Ultimate Guide to Beaches and Attractions Near the University of Miami (UM) for Students
Why the University of Miami is a Prime Location for Fun and Adventure
One of the biggest perks of attending the University of Miami (UM) is its prime location in Coral Gables. The university is just minutes away from some of the best beaches, cultural attractions, and entertainment hotspots in Florida. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the sand, a lively night out, or a new cultural experience, you’ll find it all close to campus.
This guide will break down the closest beaches, top attractions, and how to get to them easily, so UM students can take full advantage of everything Miami has to offer.
1. Closest Beaches to the University of Miami
Miami is world-famous for its stunning beaches, and as a UM student, you’re just 15 to 30 minutes away from some of the best coastal spots.
A. South Beach (SoBe) – The Iconic Miami Beach Experience
📍 Distance from UM: 12 miles (~25-30 minutes)
🚗 By Car: 25 minutes via US-1 and MacArthur Causeway
🚆 By Public Transit: Take Metrorail to Government Center, then Metrobus Route S to Miami Beach (~45 minutes).
Why Visit South Beach?
- Soft white sand and turquoise waters
- Lively Ocean Drive, lined with Art Deco buildings, restaurants, and bars
- A vibrant nightlife scene with clubs and lounges
South Beach is perfect for a weekend getaway, whether you’re sunbathing, playing volleyball, or hanging out with friends at Lummus Park.
Pro Tip: Parking in South Beach is expensive. Use rideshare apps or public transit to save money.
B. Crandon Park Beach – A Relaxing Alternative
📍 Distance from UM: 10 miles (~20 minutes)
🚗 By Car: 20 minutes via US-1 and Rickenbacker Causeway
🚆 By Public Transit: Take Metrobus Route B from Brickell Station (~40 minutes).
What Makes Crandon Park Special?
- A quiet, less crowded environment
- Shallow, calm waters (great for paddleboarding and kayaking)
- Picnic areas and BBQ grills for group outings
More Info: Crandon Park Beach
C. Matheson Hammock Park Beach – Right in Your Backyard
📍 Distance from UM: 4 miles (~10 minutes)
🚗 By Car: 10 minutes via Old Cutler Road
🚆 By Public Transit: Take Metrobus Route 57 (~20 minutes).
What to Expect?
- A scenic lagoon-style beach
- Kayaking and paddleboarding rentals
- Breathtaking sunset views over Biscayne Bay
More Info: Matheson Hammock Park
2. Must-Visit Attractions Near the University of Miami
Beyond the beaches, Miami offers world-class attractions for UM students to explore. From cultural landmarks to shopping and nightlife, here are some of the best spots within 30 minutes of campus.
A. Coconut Grove – Miami’s Oldest Neighborhood
📍 Distance from UM: 2 miles (~5-10 minutes)
🚗 By Car: 10 minutes via US-1
🚆 By Public Transit: Take Metrobus Route 48 (~15 minutes).
What’s in Coconut Grove?
- Boutique shopping at CocoWalk
- Outdoor cafés and restaurants along Grand Avenue
- Kennedy Park, great for jogging or dog-watching
B. Little Havana – A Taste of Cuban Culture
📍 Distance from UM: 6 miles (~15 minutes)
🚗 By Car: 15 minutes via US-1 and SW 8th Street
🚆 By Public Transit: Take Metrorail to Culmer Station, then Metrobus Route 8 (~30 minutes).
Best Things to Do in Little Havana
- Taste authentic Cuban food at Versailles Restaurant
- Watch live salsa music at Ball & Chain
- Visit Maximo Gomez Park (“Domino Park”)
More Info: Little Havana Visitor Guide
C. Wynwood – The Art & Nightlife District
📍 Distance from UM: 10 miles (~20 minutes)
🚗 By Car: 20 minutes via I-95
🚆 By Public Transit: Take Metrorail to Government Center, then Metrobus Route 2 (~40 minutes).
What’s in Wynwood?
- The Wynwood Walls – A free outdoor art exhibit
- Trendy coffee shops, bars, and breweries
- Live DJ events and rooftop parties
D. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – A Hidden Gem
📍 Distance from UM: 5 miles (~15 minutes)
🚗 By Car: 15 minutes via South Miami Avenue
🚆 By Public Transit: Take Metrorail to Vizcaya Station, then walk (~20 minutes total).
More Info: Vizcaya Museum
3. How to Get Around: Transportation Tips
- Metrorail connects UM to Downtown Miami, Brickell, and the airport.
- Metrobus routes go to Coconut Grove, Little Havana, and Miami Beach.
- Miami Trolley provides free rides around Coconut Grove, Brickell, and Miami Beach.
Final Thoughts
One of the best things about being a University of Miami student is having easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches and exciting attractions in the country. Whether you’re soaking up the sun at South Beach, enjoying live music in Wynwood, or grabbing a cafecito in Little Havana, there’s always something new to explore.
By taking advantage of public transportation, student discounts, and free trolleys, UM students can experience the best of Miami without breaking the bank.
So next time you have a free afternoon, grab your friends and start exploring—the Magic City is right at your doorstep!
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Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available data and student experiences. Public transportation schedules, fares, and attraction information are subject to change. Students should verify details through official sources:
The author and publisher do not guarantee accuracy, and students are responsible for planning their trips safely and efficiently.
