South Pointe Pier
A 450-ft pier at the southern tip of Miami Beach, offering stunning ocean views, ship spotting, and vibrant sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunrise views & fewer crowds
South Pointe Pier
Best Time
Sunrise views & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 450-ft pier at the southern tip of Miami Beach, offering stunning ocean views, ship spotting, and vibrant sunsets.
"The view from the pier is absolutely breathtaking—the ocean stretching endlessly, the breeze on your face, and the sunset? Pure magic."
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Sunsets here are described as 'pure magic' and 'therapy for the soul.' Don't miss it!
🚢 Ship Spotting Hotspot
Get incredibly close to cruise and cargo ships sailing in or out of the channel.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic South Pointe Pier
Southern tip of Miami Beach
Walk the 450-ft pier for breathtaking ocean views, fishing, and to watch massive ships glide by.
Sunset Spectacle
South Pointe Park
Experience therapy for the soul with vibrant sunsets painting the sky over the Atlantic.
Ship Watching Paradise
South Pointe Pier
Get incredibly close to cruise ships and cargo vessels as they enter or exit the channel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Ship Spotting
Embrace the Breeze (and Leave the Hat!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Sunsets here are described as 'pure magic' and 'therapy for the soul.' Don't miss it!
🚢 Ship Spotting Hotspot
Get incredibly close to cruise and cargo ships sailing in or out of the channel.
🌬️ Beware of the Wind!
It's typically very windy due to its exposed position. Leave your hat at home!
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Enjoy peaceful walks on clean paths with stunning ocean and skyline views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Sunsets here are described as 'pure magic' and 'therapy for the soul.' Don't miss it!
🚢 Ship Spotting Hotspot
Get incredibly close to cruise and cargo ships sailing in or out of the channel.
🌬️ Beware of the Wind!
It's typically very windy due to its exposed position. Leave your hat at home!
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Enjoy peaceful walks on clean paths with stunning ocean and skyline views.
📸 Camera Ready
The panoramic views and vibrant sunsets make it a photographer's dream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise South Pointe Pier for its breathtaking ocean views, stunning sunsets, and the unique thrill of watching massive ships up close. It's described as a peaceful, grounding, and beautiful place that offers a welcome respite. Some find parking challenging and note the strong winds, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
"Hands down, one of the most beautiful places I’ve been to in Miami. The view from the pier is absolutely breathtaking—the ocean stretching endlessly, the breeze on your face, and the sunset? Pure magic. It’s the kind of spot that makes you stop, breathe, and just feel present. I could’ve stayed there forever.
Even the walk from the beach to the pier felt peaceful and grounding. Everything about this place—from the water to the skyline to the colors of the sky—just felt right. It’s not just a view, it’s a feeling. Calm, stunning, and full of life.
Whether you’re there for a stroll, to watch the waves crash, or to just sit and take it all in, South Pointe Park Pier is 100% worth visiting."
Aashita Gupta
"Located at the very eastern end of the park, it’s one of my favorite places within the park. I come here pretty often to spot containers ships and or cruises sailing in or out. You can see them from so close. Also the ocean views are beautiful with the south beach waterfront, it’s just pretty.
I recommend it either early or late in the day. For sunrises, it’s just epic."
Frank Garcia
"This is a beautiful pier located at the very south of Miami Beach. From here you have a wonderful view of the coast and the water had a staggering teal color.
This is definitely a recommended place to visit if you are in Miami and there are few seats that are not fully under the sun where you can fully enjoy your view!"
Alessandro Balocco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
South Pointe Pier is located at the southern tip of Miami Beach. Access is easy from Ocean Drive and the coastal boardwalk, making it accessible for all abilities. Parking can be challenging, so consider ride-sharing or arriving early.
Parking is available but can be 'hit-or-miss,' especially during peak times. You might have to circle for a while if you don't arrive early.
Yes, the park features wide, clean walking paths, and it's a popular spot for jogging and cycling, especially in the early morning.
Absolutely! The pier and park offer very easy access for every ability, with well-maintained paths.
Many visitors enjoy strolling along the boardwalk, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water. The pier itself is a focal point for views and ship spotting.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to South Pointe Pier and the surrounding park is free. You can enjoy the views and atmosphere without any admission fee.
South Pointe Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. The pier is accessible during these hours. It's recommended to visit during daylight for the best experience.
There is no entrance fee for South Pointe Park or the pier. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, the pier is popular for fishing and even features fish-cleaning facilities. Remember to check local fishing regulations.
While generally open, be mindful of the windy conditions and avoid wearing hats that can easily blow away.
📸 📸 Photography
The end of the pier offers incredible panoramic views of the ocean, Fisher Island, and the Miami skyline. Sunsets provide dramatic lighting.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset are highly recommended for stunning light and fewer crowds.
Absolutely! The pier is a prime location to get close-up shots of massive cruise ships and cargo vessels.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean and skyline views. A telephoto lens can be useful for getting closer shots of ships.
Keep an eye out for the vibrant colors of the water, the architectural details of the pier, and the dynamic interplay of light and shadow during golden hour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a casual cafe near the kid's area for snacks. For a more upscale experience with a view, Smith & Wollensky is located within the park, though it can be pricey.
South Pointe Park is a great spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Options range from casual snacks at the cafe to a more formal dining experience at Smith & Wollensky.
Smith & Wollensky, located within the park, offers dining with views, making it a popular choice for those seeking a scenic meal.
The casual cafe offers more budget-friendly options, while Smith & Wollensky is considered pricey but offers a memorable experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as there's a casual cafe nearby for convenience. While parking can be tricky, the overall experience is well worth the effort for a fun-filled family outing. Remember sunscreen and hats (though be mindful of the wind!).
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a variety of lenses to capture both the expansive vistas and the details of the passing vessels. Be prepared for wind, and consider arriving early to secure the best spots and capture the soft morning light. The vibrant colors of the water and sky are particularly photogenic.
🚢 Ship Spotting Aficionados
Reddit users suggest that certain times, like weekends in late February, might offer more opportunities to see big ships. The pier's location provides an unobstructed view, making it ideal for ship enthusiasts of all ages.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Ship Spotting
To maximize your chances of seeing larger ships, consider visiting during weekends, particularly in months like February, as suggested by one traveler. Early mornings and late afternoons can also offer dynamic views as ships depart or arrive. The pier's location at the southern tip of Miami Beach provides an unobstructed view of the shipping lanes, making it a prime spot for this activity.
Beyond the ships, the pier itself is a beautiful structure offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Fisher Island, and the Miami skyline. It's a place where the grandeur of the ocean meets the urban landscape, creating a captivating scene for photography and contemplation.
Capturing the Golden Hour and Beyond
Beyond the dramatic sunsets, the pier offers a stunning backdrop for a variety of shots. The vastness of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the vibrant Miami Beach skyline on the other provide diverse compositions. Photographers can capture the architectural lines of the pier itself, the gentle waves crashing against the breakwater, or the distant silhouette of Fisher Island.
Travelers recommend bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive views and a telephoto lens if you want to zoom in on the ships. Remember that the pier is often windy, so securing your gear is important. The clean, wide walking paths also offer great perspectives for capturing the overall park ambiance.
A Breath of Fresh Air: Park Amenities and Vibe
For families, the park features a great splash pad and playground, which are excellent for keeping children entertained for hours. This makes South Pointe Park a well-rounded destination for visitors of all ages.
The overall vibe is described as calm and grounding, even when busy. It's a place where you can 'stop, breathe, and just feel present.' The combination of natural beauty and thoughtful amenities creates an inviting atmosphere for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit