Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Tucked at Surfside's northern edge, 96th Street Beach feels like the town itself: understated, functional, and refreshingly free of pretense. You park along the residential blocks—metered spots fill quickly after ten—then cross a narrow boardwalk flanked by sea oats that rattle in the onshore breeze. The sand stretches wide and bone-pale, and the water breaks gently enough for toddlers to wade while older kids bodysurf the knee-high rollers. Lifeguards keep watch from their perches, and a single pavilion offers shade when the midday sun turns punishing. You'll see regulars: retirees with folding chairs and paperbacks, nannies coaxing children toward the shallows, runners timing their loops to the tide. The vibe is neighborly rather than transient, and by late afternoon the light softens into that honeyed glow that makes every iPhone snap look like a postcard. Sunset here is the real draw. The horizon opens wide, unobstructed by high-rises, and the sky cycles through coral, violet, and burnt orange as the sun dips. Couples linger at the water's edge, and even the gulls seem to pause. There's no drum circle, no fire dancers—just the day closing down with quiet grace. You'll leave with sand in your shoes and the sense that you've found something the guidebooks missed.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of 96th Street Beach.
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96th Street Beach is generally safe for swimming, with calm waters typical of Surfside's protected coastline. Lifeguards are stationed at nearby beaches during peak hours, though coverage varies seasonally. The beach features a gradual slope ideal for children, and the quieter atmosphere compared to Miami Beach makes it family-friendly. Check local surf and weather reports before swimming, especially during winter months when occasional swells occur. Jellyfish can appear seasonally, so ask locals or check beach condition boards for current water conditions.
96th Street Beach is enjoyable year-round, with water temperatures remaining swimmable even in winter. December through April offers the most comfortable weather with lower humidity and temperatures in the mid-70s to low-80s°F. Summer months (June-September) bring warmer, more humid conditions with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. The beach faces east, making mornings ideal for swimming and early sun, while late afternoons provide excellent sunset views over the inland waterway. Weekdays are noticeably less crowded than weekends throughout the year.
Street parking is available along 96th Street and adjacent residential streets in Surfside, with most spots offering free parking without time limits. Arrive early on weekends and holidays as spaces fill quickly, especially between 10am-3pm. The beach access point is clearly marked at the end of 96th Street where it meets Collins Avenue. Alternatively, metered parking is available along Collins Avenue. Surfside is compact and walkable, so staying anywhere in town puts you within easy reach of this beach access.
The charming Surfside business district along Harding Avenue is just two blocks west, offering kosher restaurants, cafes, and casual dining options. Several family-run hotels and vacation rentals line Collins Avenue within walking distance. For more variety, Bal Harbour Shops (upscale dining and shopping) is one mile north. The beach itself has no facilities, so bring your own food, water, and beach equipment. Small convenience stores in Surfside sell beach essentials and snacks for quick provisions before heading to the sand.
Unlike the bustling Miami Beach scene just south, 96th Street Beach offers a quieter, residential beach experience without commercial development crowding the shoreline. This low-key access point attracts primarily locals and visitors staying in Surfside's small hotels, creating a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere. The lack of beach chair vendors and loud music contributes to its peaceful character. Many consider it a throwback to old Florida beach culture—simple, unpretentious, and focused on enjoying the ocean rather than the scene around it.
