Miami Beach has no shortage of attractions – from glamorous Ocean Drive and the soft, powdery sand of South Beach to the Art Deco houses of the Historic District. But hardly any tourist knows South Pointe Park at the southern end of this coastal city. Opened in the 1980s, the park underwent a 22 Million Dollar facelift in 2009 and presents itself more beautiful today than ever before. Locals love to come here for jogging, boat watching, fishing on the pier and soaking up the South Florida sun. With so many things to do, it is high time to take a closer look at South Pointe Park.
SOUTH POINTE PARK – INFORMATION FOR VISITORS
South Pointe Park is one of those places people fall in love with at first sight – no wonder thanks to the lush palm trees and grassy hills against the backdrop of turquoise Atlantic waters. The 17 acres area provides ample opportunities for walking, jogging, cycling and rollerblading. Other visitors spread their yoga mats on the well-maintained lawn. The park is still a hidden gem and far from being overcrowded. This is apparent in the laid-back atmosphere. Tall trees provide shade, and on a stroll along the coast you can watch the ocean liners on their way to exotic destinations.
In South Pointe Park you find pavilions in the shade, water dispensers and toilets, as well as barbecue and picnic areas. The observation deck with sun chairs and splendid ocean views is perfect for relaxing. And do not forget to pack swimsuits for your children, as there is a Wet Playground with fountains to cool off. Dogs are welcome in the park, as long as they walk on the leash. There is also a designated dog park for them to run around freely. On the boardwalk, you can watch some of the most beautiful sunsets that Miami Beach has to offer – only rivaled by the sparkling skyline in the distance.
SOUTH POINTE BEACH & PIER
Just a stone’s throw away lies South Pointe Beach – considered one of the city’s best beaches by many. Powdery sand, excellent cleanliness and crystal clear water awaits you here. South Pointe Beach is equipped with toilets, showers, sun chairs and umbrellas as well as snack bars for hungry beach-goers. Lifeguards are on duty around the clock. Besides relaxing and swimming, you can play beach volleyball or watch the scenery from above while parasailing. Guests who do get enough of strolls on the beach can walk the whole east coast of Miami Beach, make detours to the many restaurants and shops on Ocean Drive, and chill out in green areas like Lummus Park.
Situated at the southern most point of Miami Beach is South Pointe Pier, a popular spot for fishermen. But the water is not only teeming with fish. Sometimes Florida’s iconic manatees visit this coastal area. In the distance you can see the vacation island Key Biscayne. And if you love romantic sunsets, you have one more reason to visit the pier in the evening. The relaxed atmosphere makes South Pointe Pier a perfect place for the free meditation and yoga classes that are held here every week. Another sight awaits visitors who turn their head southward: Fisher Island, America’s most exclusive vacation spot, is home to famous celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Demi Moore and Oprah Winfrey.
Historically, the vicinity of South Pointe Park has been strongly influenced by the Jewish Community of Miami Beach. If you want to broaden your horizon after swimming and sunbathing, you should visit the Jewish Museum of Florida less than 1 mile from the beach. Here you find exhibitions highlighting 200 years of Jewish history in Florida.
RESTAURANTS IN SOUTH POINTE PARK AND THE SURROUNDING AREA
No matter if you prefer local or international cuisine – no visitor has to go hungry in South Beach.
Only one restaurant is located directly in South Pointe Park: the Smith & Wollensky. This restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood and tender steaks. If you want, you can dine outdoors with excellent ocean views. Additionally, the park also houses a café and a snack stand.
The award-winning Lobster Shack at the beginning of Ocean Drive attracts seafood lovers with its lobster creations, fresh shrimps, crabs and oysters.
Other culinary choices in the area include:
- Santorini by Georgis: a tavern serving traditional Greek specialties
- Lilikoi Organic Living: healthy dishes made with organic ingredients
- Big Pink: good old American cuisine in epic servings
- Rossella´s Kitchen: Italian delicacies at reasonable prices
- Sandwich Qbano South Beach: your top pick for Cuban Sandwiches in the area
- Joe´s Stone Crab: a popular sea food restaurant that celebrated its 100th birthday in 2013.
Besides its restaurants, South Miami Beach sports a multitude of cafés, cocktail bars and wineries.
SOUTH POINTE PARK – LOCATION, DIRECTIONS, PARKING AND OPENING TIMES
South Pointe Park is open daily from sunrise to 10 pm. You can access the boardwalk until 2 am, while South Pointe Pier is open from 7.30 am to 6 pm.
You can park your car next to the park for 2 USD/hour during the week. Parking on the weekend is more expensive. So why not leave the car at home and go by bicycle? This is easier than ever before thanks to the Sharing stations of Citi Bike. You can return your rental bicycle at any Citi Bike station you choose. Another popular transportation option is the free South Beach Trolley of Miami Beach.
