The best walks and hikes around Miami Shores
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Hiking around Miami Shores explores a landscape characterized by coastal paths, urban parks, and nearby nature preserves. The terrain is predominantly flat, making it accessible for walking and leisurely hikes. The area offers a mix of paved beachside routes and unpaved trails through natural habitats like mangrove forests and tropical hardwood hammocks. These features provide diverse opportunities for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Miami Shores
- The most popular hiking route is Miami Beach Boardwalk – Ocean Terrace Public Beach loop from Surfside, a 13.8 miles (22.1 km) trail that takes 5 hours 35 minutes to complete. This route combines urban sections with extensive ocean views along the beach.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ocean Terrace Public Beach – North Beach Badestrand loop from Allison Island, an easy 3.0 miles (4.8 km) path. This trail is mostly flat and follows the coastline, offering a straightforward walk.
- Local hikers also love the Bal Harbour Beach Scenic Path, a 1.3 miles (2.2 km) trail leading through coastal areas, often completed in about 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Miami Shores is defined by flat coastal paths, walks through urban parks, and trails in nearby nature preserves. The network of routes provides options for various fitness levels, from short strolls to longer walks.
- The routes in Miami Shores are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 2,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Miami Shores's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 26, 2026
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The Bal Harbour Beach Scenic Path offers a delightful coastal experience, guiding you along pristine white-sand beaches with calm, aquamarine waters. This easy 1.3-mile (2.2 km) hike, with a minimal 7 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, is a flat and wide path, perfect for a leisurely 32-minute stroll. You'll enjoy unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean, spot pelicans near the Bal Harbour Pier, and pass by beautifully landscaped sections shaded by sea grape trees.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the path is easily accessible and well-maintained. It's an ideal choice for all ages and abilities, including those with strollers, thanks to its flat terrain. While it's part of the extensive Miami Beach Walk, the Bal Harbour section is often less crowded, providing a more tranquil escape. Look for amenities like benches for resting and convenient showers at various access points.
What makes this route particularly special is its blend of natural beauty and thoughtful design, including a 25-foot wide, paver-lined path at the 102nd Street and Collins Avenue access point. This trail is a fantastic option if you're looking for an easy hiking experience that combines stunning ocean vistas with a peaceful atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of busier Miami beaches.
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Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Baker's Haulover Inlet is a man-made inlet connecting the northern end of Biscayne Bay with the Atlantic Ocean. As you pass by, you will get great views of the bay and the ocean.
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The Rotraut Color Sculptures are an art exhibition found along the beach in the village of Bal Harbour. It's a great place to stop for a break to admire the artwork.
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The pier marks the northern end of the Miami boardwalk. The pier is wide and smooth and often has people fishing and sightseeing. You can ride out onto the breakwater and watch the waves or look for boats passing into Haulover Inlet.
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Ocean Terrace Public Beach offers sunbathing, kite surfing, swimming, strolling, and great sunrises and sunsets. Amenities such as public restrooms and outdoor showers are available on-site, and there are some nearby restaurants. With soft, clean sand ideal for barefoot walks and bright turquoise, clear water, the beach is quite popular. Don't be alarmed to see someone without clothes, as this beach is a designated nude beach.
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Ocean Terrace Public Beach is situated between a couple of lifeguard stands and features its own restrooms and beach access area. This sandy beach is great for walking and also offers access to the water.
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Ocean Terrace Public Beach is situated between a couple of lifeguard stands and features its own restrooms and beach access area. This sandy beach is great for walking and also offers access to the water.
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With this small and free bus line you can travel all over Miami Beach and are sure to experience one or two strange situations 🇺🇸😂
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Miami Shores?
Yes, there are over 90 routes to explore in the area. The vast majority are rated as easy, with predominantly flat terrain, making them accessible for most fitness levels. You'll find a mix of coastal paths, urban park loops, and trails through nearby nature preserves.
What do other hikers think of the trails near Miami Shores?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the scenic coastal views and the unique blend of urban and natural environments found on the trails.
Are there any good hikes for beginners or families?
Absolutely. The terrain is mostly flat, making it ideal for families and beginners. A great option is the Haulover Inlet loop from Surfside. It's a short, easy walk that offers lovely coastal scenery without being too strenuous.
Where can I find trails in a more natural setting away from the city?
For a true nature escape, Oleta River State Park is a top-rated local favorite. It's Florida's largest urban park and features miles of unpaved trails winding through mangrove forests. It's an excellent place to experience South Florida's native habitats.
Are there any trails with historical significance?
Yes, Arch Creek Park offers a unique experience. The park features a nature trail through a hardwood hammock and is centered around a natural limestone bridge that was part of an ancient trail used by the Tequesta people. You can find more information on the official park page.
Can I find any long-distance hiking paths in the area?
For those seeking a more challenging, longer walk, the Miami Beach Boardwalk – Ocean Terrace Public Beach loop from Surfside is a great choice. This route covers over 22 km and provides an extended tour of the coastline and vibrant beach atmosphere.
What are some popular places for hiking near Miami Shores?
Besides the routes on komoot, locals enjoy several dedicated hiking and walking areas:
- Oleta River State Park: A highly-regarded urban park with extensive trails through mangrove forests, perfect for nature lovers.
- Virginia Key North Point Trails: A popular spot known for its network of trails built by biking enthusiasts, which are also great for hiking.
- FIU Nature Preserve: A smaller preserve on the FIU campus that offers a quick escape with paths through native Everglades plants.
- Rickenbacker Trail: A favorite for its breathtaking views of the city skyline and Biscayne Bay.
Are there any free hiking trails near Miami Shores?
Yes, many of the trails that follow public beaches, boardwalks, and parks are free to access. However, state and county parks like Oleta River State Park or Arch Creek Park typically charge a small entrance fee per vehicle or per person for park maintenance and services.
What should I wear for hiking in the Miami area?
Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing is essential due to the warm and humid climate. Comfortable walking shoes or trail runners are sufficient for the mostly flat terrain. Don't forget sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as many trails offer limited shade.
Where can I find trails that combine both beach and park environments?
Many routes in the area offer this combination. A great example is the North Beach Badestrand – Ocean Terrace Public Beach loop from Surfside, which follows the coastline and passes through North Shore Open Space Park, giving you a mix of sandy beach and green park scenery.
Are there any trails suitable for birdwatching?
Oleta River State Park is an excellent destination for birdwatching. Its diverse habitats, including mangrove forests and waterways, attract a variety of wading birds, shorebirds, and migratory species. The quieter trails within the park offer the best chances to spot wildlife.
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