Rickenbacker Causeway to Key Biscayne
Cycling RouteThis route crosses the massive bridge connecting the mainland to the lush barrier islands. Cyclists push up the steep incline of the bridge before enjoying a long, breezy descent toward the beaches. The dedicated bike lane provides a safe buffer from the heavy vehicle traffic heading to the parks. The ride concludes deep within a state park, surrounded by native coastal vegetation and historic structures.
SURFACE BREAKDOWN
ELEVATION PROFILE
WHY WE LOVE THIS ROUTE
It delivers the most dramatic elevation change available in this notoriously flat city, rewarding the physical effort with unobstructed, panoramic views of the entire downtown skyline and the vast expanse of Biscayne Bay.
RIDER'S NOTEBOOK
- • Bring two water bottles; the sun reflects harshly off the pavement and the water, accelerating dehydration.
- • Hit the bridge right at sunrise to avoid the brutal midday heat and the aggressive weekend driving traffic.
- 1VIEWPOINT
Cape Florida Lighthouse
The oldest standing structure in the county sits at the very tip of the island, overlooking the turbulent ocean currents. Visitors lean their bikes against the fence to walk up the beach and photograph the towering brick structure.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Established
- In 1825, making it 201 years old
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- National Register Of Historic Places Listed Place
to next stop - 2WAYPOINT
Crandon Park
Wild peacocks roam freely across the manicured lawns of this massive former coconut plantation. The path skirts past a sprawling tennis centre and heads toward a quiet, palm-fringed beach.
to next stop - 3WAYPOINT
Hobie Beach
Windsurfers launch their colourful sails from this narrow strip of sand right off the causeway. Dogs splash in the shallow water while food trucks serve cold drinks to the waiting crowds.
to next stop - 4HIDDEN GEM
Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
This stretch of shoreline provides quiet paved trails weaving through dense coastal hammocks and sea grape trees. Cyclists ride along the shoreline path to view the Atlantic Ocean sweeping out toward the horizon.
Other Cycling Routes
Check out other routes in Miami
Venetian Causeway to South Beach
A series of low, historic drawbridges connect a chain of artificial islands filled with luxurious waterfront homes. The speed limit for cars is kept low, making the shared roadway feel unusually safe and relaxed for cyclists. Boats pass directly underneath the bridges, occasionally forcing riders to pause and enjoy the view while the spans raise. The route drops you directly into the bustling heart of Miami Beach.
view route
Coconut Grove Waterfront Ride
The route winds under the heavy, cooling shade of massive oak and banyan trees that define this historic neighbourhood. The path follows the curve of the bay, passing by crowded marinas and quiet, hidden parks. The terrain is flat but visually complex, with roots occasionally buckling the older sections of the pavement. It feels entirely removed from the stark concrete aesthetic of the downtown core.
view route
Alternative Ways to Tour the City
Switch your pace. Discover curated routes by bike, foot, or self-guided exploration.
Miami Riverwalk to Brickell Key
This pedestrian path traces the edge of the working river before crossing over to an exclusive, man-made island. Tugboats and massive luxury yachts idle in the water, navigating the tight currents between the skyscrapers. The concrete walkway passes directly behind sleek corporate towers and busy waterfront seafood restaurants. The ambient noise combines the hum of city traffic with the deep rumble of marine diesel engines.
Little Havana Cultural Walk
This short stretch of Southwest 8th Street serves as the cultural heartbeat for the Cuban exile community. The smell of strong espresso and sweet tobacco rolls out of the open storefronts to greet walkers. Roosters roam freely across the pavements, weaving between tourists and locals queuing for hot croquetas. It feels entirely disconnected from the glossy, high-rise aesthetic of the rest of the city.