Best Places To Kayak In Miami

For those who enjoy the great outdoors and seek excitement, Miami is your ultimate destination with its breathtaking coastline and immaculate scenery. The gentle waters of the coast and unique mangrove forests also make it a perfect spot for kayaking adventures!

There are plenty of kayaking spots easily accessed from Miami, each with something special. This guide will provide you with the best kayaking spots in Miami and its surroundings, guaranteeing you a memorable escapade on the water.

Oleta River State Park

Spanning over 1,000 acres and located in North Miami, Oleta River State Park is a nature lover’s dream destination. Its waters are calm and serene, making it the ideal haven for kayak beginners and enthusiasts alike. The park plays host to a vast network of water trails that meander through scenic waterways and mangrove forests.

While kayaking, you can catch glimpses of native wildlife, including ospreys, manatees, and herons. Rentals and guided tours are available on-site, making the park easily accessible to everyone. So, if you’re looking for a unique adventure in the Miami area, check out Oleta River State Park!

Matheson Hammock Park

Situated on the shores of Biscayne Bay, this popular recreational spot is brimming with unique flora and fauna.  The park offers a unique kayaking experience, with a safe and serene area for kayakers of all levels. Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding tropical greenery as you glide around the lagoon. This park also provides kayak rentals, so get ready to paddle through the calm waters and enjoy the Florida sun! When you’re done, enjoy a stroll along the park’s picturesque trails or relax with a beachside picnic.

Virginia Key

Virginia Key is home to several attractions, including a public beach, a nature center, and a historic carousel. Even better, this barrier island is perfect for kayaking enthusiasts! From canoeing the serene waters of the Virginia Key Lagoon to the more daring sea excursion – there’s a vast array of paddling possibilities to explore here.

Be it marveling the varied marine life and mangrove forests or cruising along the coast and witnessing the awe-inspiring view of Miami’s skyline – this place is no less than a paradise. Accessing the island is a breeze; besides, they provide kayak rentals and guided tours for the convenience of the visitors!

Biscayne National Park

Don’t miss out on a thrilling kayaking experience at Biscayne National Park – the perfect spot for adventure seekers. Only a quick trip from Miami, this massive park boasts an impressive 170,000 acres of different marine environments, showcasing beautiful coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.

As you paddle through the shallow bays and mangrove forests, keep an eye out for vibrant fish, majestic sea turtles, and playful dolphins. Park-approved guides can lead you on an informative tour while sharing fascinating tales of the area’s abundant natural and cultural heritage. It is a truly stunning destination and great if you like to enjoy multiple activities at the same time!

Key Biscayne

Just north of Biscayne National Park is Biscayne Key- a small island situated off the coast of Miami, Florida- is renowned for its stunning beaches, luxurious hotels, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors to Key Biscayne can embark on a plethora of activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and sunbathing. For the more adventurous, the island boasts a beautiful nature trail that leads to the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

While here, you can also bask in Crandon Park’s glory, boasting a magnificent shoreline and a trail of mangroves, perfect for kayaking. Indulge in the serenity of this haven and its offshore sandbars. For ease and convenience, the island also offers kayak rentals to all visitors.

Crandon Park

Crandon Park is found on Key Biscayne, but it needs a spotlight of its own. The park gifts beachgoers with an array of entertainment but a must-try when visiting is kayaking. Meander along the park’s borders and marvel at the immaculate shores and powdery sands. For those who love to snorkel and spy aquatic creatures, the nearby Bear Cut Preserve is an excellent option. Crandon Park accommodates novices and experts as well as families with perks like restrooms, picnic sections, and vending machines.

Black Point Marina

Located on the edges of Biscayne Bay, Black Point Marina is a beloved spot for people who love to go kayaking or boating. You can launch your kayak from the marina and take a voyage through the nearby waters, which present a mix of open bay and mangrove routes. The region is flooded with creatures, such as marine life, birds, and even the occasional manatee. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the bay as you kayak through the mangroves or make your way out into the open water. You can rent kayaks from the marina and there is enough parking space available.

Hollywood Beach

Located in Broward County just north of Miami, Hollywood Beach isn’t officially considered part of Miami, but it shouldn’t be overlooked for its amazing kayaking experiences. This stunning area boasts serene waters and a calming environment, making it an ideal spot for kayakers of any proficiency.

Glide through the Intracoastal Waterway and marvel at the breathtaking coastal vistas. Additionally, venture out to the close-by mangrove trails for an opportunity to witness the plethora of bird species that reside there. Hollywood Beach offers kayak rentals for those interested in experiencing its magnificence.

South Pointe Park

At the distal end of Miami Beach lies South Pointe Park, where one can find solace from the commotion of the urban landscape. You’ll discover a spot to launch kayaks that permits you to investigate the neighboring Government Cut channel and the alluring Atlantic Ocean waters. Witness breathtaking panoramas of the Miami skyline and travel by water, marveling at the upscale waterfront quarters. As the sky becomes awash with vivid hues, sunset paddles draw many visitors to this spot.

Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve

The Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve protects the shallow waters and tropical flora and fauna of southern Florida. With more than 63,000 acres of diverse habitats ranging from seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and coral reefs, kayaking in Biscayne Bay is an unparalleled experience.

As one of Florida’s greatest aquatic preserves, it gives a glimpse into the world of mesmerizing marine life such as manatees, dolphins, and sea turtles. Sail through the crystal-clear waters of the bay while launching your kayak from several docks like Pelican Harbor Marina or Crandon Park Marina makes the experience even more happening.

Snapper Creek

If tranquility while kayaking is what you crave, then Snapper Creek in Coral Gables is an ideal destination. Its serene nature makes it one of the most sought-after places for kayaking and is surrounded by opulent greenery. As you traverse the windy creek, be sure to appreciate and marvel at the exquisite residences along the banks.

This spot is also favored among birdwatchers, as it is inundated with a plethora of bird species. Access to the creek can be obtained through various points of entry, allowing you to luxuriate in a calming and secluded kayaking adventure is the hidden jewel of your trip!

Haulover Sandbar

Haulover Sandbar is the ideal spot in northern Miami Beach for a one-of-a-kind kayaking adventure with equal parts paddling and mingling. A natural sandbar that appears at low tide, Haulover lures boating enthusiasts and kayakers alike. Glide your way over to the sandbar, dock your kayak, and immerse yourself in the buoyant ambiance where people gather for swimming, basking in the sun, and connecting with others. Revel in the clear waters and meet fellow adventurers in this bustling and sociable gathering place for kayakers.

Bear Cut Preserve

For those that love kayaking, Bear Cut Preserve, resting between Key Biscayne and Virginia Key, is a truly unique natural haven. You can get your kayak in the water near the beach and make your way through the transparent shallows, soaking up the exotic plants and lively coral reefs. This is an area that is completely packed with water-based wildlife, perfect for those who like to put on their snorkels and dive deep. Get a view of the breathtaking Miami skyline while you make your way around this stunning coastal zone.

Hialeah Park Lakes

Hialeah Park Lakes is a superb destination for a kayaker looking to veer off the coast and embark on a thrilling adventure. With multiple lakes that interconnect, kayakers are guaranteed a peaceful and calming atmosphere to explore.

Paddle through the serene waters and soak in the tranquil ambiance that engulfs the park. Wildlife like turtles, ducks, and other creatures are a constant sight in this secret spot, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. This hidden jewel is the ideal location for a serene kayaking expedition, so do not forget to bring your camera!

John U. Lloyd Beach State Park

Situated in Dania Beach, just north of Miami, John U. Lloyd Beach State Park offers a serene coastal environment for kayaking enthusiasts. Launch your kayak from the park’s boat ramp and explore the scenic waterways of Whiskey Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway.

As you paddle through the mangroves, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including herons, egrets, and possibly even dolphins. Don’t have your own gear? Not a problem – the park offers kayak rentals to visitors!

Loxahatchee River

Loxahatchee River, winding through South Florida, is a stunning natural wonder. With its lush banks teeming with wildlife and crystal-clear waters, it’s a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. Canoeing and kayaking down the river is a popular activity, allowing visitors to soak up the beauty of the landscape and get up close to the native flora and fauna. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or just looking for a leisurely afternoon on the water, the Loxahatchee River is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.