Haulover Beach

Haulover Beach is part of Haulover Park at 10801 Collins Ave in Miami Beach, Florida, about 14 miles (23 km) north of downtown Miami. The beach is a wide, open stretch of pale, soft sand facing the Atlantic, with clear blue-green water and surf that is exposed to wind and swell, so conditions are livelier than at the sheltered bay beaches. Dune vegetation backs much of the shoreline, giving it a more natural look than the high-rise beaches to the south. The beach has distinct sections. Most of it is clothed and used by families, groups and sunbathers, while a clothing-optional section lies at the north end only, so visitors who prefer a clothed beach should stay south of that area. Haulover Park also has a kite field, which draws kite flyers on breezy days, and a marina is nearby. The atmosphere is relaxed and diverse rather than a party scene. Amenities include lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic areas and paid parking. Parking costs about $7 USD on weekdays and $10 USD on weekends and holidays, though visitors should confirm current rates. The park's phone number is 305-947-3525. Access is by car or rideshare, about 30 minutes from downtown depending on traffic, and Miami-Dade Transit buses serve Collins Avenue, with schedules available through the Miami-Dade Transit Tracker app. Walking from the parking lot to the sand is short and flat, though the sand itself is soft and can be tiring to cross. Crowds build on weekends and holidays, and the lots can fill by midday, so early arrival is the most reliable way to find parking close to the beach crossings. Bring shade, because natural cover is limited, and note that surf and rip currents can be stronger here than on the sheltered bay beaches, so swimmers should stay near lifeguard towers and follow the posted flags.