the Causeway (Key Biscayne/Virginia Key):
Bear Cut Nature Trail and Rickenbacker Trail for true nature immersion and skyline views. - 📍 Downtown/Brickell Area:
The Miami River Walk for an urban historical hike.
Coastal & Urban Trails in Miami Beach
Miami Beachwalk
Stretching along the eastern coast of the island, the Miami Beachwalk is the crown jewel of local pedestrian paths. This expansive, paved promenade connects the vibrant energy of South Pointe Park all the way to the northern city limits. It is meticulously maintained and flanked by sand dunes and sea grapes.
Why we love it: It removes you from street traffic, offering miles of uninterrupted ocean scenery. It is ideal for a sunrise jog, a sunset stroll, or a weekend bike ride with the family.
Miami Beach Bike Trail (Atlantic Greenway)
For those who prefer a faster pace, the Miami Beach Bike Trail runs parallel to the beachwalk in many sections, offering a designated lane for cyclists and skaters. This route allows you to traverse the length of the city, passing by iconic hotels, open-air gyms, and public art installations. It offers the best of both worlds: the safety of a paved path and the refreshing breeze of the Atlantic Ocean.
Miami’s Art Deco District Walk
Swap nature for neon and history with a walking tour of the Art Deco District. Concentrated between 5th Street and 23rd Street, this "urban hike" takes you past the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world.
The Experience: As you walk along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue, you’ll observe the nautical motifs, porthole windows, and pastel palettes that define the era. It’s a cultural workout that captures the glamour of the 1920s and 30s.
Nature Escapes: Just Across the Causeway
While Miami Beach offers stunning coastal paths, a short drive across the Rickenbacker Causeway reveals some of Florida's best ecological hiking trails.
Bear Cut Nature Trail (Crandon Park)
Located in Crandon Park on Key Biscayne, the Bear Cut Nature Trail is arguably the most "rugged" hiking experience in the area. The path winds through a mangrove forest and opens up to a fossilized reef overlook. It is a hidden gem for those seeking environmental education or a quiet place to disconnect.
Virginia Key North Point Trails
Virginia Key offers a network of trails that feel worlds away from the city. The North Point Trails feature a mix of terrain suitable for mountain biking and hiking. The elevation changes (rare for Miami) and the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for manatees in the water nearby!
Rickenbacker Trail
This is the trail for view-hunters. Running along the causeway from the mainland to Key Biscayne, the Rickenbacker Trail offers panoramic vistas of the Downtown Miami skyline and the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay. It is a popular spot for serious cyclists and distance runners.
Mabel Fentress Miller Walking Trail
For a more meditative experience, this trail offers a serene setting within Virginia Key’s parks. It is less trafficked than other paths, providing a quiet atmosphere surrounded by lush vegetation—ideal for birdwatching or a peaceful solo walk.
Explore Miami Beach Real Estate
Whether you're looking for a vigorous workout or a leisurely stroll, the area's diverse hiking trails offer something for every outdoor enthusiast. Access to year-round outdoor living is one of the primary reasons people choose to call this city home.
If these trails inspire you to consider making Miami Beach your home, or if you're interested in owning a vacation property here, let Carmenate / Duchon assist you. With expert knowledge of the Miami Beach real estate market, we are ready to help you find the perfect property to suit your active lifestyle.
