Best Water Sports and Outdoor Activities in Miami
Miami is more than just beaches and nightlife—it’s a playground for fitness lovers and outdoor adventurers. With year-round warm weather and easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, the city offers endless opportunities to stay active while soaking up the sun. Here are the best water sports and outdoor activities to try in Miami.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Biscayne Bay
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has become one of Miami’s signature water sports. Biscayne Bay offers calm waters and incredible skyline views, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers. You can rent boards near Coconut Grove or Virginia Key and even join group tours that take you through mangrove forests.
Paddleboarding is a full-body workout that strengthens your core and balance, while also giving you a unique perspective of Miami’s waterfront. Go in the early morning to avoid boat traffic and enjoy peaceful, glassy waters.
Kayaking Through Mangroves
For a more tranquil experience, kayaking through Oleta River State Park or Matheson Hammock Park lets you explore Miami’s natural side. These areas feature mangrove tunnels, calm rivers, and local wildlife like herons and iguanas.
Kayaking can be as intense or relaxing as you want, making it a versatile activity for travelers. Many outfitters offer guided eco-tours that combine exercise with education about Miami’s fragile ecosystems.
Running Along South Beach
Few running experiences rival a sunrise jog along Ocean Drive and South Beach. The wide, palm-lined boardwalk is safe, scenic, and filled with other fitness enthusiasts. A 4-mile round trip from South Pointe Park to 23rd Street makes for the perfect morning workout.
After your run, you can cool down with a swim in the ocean or grab a smoothie from one of the many beachside cafés. South Beach combines exercise with Miami’s vibrant energy.
Snorkeling and Diving
Just a short trip from downtown, Miami offers access to some of Florida’s best snorkeling and diving spots. Key Biscayne and Biscayne National Park are home to coral reefs, shipwrecks, and colorful marine life. Outfitters provide all the gear you need, whether you’re a first-timer or a certified diver.
Diving in Miami isn’t just about fitness—it’s about adventure. Exploring shipwrecks like the Neptune Memorial Reef combines exercise with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Beach Volleyball
It’s hard to visit Miami Beach without spotting a volleyball net. Beach volleyball is one of the city’s favorite fitness pastimes, especially near Lummus Park. Join a pickup game or organize your own with friends—it’s a cardio workout disguised as fun in the sand.
Playing on soft sand challenges your legs and balance, giving you an intense workout without even noticing. Plus, it’s a great way to meet locals and other travelers.
Cycling the Venetian Causeway
If you prefer two wheels to water, cycling the Venetian Causeway offers a stunning ride across a chain of islands between Miami and Miami Beach. The causeway is relatively flat, making it accessible to all levels, and the views of Biscayne Bay are unforgettable.
Rent a bike downtown or in Miami Beach and set aside an hour to enjoy this route. Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the heat and traffic.
Miami proves that staying active while traveling doesn’t mean being stuck inside a gym. Whether you’re gliding across Biscayne Bay on a paddleboard, running along South Beach, or spiking volleyballs on the sand, the city delivers a unique fitness experience. To balance your adventures, explore our list of hotels with a good gym in Miami.
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