Miami’s reputation for stand-up paddleboarding isn’t exactly a secret. With its calm waters and scenic vistas, it’s a fitting place for both novices and enthusiasts to paddle away the hours.
Below are five spots in Miami that make standing on a board and rowing gently seem like the best idea you’ve ever had!
Oleta River State Park
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- Location Insight: Nestled in the bustling area of North Miami, Oleta River State Park is Florida’s largest urban park. It features a calm waterway that’s ideal for beginners and those looking for a serene paddle experience.
- Why It’s Great: The river is lined with mangroves which provide a protective barrier against strong winds, ensuring smooth and stable conditions for paddleboarding. This park also offers views of the natural Florida landscape and wildlife, which might include sightings of manatees and ospreys.
- Additional Amenities: Apart from paddleboarding, the park offers mountain biking trails, kayaking, and comfortable cabin accommodations for an extended stay. Rentals are available on-site, making it easy for tourists to come and enjoy the water without needing their own equipment.
- Price Range: Entry to the park is $6 per vehicle and paddleboard rentals start at around $40 for two hours.
Matheson Hammock Park
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- Location Insight: This park is known for its man-made atoll pool, which is flushed naturally with the tidal action of Biscayne Bay, creating perfect calm waters for paddleboarding.
- Why It’s Great: The pool’s shallow waters are ideal for beginners. The surrounding area, with its picturesque palm trees and sandy beaches, makes for a stunning backdrop. It’s also less crowded than more popular spots like South Beach, providing a more relaxed experience.
- Additional Amenities: There’s a well-rated restaurant on site, and the park is also a popular spot for kiteboarding and picnicking.
- Price Range: A minimal parking fee of $5 and paddleboard rentals available from local vendors typically start at about $25 per hour.
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Biscayne National Park
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- Location Insight: As part of the U.S. National Park System, Biscayne National Park is predominantly water and spans over 170,000 acres.
- Why It’s Great: It’s a top choice for those who want to combine paddleboarding with snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters offer a glimpse into a vibrant underwater world. Paddleboarders can explore the mangrove-fringed coastlines, small islands, and coral reefs.
- Additional Amenities: Guided paddle tours are available, which include educational insights into the park’s unique ecosystem and historical background.
- Price Range: No entrance fee for the park itself, though amenities like parking and rentals may incur costs. Paddleboard rentals and guided tour prices vary by provider.
Sunset Harbour
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- Location Insight: This trendy neighborhood in South Beach offers access to some of the calmest waters in the Miami area, which are ideal for paddleboarding.
- Why It’s Great: True to its name, Sunset Harbour provides spectacular sunset views over the Miami skyline, making it a favorite for evening paddles. The water here is sheltered from larger boats, making it safe and pleasant for paddlers of all skill levels.
- Additional Amenities: The area is filled with chic cafes and boutiques, perfect for relaxing after a day on the water. Also, it’s a hub for Miami’s fitness enthusiasts, so there’s plenty of vibrant energy and community feel.
- Price Range: There are several rental shops in the area with rates starting at about $20 per hour.
