North Beach Oceanside Park

North Beach Oceanside Park is a city-run beachfront park at 8328 Collins Ave in North Beach, the quieter end of Miami Beach. The park pairs a wide sandy beach with a boardwalk stretch, walking and cycling paths, shaded picnic tables, barbecue grills, a volleyball court, swings and a children's playground.

There is also a dog park, which guests mention often. Public restrooms, showers and water fountains are on site, and the entrance, parking lot and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.

Entry costs nothing, and parking is available in a free lot, free street spots and paid lots and street spaces, so check the posted signs before leaving your car. Guests describe a calmer scene than South Beach: families gathering for birthdays and barbecues, early walkers, and sunrise regulars.

Seaweed (sargassum) shows up on the sand and in the water at times, and weekend afternoons bring music from portable speakers. The park opens at 7:30 AM and closes at 8:30 PM every day, so it works for a sunrise walk as well as a long afternoon of grilling by the ocean.