Wedged between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, Sunny Isles Beach lies on a barrier island to the north of Miami Beach. Its sandy shores are a hub for fishing, water sports and swimmimg, while urban parks and historic landmarks are nearby.

Things to do

Mingle with locals at the historic Newport Fishing Pier, which provides impressive views of Sunny Isles Beach. Grab a drink at the trendy Beach Bar or feast on freshly caught mahi-mahi, tuna, lobster and oysters while overlooking the sands.

A short drive from Sunny Isles Beach is the Ancient Spanish Monastery, which features charming cloisters erected in 12th-century Segovia by St. Bernard de Clairvaux. Learn about the millionaire William Randolph Hearst who shipped it to America and its rebuilding here, stone by stone, in 1952.

Spend a day hiking and biking through beautiful Oleta River State Park, which overlooks the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay. Swim at the sandy beach or rent a kayak to explore the mangrove forests home to South Florida plants and birdlife.

Travel south to wander through the Art Deco Historic District of Miami Beach, which includes more than 800 buildings constructed between 1923 and 1943. See where Clark Gable used to hang out at the Celino South Beach and admire Gianni Versace’s Spanish-style mansion, then soak up the enchanting views from Lummus Park.

Getting around

Sunny Isles Beach is a 30-minute drive from Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. A car is the most convenient way to get around, while the downtown area is easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.