Where to Paddleboard in Miami?

Lest we forget, Miami is on the water with all sorts of hidden places just waiting for you to explore. Follow this guide to discover where to paddleboard in Miami!

Where to paddleboard in Miami?

It seems overwhelming, doesn’t it? Where do you paddleboard in Miami? Although it’s on the ocean, the city landscape makes the whole ordeal seem intimidating and downright impossible at times.

We’re here to tell you about the best possible spot to paddleboard in Miami. The best part? It’s fun, easy, and affordable to do it! In fact, it’s one of our favorite spots with crystal blue water, plenty of wildlife and secluded beaches. If you’re lucky, you might even have your own private beach!

The Best Place to Paddleboard in Miami

Just off the shores of Miami is the famous Key Biscayne. The island is a boater’s paradise and one of the last remaining slices of nature in the big city.

But where is Key Biscayne?

That’s in the Florida Keys, right? Not exactly!

Although it comes close to the northern end of the famous chain of islands, Key Biscayne is actually accessed from downtown Miami. Just take a short drive over the Rickenbacker Causeway and voila! You’ve arrived to Key Biscayne.

Why is Key Biscayne good for paddleboarding?

A refreshing slice of paradise, the island serves as an escape to natural settings amidst the big city landscape. The banks of Key Biscayne are often lined with secluded beaches, mangrove channels, thick tropical hammocks, and not to mention, beautifully transparent blue water.

As such, the island features an abundance of outdoor activities including sailing, windsurfing, hiking, beaching, cycling, and paddleboarding.

Skim across the coastal waters on a kayak or paddleboard peering at the marine life below: sea grass beds and mangrove roots filled with marine life such as sting rays, puffer fish, and even baby sharks!

Where to rent a kayak or paddleboard on Key Biscayne

If you don’t have your own, fear not! Renting a kayak or paddle board on Key Biscayne is easy with options scattered throughout the island.

• Virginia Key Outdoor Center: tucked away on Virginia Key (just before Key Biscayne) you can find kayak, paddle board rentals.
• Miami Watersports: You’ll find this operation on the first beach on your right before crossing the Rickenbecker Causeway.
• Miami Kiteboarding at Crandon Park: this is the best place to launch from as you can find those secret beaches we mentioned!
• Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park: this state park is a great place to visit even if you’re not paddling!

Where to launch your paddleboard on Key Biscayne

If you do have your own kayak or paddleboard, we highly recommend launching from the boat launch at Crandon Marina. The ramp is free to use and parking is cheap.

Not to mention, the launching point brings you near some of the most beautiful aspects of nature the island has to offer!

Navigating your paddleboard around the waters of Key Biscayne

Our favorite point of interest is the secluded beach on the east side of Key Biscayne. This point is easily accessed from Crandon Marina, Crandon Park, or Virginia Key. Although, you’ll be passing directly through a busy channel coming from Virginia Key. So proceed with caution.

However, from Crandon Marina, turn right as soon as you launch your paddleboard or kayak. You can pass through the mooring field of boats and gaze at your next impulsive purchase (I know it’ll be ours soon).

From there, turn right (east) as you enter the main channel. You’ll pass under the bridge you took to get there. Just be mindful of scraping along any seagrass below during low tide.

On the other side of the bridge, for the next half mile or so as you turn southeast along Key Biscayne, you’ll notice small coves with secret beaches, mangrove habitats, shallow sandbars filled with marine life, and lush seagrass beds below the surface.

Eventually, you’ll notice a nice stretch of sand you can access from your paddleboard. How large it is is entirely dependent on if the tide is high or low, so be sure to check it before you go!

As for navigating, in general, it’s tough to get lost. Just skim along the coast and stick close to the mangroves to block any wind and see some wildlife up close and personal!

Enjoying your secret beach on Key Biscayne

At low tide, the beach will certainly be exposed. This is a great place to go for a walk and check out the island! Just make sure your kayak or paddleboard is secure before leaving it behind – you’d hate for the tide to come back and sweep your gear away (this almost happened to us)!

At high tide, the story changes a little. Some parts of the beach won’t be exposed at all, with the water coming all the way up to the tree line. If that’s the case, go snorkeling!

You’d be absolutely blown away with the marine life you’ll find living in mangroves! And don’t worry! We promise it’s totally safe!

Paddleboarding in Miami Gear Recommendations

It’s a fun day but you need to do it right! Even if you’re renting a paddleboard or kayak, these few pieces of gear could potentially help save your day!

Snorkel Gear

Call us crazy, but we love to snorkel off of our kayak or paddleboard! This set will serve you well for a long time!

Looking to buy a paddleboard?

We use the Serenelife Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard. We love it. It’s a great board for beginner’s, easy to move around as it can deflate, and easy to use on the water. If you’re in the market, don’t hesitate with this one.

Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard

Where to paddleboard in Miami: Final Thoughts

Key Biscayne is our favorite place to paddleboard around Miami and it’s not even close. If you want nature, scenic views, wildlife encounters, and beautiful sunsets, this is your spot.

Crandon Marina is the best place to launch from as it puts in the center of the beauty. Cruise along the coast towards the east and you’ll do just fine! Have fun! Happy paddling!

Traveling to Miami?

Whether it’s for vacation, holiday, or a backpacking trip, these travel resources will help ease the pain of planning!