Key Biscane Miami

Just across the Rickenbacker Causeway, 2 miles south of downtown Miami (yet a world away, according to residents), is Key Biscayne. This 7 mile long and 2 mile wide barrier island is known for its spectacular beaches and many other recreational opportunities, as well as its relaxed, small-town lifestyle.

The Village of Key Biscayne is little more than a square mile of the island, which includes 1,800 acres of natural parkland. On the southern end of Key Biscayne is Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area, home of the 95-foot-tall Cape Florida Lighthouse.

On the east side of the Key is Crandon Park (305-365-2300). It’s 3.5 mile white sand beach has been rated one of the 10 most beautiful in the United States by CondÈ Nast Traveler magazine. There are two outstanding sports sites here: Crandon Park Golf Course (305-361-9129) and the Tennis Center . Crandon Park Golf Course, with its lush tropical setting and great views of the Miami skyline, hosts the annual Royal Caribbean Classic (February), kickoff to the U.S. Senior PGA Tour. Not to be outdone, the Tennis Center hosts the annual NASDAQ-100 Open (March 24-April 4, 2004). The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center (305-361-6767) with a marina, bike paths, concessions and more, round out the many family offerings in Crandon Park .

Key Biscayne is fabulously situated for water sports. Windsurfing is especially popular from Hobie Island , just 200 feet off the mainland. Scuba diving into offshore reefs and wrecks is also possible, along with sport fishing, snorkeling, jet skiing, and sailing.

Nearby Virginia Key is home to the Miami Seaquarium (305-361-5705), a center for research and conservation, housing some 10,000 creatures of the deep, and the University of Miami ‘s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (305-361-4000), a leader in oceanographic research. After a visit to these hospitable islands, so close to the bustle of urban Miami , you too will find yourself in the swim.