Cutler Bay is one of Miami-Dade County’s best-kept secrets — a town that blends lush tropical beauty, rich history, and easy access to Biscayne Bay’s shimmering waters. Whether you’re a local exploring your backyard or a visitor seeking authentic South Florida experiences, Cutler Bay offers an ideal mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and local flavor. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Cutler Bay.
Top Attractions & Landmarks 🏛️
- 🐠 Biscayne National Park – Located just east of Cutler Bay, this underwater paradise offers snorkeling, kayaking, and boat tours through coral reefs and mangrove islands. Explore its crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral gardens. The park’s Dante Fascell Visitor Center provides exhibits and guided excursions, while boat charters allow visitors to reach remote islands and the famous Maritime Heritage Trail of shipwrecks. Adventurers can join ranger-led eco-tours, birdwatching cruises, or photography workshops that capture the pristine beauty of South Florida’s marine life. The park also offers scuba diving and paddleboard rentals, making it a haven for both explorers and families.
- 🏡 Charles Deering Estate – A 444-acre historical site featuring a Spanish Revival mansion, hardwood hammocks, and bayfront views where you can spot manatees. The estate blends architecture, art, and nature, offering guided tours, cultural festivals, and archaeological walks through ancient Tequesta sites. Visitors can explore mangrove boardwalks, take moonlight kayak tours, or attend seasonal art exhibitions. The Deering Estate is also a hub for nature photography and outdoor performances, attracting visitors year-round with its scenic beauty and cultural programming.
- 🦒 Zoo Miami – A 700-acre tropical zoo with over 2,500 animals in cageless habitats, divided into zones like Africa, Asia, and the Amazon. Guests can rent safari cycles, take tram rides, or feed giraffes at interactive stations. The zoo’s immersive exhibits include children’s water play zones, conservation areas, and themed events such as Zoo Lights during the holidays. Animal lovers can enjoy behind-the-scenes experiences like rhino feedings or zookeeper talks. With lush landscaping and interactive attractions, Zoo Miami offers both education and adventure for all ages.
- 🧱 Coral Castle – An intriguing monument carved from coral rock by one man, featuring massive gates and mysterious structures. It’s a marvel of mystery and engineering surrounded by legends of lost love. Visitors can explore its labyrinth-like layout, marvel at hand-carved coral furniture, and learn about the enigmatic techniques Edward Leedskalnin used. The attraction also offers guided storytelling tours, art displays, and night events that illuminate the stone sculptures for an even more mystical experience.
- 🎭 Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center – The town’s cultural hub, hosting concerts, theater, and ballet in a modern architectural venue. Its striking design and kinetic light art installations make it an architectural landmark. Inside, visitors can enjoy symphony performances, independent film screenings, dance recitals, and visual art showcases. The center’s outdoor lawn often becomes a stage for community festivals, food truck nights, and open-air movie events, making it a lively gathering space for locals and tourists alike.
- 🛍️ Southland Mall – The main shopping and entertainment center since 1960, offering dining, boutiques, and a cinema. A $1 billion revitalization is transforming it into a modern lifestyle destination. The revamped complex will feature open-air plazas, family-friendly entertainment zones, and a mix of luxury and local retail stores. Visitors can enjoy weekend markets, pop-up art installations, and live music performances in its new event spaces. Whether for shopping, dining, or simply people-watching, Southland Mall remains at the heart of Cutler Bay’s social and commercial life.
Outdoor Adventures 🌳🚣♀️
- ⚓ Black Point Park & Marina – A top outdoor attraction offering boating, fishing, and waterfront dining. Walk the 1.5-mile jetty for scenic views, join fishing charters, or enjoy live music at Black Point Ocean Grill. The marina features a lively boardwalk, rental services for kayaks and paddleboards, and picnic areas with grills for family barbecues. Visitors can also spot manatees near the dock or embark on eco-tours into Biscayne Bay’s mangrove creeks. It’s an all-day adventure spot blending nature and leisure.
- 🌿 Lakes by the Bay Park – A 45-acre park featuring sports fields, tennis courts, and a kayak launch. Birdwatchers and photographers love its mangrove-lined lagoon and family-friendly spaces. Beyond sports and recreation, the park hosts outdoor fitness classes, weekend yoga sessions, and seasonal community festivals. Its walking and biking paths wind through shaded areas, offering peaceful views of native plants and local bird species like egrets and herons.
- 🏕️ Larry & Penny Thompson Park – A 300-acre nature park with camping sites, hiking trails, and a freshwater swimming lake — a serene escape surrounded by pine forests and wildflowers. The campground includes 200 RV and tent sites, a pet-friendly policy, and nature programs led by park rangers. Families can enjoy picnic shelters, volleyball courts, and a swimming beach complete with lifeguards in summer. It’s a perfect retreat for camping weekends and star-filled nights.
- 🍈 Fruit & Spice Park – A 37-acre tropical garden with 500+ exotic fruit, spice, and herb varieties. Take guided tram tours or sample seasonal tropical fruits like lychees and mangoes. The park also features educational programs, tasting tours, and an on-site café serving fruit-based desserts and beverages. Each month highlights different crops, from jackfruit to dragon fruit, creating a new sensory experience for repeat visitors. It’s both a botanical treasure and a foodie’s paradise.
- 🚴♂️ Coral Reef Park – A nearby gem with a weekend farmers’ market, kayaking canal, and shaded picnic areas ideal for family gatherings. Locals enjoy morning jogs along the canal trail, while families picnic under banyan trees. The farmers’ market offers artisan goods, organic produce, and live music, adding a vibrant community feel. Kayakers and paddleboarders can launch from the park’s access ramp for tranquil paddles through calm waterways surrounded by tropical scenery.
Family-Friendly Fun 👨👩👧👦🎈
- 🤸♀️ Sky Zone Trampoline Park – Bounce, flip, and soar at this huge indoor park with foam pits, basketball dunk zones, and glow nights. The facility also features dodgeball courts, climbing walls, and toddler play areas, making it suitable for all ages. Parents can participate in open jump sessions or watch from the lounge while enjoying refreshments. The park hosts birthday parties, fitness events, and nighttime neon sessions with music and lights, offering endless fun.
- 🎮 Chuck E. Cheese Adventure Zone – A reinvented family favorite featuring LED dance floors, obstacle courses, and a relaxing café for parents. Kids can explore themed tunnels, interactive games, and ride simulators while parents unwind in cozy seating areas. Birthday packages include live character shows and photo booths. It’s a full experience that merges nostalgia for adults with modern excitement for kids.
- 🍓 Burr’s Berry Farm – Pick your own strawberries, enjoy hayrides, and sip on their iconic milkshakes during the winter-spring harvest. The farm expands its offerings with sunflower mazes, play zones, and farm-to-table food trucks. Visitors can tour seasonal gardens, visit small petting enclosures, or join weekend festivals celebrating local agriculture. It’s an authentic countryside escape blending fun, food, and family memories.
- 🚂 Gold Coast Railroad Museum – Explore real locomotives and the historic presidential railcar used by Truman and Roosevelt. A treat for both kids and history buffs. Guests can take short train rides, learn from interactive exhibits about steam engines, and attend themed events like the Polar Express holiday train. The museum also has a model railroad room and special guided tours that teach the evolution of American rail travel.
Dining & Local Favorites 🍽️🌮
- 🐟 Black Point Ocean Grill – Enjoy conch fritters, mahi sandwiches, and cocktails by the marina. Live music and open-air seating make it a perfect sunset spot. Guests can dine while overlooking the boats, with the option to order fresh catch specials or handcrafted tropical drinks. The ambiance mixes rustic charm with island vibes, and evenings often feature local bands that create an energetic yet laid-back atmosphere. It’s a quintessential waterfront experience that captures the spirit of Cutler Bay.
- 🍛 Urban Rrasoi – Authentic Indian curries, naan, and tandoori dishes with a warm, family-friendly ambiance. Beyond its savory menu, Urban Rrasoi offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to suit every diet. The staff’s hospitality and use of traditional spices transport diners straight to India. Try the butter chicken or paneer tikka masala with garlic naan for a perfect meal. Their weekend buffet and chai service are local favorites, drawing repeat visitors for their freshness and quality.
- 🍣 Moon Thai & Japanese – A colorful fusion spot offering sushi, Thai curries, and hibachi dinners with flair. The restaurant’s contemporary décor and upbeat atmosphere make it ideal for both casual dining and special occasions. Guests can enjoy hibachi chefs performing tableside shows, signature rolls like the Miami Heat, and flavorful curries bursting with coconut and lemongrass. It’s a culinary blend that combines artistry and taste in equal measure.
- 🌯 Ernesto’s Taco Shop – Local favorite for authentic Mexican street food — tacos al pastor, burritos, and fresh guacamole. The small, vibrant eatery serves handmade tortillas and salsas prepared daily, with an open kitchen that fills the space with the scent of grilled meat and spices. Their carne asada tacos and horchata are crowd-pleasers, while friendly service makes everyone feel like family. It’s an unpretentious gem perfect for quick, flavorful meals.
- 🍔 PubGrill – A cozy local hangout serving burgers, wings, and craft beers — perfect for watching the game or relaxing after a long day. Known for its community feel, PubGrill features trivia nights, live sports screenings, and weekend specials that bring locals together. The menu extends beyond typical pub fare, offering gourmet burgers, house-made sauces, and local brews on tap. Whether you’re looking for hearty comfort food or a casual night out, PubGrill offers a warm, lively experience that embodies Cutler Bay’s friendly charm.
Cultural & Historical Highlights 🕍🎨
- 🏘️ Cauley Square Historic Village – Step back into early-1900s Florida through restored cottages, lush gardens, and antique shops. A picturesque escape filled with art and live music events. Visitors can stroll along brick pathways shaded by banyan trees, explore art galleries, and discover unique collectibles in the vintage shops. Regular cultural festivals, artisan fairs, and seasonal holiday markets bring this historic village to life with color and music. The site also offers guided tours that explain its history as a former railroad town, making it an immersive experience for history lovers and families alike.
- 🖼️ Deering Estate – A unique blend of art, history, and nature featuring architecture, archaeological sites, and outdoor concerts along Biscayne Bay. The estate hosts artist residencies, plein air painting sessions, and rotating art exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors can explore its historic homes, prehistoric fossil sites, and scenic trails while attending outdoor film screenings or wine tastings by the bay. The combination of natural beauty, cultural enrichment, and historical preservation makes the Deering Estate one of South Florida’s most iconic destinations.
- 🎶 Moss Cultural Arts Center – A symbol of Cutler Bay’s creativity, hosting concerts, plays, and art exhibits year-round. The center’s modern architecture and light-filled interiors provide a perfect setting for symphonies, theater performances, and art showcases. Community-driven events like poetry nights, dance recitals, and multicultural festivals highlight the diverse spirit of the region. Visitors can attend workshops, family-friendly performances, and exhibitions that celebrate both local and international talent, making the center a cornerstone of artistic expression in Cutler Bay.
Events & Seasonal Highlights 🎉🌺
- 🦞 Deering Seafood Festival – A springtime celebration filled with local seafood, live music, chef demos, and family fun. This festival transforms the Deering Estate into a lively coastal fairground filled with the scent of grilled fish, paella, and crab cakes. Attendees can enjoy cooking competitions, craft beer gardens, children’s play zones, and guided nature tours. It’s a true community event that combines culinary excellence with waterfront entertainment.
- 💃 Hispanic Heritage Celebration – A fall festival showcasing Latin culture through music, food, and vibrant dance performances. Expect salsa, merengue, and reggaeton concerts, folkloric dances, and delicious Latin cuisine from local vendors. The celebration also includes art displays, cultural workshops, and family-friendly activities that honor the diversity of Miami’s Hispanic community.
- 🥕 Palmetto Bay Farmers Market – Every weekend, enjoy fresh produce, artisan goods, and live music under shady trees. The market hosts rotating vendors featuring tropical fruits, organic vegetables, handcrafted jewelry, and gourmet food trucks. Local musicians add rhythm to the morning as visitors sip coffee and explore booths. It’s both a shopping and social experience that reflects Cutler Bay’s local charm.
- 🚜 Burr’s Berry Farm Harvest Season – Strawberry picking, sunflower fields, food trucks, and hayrides make this a beloved seasonal event. Families can stroll through fields of bright sunflowers, visit small petting zoos, and enjoy homemade strawberry desserts and ice cream. The farm hosts weekend concerts, craft stalls, and kids’ play areas, turning the harvest season into a festival of color, flavor, and joy.
Water & Boating Activities 🌊⛵
- 🛶 Kayaking & Canoeing – Glide through mangroves at Black Point or Lakes by the Bay, spotting dolphins and manatees along the way. For adventure seekers, sunrise and sunset kayaking tours reveal stunning skies reflected on Biscayne Bay’s calm waters. Several local outfitters rent kayaks and paddleboards, offering guided eco-tours that teach about marine life and mangrove ecology. You might even spot herons, pelicans, or rays gliding just beneath the surface — it’s a serene and scenic way to explore Cutler Bay’s natural side.
- 🎣 Fishing – Cast a line from the jetty or charter a boat for offshore reef fishing adventures. Black Point Marina is a local favorite, providing access to both shallow bay fishing and deep-sea excursions. Anglers can expect to catch species like snapper, grouper, tarpon, and mahi-mahi depending on the season. Many charters offer half- or full-day trips, complete with all the gear you need and experienced captains who know the best spots. It’s an ideal pastime for both seasoned fishermen and beginners eager to reel in a big catch.
- 🚤 Boating – Launch from Black Point Marina to explore Elliott Key and Sands Key, ideal for snorkeling or island picnics. The marina’s facilities include fuel docks, a bait shop, and a waterfront restaurant for a post-adventure meal. Boaters can enjoy calm waters perfect for family outings or explore the open bay leading toward the upper Florida Keys. For those without a vessel, guided boat tours and sunset cruises provide a relaxing way to enjoy Biscayne Bay’s vibrant marine landscape.
- 🏖️ Homestead Bayfront Park – A man-made saltwater lagoon with sandy shores, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or relaxing under palms. The park’s clear, shallow waters are great for kids, while paddleboard rentals let visitors glide across the lagoon. Shaded picnic areas, barbecue grills, and scenic walking paths make it a popular weekend destination. The nearby marina and beachfront restaurant add to the experience, allowing guests to spend the entire day enjoying the water, the views, and the tropical breeze.
Final Thoughts 🌅💬
Cutler Bay may fly under the radar compared to Miami’s glitzy neighborhoods, but that’s what makes it special. It’s a community rooted in nature, history, and laid-back coastal living. From kayaking through mangroves to savoring fresh seafood by the water, every experience connects you to the real rhythm of South Florida. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Cutler Bay invites you to slow down, explore, and discover its hidden treasures.