I come here once a year for the we belong here festival. It's a great place and maybe we will come here sometime for a beach day. It's tough if the weather is bad and it rains so plan accordingly. The only other thing we noticed is that your phone service can be super wonky out there. I love showcasing the best of Miami so find me on IG to see more @chloexmorgann read more

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park - We belong here 2026 discount code CHLOE @iheartraves - Parks Near Me - Miami, Florida

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Historic Virginia Key Beach Park is located only minutes from downtown Miami's hustle and bustle. It's hard to believe the city is only a stone's throw away when you pull into this quiet and abandoned-looking park. Located in beautiful Biscayne Bay, it's easily one of the area's most scenic beaches Virginia Key Beach Park is known as an ecological treasure containing one of the largest mangrove wetlands in the state. Rent a kayak or take a moonlight paddleboard tour of the area by water to enjoy a truly natural adventure just minutes away from the heart of Miami read more

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I'm mad at myself for not having been here before. This is great place to relax by the water and take your whole family. The beach is narrow, you can sit under the shade of a tree and watch them enjoying the water. And it is very clean. There are lots of picnic tables and also bbq's. It's great for long walks also. There's lots of other activities to do in the park as well, kayaking, paddle boarding, biking. read more

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We recently spent did some beaching at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. Tip: There's lots of parking here at this small beach park. In fact, there's probably more space for cars in the lot than there is for people on the beach ;-) You can wade a short way out from the shore into the water. If you do this, keep an eye peeled for jet skiers on top of the water and seaweed on the bottom. read more

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I've been coming to Virginia Key Beach for over 30 years, and every time I set foot here, it feels like I'm walking into a chapter of Miami's history. This wasn't just another beach--it was the African American beach during segregation, a place where families could gather, dance, picnic, and claim a piece of paradise when the rest of Miami's shoreline was off-limits. Today, the ghosts of that history still walk the sand, and it's worth remembering every time you visit. Food: Don't come here expecting five-star restaurants--this is the kind of place where the menu is whatever you pack in your cooler. And honestly, that's half the charm. Fried chicken, pastelitos, or Publix subs always taste better when you're eating them with the ocean breeze and a side of Miami history. Back in the day, Jimbo's was the spot next door--an infamous shack run by Jimbo Luznar, who somehow convinced the city to give him a free lease on the land. His smokehouse, beers, and fishing shacks became legendary. Jimbo's wasn't just a hangout, it was a movie set--Miami Vice, There's Something About Mary, and a dozen other productions filmed there. Today it's gone, but the stories (and the smoked fish) are still part of Virginia Key lore. Service: This is city-run, so expect the occasional Miami-style hiccup. The staff does their best to maintain a sprawling park with decades of wear, and for the most part, they do a solid job. Bathrooms are hit or miss, but you come here for the experience, not the concierge service. They've put real effort into restoring and preserving this as a cultural landmark, and that deserves credit. Ambiance: The real treasure here is the environment. Beyond the sand and surf, Virginia Key has this wild, raw beauty. Yes, there's a waste treatment plant on the Key--but don't let that fool you. The surrounding waters are loaded with life. As a middle schooler in the Miami Museum of Science's M.U.S.T.+ program, I used to come out here and collect sea urchins for study. That hands-on experience with marine life was unforgettable, and it's the kind of thing that makes Virginia Key feel special--part beach, part science lab, part cultural monument. Walking the trails or looking out across Biscayne Bay, you can almost hear echoes of the past: families enjoying their one safe beach during segregation, Jimbo's regulars clinking beers on the dock, and camera crews chasing Crockett and Tubbs through the mangroves. Virginia Key Beach Park isn't polished, but that's why it matters. It's history. It's culture. It's Miami, warts and all. read more

Awesome little getaway spot close to downtown Miami. If you want a secluded beach go early. Good birding, herping, and nature in general. I even found a juvenile croc I would continue to visit. Would recommend and I dont rate everywhere Ive been. read more

Natural beach park (I.e. you will encounter seaweed and driftwood) for a very not south beach vibe. 10 dollars to enter per car with plenty of parking. (Though it gets backed up some weekends so plan on an early day). There are bathrooms scattered. bRING BUG SPRAY. The beach parts can be narrow but are largely fronted by a shallow stretch of sand. It's not a deep water swim by wading and water sports are doable. read more

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Loved this beach and the experience it provided. Stop by Historic Virginia Key Beach Park to learn about a very important piece of American History. More information can be found at the following website : https://virginiakeybeachpark.net/park-information/ read more

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I find it wild that I have never been to this beach as a self proclaimed beach lover. I love how close to nature it feels here. Less noise and more waves and sunshine. I would return here when the weather is better. Shelters are available as well as picnic tables. read more

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Miami, Florida

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This historic Virginia Key Beach Park began in 1896 when Miami was founded. It basically became a segregated Park for "colored only" in the 1950s. Many Caribbean, South American, and Cuban people cherished this Park for its beautiful beach. It is 2.5 miles long. However, in 1982, the park was closed by the City of Miami citing rising costs and expenses. It still remains closed but you can rent the colorful little huts today for $65 a day. First come, first served. There are restrooms, vending machines, BBQ grills, picnic tables and children's playground. There is a lot of space to use. You need to catch a boat at the Miami River to get to this beautiful place. This is mostly a beach walk that is along the shoreline and completely exposed to the sun. The beach itself boasts some incredible views and ample chances to spot wildlife, especially birds. Most commonly seen are sea gulls, pelicans, egrets, and herons lining the shore. Bring your bug spray during the warm months. read more

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This park is huge! Has a bunch of space to do whatever you want. We went to the 1 beach for about 2 hours and it was empty and nice! Walked around and realized how big it was and took a 45 min walk. We wanted to fly drones here but you can't unless you have a permit. read more

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This is our little go to spot! It's never too crowded, at least during the weekdays, weekends it's a different story. The water is low, calm and beautiful. We love seeing all the marine animals and nature at its fullest. Very well kept and calm. At times you might find more algae than you would hope, and rocks, but don't allow that to ruin your moment. read more

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Perfect park for bbq's and events, plenty of parking, and they have tons of pavilions/huts and grills around the park. The beach is right there as well. Been coming here since a child and love it read more

A hidden gem of a beach access! The walkway is filled with hidden picnic tables covered with plenty of shade by trees. The park is only $5 to get in and is practically private. Shallow waters and sounds of boats going under the overpass, not much wake to worry about. The water is shallow enough to sit in. I would take my little kids here rather than the bigger ocean. There is another inlet access across the street but it was packed. This park does have volleyball courts and a main office. The water is so Enchanting, that horseback riding tours are offered. Imagine taking a walk on a horse in the beach! Details were listed on the front entrance. read more

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park - A hidden gem of a beach access! - Parks Near Me - Miami, Florida

It was my first visiting Virginia Key Beach Park yesterday for Vegandale. I had a great time and there were a lot of vendors and the music was great. I wish the parking lot was more organized. The signs for where prepaid parking was not clear but we made it. The park was clean and the safe was all around to help if you had questions. I will go back in the future to see more next time. read more

There's so much history here. This is a historical natural beach. There's a short sandy shoreline and the water has a lot of seaweed. So you might be slightly intimidated by the feeling beneath your feet but it's so worth it. The water was so warm and lovely. You've gotta pay to park/enter the beach. One more fact! This used to be a 'Colored Only" beach back in the day. They have an area where you can indulge in natural clay. It's great for the skin! They do tours. Definitely check it out. Learn some history. Enjoy the water. Give gratitude at how far we've come. Everyone is welcome! This is definitely way more calm and family oriented vibes than the other, more popular, beaches. I really want to go back. It allows me to get the presence of the ancestors and gives me a sense of peace and gratitude! This was a refuge for Black and Brown people during segregation. I felt very grounded there. Check out more of my foodie & travel recs on insta @saltandsavor read more

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park - Historical beach - Once Colored Only beach - Parks Near Me - Miami, Florida

Every crevice of this sanctuary nestled in mangroves displaying the rustic side of Old Florida is easily remembered during each drive into this spot. The $8.00 entrance fee is well worth the scenically lush flora surrounding this outer cusp island with unfiltered beauty that's unlike most accessible waterfront spots in South Florida. During the mid 1900's, this was actually designated a colored beach as this barrier island was trenched opened by the hurricanes a hundred years prior causing its separation from Fischer Island. People come here searching for a quieter atmosphere with a private feel as plenty of outdoor activities are encouraged throughout the grounds. It's beach entrance has a rocky entrance so water shoes are certainly a must. There's an area for windsurfing separate from the swimming beach which is a great safety precaution. The bike path is lined in largely lush trees offering shade in a gracious form. It's a perfect launching spot for your paddleboard or kayak so mount your car & come explore Florida the way it was intended to enjoy. Florida, you're something else. #PuroRelax read more

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Long stretch of beach and easy to find a quiet spot away from all the touristy spots in Miami. The water was calm and there are plenty of benches and tiki huts read more

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Excellent park for a day away from the craziness that Miami has to offer! This park has beaches, a center to rent paddle boards and kayaks, a space for events and concerts, and most importantly for me a mountain bike trail. The park is beautiful, but the mountain bike trail is one of the best in Florida. This trail features good options for both beginners, intermediate, and advanced riders ! You can relax on the trails or push it to the limit on the gnarly black and double black diamond trails. If you want to change it up, get exposed to some of the nature Miami had to offer and ride some mountain bike, this is the place ! read more

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One of my favorite spots in Miami. If you're looking for a relaxing day at the beach, Virginia key is the beach to go to! Very calm, clean, quiet beach. The water is shallow and clear. It's never too packed. There's lots of benches scattered around where you can sit and put your stuff! I love this beach. read more

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Miami, Florida

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This place sucks so bad there was no water in the beach and it is super dirty and there are bugs. I would never come back ever again. Sucks so bad. I want to go home. This is the worst beach I have ever been to and I have been to 20 countries read more

Awful experience and would not recommend renting any space for an event/photography or getting a permit -- because it won't make a difference. You'll be harassed by whatever confused park ranger or official in the area repeatedly. There's no communication between people at the park. They automatically suspect you're doing the wrong thing or "trying to pull one over" on them, and they're generally rather aggressive about it. I couldn't believe how many times we were harassed despite having full permission (and fees paid) to do what we were doing. This is specifically in reference to a woman that oversees the part of the park at the Arthur Lamb Road area. I don't know her name, but you can identify her easily as other people at the park already pre-emptively warned me about her. I've never encountered a more belligerent, more temperamental person in a position of power like this in my life. Whoever her supervisor is really needs to consider whether this woman has the right social skills to be in a job like this. I'd say no. This is someone who shouldn't be interacting with other human beings. Long story short -- We got a permit to take some photographs at the Cove, and parked in the parking lot nearest this (which was on Arthur Lamb Road entrance). We paid all our entrance fees and got ready in our cars. For a brief moment, we pitched up a tent when it started raining near the parking lot. This was temporary and the parking lot was empty. Immediately, a middle-aged woman with a thick accent accosted us and over-aggressively demanded we take the tent down (no problem; we complied immediately) and then got right up in my face (the way a boxer does before game) and accused us of not paying entrance fees. She claimed that she saw "a lot of pretty girls" (an exact high-school-trauma-tier quotation, except in more broken English) coming in and not paying entrance fees because they were getting dropped off by ubers -- implying we had a ton of models for our photography (which we didn't). Oddly, this woman was mixing up our permitted photography session with other peoples. Instead of asking us what the deal was, whether we had a permit, or anything -- she was hyper-aggressive from the start, invaded our personal spaces, and acted in such an outrageously belligerent way that it completely stunned everyone. Apparently we didnt have a permit for her side of the park (this was not made obvious where the demarcation line was at all -- as the Cove was only a few steps away). Why it was such a huge deal considering we weren't photographing anything, nor blocking any traffic, nor doing anything but getting ready in our cars like all other park patrons do ... is beyond me. Even after showing her our permit, we were still LATER bothered by other park employees who told us "a woman" said we didn't have a permit to shoot photography there (the same woman? No idea... but the lack of communication was incredible to witness.). Even after showing our permit, we were just rudely told "Well... we close at 6 PM" (Um no, all the signs -- including our permit -- said the park closes at sundown and 6 PM wasn't sundown... so another bizarre thing). Miami is voted rudest city in the United States, and maybe it's a cultural thing, but honestly it's enough to never come back there again. Really couldn't believe we did everything by the books and still were treated like some type of con-artists. Very disturbing and I'd recommend everyone just walk in and take pictures without a permit because its apparently the same result whether you paid for one or not. read more

I was really expecting a better place. This place looks run down and not worth the entrance money. Sorry but it's just not a place I could recommend. It seems a place for locals that is cheap and not anywhere you want to be. read more

Beautiful beach less than 15 minutes from Miami city center - gorgeous, clear water; shallow and perfect for children or snorkeling! Lots of soft sand, seashells, and beautiful natural areas. read more

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I have come to Virginia King Beach Park for several years for a beach day. This was my first time coming to the beach park for an event. The staff and the police officers that were helping with the event was very nice and very informative. I just wish parking was a little bit closer to the event, especially due to the hot sweltering weather. While at the festival, there was constant staff around making sure the areas were clean, and each vendor had what they needed. The space where the event was held, her more than enough room to accommodate the large crowd. I will definitely come back again to Virginia Key beach park for an event knowing how smooth my experience was this time. read more

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Arlyn Perez recommended the proper portion of VKBP, where we were able to have both the ceremony & reception walking distance from each other. She and the other young lady we met displayed so much kindness, patience, authenticity and professionalism towards us the day we booked our micro-wedding. They answered all questions we had thoroughly (and we had many). We were grateful to have the gorgeous view of the water + the ability to put on a proper reception without the various restrictions other beaches presented to us quite rudely. As someone who was born and raised in Miami, who often hosted beach 'getties' growing up, I highly recommend VKBP to anyone who wants to be able to put together a complete package that feels true to the soul! read more

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Great ambiance. Impeccable service. Drinks are superbe. Did I mention the ambiance Definitely recommended. read more

This place is great for family barbecues if there weren't that often so many obnoxious ones. Too often blasting speakers. It can be worse than the boats competing at the sandbar. The beach is nice and close to the grill area. I've been here also twice for a festival for which this area is great for. read more

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park - Parks Near Me - Miami, Florida

They have really let this place go. The beach had all kinds of seaweed in July, and the place was not the cleanest. I don't know what they are doing with all the money they make from the daily admissions, but they aren't spending it on the grounds! Also, with all the sand flies, the clay squishing through my toes, and the fact that this is far too shallow with tons of water weeds, just doesn't make for a fun beach day. read more

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I can't believe in the ten years that I've lived in Miami, Florida, I've never been to Virginia Key Beach. I've been to Key Biscayne but never here. I was blown away by how big this property is. Sooo much history. When you walk into the front office to sign in, you will be asked to take your temperature and to sanitize your hands. My friend Kechi works here, and she gave Gregg and I an amazing tour. I didn't knownthisbwss right here. I love how they preserved a fee monuments and places around the property to keep it look like it did in the 1940's or 50"s. The tram and carousel rides are closed due to Covid. Im definitely going back so I can ride both. Lol. read more

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I visited on a Thursday and what the Floridians would say was a cold snap day, at a freezing 72!! So I had the beach all to myself, which was heavenly for me. I walked all along the beach admiring the gorgeous clear fresh water and even had a sneaky dip. I also walked up to the bridge, went under it and walked as far as the private doc area of the school that is located there. If you like un spoilt beaches, with driftwood and shells, then this will be your fever, aka jam!. To be noted they have rustic benches and bbq stations dotted all along and a lot of them are in shaded encloves, making for a perfect spot for a private soiree or party with plenty of privacy. I think I have found a new favourite spot. There is a big car park here which has just been freshly tarmacked. On the other side of this there is a broadwalk that leads inland and into the mangroves. I did not see any birds or alligators this time, but it was pleasant enough experience to appreciate Florida's foliage. There is also a huge lawned park with a Huge mound to the side of it. On closer inspection it is the world's largest sandcastle that was sculptured back in 2015 and surprisingly is still standing. (Read below for info about what it represents.) The History of this Historical beach - The story begins in 1896. This was the year the Miami was founded with approx one-third of the signatures of the city charter being black men.  Segregation became reality n systematically excluded all people of colour beaches. By 1920, as the city grew, many of these beaches were developed into parks n public swimming facilities exclusively for the white population.  D.A. Dorsey, an African American millionaire, purchased what is now known as Fisher Island so that blacks could have a beach of their own.  But due to increasing property taxes, Mr. Dorsey was obligated to sell the property.  As a result, the black community was left without a beach to enjoy. There were unofficial exceptions, areas which by mutual understanding were exclusive to the African American population.  One such place was a very special beach located on Virginia Key, known as "Bears Cut" which at that time could only be reached from Miami by boat.  This property became an official "coloured only" site as a direct response to a bold protest, led by the late Judge Thomas.  Under Thomas' leadership, black men defiantly entered the water with the intention of being arrested at exclusively white Baker's Haulover Beach in North Dade County.  County authorities however, to avoid costly embarrassment, took no legal action against the protesters.  Instead they acquiesced to the protesters' demands for an officially designated swimming area for African Americans.  Although only accessible by boat from a downtown dock on the Miami River, "Virginia Beach, a Dade County Park for the exclusive use of Negroes," was opened on August 1, 1945. _______ The sandcastle - This massive sandcastle is noted on the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest sandcastle on the entire planet! The sculpture includes buildings from around the world. There was the Taj Mahal from India, the Eiffel Tower from Paris, Rome, leaning tower of Pisa, statue of liberty, The castle appeared to have an international theme, which added to the mystery. Who's building sandcastles with the Taj Mahal on a southeast Florida island? Turkish Airlines, that's who. In 2015 the airline sponsored this creation by award-winning sandcastle sculptor Ted Siebert, in honor of its new Miami-Istanbul flight. It took more than 1800 tons of sand to build, and it stands at 45 feet and 10 inches tall. A team of 19 artists were on hand to craft this impressive achievement. It is a magnificent sight, and amazingly, still standing proud after all this time despite being exposed to tropical rains and sun. Just incredible. read more

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This park has so much potential. Lots of wide open space that is not being utilized. I remember going to a Renaissance Festival here a while back and it being fairly large and spaced out. There aren't many water front parks that have the space for parties and large gathering like this one but it's just not well maintained. It just looks like run down. This park does have one of the few disc golf courses in Dade but it's also not really well maintained. There are few of any markers so good luck playing the short nine whole course read more

Some interesting moments in timeline of Virginia Key Beach In 1945 Virginia Key Beach Park opened as Miami-Dade County's "Colored Only" beach, then in 1947 the Rickenbacker Causeway is built connecting mainland Miami with Virginia Key and Key Biscayne. In 2002 Virginia Key Beach Park is placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2015 was 70th Anniversary of Historic Virginia Key Beach Park and the Guinness World Records Tallest Sand Castle 45.85' is constructed on the Historic Beach Park as part of a promotion by Turkish Airlines. In 2017 a replica of the Historic Mini Train Ticket Booth and Beach Shack were constructed. We just drove they the area, checked the sand castle, the area of the musical venues and cabins. It is not very big. There is plenty of parking, and the grass area is pretty large, ideal for sports. read more

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Virginia Key is never a bad idea! There are 2 parks in the island but they both connect so if you don't mind walking it doesn't matter where you park! I park in the historic Virginia key park because it's free during the week! read more

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my experience was great, I came here to go horseback riding on the beach and while waiting they talked about the history of the beach and I loved every moment of it. I will most definitely come back!! They are so sweet. I 100% recommend!!! read more

Virgina Key Beach Park is considered historic because in 1945 it was designated a "colored" only beach. This was done to appease the African American GI's who had just come back from saving the world from the Germans only to find that they could not even use the beach in their home country. Virginia Key Beach Park was created for the exclusive use of the black community while Crandon Park on Key Biscayne was designated for whites. Even though Virginia Key Beach Park contained a miniature railway and a carousel the beach was only a half mile long compared to Crandon Park being almost ten times larger. Segregation of the beach ended in the 1960's and Virgina Key Beach started to slide into a decline. In the 1980's the park was closed by the city who cited the high cost to maintain it. Through the years the beach was eroded by hurricanes and the buildings were vandalized. Activists got together and expressed their desire to have Miami's only public park on the Atlantic Ocean reopened. A Virginia Key Beach Park Trust was created and they worked on restoring the park which re-opened the park to the public in 2008. In 2002 the park was placed on the National Register of Historic Places Today you can visit this historic beach for an $8 cash only entrance fee on the weekends or $6 weekdays. Your kids can still ride on the antique carousel or play on the expansive playground. There is a restroom and vending machines in the park. A concession stand operates on a limited seasonal schedule. There are picnic tables, grills, hiking trails, mountain bike trail, wetlands, and ocean front cabin rentals. The worlds largest sandcastle built by Turkish Airlines is great for pictures as is the beautiful view from the beach. I came on a rainy Saturday afternoon to march with Lummi Nation from the Pacific Northwest. They were in town to ask for Tokitae/ Lolita who resides across the street in the Miami Seaquarium in the smallest orca tank in North America to be given back to them as she was stolen from their ancestral water. It is a short walk to the Miami Seaquarium from the park. It is well worth the entrance fee to the park to be able to enjoy some of the best beach front amenities Miami has to offer. read more

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what a beautiful place PERIOD. getting to go see a music festival there? MAGICAL. i went to the HOC (house of creatives) festival & this location could not have been more perfect. Absolutely gorgeous, breezy & perfect! Would love to go back & explore sometime too! read more

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Calm area, clean and not too busy beach. Ideal for family picnic or just chill with friends. read more

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I think this is a great beach for families, with playground, bathrooms and picnic areas. This is a great place for families with kids because the water it's not too deep, it has plenty of trees for shade and good beach access. My kids and I don't think will go back because it's really not the type of beach we like to go to. We like it more when they are open, that's why I said is good for families with kids. They have a good size parking lot and their entrance fee was $8 which I think was good price to maintain all the amenities of this park. Creo que es una buena playa y familiar, con parques, baños y áreas de picnic. Este es un gran lugar para familias con niños porque el agua no es demasiado profunda, tiene un montón de árboles para sombra y buen acceso a la playa. Mis hijos y yo no creo que volveremos porque realmente no es el tipo de playa que nos gusta ir. Nos gusta más cuando son más abiertas, por eso dije que es bueno para familias con niños. Tienen un buen estacionamiento y su tarifa de entrada era de $ 8, que creo que es un buen precio para mantener todas las comodidades de este parque. read more

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I came here over the weekend and had a lovely experience! My boyfriend brought me here for a show that was going on that essentially lasted all day, from 2pm to 2am. At first on our drive over to the area, we got a little lost but the security guards at the gate were understanding and helped point us in the right direction. We did have to pay for parking which was $10 but it's for sure worth it since you're able to explore so much in this area. My boyfriend and I will definitely be returning as there's so much to see in this area general! I might even consider having a little get together down here since the area is so beautiful. Bbqs with friends are fun especially if it's right on the beach. Anyways, the people who were in charge of the party did a fantastic job! There was plenty of food and drink. They had handmade pizzas made fresh to order as well as avocado toast for $5. They also had bars scattered throughout the event and if you felt like distancing yourself from the music, all you had to do was just walk out towards the beach and you'd be able to have sometime on your own with your significant other or friends. I'll definitely be returning here! read more

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