Where to picnic in Miami - drinking on Miami Beach

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Look, it is technically illegal to drink on Miami Beach. And while we aren't in the business of condoning the forbidden, a cool glass of wine with a summer picnic is the type of stuff of which dreams are made. So we didn't say that, when you aren't using glass and you aren't being reckless, having an alcoholic picnic on the sand is generally condoned. We wouldn't know anything about that.

But what we can talk openly about? Four killer beachside locations perfect for a laid back BYO-lunch. Each of these spaces allow you to roll out the blanket, sit in the shade or feel the sand beneath your toes, and enjoy your brown-bagged (or wicker basket-ed) sandwich. If a drop or two of wine makes it into your cooler...well, we won't tell.

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Crandon Park
When To Go: Sunrise to sunset
What to Know: Everyone is aware that when they want a real day at the beach, sans the Fat Tuesday mugs and topless tanners, Crandon Park on Key Biscayne is the way to go. This is one beach where you can actually roll out a plaid sheet under a palm tree and simply take in Miami’s sweeping skyline to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Or, if you’re in the mood for a full-on 3-course-meal, there are plenty of grills to cook your heart away as well as picnic tables and pavilions. Best of all, the park offers Cabana Rentals for a stellar price, so book one for a non-ritzy, yet ultra romantic getaway. The grapes may not be included, but the view sure is.

Crandon Park, 6747 Crandon Boulevard; 305-361-5421.

Photo: Via Facebook/Crandon Park

Oleta River State Park
When To Go: 8 a.m. to sunset
What to Know: Oleta River State Park offers off-road bike trails, kayaking, and fishing amongst mangroves, so it seems only fitting that Florida’s largest urban park would have a beach that’s picnic ready. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for a meal à la Fort Wilderness, but beware of little fishies lurking around — there’s no lifeguard on duty.
Oleta River State Park, 3400 Northeast 163rd Street; 305-919-1844.

Photo: Via Florida State Parks

Matheson Hammock
When To Go: Sunrise to sunset
What To Know: We'll admit: Sometimes our beachside picnic plans are instantly erased at the mere thought of the serious amount of seaweed lining our shores. But, we've found the perfect solution! Right on Old Cutler lies Matheson Hammock, a pristine park with all the lush topography Miami is known for — palm trees, mangroves, and sandy beaches. But, this one is truly unique because Matheson Hammock boasts Miami’s only man-made atoll pool, fueled naturally by Biscayne Bay’s tidal action. And, best of all, Red Fish Grill is a few steps away, in case your sandwiches get soggy or a seagull crashes your outdoor meal.

Matheson Hammock, 9610 Old Cutler Road; 305-665-5475.

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Photo: Via Red Fish Grill

Haulover Beach Park
When To Go: Sunrise to sunset
What to Know: Sandy shores plus numerous tables and pavilions give Haulover Beach Park an A when it comes to planning a picnic. However, it’s the ocean breeze which allows for prime kite-flying that nudges it over to an A+. Because, let's face it, nothing accompanies a wicker basket better than a whimsical kite. So, nibble on some cantaloupe and melons, down some mimosas, and cross the street for the perfect Sunday fly-over.
Haulover Beach Park, 10800 Collins Avenue, no phone.

Photo: Via Facebook/Haulover Beach Park

Oh, and we've got all the on point picnic essentials right here — like you would expect anything less!

From left to right: Crate and Barrel Beach Stripe Tilt Umbrella, $29.95, available at Crate and Barrel; Picnic Time Metro Insulated Basket, $33.95, available at Amazon; World Market Blue and Green Stripe Rio Picnic Blanket, $17.49, available at World Market; Eva Solo Thermo Picnic Flask, $109, available at Unica Home; Oliver Bonas Natural Picnic Basket, $180.63, available at Oliver Bonas.