Located on the tip of Key Biscayne just minutes away from Miami, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park with its picturesque and soothing sandy beach is a good alternative to more popular and crowded Miami beaches. This beach forms a part of an extensive barrier island system.
Apart from typical recreational opportunities such as sunbathing, swimming, picnicking, walking, biking, and fishing, it also provides a bit of history and education – there is the historic 1825 Cape Florida Lighthouse where you can participate in one of the scheduled tours.
Location and Access
The park and beach are located at 1200 Crandon Boulevard in Key Biscayne and open from 8 a. m. until dusk every day throughout the year. The entrance fee is $4 per single-occupant vehicle, $8 per vehicle with 2 to 8 people, and $2 per pedestrian/bicyclist/extra passenger in a vehicle.
The park offers convenient and ample parking. Nevertheless, it may be difficult to find a parking space after 10 or 11 a. m. on Saturdays and Sundays, so you should arrive earlier.
Amenities
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. They include well-maintained public restrooms, showers to rinse the saltwater off your body, food concessions, and dedicated picnic areas with tables. There are also two onsite restaurants with a good choice of Cuban dishes – one is located on a quiet lagoon and the other faces the beach.
For those who prefer to bring their own food, there are also 18 shaded picnic pavilions available for rent (you need to make a reservation up to 1 day in advance; the fee is $50 per day for average pavilions and $100 per day for large pavilions). In No Name Harbor, overnight boat camping is available for a fee of $20.
Swimming Conditions
This beach is rated by Dr. Beach as one of the best beaches in the United States. The sugar-white sand is powdery and clean. There are beach chairs ($7) and umbrellas ($10) for rent.
The water is beautiful and clear, good for snorkeling, with plenty of tropical fish species. Thanks to a nearby reef, the waves are very gentle, making swimming more safe and enjoyable. Nevertheless, be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty.
Other Activities
Among other things, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park offers several walking paths and cycling roads. There are good chances to spot raccoons or iguanas.
If you don’t have your own bicycle, you can rent one on-site. If you’re a watersport enthusiast, you can also rent a kayak or a hydro bike.
At the seawall along Biscayne Bay, there is a good fishing area with nice views. Just remember, you must conform to the existing fishing regulations and may need a fishing license if you want to cast a line.
Dog Policies
Dogs are not allowed on the beach and in the water, but you can take your four-legged friend (on a leash) to the picnic areas, seawall, bike and hike trails. Pets must behave properly and may not be left unattended.
Driving Time
- 25 minutes from Miami, FL
- 50 minutes from Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 1 hour 25 minutes from West Palm Beach, FL
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's a number of beaches near Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Beach which you can visit:
- Crandon Park Beach (3 miles)
- South Beach (8 miles)
- Lummus Park Beach (8 miles)
- 12th Street Beach (8 miles)
- 36th Street Park Beach (10 miles)