Paddle sports of all kinds have grown hugely popular in Florida due to it's year-round tropical weather and countless waterways. Miami is an outdoor enthusiasts' paradise with sandbars, beautiful beaches and islands to explore. With all the bays, keys, inland waterways, and lakes available to adventurers in South Florida, there are plenty of destinations to visit.
For those who love adventure, ecology and wildlife, paddleboarding and kayaking can be the perfect way to spend a day in Florida. The ocean can provide fun but challenging waves, but there are plenty of other options for visitors looking for a more relaxing experience..
Here's a list of our favorite spots to paddle for your next vacation.
Haulover Park
Haulover park contains a sand bard island that can only be reached by boat or paddleboard, and it's a lovely place you won't want to miss. If you make it out to the island, you may even get a close-up encounter with the island's local raccoons. You can book your own guided tour to the island with us here.
Miami River
Miami is a beautiful city any time of day, but the Miami River is an especially beautiful place at night with the city lights reflecting across the water. Miami's luckiest paddlers are even able to spot manatees right in the middle of the city. We also offer night tours of Miami river with all equipment and free drinks included.
Oleta River
This gorgeous park is Florida's largest urban park and can be found in downtown Miami. There's a great beach, kayaking, picnicking, canoeing, and fishing throughout the park.
Virginia key
Virginia Key is an 863-acre barrier island in Miami's Biscayne Bay. Accessible by car from the mainland, Virginia Key offers beautiful, calm beaches.
Holland Park
Holland Park is one of Florida's best kept secrets, located on the Intrascoastal Waterway in Hollywood Florida, just north of Miami. It's a great place for BBQ, kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding in a relaxing atmosphere.
West Lake
A hidden gem near Hollywood Florida and a favorite place for locals. Besides grilling and playground areas, this park includes kayak rentals for exploring it's winding mangrove trails.
Sandspur island
Sandspur island is affectionately referred to as Beer Can Island. Part of Oleta River State park, Sandspur is the largest spoil island in Biscayne Bay and can only be reached by boat. Take your paddleboard or kayak here for an intimate paddle through the blue water.
Pace island
A tropical island escape within reach of Miami full of soft sand and tropical plants. Boat, jetski, paddle or kayak to this island and enjoy the view of Miami city with the local iguanas.
Crandon Park
An urban park within Miami offering golf and tennis facilities, a breathtaking beach and nature center. A kayak or paddle-board is the perfect way to explore the park's dunes, mangroves and wildlife.
Bill Baggs State Park
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area occupies the southern portion of Key Biscayne. It offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay from it's historic lighthouse and even includes a cafe. The park includes multiple lauch points for boats, kayaks and paddleboards.