![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/MiamiSkyline-4e71f67bd8d4-300x200.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Do you want to explore Miami and Fort Lauderdale but you're not sure where to go? Check out our comprehensive guide to these beautiful coastal cities!<\/p>\n
...<\/p>\n
Miami is a popular city that lies on the East Coast of the sunshine state - Florida. Over the years it has garnered the reputation as being a party-town, full of excellent restaurants, pumping nightlife, and a never-ending stretch of beautiful beaches perfect for your SUP.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Just farther north, is a stretch of beach known as Fort Lauderdale. It is the quieter side of the southeastern shore of Florida that also offers plenty to see and do on a SUP. Along with a bustling city center, visitors also have the opportunity to take to the inshore canals where Ft. Lauderdale has earned the nickname, \u201cVenice of America.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Each location is unique unto themselves. And ones that we recommend you experience on your next SUP vacation.<\/span><\/p>\n In this article, we\u2019re going to do a deep dive on both areas to give you the best launch locations, outfitters, and other important information on what to do and when - so you know everything you need to have a great time in the Miami\/Fort Lauderdale area!<\/span><\/p>\n This guide is built with you in mind. Whether you are a seasoned paddler with years of experience, or a complete beginner who needs to rent a board for paddling, we have you covered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For those with their own boards, think of the local paddle pros as resources for the best SUP info - where to paddle, what to look for, and when the best times to go. They know their area best and have launch location options, and \u201cmust-see aka must-SUP\u201d suggestions already planned for visitors. With that said, always reach out to the paddling pros listed in this guide to get started on your planning.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n For short term visitors who need to rent a board while you\u2019re in town, we\u2019ll go over where you can pick up a board, what types of boards are available, and where you can launch your board on calmer waters.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Use this comprehensive guide as your key to the information you need to have the best possible time in the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas - both on and off the water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Of course, if you have any questions about the area, you can always drop us a message and we\u2019ll get back to you as soon as possible!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Miami and Fort Lauderdale are those few places that can be visited year-round. Whether you go in the heat of summer and enjoy the beautiful beaches, or during the winter for a fun time around the city in 60-70 degree weather, Miami and Fort Lauderdale can be enjoyed at any time. <\/span> The wind will vary in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale. To paddle during the calmest times during the day it is recommended that you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n You can avoid most windy conditions by sticking to the back areas of the bay or through the intracoastal waterways. In these locations, you are often protected from the winds by the wildlife that grows there and the buildings\/houses.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The weather in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale is fairly consistent. In the morning, expect clear, blue skies. On occasion clouds can roll in during the early afternoons with an occasional rainstorm during the winter months.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Special Note: Hurricane season is official June 1st - November 30th on the East Coast of Florida. Even though hurricanes may dissipate before they reach land or veer over the Gulf of Mexico, they can still impact your paddling experience. Always refer to a wind and weather app before heading onto the water - or talk with a local paddling professional or outfitter to gain insider knowledge on the area.<\/span><\/p>\n Much of Florida has a hot and humid climate. During the summer months, on the coast, the average daily high temperature hovers around 90-95\u00b0F with a low reaching around 65\u00b0F during the winter months depending on location. Freezing temperatures are rare, even in winter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Atlantic Ocean<\/span><\/p>\n Intracoastal Waterways\/Rivers<\/span><\/p>\n SUP the Venice of America - In Ft. Lauderdale there are back water rivers that connect to certain parts of the city, restaurants, and other local hangouts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n SUP Yoga<\/span><\/p>\n Eco-Tours<\/span><\/p>\n Wildlife Tours<\/span><\/p>\n (Ft. Lauderdale): <\/span>This meetup was created for Stand Up Paddle board, ocean, and nature lovers. We create group events to unite us for the most beautiful serene paddles. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, there is fun for everyone. We offer stand up paddle lessons, manatee, nature tours, sunrise paddles, intracoastal and ocean paddles to see beautiful marine life. We also get together once a month for the Full Moon paddle. Tons of fun! If you're looking to get into shape or just meet some really nice ocean minded people then this meetup is for you. We provide board rentals if you do not own a board. If you have your own board then we welcome everyone.<\/span><\/p>\n This is a group for anyone who loves the water and wants to get out and have some fun! SUP = Stand Up Paddle Boarding is an amazing physical activity that really strengthen your core and improves your cardio conditioning. At the same time; the activity is easy to learn and we can teach you all the basics in a two hour excursion. Kayaking is even easier and has plenty of healthy benefits. We will accept group suggestions and have a Sponsor to lower the cost of renting equipment.<\/span><\/p>\n We are wanting to meet other Standup Paddleboard Lovers who want to join us on fun excursions and participate in Paddleboard Yoga, Paddleboard Races, and other Fun Adventures. If you are creative and have ideas on ways to expand this Meetup Group and find others to do the same; then all skill levels are welcome. We also do Reef Paddles, Intracoastal Paddles, and Paddles with your Dog.<\/span><\/p>\n For a complete list, click <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n A few of the paddling locations and back canals that surround Miami and Fort Lauderdale are tidal. This can mean the direction and difficulty of the paddle can be greatly affected by either an outgoing to incoming tide - depending on the time of day and the direction you are paddling.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n It is always a great idea to consult a <\/span>tide chart<\/span><\/a> before you head onto the water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n And before you decide to drop into the water, follow this simple checklist to make sure you and your paddling buddies are safe throughout your experience (<\/span>source<\/span><\/a>):<\/span><\/p>\n Florida law requires a readily accessible Coast Guard approved PFD for each occupant. Children younger than six years-old are required to wear a PFD.<\/span><\/p>\n Tides and winds can significantly affect the difficulty of a trip. Under normal conditions, allow a minimum of two miles per hour paddling time.<\/span><\/p>\n A float plan contains information about your trip in the event that you do not return as scheduled. This includes a description of the vessel(s), names of all paddlers, planned course and stops, and an estimated time of return. Ask the person to notify the Coast Guard or local authorities if you do not return as scheduled. Don't forget to get in touch with your contact person and let them know when you return<\/span><\/p>\n Drinks should be in non-breakable containers . Food and gear should be stored in watertight containers. For day trips, 1\/2 gallon of water per person in recommended. For overnight trips, one gallon of water per person each day is recommended.<\/span><\/p>\n Wear sunglasses, a hat, and long sleeves and pants even on cloudy days. Long sleeves and pants also helps prevent insect bites.<\/span><\/p>\n Stay on the right and turn into the boat's wake. Respect anglers by giving them plenty of room.<\/span><\/p>\n C<\/span>ell phones are great for staying in communication, but coverage may be sporadic depending on your specific location.<\/span><\/p>\n Do not approach or harass wildlife, as they can be dangerous. It is also illegal to feed them.<\/span><\/p>\n In addition, there may be small alligators in the water - <\/span>though this is usually only the case outside of the city<\/span>. To avoid any dangerous run-ins, it\u2019s always best to stick to areas with higher boat traffic. Gators are much more likely to be in areas where the water is calm and undisturbed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Most gators will stay away from anything that is bigger than them. If you are paddling a 10 '6' board\u2019 up to a 14\u2019 board you will likely scare off any smaller ones. If you happen to see a large gator in the area calmly paddle away from it without making any loud noises or extra splashing motions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n It is also best to proceed with caution during gator mating season and hatchling season as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cApril is the final month of Florida's dry season and the beginning of the alligators' annual courtship. Most alligator mating takes place in May and June, with nesting in late June and July. Females lay an average of 32 to 46 eggs which hatch in <\/span>late summer or early fall<\/span>.\u201d (<\/span>source<\/span><\/a>)<\/span><\/p>\n Always be on the lookout when paddling in Florida!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Miami Beach Paddleboard<\/span><\/a> Lublu SUP and Wellness<\/a> - (Member Deal: Mention \u201cPerfect Paddles\u201d when booking a semi Biscayne Bay Paddleboards & Kayaks<\/span> The available SUP shops in the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas rent your standard cruising boards perfect for the bay and river paddling.<\/span><\/p>\n If you have a special request while in Miami, we recommend asking Miami Beach Paddleboard first. They offer rentals of inflatable boards and hardboards with options to keep them with you for 2 weeks - or for the duration of your stay in Miami. As well as unique offerings of eSurfboard rentals (surf without waves on this electric powered surfboard) and SUP pedal boards.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n In Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise Paddleboards is your go-to spot for all types of trips and different renting options.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Miami seems to have endless activities happening within its city streets. From restaurants, night clubs, to the beaches, there are endless places to explore and have fun.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Along with so many things to do, Miami also offers paddle boarders some of the best, and easiest, ways to get on the water. Of course, if you want the most immediate launch location, you can\u2019t go wrong at South Beach.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This famous location is home to aquamarine waters that are calm and perfect to launch your board right from the sandy bottom. One word of caution - watch out for the swimmers in the water! And always be sure to check the wind here before you go. It can pick up in the later morning, early afternoon and can make paddling difficult.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you want a more private location or even more interesting location to launch from, check out the places below!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This beautiful little park located in Edgewater is an 8-acre urban park located in the Art and Entertainment District in Miami. The park itself is located right on Biscayne Bay for easy access right onto the water. Parking is easy as they have an open lot for your convenience. <\/span> If you are looking for a more protected launch location, then Pelican Harbor Marina might be the best choice for you. At this location, you can drop right into the harbor. Stay here to be protected from the winds if it picks up. However, parking can sometimes be a challenge as you will have to do so on the street.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The best feature about Pelican Harbor is the close proximity of a year-round aquatic park with a lazy river, water slides, pool, and food! When you are done exploring the marina and the surrounding waters, head back to the launch location and have fun at the waterpark!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The one thing to remember about the Grand Venetian is the ease with which you are able drop your SUP into the water and paddle. You will have to find parking on the street for this launch location. However, after you do, head onto the grounds and easily place your board into the water using their convenient ladders that lead directly into the Biscayne Bay.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Paddle here if you are in the mood to paddle the intracoastal waterways and stay out of the elements. You will also see plenty of smaller boats and other craft on the water with you!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Crystal clear, turquoise waters, flat calm, white sandy beaches. Those are the best adjectives we can use to describe this picturesque location. If you decided to spend the entire day here basking in the sun, hanging on the beach, and paddling the calm waters, we wouldn\u2019t blame you! This is truly one of the nicest locations on our list.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n To park at South Point Beach and Park you will have to pay for street parking or use the parking garage. We recommend the garage. It is easier to find and less of a hassle. However, if you arrive before 8AM and want a sunrise paddle, street parking is free!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you are near our previous launch location at the Grand Venetian Condominiums but cannot find parking, head here! You can use the option of entering the Maurice Gibb Memorial Park or find parking on the street. At the above address, you will find a boat ramp that leads right into Biscayne Bay. It is very convenient and usually is less crowded than the Grand Venetian location.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n One word of caution - proceed down the ramp at a slow pace. Like most boat ramps, this one is always covered in sea moss and tends to be very slippery!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Our next launch location is a man-made island off the mainland Brickell neighborhood in Miami.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n This neighborhood sits right in the middle of the bay, surrounded by sights of the city, and nothing else but Miami\u2019s famous turquoise waters. It\u2019s truly a beautiful launch location. You can use the residence parking on the island or at one of the parks nearby. There are plenty of ladders you can use leading into the water as they are convenient and readily available. Head here if you want to see the city in a whole new way!<\/span><\/p>\n Consider this location the quieter side of Miami. It is located along the bridge that connects to Key Biscayne. The small island that sits in the Atlantic Ocean. You can go to the bigger park called Historic Virginia Key Beach Park as there is plenty of parking and ample space to drop into the water. However, at Hobie Island you will get treated to a more private time. The white sand beaches are usually not as crowded, and they are not as affected by the wind. This launch location is on the way to Virginia Key Beach Park, so check it out first before you head any farther!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Makoto<\/span><\/a>: <\/span>Sleek, elegant restaurant featuring modern, upscale Japanese entrees, sushi & robata dishes.<\/span>How This Guide Works<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/ft-lauderdale-GettyImages-478520916-300x225.webp\")
<\/p>\n-Perfect Paddles Travel Brief-<\/b><\/h2>\n
Best Time of Year to Visit:<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n<\/span>
\n<\/span>However, if you want to avoid the crowds, and the stifling heat, a trip to Miami or Fort Lauderdale during the winter will be a better choice. The air and water temperatures are still high enough to enjoy the beach and back bays!<\/span><\/p>\nWind and Weather and Where\/When to Paddle<\/b><\/h3>\n
Average Temperature\/Seasons:\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n
SUP Environments to Paddle In<\/b><\/h3>\n
SUP Activity Highlights:<\/b><\/h3>\n
SUP Meetup Groups in the Miami\/Ft. Lauderdale Areas<\/b><\/h3>\n
SoFlo Stand Up Paddle Board Meetup<\/span><\/a><\/h4>\n
South Florida Paddle Board and Kayak Adventures<\/span><\/a><\/h4>\n
Sunrise Paddleboards of Ft. Lauderdale<\/span><\/a><\/h4>\n
\u00a0
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Boat-Tour-in-Miami-03-300x200.webp\")
<\/h3>\nPotential Water Hazards<\/b><\/h3>\n
WEAR A PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD)!<\/b><\/h4>\n
Know the waterway conditions and be aware of water levels and currents.<\/b><\/h4>\n
FILE A FLOAT PLAN AND LEAVE IT WITH A RELIABLE PERSON.<\/b><\/h4>\n
Bring plenty of food and water.<\/b><\/h4>\n
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent.<\/b><\/h4>\n
Watch for motorboats.<\/b><\/h4>\n
Bring a cell phone or VHF radio.<\/b><\/h4>\n
Respect wildlife.<\/b><\/h4>\n
Miami Area Information<\/span><\/h1>\n
SUP Outfitters in the Area:<\/span><\/h2>\n
\n<\/span>Location:<\/b> 1701 Purdy Ave Shop C-102, Miami Beach, FL 33139<\/span>
\n<\/span>Best Offering: <\/b>Full moon glow tour. Twice a month the full moon meets the sunset and we will be there, from sunset to glow in the dark with your board around sunset islands.\u00a0 90 min guided tour.<\/span><\/p>\n
\nprivate tour and get 50% off for the 2nd paddler)<\/span>
\n<\/span>Location<\/b>: Miami Beach<\/span>
\n<\/span>Best Offering: <\/b>Adventure paddle tours. To see the real face of Miami, you have to do it from the water. Head onto the ocean and take in the skyline from atop a SUP. You will be led by professional guides for the duration of your trip.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/span>Location:<\/b> 1815 Purdy Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139<\/span>
\n<\/span>Best Offering<\/b>: They offer some of the best and easiest ways to get on the water in Biscayne Bay. Book your board online and get on the water that afternoon.<\/span><\/p>\nSUP Equipment Available to Rent<\/b><\/h3>\n
SUP in Miami Launch Locations<\/span><\/h2>\n
Margaret Pace Park, Edgewater<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n<\/span>
\n<\/span>Once you are there, you have two options for dropping into the water. The easiest way to go about it is using the shore. Simply place your board on the water and head out. The bottom here is sand and safe even for beginners. Or you can use a ladder that drops down into the bay. No matter which way you decide to go, this location is easy and convenient. Just one thing to remember - be sure to pay attention to the wind. This is an open bay location and if the wind is high, it can be difficult to paddle here.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/8367770306_934a88b65d_b-300x225.webp\")
<\/p>\nPelican Harbor Marina, North Bay Village<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/d493c6f394690128fe1316128ab718574024997dc56fd5f6123c674613d84fb9-300x199.webp\")
<\/p>\nThe Grand Venetian Condominium<\/span>, Venetian Islands<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/extra_large_4a06830d8564d79f98c68e6dd9b8f5b0-300x169.webp\")
<\/p>\nSouth Pointe Beach, Miami Beach<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/south-pointe-park-miami-beach-la-guia-completa-300x212.webp\")
<\/p>\n18th and Purdy Ave, Miami Beach<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/e6a908bc39d6577e029a70ec6e96e3b3-300x198.webp\")
<\/p>\nBrickell Key, Miami\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/perfectpaddles_miami-300x200.webp\")
<\/p>\nHobie Island Beach Park North<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/perfectpaddles.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/perfectpaddles_hobie-300x169.webp\")
<\/p>\nFun Miami Area Info (<\/b>source<\/b><\/a>):<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
Additional Activities When You Are Not on the Water<\/b><\/h2>\n
Top Restaurants in Miami:<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n<\/span>
\n<\/span>The Surf Club Restaurant<\/span><\/a>: <\/span>The Surf Club Restaurant by Chef Thomas Keller is located within The Surf Club, the first time the renowned chef has opened a property in Florida. The \u00e0 la carte menu interprets classic Continental cuisine for a contemporary audience. Like the swinging patrons of '50s and '60s hotspots this restaurant celebrates, The Surf Club Restaurant knows how to have fun.<\/span>
\n<\/span>
\n<\/span>Taquiza<\/span><\/a>: <\/span>Taquiza is a traditional Mexican taquer\u00eda crafting authentic tacos & street fare since 2014. Our signature blue masa is stone-ground daily using USDA organic & non-gmo corn from the Midwest. We hand press our masa into homemade tortillas and totopos.<\/span>
\n<\/span>
\n<\/span>Phuc Yea<\/span><\/a>: <\/span>Pho & other Vietnamese staples served in a sultry, industrial space, with indoor\/outdoor seating. And they have the best name in the game! <\/span>
\n<\/span>