Crandon Park is a large coastal park on Key Biscayne, at 6747 Crandon Blvd, southeast of Miami. Its palm-lined beach has shallow, relatively calm water, with picnic areas, restrooms and places to play volleyball. Beyond the sand, walking paths cross hammock forest and lead to a boardwalk overlooking Biscayne Bay. Look for birds and peacocks around the former zoo grounds, or explore the park’s mangroves, dunes and seagrass beds. Bring time for a swim, a walk and a shaded picnic.
A beach shaped by the offshore reef
Crandon Park occupies the northern part of Key Biscayne, a barrier island reached from Miami by the Rickenbacker Causeway. The park combines a long sandy shoreline with dunes, mangroves, seagrass beds and coastal hammock forest. Its natural areas make a beach visit easy to combine with a walk or wildlife watching.
An offshore sandbar helps shelter the shoreline from larger waves. The water is often described as calm and shallow, which suits families and swimmers who prefer gentler surf. The beach is also a place to snorkel near seagrass beds and fossilized reef, where colorful fish and other sea life can be found. Water conditions and seaweed can change, so check the shore when you arrive.
Trails, birds and the old zoo grounds
Walking paths cross the park’s hammock forest, and a boardwalk looks out over Biscayne Bay. The range of habitats, from open ground to wooded areas and beach, makes Crandon a useful stop for birdwatching. Peacocks roam around the former zoo grounds, alongside other wildlife. Give animals space and observe them without feeding or approaching them.
The zoo area has a layered past. Before it became a park, the land was part of a coconut plantation. Crandon Park Zoo later occupied the site; after a hurricane in 1965, the zoo closed and its grounds were converted into a botanical garden. Former animal enclosures remain among the greenery, with artwork on some of them. The garden’s mix of plants, birds and old structures offers a quieter change of pace from the beach.
Picnics and outdoor activities
Shaded picnic areas, tables and grills make the park practical for a longer outing. Shelters with grills can be reserved for gatherings, so arrange one in advance if you are planning a barbecue. There are also volleyball courts, playground equipment and walking and cycling routes. Cabanas and beach chairs are available to rent, and a snack bar provides a convenient option if you do not bring food.
The park’s activities extend beyond the beach. Its facilities include tennis and golf, while water-based options mentioned for the area include kayaking, paddleboarding and kiteboarding. Some activities involve rentals or lessons, so check availability and arrangements before setting out. With trails, picnic spots and a long stretch of sand, Crandon Park works well for a beach day that includes more than swimming.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Crandon Park?
It is on Key Biscayne at 6747 Crandon Blvd, southeast of Miami. The Rickenbacker Causeway connects Key Biscayne to the mainland.
Is the water suitable for children?
The shoreline is described as shallow and relatively calm, making it a popular choice for families. Supervise children in the water and follow posted safety signs.
Can you picnic or barbecue at Crandon Park?
Yes. The park has picnic areas, tables and grills. Shelters with grills can be reserved for gatherings.
What can you see beyond the beach?
Walking paths and a boardwalk cross natural areas, with views over Biscayne Bay. The former zoo grounds are now a botanical garden area where peacocks and other wildlife may be seen.
