One of the best parts about living in Miami is there are plenty of great spots to stand up paddleboard. Whether you’re an experienced pro or just starting, there’s a jumping off point suited for your skill set that offers beautiful views and a great time. If you’re ready to get out on the crystal clear waters and discover the best places to paddleboard in Miami, you’ve come to the right place.

1. Key Biscayne

If you’re looking for the best paddleboarding in Miami, you’d do well to head to Key Biscayne. There are a number of launch points, but you’ll find the clear turquoise waters offer perfect conditions for a leisurely paddle, and the stunning backdrop of the Miami skyline is a cherry on top.

For beginners, the water is usually pretty calm aside from the occasional wave and there are fewer boats creating chop in the area. If you’re more experienced, there are miles of coastline to explore in either direction.

2. Indian Creek (Pinetree Park)

You can access Indian Creek through Pinetree Park, located in Miami Beach. This nice change of pace launch point offers access to miles of waterways to explore. There are tons of beautiful homes that line up along Indian Creek, so you can enjoy a long leisurely paddle while you take in interesting architecture.

Depending on the time of day, the water is as calm as a lake. Unlike the oceans of Miami, the water is not clear and you can’t seen what’s beneath you. While the lack of waves make this very beginner friendly, you’ll want a paddle buddy to be safe.

3. Biscayne Bay (Miami Beach)

Biscayne Bay has gorgeous views of the city skyline, especially at sunset. Just imagine yourself gliding on glass-like water with beautiful golden rays reflecting off the water. Now, imagine a speed boat passing by, creating a wave that knocks you on your butt.

Biscayne Bay is beautiful, but can be very crowded – especially on weekends. As such, it’s not the best spot for beginners. Thanks to all the boats in the area, the water is dirtier and waves can be unpredictable. That said, it’s very scenic and there are plenty of waterways to explore the beautiful homes along the water.

Keep in mind, Biscayne Bay covers a very large area, here we’re referring specifically to the portion in Miami Beach.

4. Bill Baggs State Park

Located on the southernmost island of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs State Park is one of the best launch points in the city. Like Key Biscayne, this is one of our favorite spots because its natural beauty and it’s not too crowded.

Whether it’s your first time or one millionth time paddleboarding, we’re confident you’ll enjoy Bill Baggs.

5. Virginia Key (Miami South Channel)

The first of two primary launch points in Virginia Key, this is an especially popular location for boaters on the weekends. This is an interesting spot right next to the historic (and abandoned) Miami Marine Stadium.

As a heavily trafficked area, you’ll encounter tens of boats and boaters idling in the area for a weekend fiesta.

7. Little River (near Manatee Bend Park)

Here’s a chance to navigate Miami’s Little River. In this particular spot, the water tends to be pretty placid so it’s fairly suitable for beginners. You may also be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the manatees that populate the water!

Although the water isn’t difficult to navigate, it’s also somewhat dirty. We certainly wouldn’t want to fall in, so would only recommend this if you’re experienced and/or have great balance.

8. Margaret Pace Park (Intracoastal Waterway)

Margaret Pace Park is a cool spot for the daring and at least moderately skilled. This is a feast for the eyes as you can see the houses of Miami Beach and the Venetian Islands while gliding along the quintessential Miami blue water.

Margaret Pace Park offers another entry point into Biscayne Bay, but it’s technically the intracoastal waterway – which means you should be prepared for heavy traffic on the water.

9. Miami River (Brickell)

If you’re feeling adventurous, PADL has a location next to the W Miami hotel that offers access to the Miami River. You’ll be able to traverse the water with Miami’s most beautiful high rise buildings at your side.

This is a unique launch point but is a high traffic area and not suitable for beginners.

10. Dinner Key Channel (Peacock Park)

You can find this spot in Coconut Grove, and it’s basically a different entry point to the Biscayne Bay. The park and waterways offer some truly remarkable and stunning views. You may even catch a glimpse of a few wild peacocks from the shore. The area’s also well known for hosting a lot of sailboats.

The water isn’t the classic crystal clear blue you might hope for, but it’s also generally suitable for most or all skill levels.

11. Albert Pallot Park (Intracoastal)

Formerly known as the Jose Milton Park, this launch point is right next to the Julia Tuttle Causeway. As a general rule of thumb, any launch point next to a causeway tends to be heavily trafficked.

This is not our favorite spot, but it does offer access to some nice crystal blue water next to the coast. It’s also an interesting experience to paddle with the highway above your head.

12. Lamar Lake (Virginia Key)

Lamar Lake is something of a hidden gem for paddleboarding in Miami – and definitely our preferred launch point on Virginia Key. Picture calm and tranquil water, mangroves, and much more. You won’t regret spending a few peaceful hours here.

13. Oleta River State Park

If you’re looking for a bit of greenery while paddleboarding, head to Oleta River State Park. This beauty offers a slice of tranquil paradise right in the heart of the city. Navigate through mangrove forests and catch a glimpse of wildlife, you might even spot a manatee if you’re lucky.

14. Matheson Hammock Park

Matheson Hammock Park has a man-made atoll pool, making it a unique paddleboarding spot. Ideal for beginners and kids, the water provides a safe and calm environment to learn. Plus, with an onsite restaurant, it’s the perfect spot for a post-paddle bite to eat. If you want a bit of adventure, you can also paddle out to the nearby mangrove trails.

15. South Beach

Can you even say you’ve visited Miami without hitting the infamous South Beach? This spot isn’t just for sunbathing and beach volleyball. It’s also a decent place to paddleboard. Whether you’re catching the early morning calm or watching the sunset, there are a few entry points to get on the water.

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