Is South Pointe Park free to enter?

Yes, South Pointe Park is a public park and is free for all visitors. It features walking paths, a pier, and beautiful beach access without any entrance fee.

What is the best walking tour Miami offers for nature lovers?

The South Pointe route is ideal because it focuses on the ocean, coastal dunes, and park greenery rather than just the urban sprawl. It offers the best views of the Atlantic and the shipping channel.

Can I see cruise ships from South Pointe Park?

Yes, this is the best spot in Miami to see them. Most cruise ships depart in the late afternoon (between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM) and pass directly by the park via Government Cut.

Is the South Pointe walk family-friendly?

Absolutely. The route is flat, stroller-friendly, and includes a splash pad and playground area within South Pointe Park for children to enjoy.

Where can I find the best sunset views in South Beach?

The South Pointe Park Pier is widely considered the best sunset spot. You get a clear view of the sun dipping behind the Downtown Miami skyline across the water.

Can I visit Joe's Stone Crab during the walk?

You can view the historic exterior and the takeaway shop. However, if you wish to dine in the main restaurant, be aware they do not take reservations and there is often a significant wait.

Is the South Pointe area safe at night?

Yes, the South of Fifth neighborhood is one of the safest and most upscale areas of Miami Beach. The park is well-lit and stays open until 10:00 PM.

Are there restrooms along the walking route?

Yes, there are clean, public restroom facilities located at the southern end of the walk within South Pointe Park, near the cafe and pier.

Is the walk accessible for people with mobility issues?

Yes, the entire route uses paved sidewalks and park paths with no stairs, making it accessible for wheelchairs and those with limited mobility.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Escape the neon-lit bustle of central Ocean Drive for a more serene side of the city with this South Pointe exploration. This self-guided walk invites you to discover the southern tip of Miami Beach, a neighborhood known as 'South of Fifth' or SoFi. It is an area where the island’s rich cultural history meets the expansive beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the busy maritime channels that serve as the gateway to the Caribbean. While many visitors stick to the party atmosphere of mid-beach, this walking route offers a sophisticated blend of heritage, world-class dining history, and some of the most spectacular waterfront views in Florida. Your journey begins in the heart of the historic Jewish district at the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU, housed in two beautifully restored synagogues. From there, the path transitions from urban history to coastal beauty as you wander through Marjory Stoneman Douglas Ocean Beach Park, named after the 'Grand Dame of the Everglades.' As you move further south, you will encounter the legendary Joe’s Stone Crab, a culinary landmark that has been serving locals and celebrities alike for over a century. This neighborhood stroll is not just about the past; it is about the living, breathing environment of Miami. The highlight of this route is the expansive South Pointe Park. Here, the landscape opens up into lush green spaces and winding promenades that run alongside Government Cut—the deep-water channel where massive cruise ships glide past so closely you feel you could touch them. You will pass the iconic Smith & Wollensky steakhouse, a prime spot for watching the sunset, before reaching the South Pointe Park Pier. This final stop provides a 360-degree vista of the Miami skyline, Fisher Island, and the endless horizon of the Atlantic. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect golden hour shot or a traveler seeking a peaceful afternoon, this walking tour Miami residents often recommend provides the perfect balance of leisure and discovery. Explore at your own pace and soak in the salt air on this essential South Beach neighborhood stroll.

Highlights

The historic Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU located in restored 1920s synagogues.

Breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from Marjory Stoneman Douglas Park.

The legendary history of Joe's Stone Crab, a South Beach institution since 1913.

Lush green spaces and panoramic walking trails at South Pointe Park.

Watching massive cruise ships navigate the Government Cut channel.

A stunning finish at the South Pointe Park Pier for sunset and skyline views.

Tour Stops (6)

Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU

Welcome to the starting point of your exploration. This museum is housed in two interconnected historic buildings that were once the first synagogues in Miami Beach. The original structure, built in 1929, features stunning Art Deco and Neo-Classical elements, including 80 stained-glass windows and a copper dome. This site serves as a powerful reminder that South Beach was once the heart of a vibrant Jewish community. As you stand here, consider how this neighborhood has transformed from a quiet religious enclave into an international tourism destination. The museum's collection tells the story of the Jewish experience in Florida since 1763, highlighting themes of resilience and cultural preservation that still resonate in Miami today.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas Ocean Beach Park

Leaving the museum, you arrive at this tranquil green space named after one of Florida's most fierce environmentalists. Marjory Stoneman Douglas is best known for her book 'The Everglades: River of Grass,' which changed the public perception of the wetlands from a swamp to a national treasure. This park offers a quieter alternative to the more crowded beaches further north. Notice the sea oats and natural dune vegetation designed to protect the island from erosion. It is a perfect spot to pause and appreciate the natural coastline before the route takes you toward the more developed southern tip of the island. The sound of the waves here provides a rhythmic backdrop to the city's hum.

Joe's Stone Crab

You are now standing outside a true Miami legend. Founded in 1913 by Joe Weiss, this restaurant actually predates the incorporation of the City of Miami Beach itself. Originally a small lunch counter, it became world-famous when Joe discovered that the local stone crabs—previously thought to be inedible—were actually a delicacy when boiled and chilled. Over the decades, this spot has hosted everyone from Al Capone to Frank Sinatra and various U.S. Presidents. While the restaurant is famous for its 'no reservations' policy and tuxedoed servers, its real legacy is the stone crab industry it helped create. The building's classic architecture stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Old Florida hospitality amidst a sea of modern high-rises.

South Pointe Park

Enter the crown jewel of the South of Fifth neighborhood. South Pointe Park is 17 acres of beautifully landscaped greenery, featuring winding paths, a splash pad, and sculptural light towers that glow at night. This area was once a derelict shipping yard and police stable before being transformed into this award-winning public space. As you walk through the park, look across the water to see Fisher Island, one of the wealthiest zip codes in America, accessible only by ferry. The park is a favorite for locals who come here to jog, picnic, or simply watch the massive cruise ships depart from PortMiami. It represents the successful blend of urban design and natural coastal beauty.

Smith & Wollensky - Miami Beach

Perched right on the edge of the Government Cut waterway, this iconic steakhouse offers arguably the best seat in the city for maritime watching. Government Cut is a man-made shipping channel dredged in the early 20th century to allow large vessels to reach the port. From this vantage point, you can watch pilot boats guide gargantuan ships through the narrow passage. The restaurant building itself, with its classic green and white exterior, has become a landmark of the South Pointe shoreline. Even if you aren't stopping for a meal, the public promenade surrounding the building allows you to feel the spray of the water and witness the incredible power of the Atlantic currents meeting the bay.

South Pointe Park Pier

Your journey concludes at the very tip of the island. The South Pointe Park Pier extends 450 feet into the Atlantic, offering a unique perspective of the beach's curve and the towering skyline of Downtown Miami to the west. This is a popular spot for local fishermen and sunset seekers. Look down into the clear water and you might spot sea turtles, rays, or colorful tropical fish congregating around the pier's pilings. As the sun begins to set, the sky often turns vibrant shades of pink and orange, reflecting off the glass towers of the city. It is the perfect place to reflect on the diversity of Miami—from its deep immigrant roots to its status as a modern maritime hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. This includes time to stop for photos at South Pointe Park and the Pier, covering a distance of about 1.5 miles.