Here Are The 20 Best Outdoor Activities in Miami You Shouldn’t Miss

Are you looking for the best outdoor activities in Miami? Then this post will give various ideas whether you’re into adrenaline sports or tranquil acitivities!

As avid lovers of the outdoors, we can’t get enough of Miami’s beauty. Our journey to uncover the best Miami outdoor activities has led us to some incredible spots that are too good to keep to ourselves.

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Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills, serene natural beauty, or an escape from the every day, you will always find a number of things to do in Miami that will suit you.

From kayaking through mangroves to having a picnic in the park, or doing beach yoga! With these fun outdoor activities in Miami, you won’t want to stay indoors! Read on to find out our favorite spots!

Best Outdoor Activities in Miami

Whether you’re traveling to Miami with teenagers or your loved one and are looking for cool Miami outdoor date ideas, this post will show you all the fun Miami outdoor activities not to miss!

1. Take a Stroll in Miami Beach Botanical Garden

With its meticulously designed landscape and displays of diverse plants, this botanical garden offers a serene escape from the bustling city.

You’ll find a number of attractions in this 2.6-acre tropical sanctuary from the iconic red bridge in the Japanese Garden to the shaded waterfront Collins Canal Prominade, Native Garden, and much more.

We recommend getting a map from the botanical boutique and taking a leisurely stroll through lush landscapes and tranquil pathways accented with charming fountains, koi ponds, native plants, orchids, a variety of blooming flowers, and over 100 palm species.

There are also some animals like turtles, fish, birds, butterflies, and more, you’ll see along the way.

You can even get hands-on by planting your own plant with seeds from the botanical garden, and when you want to relax, the central Great Lawn is perfect for unwinding and appreciating the garden’s beauty.

2. Explore Everglades National Park

A paradise for nature lovers, Everglades National Park offers many memorable outdoor activities in Miami with its vast and diverse landscape.

This park is nestled in the heart of Southern Florida, and while its distance from Miami varies depending on park entrance you use, the Homestead entrance is the closest to the city.

Everglades spans over 1.5 million acres and boasts wetlands, freshwater prairies, tropical hardwood hammocks, and mangrove forests, all teeming with a rich array of exotic wildlife, including over 350 bird species, alligators, fishes, and turtles.

So, whether you are embarking on a short stroll or a more challenging hike along the park’s well-preserved trails, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views and also see the iconic inhabitants of Everglades on your way, from alligators basking in the sun to herons wading through shallow waters.

We recommend joining this nature walk tour in the Everglades which also includes a 1-hour airboat to fully get the most out of your visit.

You can also catch wildlife shows, and if a day isn’t enough to explore, the park offers various campgrounds to turn it into a weekend getaway from Miami.

If hiking is not your thing, you can still enjoy this park by going on this 3 hours airboat tour of the Everglades.

Another way to take in the beauty of the Everglades is by kayaking! If that’s your kind of thing, then you’ll love this kayaking and walking guided eco-tour in Everglades National Park.

>>> Click here to book your airboat tour of the Everglades!

3. Kayak through mangrove forests at Oleta River State Park

As Florida’s largest urban park, Oleta River State Park is an excellent place for kayakers looking for an outdoor adventure in Miami.

This park offers a unique kayaking experience where you can kayak through mangrove forests or the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay.

You can rent a kayak or paddleboard at the Oleta River Outdoor Center or sign up for this guided tour, and who knows, you might even encounter marine life such as dolphins, manatees, stingrays, and various bird species, along the way. 

Also, Oleta offers a thousand acres of untamed beauty, making it the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts who want to mountain bike, hike, fish, swim in its lagoon, or picnic around the park.

There are also 14 quaint air-conditioned cabins and a primitive youth campground if you want a relaxing retreat after kayaking.

>>> Click here to sign up for your kayaking at Oleta River State Park!

4. Spend the day at the beach

Miami’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches offering a quintessential blend of sun-soaked relaxation and vibrant coastal energy, perfect for when you are looking for things to do outdoors in Miami.

From the world-renowned South Beach with iconic Art Deco architecture as its backdrop to the tranquil shores of North Beach and Mid Beach, the playful spirit of Haulover Beach, the inviting waters of Crandon Park Beach, the buzzy vibe of Lummus Park Beach, and the family-friendliness of South Pointe Beach, each beach in Miami has its own vibe, that will cater to different people be it families, couples, or even solo travelers.

5. Admire Miami’s underwater species By Snorkeling

While Miami’s skyline is striking, its underwater world is also equally stunning, and there’s no better way to admire these aquatic treasures than by snorkeling.

Whether you are new to snorkeling or a seasoned snorkeler, Miami offers many cool places to encounter colorful coral reefs, marine mammals, tropical fishes, and more.

Tarpoon Lagoon Dive Center is a solid pick if you want guided tours since they’ve been doing this for years.

For more tour options, consider Ocean Safari Diving Adventures and Miami Tours And Water Adventures. Both offer guided snorkeling experiences that show off Miami’s marine life.

If you’re looking for something more low-key, Crandon Park in Key Biscayne has shallow waters in the Bear Cut Preserve that are also good for snorkeling.

6. Take a ride on the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel

If you aren’t afraid of heights, consider planning your next fun outdoor activity in Miami around the Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel.

Rising at 200 feet above Bayside Marketplace, a ride in one of its 42 climate-controlled glass gondolas will give you unspoiled views of Bayfront Park, Biscayne Bay, and the Downtown Miami skyline.

Each gondola can hold up to eight people, and the ride takes up to 12 to 15 minutes, but for a more exclusive experience, you can book a VIP gondola with a custom LED light show, leather bucket seats, and a glass bottom floor.

This is also one of the romantic things to do in Miami if you’re traveling with your loved one!

>>> Click here to book your ticket to Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel!

7. Relax and enjoy the waterfront at Bayfront Park

If you are looking for the perfect Miami outdoor activity for the entire family, Bayfront Park will not disappoint. This Downtown gem sits on Biscayne Bay and offers 32 acres of endless fun.

Kids (ages 5-12) will love the Lee & Tina Hills Playground with climbing areas, bouncers, slides, a play sculpture, and many more.

Opposite the playground is the Tina Hills Pavilion, one of the park’s performance venues with a casual lawn area perfect for picnicking.

There are also walkways perfect for biking, a waterfall from 1926, and impressive monuments like the Light Tower and Slide Mantra designed by renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi and the World War II Veterans’ Memorial.

But the highlight of this park is its palm and oak-lined baywalk which offers scenic views of Biscayne Bay. While here, you can soak in waterfront vistas and watch the moored yachts.

And when you need a break, head to the adjacent Bayside Marketplace to refuel at one of its many restaurants or even window shop.

8. Participate in Beach Yoga

While The Magic City is known for its vibrant energy and great nightlife, it also has a thriving beach yoga scene that will leave you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and restored.

Performed on the white sands of South Beach, yogis of all levels can participate in this outdoor activity in Miami that comes with panoramic views of unique Art Deco architecture, swaying palm trees, and the gentle Ocean breeze to refresh your body, mind, and soul.

Under the guidance of an experienced yoga instructor, you will combine yoga with guided meditation to achieve mental clarity.

Remember to come with drinking water and a beach towel, and book ahead here to guarantee a spot.

>>> Click here to book your beach yoga experience!

9. Stroll Through Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a must-visit spot in Miami if you love the combination of history, architecture, and nature.

The estate was once the winter home of business magnate James Deering but it is now a National Historic Landmark.

It has sprawling gardens that are beautifully laid out with lots of pathways that will guide you through unique plants, fountains, and sculptures.

It’s a great place to relax, take photos if you’re looking for Instagramable places in Miami, or even learn about various types of flora.

On top of the beautiful gardens, the architecture of the house alone is worth the trip! Designed in a European-inspired style, the villa showcases a stunning blend of Italian Renaissance and Mediterranean Revival architecture.

And if you step inside, each room is like a mini-museum filled with European antiques and decorative art.

From the intricate details of the Music Room to the lavish beauty of the Tea Room, the house tells a story of Miami’s past while offering glimpses of European grandeur.

>>> Click here to book your ticket to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens!

10. Explore South Beach on a bike

This legendary beachfront destination is known for its beautiful beaches, iconic Art Deco architecture, and melting pot of cultures making it a great place to explore on a bike.

Bike along the iconic Ocean Drive with its pastel-hued buildings, explore the bustling streets and lively promenades, ride along landmarks like Lummus Park while enjoying the views of the, stop to savor delectable cuisine, and discover what makes this vibrant paradise a tourist favorite.

Other biking paths in Miami you should check out include Rickenbacker Causeway, Oleta River State Park, South Pointe Park, Venetian Causeway, and more.

11. Explore the Wynwood Walls

If you’re looking to dive into Miami’s art scene, Wynwood Walls is the place to be.

This sprawling outdoor museum is the beating heart of Wynwood, a neighborhood that has transformed from a collection of old warehouses into a vibrant arts district.

Thanks to Tony Goldman, the visionary who also revitalized SoHo in NYC, Wynwood Walls came into existence back in 2009.

While here, you’ll take in the beauty of gigantic wall murals crafted by both international and local artists.

The styles are incredibly varied, showcasing graffiti, pop art, abstract paintings, and even 3D sculptures. If you’re feeling inspired, there are even spray paint courses available!

While exploring the Wynwood neighborhood is free, you’ll need to purchase this entry ticket to access the Wynwood walls!

Alternatively, if you want to learn more about this outdoor museum from a knowledgeable guide, then we recommend signing up for this Wynwood Walls guided tour.

And at the end of your visit, you can even pick up a few souvenirs from the Wynwood Walls shop.

So if you’re looking for fun outdoor things to do in Miami, then be sure to check out the Wynwood Walls!

>>> Click here to purchase your ticket to the Wynwood Walls!

12. Visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Miami, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is one the most beautiful state parks in Florida.

Located on the southern tip of Key Biscayne, this place is the perfect spot if you’re looking to take in the natural beauty of Miami without going far. It also has 1.3 miles of sandy shores perfect for lazying under the sun.

Another highlight not to miss here is the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse which you can climb to enjoy amazing views of the ocean.

You can also explore the park by bike or foot on its 1.5-mile paved path, or launch a canoe or kayak for a paddle around.

Hungry? Try the Boater’s Grill or Lighthouse Cafe for some delicious seafood or standard American fare. And don’t forget to stick around for the stunning sunset views over the bay as they’re spectacular.

13. Wander Through Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Miami, then a visit to the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is a must.

Stretching across 83 lush acres, this botanical garden is the perfect escape if you want to connect with nature without going far.

With over 3,400 species, from exotic orchids, colorful butterflies, rare tropical plants, and tranquil water features, to a mix of native and exotic plants, this garden will open up a new world of knowledge and beauty!

Visiting with kids or just love butterflies? The Butterfly Garden and Children’s Garden are must-visits, but you can also explore other cool places in the garden like the Water Gardens, the Arboretum and Geiger Tropical Flower Garden, and some cool Aquatic Exhibits.

And if all that walking works up an appetite, take a break at the charming Glasshouse Café where you can indulge in a tasty lunch surrounded by natural beauty.

What makes Fairchild even cooler is its year-round rotation of activities and events, including chocolate and orchids festivals as well as concerts, art exhibitions, and classes.

They even have pet-friendly dates and early bird walks, so there’s something for everyone. Just make sure to check their website for any special events during your visit.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic date, or a solitary retreat, be sure to check out Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.

14. Visit The Deering Estate

If you’re intrigued by Miami’s rich history and diverse ecosystems, then the Deering Estate should be on your list of things to do outside in Miami.

Once the home of Charles Deering, a prominent Chicago industrialist and art collector, this 444-acre estate today serves as a museum and a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Roam through the impeccably preserved historic homes, each bearing the stories of the past.

The Richmond Cottage and Stone House offer glimpses into the lives of early 20th-century residents with antiques and art that reflect Deering’s refined tastes, while the estate’s sprawling grounds provide a setting of natural beauty and tranquility, offering panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and lush landscapes that are perfect for leisurely strolls.

The estate also offers a number of activities including Bird Walks where you can spot up to 170 different species of birds, Moonlight Kayak tours, Nature trails, Night hikes, Campfires, and Nature Preserve Tours.

With all these options and more, a visit to the Deering Estate will no doubt fill your day with both educational and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or a bit of both, this place has something for you!

15. Sail on a private boat rental

To create lasting memories against the backdrop of Miami’s coastal beauty, we recommend renting this private boat to navigate the waters of Biscayne Bay with an experienced captain and your friends or family.

Departing from the Coconut Grove area and heading to Rickenbacker Causeway, you will be treated to a unique perspective of the city’s iconic skyline and breathtaking coastal landscapes.

The cruise also offers views of Miami’s Skyline, the Star Island, vibrant Downtown Miami, and the luxurious Millionaire Row.

You will also pass through Brickell City Center, Las Olas Riverfront, the Sailboat Bend neighborhood, and Key Biscayne.

And don’t forget to bring your drinks and food along because your adventure includes a cooler, allowing you to savor your refreshments while cruising.

>>> Click here to rent a private boat!

16. Cool off from The Venetian Pool

The best way to beat any hot day in Miami is by cooling off at the Venetian Pool. Although not technically in Miami but in Coral Gables which is just 30 minutes away, this place provides the perfect oasis for a fun-filled day.

Unlike your typical pools, this one was carved from a coral rock quarry in 1923 and is filled with fresh spring water from an underground aquifer daily.

It also boasts waterfalls, caves, grottos, coral rock formations, swaying palm trees, and Mediterranean-inspired architecture surrounded by lush greenery giving it a Mediterranean feel.

The pool also offers different depths from 4 to 8 feet to accommodate every swimmer and a section for kids which is 2 feet. You can bring the entire family, although kids have to be at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall to access the pool.

And when it’s time to refuel, the Venetian’s onsite concession serves various treats like pizza mozzarella sticks, and various drinks, although you can bring your own food too.

17. Discover Millionaire’s Row by boat

Millionaire’s Row is known for its luxurious waterfront celebrity residences, and one of the best ways to discover its glitz and glam is to set sail on Miami’s waters and feast your eyes on the parade of stunning mansions.

From the comfort of this guided boat cruise, you’ll get a glimpse into the lifestyle of the rich and famous, the fascinating architecture they live in, and the private islands that elevate the exclusivity to a whole new level.

Additionally, as you cruise, you will be treated to panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, the Miami Skyline, Fisher Island, and Port Miami.

Meanwhile, light snacks and refreshing drinks are available for purchase on the boat.

>>> Click here to book your guided boat cruise on Millionaire’s Row!

18. Go jet skiing

One of the best outdoor things to do in Miami is to go on this 1-hour jet ski tour if you’re looking for a thrilling activity.

This tour will take you past notable landmarks like the Venetian Islands and the Port of Miami while also enjoying Miami’s downtown skyline.

You’ll also have a chance to see some wildlife like dolphins and manatees, manta rays, and sea turtles.

The tour comes with everything you’ll need, including the Jet Ski rental and a life jacket, and it’s always a small group so you won’t feel left out.

And since they have multiple departure times available, you can easily fit this adventure into your Miami itinerary.

>>> Click here to book a 1-hour jet ski tour!

19. Go parasailing

Imagine being suspended in a parachute above the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay as panoramic views of the cityscape unfold before you, from the stunning Miami downtown skyline to the sun-kissed shores of the beach! This memorable experience is what you can expect when you book this parasailing tour.

Before you start, the crew will cover all the safety basics and gear you up. Once the chute is ready, you’ll be launched from the boat, either alone or with up to two friends.

This beginner-friendly activity comes with all the necessary equipment, so if you’re up for some thrill and scenery, be sure to add this activity to your list of things to do in Miami outdoors.

>>> Click here to book your parasailing tour!

20. Go on a speedboat sightseeing tour of Miami

If parasailing is not your ideal kind of water fun, then consider going on this speedboat sightseeing tour of Miami.

Starting from the Bayside Marketplace in downtown Miami, you’ll hop on a speedboat that takes you along the city’s coastline.

You’ll pass by luxurious mansions on Fisher Island and Star Island while your captain shares tidbits about the owners and the property values. You’ll also be able to see South Beach and its colorful Art Deco buildings.

Other notable sights you’ll see along the way include Flagler Monument Island, the US Coast Guard Station, Fisherman’s Channel, and more while enjoying a great view of Miami’s downtown skyline and learning more about Miami’s history and culture from the captain.

>>> Click here to join this speedboat sightseeing tour of Miami!

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Final Thoughts on the Best Outdoor Things to Do in Miami

Whether biking along picturesque pathways, paddling through serene waters, or basking in the beauty of the city’s sunset, these outdoor activities in Miami are nothing short of extraordinary.

We’ve had a blast sharing our top picks of the fun outdoor things to do in Miami with you, and we’re confident that they will bring your Miami experience to a whole new level.

But before you go, consider sharing these outdoor activities in Miami if you found the article helpful!

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