Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Cape Florida Beach curves along the southern tip of Key Biscayne inside Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, but calling it simply "the park beach" erases what makes this shore distinct. You'll find two faces here: the Atlantic side where waves comb over tan sand ribbed with coquina shells, and the bay side where shallow flats glow green and still. The 1825 lighthouse—scarred by Seminole gunfire and hurricane winds—anchors the point, its white column visible from both shorelines. Most visitors spread towels on the ocean strand, where Australian pines lean at angles sculpted by prevailing easterlies. The sand underfoot is coarser than Miami Beach, flecked with shell fragments that click when waves retreat. Wading birds work the wrack line at dawn; by afternoon, families cluster near the concession building while kiteboarders rig sails in the shallows a quarter-mile north. Sunset pulls everyone to the western beach. The bay catches rose and tangerine light, and the downtown Miami skyline etches itself in silhouette across eight miles of water. You'll hear Spanish and Portuguese as much as English, smell grilling fish from the Boater's Grill deck, and feel the temperature drop five degrees as the sun slips behind Coconut Grove. The lighthouse keeper's cottage museum closes at five, but the beach stays open until dusk, and that last hour—when the day-trippers leave and the light goes amber—belongs to those who know to linger.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Cape Florida Beach.
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Cape Florida Beach generally offers calm, clear waters suitable for swimming, especially on the Atlantic-facing shoreline. The beach has lifeguards on duty during daylight hours, and the waters are typically gentle with minimal rip currents. However, always check daily conditions and heed any posted warnings. Jellyfish can occasionally be present during certain seasons. The beach's location within Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park means facilities are well-maintained, and rangers patrol regularly, making it one of Key Biscayne's safer swimming spots for families.
Cape Florida Beach is enjoyable year-round thanks to South Florida's subtropical climate, with water temperatures rarely dropping below 70°F. December through April offers the most comfortable weather with lower humidity and fewer afternoon thunderstorms, though it's the busiest season. Summer months (June-September) bring heat, humidity, and occasional rain, but fewer crowds. The beach is particularly famous for spectacular sunsets year-round. Arrive early on weekends and holidays, as the state park reaches capacity and closes gates when full.
Cape Florida Beach is located at the southern tip of Key Biscayne within Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. From Miami, take the Rickenbacker Causeway (toll road) to Key Biscayne, then follow Crandon Boulevard south to the park entrance. There's an entrance fee of $8 per vehicle (2-8 people). The park has ample paved parking lots near the beach and lighthouse. Arrive before 10am on weekends to guarantee entry, as the park closes when capacity is reached. Biking is also popular via the dedicated paths.
The Lighthouse Café inside Bill Baggs State Park serves casual American fare including sandwiches, burgers, and seafood with waterfront views. The park offers restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic pavilions, and kayak rentals. For more dining options, head north into Key Biscayne village (about 10 minutes) where you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes. There's no lodging within the park itself, but Key Biscayne has several hotels and resorts, including the Ritz-Carlton. Most visitors come for day trips from Miami Beach or downtown Miami.
Yes, the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse is a major attraction within the park and accessible from the beach area. Built in 1825, it's the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. You can tour the lighthouse and climb its 95 steps for panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Tours are offered Thursday through Monday (schedule varies seasonally), led by park rangers who share the lighthouse's fascinating history, including an 1836 Seminole attack. The surrounding grounds and keeper's cottage are free to explore anytime during park hours.
