On my first day of my Miami vacation, I NEEDED to get in the water. So, after a quick Google map search, I headed out to Matheson Hammock Park. While it's not your traditional beach, it certainly got the job done for me ‍ I honestly loved the lake like feel. The fact that there were small fishes grazing along the surf and the muddy like sand upon reaching the water (which definitely smoothed away some calluses while I swam)! It truly is a great beach for families with kids, something I learned there while entertaining a whole bunch of kiddos with my hula hoop (which I, personally, didn't mind since I love kids but wanted to give a heads up for anyone that's looking for something more kid free). Once the sun began to set, I grabbed some wine from the beach's restaurant. The wine was amazing and very reasonably priced but what was even BETTER? The song selection! I stayed a whole extra 30 minutes just to vibe out There couldn't have been a better way to start my vacation, honestly! I think it's more than worth it to visit this spot the next time you're in South Florida read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

Matheson Hammock has a special place in my heart. I grew up going here as a kid, and have grown to love it and appreciate it more as an adult. I recently came to take some photos for a friend and the scene was an absolute dream. From the beautiful trees that make it look like a fairytale, to the lagoon that gives it the perfect Miami signature touch -- every area in the park is lovely, relaxing and the no service makes it an even better way to disconnect! read more

Matheson Hammock Park was created from 85 acres of hardwood hammock forest donated by William J. Matheson and his son Hugh in 1930. The Matheson's wanted the land to be turned into a botanical garden. Matheson Hammock Park was overseen by first director of public parks, A. D. Barnes and it was designed by the landscape architect William Lyman Phillip. It has the distinction of being the first public park to be established in Miami Dade County. In 1934 and 1935, Miami Dade County purchased an additional 420 acres of mangroves and hammock lands adjacent to Matheson which increased its size to 500 acres, with a mile of frontage on Biscayne Bay. It grew with further donations by the Matheson heirs, purchases by county commissioner Charles Crandon, and other donations which helped it to reach its current size of 630 acres. During the Great Depression, Civilian Conservation Corps camps were set up by the US Army to put men back to work. Hundreds of men went to work laying the foundations for local parks first at Greynolds in 1933 and then at Matheson Hammock in 1935. They constructed roads, cleared grounds, dug lagoons and a harbor, laid walls, planted trees, and built picnic tables and shelters. One of the most popular features of Matheson Hammock Park is the protected man made salt water lagoon also called an atoll with a marina on the bay side of the park. The beach and lagoon have been a favorite swimming area for families for almost a century. The lagoon allows visitors to swim in calm, shallow waters, perfect for families with young children or those seeking a relaxing dip. The changing tide in Biscayne Bay flushes out the natural pool with fresh water twice a day. There is also a restaurant, NOMA Beach at Red Fish, changing rooms, and a white sand beach lined with coconut palms. The marina has slips for about 300 boats, a fishing tackle shop, boat launch ramps, gas and diesel fuel, and wet slips. On higher ground, a picnic area alongside Old Cutler Road next to Fairchild Gardens is an ideal for gatherings beneath the shady oak trees and cool hammock. The park has well-maintained hiking and biking trails which provides opportunities to explore the area's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. If you would prefer to see nature from the water there are also kayak rentals. Parking fees are $7 weekdays and $10 weekends and holidays. Matheson Hammock Park offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. The park's natural beauty is unparalleled. The lush foliage, intertwined with mangroves and palm trees, creates a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls or peaceful picnics. The clean restroom facilities, ample parking, and designated picnic areas make it convenient for visitors to spend a day immersed in nature. With its breathtaking scenery, abundant recreational opportunities, and rich history, it is no wonder that Matheson Hammock Park remains a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. read more

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Came by to visit on a Saturday, we had an alright time! Very small, family friendly beach, with picnic tables (no more than 20 people). Only downside is there are quite a few rules which I posted below, but you cannot cook with an open flame here, nor can you play most beach games. It is a nice place to spend the day if you have little ones, but keep in mind the beach area is small if you're going for more of a beach thing. We passed by the restaurant to take a peek, prices were a little high but this is a private area and that's to be expected. Parking was plentiful and you pay through the Pay by Phone app. Overall had a nice time! read more

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Really cute little park. There are plenty of picnic tables and a great place to come to unwind when the weather is nice. read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

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Matheson Hammock Park is where Miami slows down, exhales, and lets nature take over. As the sun begins its descent, painting the sky in molten hues of orange and violet, the park's signature saltwater atoll transforms into a mirror reflecting the last golden light of the day. The tree line stands silhouetted, a quiet guardian of the moment, while the distant skyline reminds you that the city is still there--just not right now. The breeze carries the scent of salt and mangroves, mingling with the faint laughter of families picnicking nearby. This isn't just a place to visit; it's a place to sink into. Find a bench by the water, let the warm air settle around you, and watch as the sun dips below the horizon, leaving only the rhythmic lapping of waves and the occasional call of a heron. Service here comes in the form of nature itself--no reservations, no rush, just a space to exist. Bring a hammock, a book, or just yourself. And if hunger strikes, a stop at the on-site café could round out the experience. For those who chase sunsets, Matheson Hammock delivers one worth remembering. read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Sunset - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

I am not sure why this place has the reviews it has but this is not a nice little beach. The water is dirty, the sand is dirty and the smell is horrendous. I don't know if they were doing construction but this is definitely not a swimming place, more of a boat place and hiking. read more

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I used to come here many years ago to bring my daughters and they had such a great time at the little beach area getting hermit crabs and tiny fishes so I decided years later to bring my grandson and to say It was a disappointment was the least ! Shame on this park fir allowing It to get this dirty if needs a major revamp! The water was absolutely gross It had what looked like clumps of mud or poop who knows floating in the water . The sand was slimy on bottom and the water smelled like garbage!!! So gross stay away do not bring ur little kids here!!! read more

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It is great to sit and enjoy a picnic with water views or for the family. Kayaking and paddle boarding are options of what you can do there. Also great for pictures. read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

What a shame this park doesn't seem to be as well looked after as it used to be. There's a lot of debris and dead trees around and the sand doesn't look very pleasant anymore. It seems since we've had a few small hurricanes that this place has been forgotten. read more

Confusing parking situation. There are a few signs but you have to look for them. The office at the park will sell you a $10 pass, but they aren't the ones who patrol and give tickets. read more

Love coming here when I want beachy vibes without the hassle of actually going to the beach. A beautiful place to take a walk and enjoy nice weather. I most recently visited the day after Christmas and instead of having someone at the admission booth, they had paybyphone signs in the parking lot. It was $7 for the whole day on the app per car, which is reasonable for such a nice park. There is a small manmade circular beach with benches and picnic tables along the way. You get a nice view of the bay and the city in the background. Swimming is allowed and I believe there is a lifeguard. Dogs are not allowed. Restaurant was closed for a private event when we went and that seems to be the only food option. I would bring snacks and water if you are planning to stay awhile. One of my favorite parks in Miami! read more

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The beach. Disgusting. The sand has become mud you get your feet stuck while walking or slipping. The water is stagnant and truly disgusting. Please go and take a dip and write your own review. I used to go to Matheson as a child and looking forward to sharing my experience with friends. Instead it was an embarrasing flop of a day. read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Mud entering the water. More like quick sand as you try to walk thru it - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

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I recently visited this park for the first time, with my toddler grandchildren and the had a very good time, but my opinion is that the area of the beach needs improvement keeping it clean. Also, I could not pay for parking because there was no reception and ended up receiving a parking ticket. Anyway, I liked the park, not too many people and enjoyed the restaurant. read more

One of Miami's best parks hands down, I truly love coming here. Trails, boat ramp, atoll pool, and even a cafe (Red Fish), you have it all here. Locals tip: if you wanna use the boat ramp on the weekends, arrival super early because it gets packed quickly and the police do close the ramp when it gets full. read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

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Beautiful and stunning views. A nice park that is visited often by many people. Masks are required while on the walk ways and many people social distance here well. Costs: bring cash: $5.00 on weekdays and $7.00 on weekends to enter the beach/pond area. read more

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This is a man made beach.  We were skeptical about whether to go to a man made beach or not on our trip to Miami. But based on reviews we did and I am glad we went. The place is breathtaking. They have made a very beautiful beach in a circle and it offers great views. Safe to bring kids as no tension of waves and super clean. There is also a restaurant nearby - we didn't try it but the food was smelling good if you want to try. We saw 2 photoshoots happening - so you can imagine how good the place might be. Def recommend trying it out read more

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I usually end up in the park for my Sunday long run, which added a couple of miles to my 20 mile or so run. As I was running across a few of the canal bridges I notced manatees were definitely much more prevalent. Apparently it is mating season during Winter time. Good to know. A few weeks ago on another run I also saw swarms of black head vultures circling and drifting access the park, some would stop to rest. Most folks who come here come to unhitch their boat in the marina, hike, or soak up the sun on the small beach circling the man-made lagoon. I'd say it is safer for little ones here than other beaches as there is no risk of undertow or big waves. However, as in any body of water in Florida there is always a risk of crocks / gators which I have also seen and a small child would be a perfect little snack so please be careful. There also used to be a nice restaurant too but Hurricane Irma took care of that. There is an out door shower and restrooms too. Lessons for kiteboarding and kayak rentals are here as well. Many folks rent out the pick nick area to take pictures for bridal or baby showers. It's a very special and beautiful venue. read more

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Since the early sixties, as a youth, my parents used to take me here south of Miami on the shore of Biscayne Bay as it breaks into the Atlantic Ocean. As a child, this was pretty much a backwater, swamp-like, mangrove area and at the far end of the isthmus lay a natural almost perfectly round lagoon, which in my day, was a beautiful, shining glimmer of turquoise. A beautiful place to have a rustic swim, few people, a relatively small parking lot, and a decent hike to the water. In time, as is usual, all things change, some may say for the better, others not so. The Marina has grown in population, the parking lot is huge, the sandy area surrounding the lagoon is as pristine to white as possible, and coconut and palm trees have been planted to give you a feeling like you're in South Florida's equivalent of Gilligan's Island! There's now a kiteboarding school, plenty of places to picnic out, a lot of sand, not only has the Marina grown incredibly, but so has its amenities, and there are just as incredible views of the bay as when I remember it, and you can still wade out into the bay for what seems forever. This has got to be one of the best kept secrets in Miami, all of South Florida actually. The way there from Miami is beautiful though. You get an opportunity to drive through some of the luscious green areas in Dade County like the Hammocks, yet it's only 11 miles from the city's downtown district! You should try my childhood wonderland, you'll find it one the most unique location just south of the Bikini City. read more

This location is nice for photoshoots, generally, you will see a lot of photographers here. Also nice for a walk, don't tale your dog here if it's not a service dog. People with very square minds will complain . Mine is a service dog, i forgot the harness and the card as we were not going there, some dude started complying about my dog for not been a service animal :-( Of course, I didn't care and I continue as I didn't hear him as my baby it is certified indeed, but the guy was very annoying. This has nothing to do with the Park, it is lovely, it is just a comment for you to know in case you are thinking to take your dog there. read more

I love this place mostly for the view. The beach is ok, not to my liking and it gets packed. But to go there late in the day, when there are no crowds and enjoy the view, relaxing on a hammock (yes you can hang one from the trees). read more

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this park is very pretty but sometimes i find trash littered around. people please pick up your trash, don't ruin parks like this thank you. there are trash cans everywhere so don't leave trash around. i've also noticed that this park hold a lot of events, and sometimes those events have confetti and stuff, all that stays in the grass and dirt. the park shouldn't allow people to bring things like that. read more

This is an absolutely beautiful spot to catch some rays. Lots of picnic tables and lawn areas for a sand free picnic too. $7 to get in on the weekends, but usually no crowd at all and easy parking and access. Atoll pool, which means calm water and no seaweed. Although the bottom is a little murky/muddy without the wave action to constantly give a good rinse. Chef Adrienne has breathed new life into the restaurant, now called Redfish. Knowing her, the food is amazing and they have a great rating here on Yelp. Also, Matheson Hammock Park is a very popular spot to launch water craft. read more

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Matheson-Hammock Park: Close to my home, and very quiet on week days. Great for picnics and relaxing with ocean views. It's my little paradise close to home. Also, great memories were enjoyed here. read more

Matheson Hammock Park - This is the sun setting and reflecting on a building across the bay. Gorgeous! - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

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The incompetence of the local police that run the Marina for mini season it's absolutely unbelievable. If these fools do not want traffic to backup, open the gate let people in just don't let them put the boat in the water. And don't try coming on old Cutler road from the North, they won't let you make a left into the park... absolute fools. read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

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Wanted to check out this place and accidentally hit it during high tide. The parking lot at the end was flooded (high enough where non suv cars were panicking) and not the kind you wanted to wade through. The lagoon was so full it covered most of the surrounding area so the beach area was very limited. Some people got some sand to throw down their things and put their chairs and umbrellas in the water to sit and lounge. The area is good for the littles so they don't have to fight the waves on the open ocean. To be honest the water is a little gross. Not just the dark color from the tannins of the mangroves but some creepy crawlers and a decent amount of man made garbage floating around. I pulled out plastic bags, plastic lids, plastic water bottles, styrofoam, and other trash. If you can see through the murk and sea grass you can find some small fish swimming about. The red fin restaurant was operating (assume only outside dining for now). There were lifeguards, outdoor showers (flooded) and bathrooms. Staff asking people who were not in the water to wear masks. Definitely scenic area. The far portion was under construction with orange fencing sectioning it off. Plenty of kayakers, boat (launch) and bikes. $7 parking all day (payable on app or cash at gate). Nice area, just not the cleanest water to swim in read more

I have to say this is a pretty cool little spot. My wife mentioned it as a place we could visit to get a little fresh air. You really wouldn't know it was there unless you were looking for it. It is a $5 fee to park your car. Immediately you see this is a great spot for kite surfing enthusiasts. Actually if you are an outdoors, water sports type of individual this is definitely a spot for you. There is a company that will rent out all the equipment you will need to enjoy a day out in the water. Also, you will find absolutely beautiful views of the downtown and Brickell areas from afar. There is a dock as well for those of you with boats and other water craft. There is a man-made little lagoon that is a hot spot for families. The lagoon has it's own little beach and isn't very deep. Its a safe place to bring your little ones to splash around safely. We went on a day that wasn't very crowded, but I would suspect that one a weekend it will get pretty busy so get there early to claim your spot. And if you are hungry, the restaurant on the property may satisfy your needs but be aware that it isn't the type place you will find a cheap meal. read more

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Beautiful park in the heart of Florida with a beach, picnic areas, and beautiful scenery. If you're looking for some fresh air, make your way you Matheson Hammock Park! It would e great for photo shoots. They have something for everyone. Love going here to relax! read more

Beautiful place for a bike ride or walking! The little "charquito" is also great for little kids to enjoy! read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Beautiful! - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

This park is not Miami Beach but it's definitely a gem on its own. With a shallow area for kids to play in and a lifeguard on duty, the beach is safe, clean and absolutely beautiful! You do have to pay for parking to enter the park but it leads you to a beautiful view of Miami and when you walk to the beach, the palm trees and white sand are abundant. I like the chill atmosphere and the beautiful view in front of me. I would definitely recommend coming here if you have kids or just want to be in a less crowded, beautiful beach. read more

Matheson Hammock Park - Parks Near Me - Coral Gables, Florida

Great park with many different features! There's boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming and probably much more! I had been there for a BBQ years ago, and hadn't been for ever! But today, something told me to get out of my place since it was such an amazingly beautiful day! So along we went...I happened to have taken the wrong road and passed the boat docks to end up at a small secluded water are where people sat along the water and mangroves in beach chairs, in their pick up trucks and sunbathed or just hung out by the water. It wasn't really what we were looking for so we kept going. We found the beach area right by the restaurant. We found parking right up front and walked right in, parked next to a life guard stand and enjoyed a panoramic vision of the view. The beach area is smaller than your typical open beach but big enough to give everyone there plenty of space to lay out and swim. We stayed for about 2 hours, swam in the dark green water and had a great time under the beautiful blue sky! What a great way to be at a beach and not have to worry about the hustle and bustle of Miami Beach on a Holiday weekend which equals craziness!! Our time was well spent there and it was exactly the perfect thing to do today! : ). Can't wait to enjoy again. Parking is paid by the parking app. There was plenty of parking in the lot. There are 3 life guard stands along the beach which now I would refer to more as a 'lagoon' because it is more like a lake like body of water than an open beach with waves! Nevertheless the less, which ever name you wanna call it by, it is a cool little hang out and very close to me! : ) One thing I forgot to mention is that there are no frisbees or other things that you throw, allowed at the beach! Of course we only noticed that after throwing the frisbee around for about 10 minutes, LOL!!! read more

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Mathewson Hammocks park is a Miami Dade public park located on southeastern bay in Coral Gables on Biscayne Bay. It's considered a Miami Dade Heritage park and has lakes, beach, natural wildlife habitat and bike paths ect... also nice to spend a day getting sun in the beaches right off bay. read more

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My husband and I came over here for a nice relaxing day on the water. It was a little stinky in some parts, but the restrooms were clean and there were some nice shaded spots. There were picnic tables available in some areas and it looked like one beach was great for water sports and parasailing. The beach wasn't crowded and we went on a weekend so that was the upside. No floaties or paddle boards allowed, but there's a lifeguard on duty so that's nice when out with the family. There's also a restaurant on the water but it is EXTREMELY pricy and I believe it requires a reservation. Pack a few sandwiches and bring your cooler. Freeze your water and watch it thaw out throughout your stay. read more

It's one of my favorite marinas to leave from when I go to Bimini or any boating cruising in miami.

Very beautiful little oasis for when you want to relax outdoors without the hustle and bustle of going to the beach. Matheson Hammock Park has a beach by a round lake surrounded by palm trees. It's very relaxing. People go there with their towels or lawn chairs to hang out. There's a lot of parking. This is also a popular photo shooting location. I did my maternity pics here and they came out beautiful. If you plan to spend the day here, make sure to take food and beverages as you won't be able to buy some there. There is Chef Adrienne's famous Restaurant Red Fish but that is definitely a more upscale place that you want to dress up for. read more

After eating dinner and realizing we had a little over two hours to kill before we had a play, I found this place by opening Google Maps! What a treat. This place has a lot to offer, scenery, a marina, fishing, recreation areas, and a beach. It's huge. The views are spectaular. One of the most breath taking places I've ever been. If you get a chance to check it out, do! Pack a picnic or snack and enjoy! read more

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I love finding out of the way and secluded spots like this park where one can get away from the "hustle and bustle" of the city and get out and enjoy nature. A few of us went on a bike trek through this park on a recent Saturday. I don't know if I'd have given Matheson Hammock as many stars if I'd come here for a day at the beach, as the line of cars to get in was moving at a crawl and was nearly 1/2 mile long, there was a lot of traffic once inside the park and the water at the beach didn't appear to be terribly clean. The beach area isn't very large, and the water in the swimming area is encircled by a bike/jogging path. There are a few pipes that run under the path which supposedly allow water to flow freely to and from the bay, but after seeing it up close, I don't think I'll be swimming here anytime soon. That being said, for a place to simply bike or jog through to get away from the city for an afternoon and enjoy nature and possibly to picnic or launch a boat, this place is perfect. There are a few areas to explore in addition to the beach, such as the marina and boat launches, and a few paved but more out of the way fishing and kayaking areas. Other accommodations include paraboarding and kayak rentals, boating lessons, a walk up food counter near the beach, and plenty of benches and picnic tables to sit and just check out what's going on around you, or to have lunch in some beautiful surroundings. When you first enter this park, prior to going through the guard station and paying the parking fee, you can park in a small lot to the left, and to the right you'll find a small lake, a few picnic shelters, and a wide open space for playing sports, etc.. This is also where the head of a paved trail begins that takes you back through a wooded area where you'll find lots of informative signage about the history of this park, how the ecosystem works, and what types of birds and wildlife can be found here (a few of the signs are badly weathered and should be replaced, however). If you follow this path to Old Cutler Rd, you can cross over where you'll find the entrance to yet another unpaved nature trail on the other side of Old Cutler. read more

Dogs not allowed in majority of park. Okay at the nature trail across from Fairchild. Beautiful park otherwise.

I use to love cycling out here from Coconut Grove . It was one of my favorite places. But since hurricane Irma... which left this place a mess. They haven't maintained this park. The swimming area is a big mud pit. Mud is floating all around! Trash floating thru the mangroves and the back area of the park is still closed. They need to clean it up!!! It use to be such a beautiful place but now it's neglected! What a shame!!!!!!!! read more

Five, ten and all the stars to this park. As you can see we love it and because of many reasons: Always parking available. Clean and accessible​ restrooms. Breathtaking view. Lifeguard on site. Great place for all ages. But excellent for families since the water is shallow. See you next time for Sure!! By the way, this is an amazing place to get married... just giving you ideas jejeje. Cinco, diez y todas las estrellas de este parque. Como puede ver, nos encanta y por muchas razones: Siempre estacionamiento disponible. Baños limpios y accesibles. Vista impresionante. Salvavidas en el sitio. Excelente lugar para todas las edades. Pero es excelente para familias ya que el agua no es profunda. Nos vemos la próxima vez por supuesto!! Por cierto, este es un lugar increíble para casarse ... solo te doy ideas jejeje. read more

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