Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, Miami’s only former Colored beach, celebrates its 80th anniversary with a three-day event from August 1–3. The celebration includes a museum project launch, community activities, tours, art, and a Poetry Potluck honoring the park’s cultural legacy. The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust invites the community to join in commemorating eight decades of history and resilience.
Endangered sea turtles on Virginia Key face growing threats not only from climate change and beach erosion, but also from a surge in raccoon populations. MORAES found that over 60% of nests were disturbed in 2023, with an estimated 2,000 hatchlings lost. To protect the turtles, the nonprofit plans to humanely relocate raccoons to areas in the Everglades where their numbers have sharply declined, while continuing to monitor and assess the local population.
Endangered sea turtles in South Florida face growing threats from climate change and beach erosion — and now, a surge in raccoons. On Virginia Key, raccoons raid sea turtle nests each season, with MORAES reporting that over 60% were disturbed in 2023. The group estimates more than 2,000 hatchlings have been lost to predation.
Just minutes from downtown Miami, Key Biscayne is a five-mile island paradise known for its pristine beaches, lush parks, and elegant seaside dining. Enjoy skyline views from the Rusty Pelican, savor global flavors at Costa Med Bistro + Wine, or unwind at The Ritz-Carlton’s six dining spots. Adventure seekers can windsurf at Hobie Beach, explore Virginia Key Beach Park, or catch sunsets at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Families will love the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center with its interactive nature exhibits and trails.
Sunbathing, sandbars, watersports and breathtaking nature—the best beaches in Miami serve it all.
Historic Virginia Key Beach Park offers a variety of activities for families. Enjoy a mile-long beach, antique carousel, miniature train, and stunning water views.
The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust and The Florida Public Archaeology Network collaborated on an archaeology workshop. The workshop included hands-on activities and data collection. The information gathered will be used to inform future management and mitigation decisions for the park.
Miami commissioners replaced the board of the Virginia Key Beach Park Trust with themselves. This sparked controversy within the black community. However, tensions remain high and the future of the park and museum remains uncertain.
The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau highlights the historical significance and natural beauty of Virginia Key Beach Park. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, riding the carousel and mini train, picnicking, exploring nature trails, and attending festivals and events.
Virginia Key Beach Park was Miami’s only beach for Black residents during segregation. Established after a “wade-in” protest in 1945, the beach offered amenities typically associated with white-only beaches. Despite its location and size, the Black community embraced Virginia Key as their own.
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