Top Things to Do in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

Sunny Isles Beach, often called Florida’s Riviera, is a luxury coastal city located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. With its stunning beaches, upscale resorts, and family-friendly parks, Sunny Isles offers a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. Here’s your comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Sunny Isles Beach.

1. Relax at Sunny Isles Beach & Newport Fishing Pier

🏖️ Main Attraction: Enjoy the two-mile stretch of pristine white sand and turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply sunbathing under the warm Florida sun. Bring a beach umbrella and enjoy the sound of waves while watching pelicans dive for fish. The beach’s well-maintained boardwalk makes it ideal for morning jogs and romantic sunset walks.
🎣 Newport Fishing Pier: Visit Miami’s only public ocean pier for a relaxing walk or afternoon fishing. Stretching 600 feet into the Atlantic, it offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a great spot for photography. The pier also provides benches, shaded areas, and fishing rentals. Early risers can catch spectacular sunrises here while anglers may reel in snapper or mackerel.
🍹 Sandbar Restaurant: Dine right by the ocean and enjoy fresh seafood and drinks with a sea breeze. The casual atmosphere, live music on weekends, and ocean views make it one of the most memorable dining experiences in Sunny Isles. Try the grilled mahi-mahi or a refreshing tropical cocktail while watching surfers in the distance.
🌅 Beach Activities: Beyond swimming, you can rent beach chairs, paddleboards, or even book a yoga session by the sea. Families often enjoy building sandcastles, while couples can stroll the shoreline during golden hour. Lifeguards are stationed along the beach for safety and convenience.

2. Explore Local Parks

🌴 Samson Oceanfront Park: Features playgrounds, volleyball courts, picnic areas, and lifeguards — perfect for families. It offers shaded gazebos and direct beach access, making it a great place to combine outdoor fun with a beach day. Morning fitness classes and weekend community events are frequently held here.
🌸 Gateway Park: A five-acre oasis with a butterfly garden, splash pad, and performing arts stage in the heart of the city. The park also includes a modern amphitheater for concerts, art exhibitions, and open-air movie nights. Children love the interactive water play area, while adults can relax on the grassy lawns or visit the on-site café.
🌳 Town Center Park: Offers walking trails, open lawns, and a shaded gazebo ideal for picnics, jogging, or yoga. Its convenient location near Collins Avenue makes it easily accessible, and the park’s public Wi-Fi and peaceful environment attract both locals and visitors seeking a calm escape.
🌺 Community Vibe: Despite its modern skyline, Sunny Isles Beach has several beautiful green parks that serve as a refreshing contrast to its high-rises. Locals often gather for picnics, dog walks, or morning tai chi sessions. The city’s commitment to clean, safe, and family-oriented spaces ensures every park feels welcoming and vibrant. 🌴 Samson Oceanfront Park offers playgrounds, volleyball courts, picnic areas, and lifeguards — perfect for families. 🌸 Gateway Park, a five-acre oasis in the city center, features a butterfly garden, splash pad, and performing arts stage. 🌳 Town Center Park provides walking trails, open lawns, and a shaded gazebo ideal for picnics or yoga.

3. Water Sports & Outdoor Adventures

Water lovers will find plenty to do, and Sunny Isles Beach offers a vast variety of aquatic and outdoor experiences for visitors of every age and fitness level. Whether you prefer adrenaline-pumping sports or tranquil nature escapes, the city’s prime location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway makes it an outdoor paradise.

🏄 Jet Ski & Parasailing: Rent a jet ski or book a parasailing adventure to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline. Feel the rush of wind and water as you speed across the turquoise waves or glide high above the ocean for breathtaking aerial views of the city skyline and surrounding beaches. Many local operators offer guided jet ski tours that take you through scenic routes along the coast, and parasailing trips often include photo packages so you can capture your adventure.
🛶 Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Nearby Oleta River State Park, Florida’s largest urban park, offers kayaking and paddleboard rentals through scenic mangrove trails. These calm waterways are home to herons, manatees, and schools of fish that make each trip unique. For beginners, guided eco-tours are available, offering insight into the area’s ecosystem and wildlife. More experienced paddlers can embark on longer routes that open into Biscayne Bay, providing incredible views of Miami’s skyline at sunset.
🎣 Fishing: Cast your line from Newport Pier or take a deep-sea fishing charter from Haulover Marina, just minutes away. Fishing enthusiasts can expect to catch snapper, grouper, or even sailfish depending on the season. The pier provides convenient rentals and bait shops, while offshore charters offer half-day or full-day trips with all gear provided. Families can also enjoy beginner-friendly fishing lessons near the Intracoastal Waterway, making it an accessible activity for all skill levels.
🚴 Biking & Nature Trails: Rent a bike to explore the oceanfront paths or hit the mountain biking trails at Oleta River State Park. The park features miles of shaded trails ranging from easy to advanced levels. Casual riders can enjoy the breezy, palm-lined sidewalks along Collins Avenue, while fitness enthusiasts can pedal through Haulover Park and beyond. The scenic coastal route provides plenty of spots for photo breaks, and rental shops even offer electric bikes for those who want to explore further without breaking a sweat.
🌊 Additional Adventures: For something different, try stand-up paddleboard yoga classes on calm mornings, or join a guided snorkeling excursion to nearby reefs. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a small boat or take a sunset cruise along the Intracoastal to enjoy the area’s stunning waterfront mansions. On weekends, beach volleyball games pop up near Samson Oceanfront Park, creating a fun and social way to meet other travelers.

With year-round warm weather and crystal-clear waters, Sunny Isles Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who want both thrill and tranquility in one destination.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Sunny Isles Beach is great for families with kids of all ages. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 It’s a destination that blends fun, education, and relaxation, offering plenty of experiences that both parents and children can enjoy together. Whether you’re spending the day under the sun, discovering nature, or joining local events, there’s something for everyone.

🏖️ Visit Samson Oceanfront Park and Gateway Park: Both parks feature modern playgrounds, splash zones, shaded picnic areas, and direct beach access. Families can pack a picnic lunch, play volleyball, or let the kids enjoy the water features. Gateway Park often hosts storytelling sessions, craft days, and outdoor concerts, while Samson Oceanfront Park offers lifeguard services and ocean views that make parents feel at ease.
🎬 Join Community Events Year-Round: Sunny Isles Beach’s calendar is packed with family-friendly events such as Family Fun Days, outdoor movie nights, and themed seasonal festivals. During these events, kids can participate in face painting, games, and local art workshops while parents enjoy live music and food stalls. The city regularly organizes cultural fairs that celebrate global cuisine and music, providing a fun way for families to learn together.
🎆 Attend the Annual Anniversary Beach Celebration: Each summer, this signature event transforms the beach into a vibrant festival of fireworks, live performances, and food trucks serving everything from local seafood to international dishes. There are kids’ play zones, beach games, and sunset concerts that light up the evening sky, making it an unforgettable highlight for visiting families.
🐢 Explore Oleta River State Park for Nature Adventures: This vast park allows families to connect with nature by kayaking through mangroves, spotting wildlife like manatees and herons, and cycling along shaded trails. For younger children, picnic areas and calm bay beaches provide safe and relaxing environments. Families can rent paddleboards, pack snacks, and spend a peaceful afternoon surrounded by greenery.
🎟️ Take Short Trips to Miami Children’s Museum or Jungle Island: Both nearby attractions are perfect for day trips. The Miami Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits that teach creativity, science, and teamwork, while Jungle Island brings families face-to-face with exotic animals and fun outdoor experiences. These excursions add educational value to a family vacation, giving kids a chance to explore while parents capture memorable moments.
🍦 Extra Tips for Families: Don’t miss local ice cream parlors along Collins Avenue or small cafés that serve family-sized meals with ocean views. Many resorts in Sunny Isles Beach also host kid’s clubs with supervised activities like arts, mini golf, or beach treasure hunts, allowing parents some downtime by the pool. Evening beach walks are calm and safe, with plenty of opportunities for stargazing and family photos.

Sunny Isles Beach truly shines as a family destination, offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and community-driven fun that ensures every generation enjoys the trip.

5. Dining & Nightlife

Sunny Isles Beach offers a mix of world-class dining and relaxed beachside eateries, satisfying every palate from casual snackers to fine dining enthusiasts. The culinary scene reflects the area’s international community, combining flavors from the Mediterranean, Latin America, and Asia in elegant beachfront settings.

🍽️ Avra Miami Estiatorio (Acqualina Resort): An upscale Greek seafood restaurant with breathtaking ocean views and a sophisticated ambiance. Guests can indulge in freshly grilled fish, octopus, and meze platters while sipping fine wines. The open-air terrace and candle-lit tables create a romantic setting, ideal for sunset dinners or celebratory meals.
🍣 Ke-uH: This stylish Japanese-fusion restaurant is a haven for sushi lovers, offering artistic presentations and modern décor. In addition to sushi rolls, guests can enjoy robata-grilled dishes and craft cocktails that pair perfectly with the elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. Try the spicy tuna tartare or truffle salmon nigiri for a true flavor explosion.
🍤 BALEENkitchen (Solé Miami): A chic beachfront dining venue that merges contemporary cuisine with laid-back island vibes. The restaurant’s oceanfront patio is perfect for brunch or romantic dinners. Signature dishes like the miso-glazed sea bass and key lime pie have earned it rave reviews. Weekend live music adds a warm, tropical charm.
🍝 Timo Restaurant & Bar: A local favorite offering Mediterranean-Italian dishes in an intimate yet lively environment. The aroma of wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, and fresh herbs fills the air, while the cozy interior encourages long dinners paired with a glass of wine. Locals often call it a hidden gem where food and friendship blend naturally.
🥙 Chayhana Oasis: Authentic Central Asian flavors meet homestyle comfort at this family-friendly restaurant. Diners can enjoy kebabs, pilaf, and handmade bread straight from the oven. The warm ambiance, intricate décor, and generous portions make it a delightful experience for groups and families.

Sunny Isles Beach also shines after dark with its relaxed but elegant nightlife options:

🍸 Sandbar at Newport Pier: Enjoy cocktails and live music as the ocean breeze flows through this open-air bar perched directly above the waves. It’s a hotspot for both locals and visitors, offering scenic views, dancing, and a fun atmosphere well into the night.
🌃 Hotel Lounges & Rooftop Bars: Many of Sunny Isles Beach’s luxury resorts feature sophisticated lounges with ambient lighting, live jazz, and craft drinks. Guests at the Trump International or Acqualina Resort can enjoy serene piano nights, signature martinis, and panoramic ocean views.
🎶 Nearby Excursions: For those seeking a more energetic evening, the nightlife of South Beach is only a 30-minute drive away. Here, travelers can dive into the heart of Miami’s vibrant club scene, explore rooftop bars, or experience world-famous DJ sets before returning to Sunny Isles for peaceful rest.

From candlelit seaside dinners to live music under the stars, Sunny Isles Beach’s dining and nightlife experiences combine world-class flavor with the laid-back elegance of coastal living.

6. Annual Events & Festivals

Sunny Isles Beach’s annual events and festivals bring the community and visitors together with music, culture, and celebration throughout the year. These lively gatherings showcase the city’s vibrant personality and highlight its blend of luxury and family-friendly charm. Visitors can plan trips around these events for a more immersive local experience.

🎷 Sunny Isles Beach Jazz Fest (November): A popular multi-day event featuring live jazz performances at Heritage Park. The festival attracts both local and international musicians, offering genres from smooth jazz to blues and fusion. Food vendors, artisan markets, and wine tastings accompany the concerts, creating an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and relaxed. The event usually culminates in a grand evening concert under the stars, drawing hundreds of music lovers.
🎆 City Anniversary Celebration (June): This vibrant celebration marks the founding of Sunny Isles Beach and transforms the waterfront into a colorful festival zone. Visitors can enjoy a full day of activities including beach games, local food stalls, craft markets, and live performances from regional bands. The highlight is the spectacular fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean, lighting up the night sky and reflecting off the water for breathtaking views. Families can also participate in children’s contests, parades, and interactive beach workshops.
🎄 Holiday Festivities (December): During the holiday season, Sunny Isles Beach shines even brighter with its winter carnivals, tree lightings, and festive lights along Collins Avenue. The city hosts a series of family-oriented holiday events featuring live choirs, Santa visits, and seasonal markets offering handcrafted gifts. Gateway Park transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, snow play areas, and hot chocolate stands. Visitors can stroll through decorated palm trees, enjoy live holiday performances, and soak up the tropical-meets-Christmas ambiance that makes this season truly special in Sunny Isles Beach.

7. Nearby Attractions & Day Trips

Sunny Isles Beach is perfectly situated for exploring South Florida, making it an excellent base for day trips filled with shopping, nature, history, and culture. The city’s central location between Miami and Fort Lauderdale means that visitors can reach a variety of attractions within 30 minutes or less. Whether you’re a shopaholic, a history buff, or a beach lover seeking new horizons, there’s a destination nearby for you.

🛍️ Aventura Mall: One of the largest shopping centers in the U.S., featuring luxury brands, art installations, and a diverse dining scene. The mall’s open design and modern art displays create an immersive shopping experience. Beyond high-end fashion boutiques, you’ll find a sprawling food hall, a movie theater, and family-friendly spaces like interactive sculptures and kids’ play zones. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring, and don’t miss the slide tower sculpture — a unique photo spot!
🪁 Haulover Park: Known for its kite festivals, dog-friendly areas, and scenic beaches, Haulover Park offers a full day of recreation. Rent a bicycle to explore its trails, bring a picnic, or join a weekend kite-flying event where the sky fills with color. Families will enjoy the playgrounds and dog beach area, while fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines at the marina. The park even offers a well-marked clothing-optional section, a unique feature that draws visitors from around the world.
🌿 Oleta River State Park: Perfect for kayaking, biking, and picnics in nature, this is Florida’s largest urban park and a must-visit for outdoor lovers. Explore its serene mangrove forests by kayak, rent mountain bikes for its extensive trail network, or relax on its quiet bayside beach. Oleta’s eco-adventure programs and rustic cabins make it a great option for an overnight stay in nature. It’s a peaceful escape just minutes from the city’s hustle and bustle.
🕍 Ancient Spanish Monastery: A peaceful historical site with beautiful gardens and medieval architecture. Originally built in Spain in the 12th century, it was later transported stone by stone to Florida. Today, visitors can explore the monastery’s serene courtyards, arches, and museum exhibits that tell its fascinating story. The lush gardens provide a tranquil retreat, ideal for photos or quiet reflection.
👗 Bal Harbour Shops: An elegant open-air mall with designer stores and fine dining that exudes luxury. You’ll find global fashion icons like Chanel, Gucci, and Prada nestled among tropical landscaping and koi ponds. It’s more than just shopping — visitors can enjoy al fresco dining at upscale cafés, making it a favorite spot for an indulgent afternoon. The atmosphere is refined yet welcoming, and window-shopping here is an experience in itself.
🏖️ South Beach: Iconic Art Deco architecture and legendary nightlife await just a short drive away. Spend the afternoon exploring Ocean Drive, lined with pastel-colored hotels and lively beach bars. Art enthusiasts can stroll through the historic district’s unique 1930s buildings, while night owls can dance the night away in Miami’s world-famous clubs. From daytime beach lounging to after-dark excitement, South Beach delivers the quintessential Miami experience.

Each of these nearby destinations adds a different dimension to your stay in Sunny Isles Beach — from luxury shopping and outdoor adventures to cultural discoveries and nightlife thrills.

8. Travel Tips for Visitors

🚍 Getting Around: Use the free SIBshuttle to reach parks, malls, and attractions. The shuttle operates several routes throughout the day, connecting major hotels and shopping areas with local parks and beaches. Public transportation is reliable, and buses connect Sunny Isles with neighboring areas like Aventura, Bal Harbour, and North Miami Beach. Rideshares and taxis are readily available for late-night travel or longer distances, offering flexibility for those without a car.
☀️ Best Time to Visit: February to April offers warm, dry weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and beach relaxation. During these months, the ocean is calm, and average temperatures hover around 75–80°F (24–27°C). Summer (June to September) brings hotter temperatures and occasional afternoon showers but also fewer tourists and better hotel rates. If you enjoy festivals, visiting in November for Jazz Fest or December for holiday celebrations can be an unforgettable experience.
🅿️ Parking: Use city garages or metered lots near beach entrances for convenience. Gateway Park has a covered garage, while other lots like those near Samson Oceanfront Park and Heritage Park provide quick beach access. Parking meters accept cards and mobile payments. During weekends or holidays, arrive early to secure a spot, or consider using the shuttle to avoid parking hassles.
🚸 Safety: Sunny Isles Beach is very safe, with a strong police presence and pedestrian-friendly design. Always cross Collins Avenue at designated lights and use crosswalks, as traffic can be busy during rush hours. At the beach, follow lifeguard instructions and watch flag warnings for ocean conditions. Keep valuables secured in your hotel safe or use beach lockers if available.
🏖️ Beach Etiquette: No glass or alcohol allowed on public beaches, and smoking is discouraged in most areas. During sea turtle nesting season (May–October), avoid disturbing marked nests and keep lights off the beach at night to protect hatchlings. Remember to clean up after yourself, use recycling bins when possible, and respect others’ space when setting up umbrellas or chairs.
💡 Extra Tips: Bring sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles to stay hydrated. Lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable sandals are essential for exploring. Most restaurants and attractions accept credit cards, but carrying small bills for tips or local vendors is useful. If you plan to drive, check toll routes ahead of time—many South Florida highways use electronic payment systems like SunPass.

9. Final Thoughts

Sunny Isles Beach is the perfect combination of urban luxury and natural beauty. 🌅 Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, exploring nearby parks, or enjoying a sunset dinner overlooking the Atlantic, this Miami-area gem offers endless ways to unwind and explore.

Plan your visit to Sunny Isles Beach and experience the best of South Florida’s coastal charm.