Virginia Key Beach Park

About Virginia Key Beach Park

Virginia Key Beach Park is a historic and beautifully restored beach on the island of Virginia Key, located just across the Rickenbacker Causeway from downtown Miami. The park has deep historical significance — during the era of segregation, it was the only beach in Miami-Dade County open to Black residents, and it played an important role in the civil rights movement. Today, Virginia Key Beach Park is a peaceful oasis with a quiet shoreline on Biscayne Bay, native coastal vegetation, and a network of nature trails through mangrove and tropical hardwood hammock ecosystems. The park features a restored vintage carousel, a miniature train ride, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and covered picnic pavilions with bay views. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for families, and the beach rarely gets crowded even on weekends. The park also hosts community events, outdoor movie nights, and cultural programs throughout the year. Mountain bikers love the Virginia Key mountain bike trails just south of the beach park. Entrance is $8 per vehicle. Virginia Key Beach Park is one of the most underrated outdoor destinations in Miami — combining history, nature, and a beautiful beach setting just minutes from the city center.