23 Of The Best Nature Things To Do In Miami

Miami may be well known for boisterous and world-famous nightlife but that’s a far cry from all the area has to offer.

Every time I visit Miami I’m surprised by all the wonderful things to do here, outside what the stereotypes depict.

With two national parks, a handful of state parks, and incredible beaches abound, there’s no shortage of activities for outdoor lovers in the Miami area!

Read on for the best nature things to do in Miami, Florida.

The Best Nature Things To Do In Miami

Hit The Beach

Located In Miami

While in Miami you must take advantage of the white sand beaches and turquoise water.

Most beaches here are both public and free, making a beach day an extremely easy activity for outdoor lovers.

Lummus Park off Ocean Drive is Miami’s most famous beach.

Here you’ll find the colorful, Instagram-famous lifeguard stands and lots of bars hosting all day parties.

If you’re looking for something quieter, don’t worry, there’s plenty of options. Check out Mid-Beach, Surfside, or Bal Harbour, just to name a few.

You’ll find Miami has no shortage of quality beaches.

Popular Beach Activities in Miami:

If you’re up for outdoor activities, consider these popular water sports while visiting the beach:

• Parasailing
• Swimming
• Jet skiing
• Windsurfing
• Snorkeling
• Kite Flying 

Biscayne National Park

Distance From Miami: 50 minutes (40 miles)

Biscayne National Park offers something for everyone, with paddle adventures, boating, coral reefs, eco-adventures, snorkel and scuba trips.

Not to mention, over 10,000 years of human history to explore. 

Immerse yourself within countless marine ecosystems, or learn how pirates and presidents shaped the land you see today. 

Tip: Don’t forget your bug spray! 

Things To Do In Biscayne National Park 

• Visit Boca Chita Key.
• Snorkel or scuba dive the ship wrecks along the Maritime Heritage Trail.
• Kayak in Jones Lagoon.

Biscayne National Park Tours 

If you’d like to explore Biscayne National Park with a tour guide, check out Biscayne National Park Institute.

They offer various tour packages for snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddling, or cruises.

Visit The Miami Beach Botanical Gardens

Located In Miami 

Thanks to Miami’s tropical climate you’ll find beautiful, lush plant life growing in abundance!

Among the fountains and ponds at Miami Beach Botanical Garden are hundreds of plants such as orchids, philodendrons, and flowering trees.

The Botanical Gardens also feature a Native Garden, Edible Garden, and Japanese Garden.

Be sure to check out this tropical getaway in the urban jungle if you’re looking for nature things to do in Miami.

Best of all, general admission is free.

Visit Everglades National Park 

Distance From Miami: Roughly 1.5 hours (about 55 miles)

Everglades National Park encompasses over 1.5 million acres of wetlands, making it the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

Here you’ll find endangered and protected species like the American alligator, Florida panther, and West Indian manatee.  

This massive park can be explored through hikes, boat and paddle tours, camping trips, and so much more. 

Things To Do In Everglades National Park

• Watch for gators (and birds!) along the park’s trails.
• Tram or bike Shark Valley Road.
• Go for an airboat, canoe, or kayak tour.

Everglades National Park Tours

A boat tour is one of the most popular ways to see Everglades National Park.

There are a number of ranger-led tours within the park which you can check out at Everglades National Park Ranger Programs.

If you need a tour which includes pick up and drop off in Miami, check out this Biologist-Led Everglades National Park Tour.

It includes a full day Everglades cruise, hike, and airboat tour with master naturalist.

Keep in mind, tours need to be reserved in advance during peak seasons.

Go For A Sunset Cruise In Miami

Located In Miami

For a special experience that mixes nature and city life, go for a sail through the calm water of Miami’s Biscayne Bay.

This is not only a great way to catch the sunset but it also provides excellent views of downtown Miami.

You’ll find many companies offering a variety of tour options. Our large group chose a private sunset sail, similar to this one: Private Sunset Cruise.

Prefer something a little more low key?

So Flo Water Adventures hosts a nighttime paddle through Miami River which offers excellent views of downtown.

Barnacle Historic State Park

Located In Miami

Barnacle Historic State Park is a historic home in Coconut Grove overlooking Biscayne Bay.

Pioneer Ralph Middleton Munroe built the Barnacle in 1891, and much of what you can find here today has been untouched throughout time.

Munroe wished to preserve the forest surrounding his home, leaving intact many old growth trees and native plants.

If what you seek is nature and Miami history, this cozy site is a must.  

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Distance From Miami: 20 minutes (8 miles)

Just south of Miami, about 20 minutes from South Beach, is an island called Key Biscayne.

This is where you’ll find the beautiful Cape Florida Lighthouse and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park.

This is a relaxing and quiet area to walk around and take in the views.

The lighthouse is close to the city, yet just far enough to find some serenity.

This is one of the best places to enjoy the sunset or an afternoon away from the crowds of South Beach.   

Additional Things To Do In Key Biscayne

• Take a boat trip to Stiltsville.
• See the peacocks at Crandon Park Peacock Shelter.
• Walk the tropical trails of Bear Cut Nature Preserve in Crandon Park.

Go For A Bike Tour Of Miami

Located In Miami

A bike tour is a great way to learn about Miami while enjoying the great outdoors.

Go for an easy ride through the City of Miami Beach and the Art Deco District while learning about the city’s history and architecture.

If you’re up for a longer ride — we’re talking 20 miles — following the coastline the entire way check out this tour with Damian Rudys.

Prefer to go at it yourself? Rent bikes and explore South Beach’s Art Deco District at your own pace.

Matheson Hammock Park & Marina 

Distance From Miami: 30 minutes (9 miles)

Matheson Hammock in Coral Gables is known as a kiteboarder haven, as well as an extremely scenic spot to relax.

The park covers more than 630 acres and features plenty of biking and walking trails, mature trees, and a calm cove perfect for kiteboarding.

Not to mention, restaurants and picnic spots.

Best of all, it’s a quieter experience than you’d find on some of Miami’s more well-known beaches. 

Tip: This is a great spot to catch the sunrise.

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Distance From Miami: 30 minutes (9 miles)

While visiting Matheson Hammock, be sure to check out the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.

This popular exhibit showcases collections of rare tropical plants including palms, cycads, flowering trees, and abundant vines.

If you’re into photography, you’ll love this spot. The reflections are excellent.

Keep an eye on their event calendar. They offer lots of community events such as outdoor concerts and educational programs for kids.

Catch A Sunset At Deering Estate

Distance From Miami: 35 minutes (14 miles)

Located in the Village of Palmetto Bay is charming Deering Estate.

This is a 21st century home, museum, and environmental preserve listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The estate, which is one of the best kept secrets of Miami’s nature scene, offers incredible views over Biscayne Bay making it an excellent spot to watch the sunset.

In addition to gorgeous views, the state-protected property covers 444 acres of coastal Miami.

They offer everything from canoe tours and bird walks along nature trails, to moonlit kayaking and Biscayne Bay boat tours.

Kayak Or Stand Up Paddle Board With Manatees

Distance From Miami: 35 minutes (16 miles)

Explore a lush mangrove jungle as you wind through narrow canals near Oleta River State Park.

During this stand up paddle tour you’ll be on the lookout for all different types of wildlife including manatees, iguanas, birds, crabs, fish, raccoons even possibly dolphins.

There are numerous tour options available, check popular tour through So Flo Water Adventures. 

Keep in mind, manatees are most commonly spotted in this area November – March. It is not common to see them during the summer months.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is another great place for those who love both nature and history.

The early 20th century Vizcaya estate in Coconut Grove is home to Italian Renaissance gardens, native landscape such as a lagoon garden, and a historic village outbuildings compound.

This is in addition to the Tuscan-inspired villa once owned by Miami businessman James Deering.

The property is set on a stunning shoreline of mangrove swamps and dense inland native tropical forests.

Virginia Key Beach Park 

Distance From Miami: 10 minutes (4 miles)

Virginia Key Beach is located in popular Key Biscayne, just south of Miami.

This beautiful stretch of sand is known for its natural landscape, mature palms, and ever-abundant mangroves.

The beach is perfect for those who love outdoor activities, soaking up the sun on a quiet sandy beach, and nature walks.

While you’re in the area, be sure to also check out Crandon Beach Park, sea turtles are known to nest here.

Montgomery Botanical Garden

Distance From Miami: 30 minutes (9 miles)

Montgomery Botanical Garden is a haven for much of the world’s species of palm trees, with over 3,000 represented here. 

Additionally, you’ll find cycads here.

This is a plant group most closely associated with the Jurassic period (yeah, the dinosaurs) and are extremely rare throughout most of the world today. 

This is a really unique center which focuses mainly on research and conservation of palms, cycads, and tropical conifers from around the world. 

Tours are available by reservation only, check for availability at: Montgomery Botanical Garden.

Oleta River State Park

Distance From Miami: 30 minutes (16 miles)

Florida’s largest urban park will make you forget you’re within a half hour of one of the most vibrant cities in the country. 

The park offers over 1,000 acres of protected land full of various hiking and biking trails, great for all skill levels.

Tip: Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife through Oleta River State Park!

This oasis is frequented by local mountain bikers, swimmers, paddlers, and anglers alike and is perfect if you’re looking for the best nature things to do in Miami. 

Fun Fact: The park is a popular stop for long-distance paddlers on the 1,515 mile Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail. 

Big Cypress National Preserve

Distance From Miami: Roughly 1 hour, 5 minutes (about 50 miles)

Located within the previously mentioned Everglades National Park is the crown jewel of the western Everglades, Big Cypress National Preserve.

Conserving over 729,000 acres of vast swamp, the preserve contains a mixture of tropical and temperate plants.

Ultimately providing a home to diverse and rare wildlife, including the endangered Florida panther.

In fact, this preserve is one of the most likely spots to see a Florida panther in their natural habitat. 

Things To Do In Big Cypress National Preserve

• Go for a swampy hike.
• Canoe the Turner River.
• Go for a scenic drive.
• Stick around at night for some epic stargazing.

Big Cypress National Preserve Tours

The preserve is managed by the National Park Service, which offers a variety of ranger-led tours. Check out tours at Everglades National Park Ranger Programs.

Additionally, there are popular tours such as this 4 hour swamp buggy adventure tour or this biologist-led hike and boat tour through the preserve.

Key West, Florida

Distance From Miami: 3 hours, 45 minutes (165 miles)

Key West, Florida is an island city sitting roughly half way between Miami and Cuba.

It’s famous for water sports, snorkeling, and pristine turquoise waters, it’s truly an outdoor lovers paradise.

To get here you’ll either need to rent a car or hire a guide for the day.

Keep in mind the islands are almost 4 hours from Miami, so this requires a very long travel day.

Things To Do In Key West, Florida

• Explore quiet and remote islands by boat.
• Enjoy some of Florida’s best snorkeling.
• Catch an incredible sunset at Mallory Square.
• Stand at the southernmost point in the United States.

Check out this GPS audio tour which follows Miami to Key West and provides lots of interesting facts and entertaining information each direction of your drive.

It’s only few dollars and can be purchased here: Guide Along Miami to Key West.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Distance From Miami: 6+ hours (186 miles)

If you wish to visit Dry Tortugas National Park you’ll need to spend a night in Key West.

Dry Tortugas is 70 miles from Key West and only accessible by ferry or seaplane.

So this definitely isn’t reasonable as a day trip from Miami, but I wanted to add it to the list for those who enjoy checking national parks off their bucket list (like me!)

The seven remote islands which make up the park have beautiful white sandy beaches and abundant coral reefs.

Here you may just find sunken gold treasure, or more likely an abundance of sea turtles, as you partake in an epic snorkeling or diving excursion.

But again, this remote paradise is accessible only by boat, ferry, or seaplane, so will require time and planning.

Things To Do In Dry Tortugas National Park  

• Snorkel or scuba dive.
• Explore Fort Jefferson.
• Swim at South Swim Beach.
• Hike and watch for wildlife on Garden Key.

Day Trips From Miami For Outdoor Lovers

Miami is surrounded by beautiful attractions, some of which can easily be reached in just a few hours.

For some of the best day trips from Miami for outdoor lovers check out:

• Snorkel in Key Largo.
• Golf in West Palm Beach.
• Ferry to the beautiful Bahamas beaches.
• Enjoy water sports on the Gulf of Mexico in Naples.
• See Florida’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Okeechobee.

Nature Things To Do With Kids in Miami

Below are some popular nature activities in Miami that are kid-friendly:

• Visit Monkey Jungle.
• Go for a bike ride in Oleta River State Park.
• See animals at Zoological Wildlife Foundation Miami.
• Explore Jungle Island.
• Go for a walk through Cape Florida State Park.
• Spend a day at Zoo Miami.
• Visit Miccosukee Indian Village.
• Spend a day at Matheson Hammock Park.

Outdoor Urban Attractions In Miami

Below are popular outdoor urban attractions in Miami:

• South Pointe Park
• Wynwood Arts District
• Fruit & Spice Park 
• Tour Little Havana
• Bayside Marketplace
• The Underline Park
• Soundscape Park (they host free concerts!)
• Heartland Miami (outdoor dining and live music)
• Bayside Marketplace

As you can see, there are so many things to do in Miami for nature lovers.

I really feel Miami (and Florida in general) is often overlooked by outdoor enthusiasts.

Any questions or additional ideas? Please leave a comment below.

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional Miami guides below or head on over to Trip Advisor.