Just a few miles from MiamiPort lies Key Biscayne, a barrier island often favored by politicians and celebrities seeking respite from colder northern climates. The island is adorned with lush tropical foliage and features Crandon Park Beach, one of South Florida’s most beautiful beaches, complete with 13 lifeguard stands.
Visitors can rent bicycles or four-wheel surreys to explore the island’s four-mile stretch, making Crandon Beach the perfect starting point for relaxation—perhaps even in a rented cabana. Half of the island is occupied by Crandon Park, while the other half hosts Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, which charges a party entry fee of $8. At the park’s tip stands the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, built in 1825, where adventurous guests can climb a 109-step spiral staircase for stunning views, while others can enjoy the benches below. It’s advisable to check on restoration work before planning a visit.
Key Biscayne also offers dining options along its residential area, and nature enthusiasts can explore the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center. This center features four marked trails that can be hiked in 25 to 60 minutes.
For those seeking culture, the Pérez Art Museum Miami showcases contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. A short ride on the free Coral Way trolley from MiamiPort brings visitors to the museum, which boasts a unique architectural design that includes iconic hanging gardens—seven columns of lush plants creating a living sculpture. Inspired by the stilted fish houses of “Stiltsville” from the 1920s and ’30s, the museum houses numerous works by Latin American artists and hosts special exhibitions. Admission is $18 for adults but free for teachers, military personnel, and first responders. Nearby, the Frost Science Museum, Aquarium, and Planetarium also offer engaging activities for families.