Unlike the best things to do in Miami—which require some thought—some of the best things to do in Key Biscayne may be a tad obvious. For example: the beach! You probably don’t need an expert to tell you that the Key is home to some of the best Miami beaches. Hey, you may not even need us to point out the best Key Biscayne restaurants. Fine. We’re impressed. But we’d be willing to bet there’s at least one thing on this list you’ve never done before. Do you know about Key Biscayne’s hidden waterfront bar? What about the area’s best frozen drink? Or the music festival that comes to town once a year? See! You need us after all. We’re flattered! By the way, this list is curated, as always, but isn’t ranked—we just couldn’t choose favorites.
What is it? One of Miami’s most popular state parks, home to postcard beaches, plenty of fishing, kayaking, camping, windsurfing and cycling. But, of course, it’s also just an amazing place to have a lazy beach day. Admission is $5 per vehicle but, we must say, it’s very worth it.
Why go? To check out the oldest lighthouse in Miami-Dade County (and climb to the very top for an incredible view!).
What is it? A somewhat secret bar located on the University of Miami’s RSMAS campus. Thankfully this watering hole is open to the public because it happens to be situated right on the water and offers an absolutely mesmerizing water view.
Why go? Sipping a local brew while watching the sunset on Wetlab’s patio should be a requirement for every Miamian.
What is it? A prime example of Key Biscayne’s beauty. The beach here is just lovely and it’s surrounded by no shortage of activities: golf, tennis, water sports and bold iguanas just to name a few. On pretty weekends, Crandon is the place to be in Key Biscayne.
Why go? Because the Crandon Park Nature Center offers guided tours and walks that’ll help you glimpse the area’s surprisingly diverse wildlife.
What is it? An annual yacht and marine show that invades the Miami Marine Stadium every February. There are tons of exhibitors, crazy marine technology and even more sexy boats to stare at.
Why go? To try and talk your way into the VIP tent (or buy a ticket for $125), where you can sip free rosé and pretend to own a yacht named Sheila.
What is it? A two-day music festival that calls Historic Virginia Key Beach Park home. The 2018 headliners include Chromeo, Foster the People and M.I.A. Previous years saw Flaming Lips, MGMT and more. Hopefully, future years will keep up the good work.
Why go? Not crazy enough for Ultra? Not high enough for III Points? House of Creatives may be just right for you.
What is it? A waterfront bar and restaurant where Miami boaters love to dock and dine. The atmosphere is sandals casual and the menu full of fried seafood is precisely the sort of thing one craves after an afternoon on the water.
Why go? Order a Miami Vice with a Myers's Rum float at exactly 5:30pm and you become an official Key Biscayne citizen.
What is it? Key Biscayne’s most popular waterfront restaurant is also home to one of Miami’s most popular brunches. Bloody Marys are a must and good luck picking between the four different types of Benedicts. Lobster or filet mignon?
Why go? The $65 preset brunch makes things easy on you with three-courses of decadence.
What is it? Dramatic orca controversy aside, the Seaquarium is still a really popular Miami attraction. Get up close to dolphins, sea turtles, seals, manatees, penguins, flamingos and a lot more.
Why go? After visiting the touch pool you’ll be able to tell your friends you touched a shark.
What is it? Every Saturday, down at the Key Biscayne Community Church (355 Glenridge Road), local farmers gather to hawk their freshest goods. This weekly market goes on from 9am to 2pm in the heart of Key Biscayne.
Why go? You haven’t lived until you throw some fresh fruit into your beach picnic mix.
What is it? You probably don’t need us to tell you that the Ritz-Carlton is a brand that knows a thing or two about pampering. But we are here to assure you that the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is a straight-up stunning property and after a massage or facial here, that stress is going to be nowhere in sight.
Why go? You don’t need deep pockets to unwind. Nab a classic manicure for $45 (only $40 for the fellas).
There are a ton of possibilities over that bridge.
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