State Parks In and Around Miami, FL

Florida

A Tranquil Stroll at Haulover Beach & Park

Haulover Beach & Park in Miami, FL, is a beautiful and historic park. It’s one of Miami’s most landmark county parks, known for its clothing-optional beach. We didn’t come here to sunbathe, but simply to walk along the coast and in the park. Although February is considered the beginning of the peak season, the parking lots were still almost empty. The park and the beach weren’t crowded at all.

I strolled barefoot along the white beach, the teal ocean water washing over my feet. The sun’s warmth felt terrific. The Miami coastline was breathtaking, with countless high-rise buildings stretching for miles.

I was able to take pictures of some wildlife in the park. A green iguana, a twittering great-tailed grackle, and a shy turkey vulture patiently posed for me, resulting in some great shots.

A Rainy Day in Miami at Oleta River State Park

Since the rain was pouring down in the morning, we postponed our plans to visit the Everglades. Once the rain had stopped, we drove to Oleta River State Park. When visiting Haulover Park, we had already seen this park on the other side of Biscayne Creek.

The park is named after the Oleta River, a unique Miami river that has retained its natural flow of fresh water to Biscayne Bay. The river’s undeveloped, seven-mile stretch is a habitat for wildlife and has the only remaining riverine mangrove forest near Miami.

Oleta River State Park is a multi-functional park offering recreational opportunities while maintaining and enhancing nature. Many families were enjoying picnics together. Some people were mountain biking; others were kayaking. We were the only hikers on the trail today. While amid nature, we enjoyed the park’s serenity, as well as the spectacular view of the North Miami skyline.

A Rainy Day in Miami at Oleta River State Park

Also, praise where praise is due! After exactly one month, Hemmes shows he is an adventurer and an experienced traveler. He is a happy “purring” camper when we are driving to our new destination.

We found a routine he is comfortable with. While driving, we always open the carrier when it is placed in front of my seat. He gets restless when the top stays closed. I also cover him with his own blanket. This way, I limit his view; he doesn’t like trucks passing next to us or viaducts above us. Once in a while, he wants to sit on my lap. Again, I keep him covered under his blanket. When we eat something, he gets a treat as well.

When we arrive at a new destination, we first give him food and water, fill the litter box, prepare his bed, and cover all the furniture while he curiously explores his new temporary home.

Dates

Tuesday, February 8, 2022
Sunday, February 13, 2022

Distance

4.29 mi
4.00 mi

Moving Time

1:41:20 hrs
1:25:29 hrs

Weather

82 °F, partly clouded
73 °F, clouded