At the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, where the vibrant energy of Ocean Drive softens into a serene coastal whisper, lies a 17-acre urban oasis that is arguably the city’s most beautiful public space. South Pointe Park is more than just a park; it is a perfectly manicured landscape offering a breathtaking, 360-degree panorama of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and the glittering Miami skyline. For locals and discerning visitors alike, it is the ultimate destination for relaxation, recreation, and a taste of the quintessential Miami Beach lifestyle. To truly appreciate this multifaceted gem, here is the ultimate guide to the top 20 things to do in and around the park.
1. Watch Cruise Ships Glide By
Find a comfortable spot on the grassy, rolling hills and enjoy a front-row seat to the spectacular sight of massive cruise ships sailing in and out of PortMiami. It’s a meditative and uniquely Miami experience, especially in the late afternoon as the ships depart for the Caribbean, their horns echoing across the water.
2. Enjoy a Scenic Picnic
With ample green space and designated picnic and barbecue areas, the park is an ideal location for a leisurely outdoor meal. On any given weekend, the air is filled with the delicious aroma of grilling as families and friends gather against the stunning backdrop of the ocean.
3. Unwind on the Beach
The park provides direct access to a quieter, more pristine stretch of South Beach. Here, you can rent a chair and umbrella and soak up the Florida sun away from the largest crowds. The water is often calmer, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip.
4. Find Your Zen with Sunset Yoga
As the day winds down, the park frequently hosts free sunset yoga sessions. It’s a perfect opportunity to connect with nature, stretch your body, and find your inner peace as the sky puts on its nightly color show.
5. Stroll or Skate the Promenade
Take a walk, jog, or rollerblade along the park’s wide, winding promenade. The pathway meanders from the oceanfront to the bayside, providing a constantly changing panorama of turquoise water, the downtown skyline, and the exclusive real estate of Fisher Island.
6. Go Fishing on the Pier
Cast a line from the magnificent, 450-foot-long South Pointe Pier. It’s a beloved spot for anglers looking to catch a variety of local fish, including snapper and Spanish mackerel, and is thoughtfully designed with stations for cutting bait and washing fish.
7. Cycle Around the Park
For a different perspective, rent a Citi Bike from one of the nearby stations and explore the park’s scenic pathways on two wheels, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and ocean breezes.
8. Let the Kids Play
Families will find a haven in the park’s play areas. The mini water playground, with its motion-activated water cannons, provides hours of fun, while an adjacent, lushly landscaped jungle gym offers a more traditional play experience.
9. Unleash Your Dog at the Bark Park
On the western side of the park, a dedicated off-leash bark park allows four-legged friends to run and play freely, making it a popular social hub for the neighborhood’s dog lovers.
10. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding or Surfing
For the more adventurous, the beach area adjacent to the park, South Pointe Beach, is a popular spot for water sports. When the conditions are right, stand-up paddleboarding and surfing are favorite activities, with rentals often available nearby.
11. Marvel at the “Obstinate Lighthouse”
Admire the most prominent piece of public art in the park, a towering, 55-foot-tall sculpture by acclaimed German artist Tobias Rehberger. This vibrant, colorful “lighthouse” greets visitors and ships with a playful light display.
12. Pose with the Pier Gate
At the entrance to the pier, don’t miss the “eloquent south pointe park pier gate,” another colorful and photogenic creation by Tobias Rehberger that makes for a great photo opportunity.
13. Browse the French Market
On select Sundays, the park transforms into a bustling, European-style bazaar. This local favorite features a curated selection of vendors selling everything from fresh pastries and artisanal cheeses to handmade jewelry and local crafts.
14. Fine Dining with a View at Smith & Wollensky
Located within the park’s grounds, the iconic Smith & Wollensky steakhouse offers high-end dining with arguably the best waterfront views in the city. Grabbing a table on their patio at sunset is a quintessential Miami experience.
15. Grab a Casual Bite at South Pointe Cafe
For a more relaxed option inside the park, this cafe offers quick snacks, ice cream, and refreshments, perfect for a break from your activities.
16. Explore South of Fifth’s Culinary Scene
Just steps outside the park, the “SoFi” neighborhood awaits. This area is home to a staggering concentration of renowned restaurants, including the legendary Joe’s Stone Crab and the celebrity hotspot Prime 112.
17. Enjoy Happy Hour at a Nearby Marina
Take a short walk over to the Miami Beach Marina and enjoy sunset drinks and fresh seafood at local favorites like Monty’s Raw Bar as you watch the yachts bob in the harbor.
18. Take Stunning Sunset Photos
The park’s unique geography offers some of the most breathtaking sunset photo opportunities in Miami Beach, as the sun dips below the downtown skyline, setting the sky ablaze in fiery shades of orange, pink, and purple.
19. Photograph the Iconic Lifeguard Towers
The beach at South Pointe features the colorful, uniquely designed lifeguard towers that have become synonymous with the visual identity of Miami Beach. Each one is a unique work of art, providing a perfect pop of color against the sand and sea.
20. Watch the City Lights Emerge
As dusk settles and the sun disappears, the magic continues. Find a spot facing the bay and watch the skyscrapers of Downtown Miami and Brickell begin to twinkle to life, creating a glittering, magical cityscape across the water.
In conclusion, South Pointe Park truly stands out as a vibrant oasis in Miami Beach, offering an incredible array of activities for every taste. From tranquil walks and stunning ocean views to dynamic recreation and delicious dining, this iconic locale proves that a perfect Miami experience is always within reach. Whether you’re a local seeking a new adventure or a visitor exploring the city’s charm, South Pointe Park is a must-visit destination that promises unforgettable moments.
