Venetian Causeway to South Beach
Cycling RouteA 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.
SURFACE BREAKDOWN
ELEVATION PROFILE
WHY WE LOVE THIS ROUTE
This path avoids the terrifying, high-speed traffic of the MacArthur Causeway while offering an intimate, ground-level look at the extreme wealth that defines the bay's artificial islands.
RIDER'S NOTEBOOK
- • Be prepared to stop frequently; the drawbridges open on a regular schedule for maritime traffic.
- • Lock your bike securely at the racks near Alton Road before walking down the pedestrian-only sections of Lincoln Road.
- 1WAYPOINT
Biscayne Island
The first island introduces the architectural style of the causeway, featuring ornate street lamps and classic Mediterranean Revival details. Small public parks offer benches to sit and watch the yachts maneuver in the bay.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Elevation
- 1 m
to next stop - 2WAYPOINT
San Marino Island
Massive banyan trees shade the sidewalks of this purely residential strip of land. Cyclists glide past heavily guarded driveways leading to sprawling, modern waterfront estates.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Elevation
- 0.914 m
to next stop - 3WAYPOINT
Belle Isle Park
A circular green space sits in the center of the final island before the beach. Local residents walk their dogs here while visitors stop to photograph the sleek facade of the nearby Standard Hotel.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
OVERVIEW & STATS
- Elevation
- 0.914 m
to next stop - 4HIGHLIGHT
Lincoln Road Mall
This wide pedestrian promenade forces cyclists to dismount and walk their bikes past busy outdoor cafes and high-end boutiques. The area buzzes with street performers and tourists hunting for shade and a cold drink.
FULL PLACE DETAILS
ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE
- Heritage Status
- National Register Of Historic Places Listed Place
Other Cycling Routes
Check out other routes in Miami
Rickenbacker Causeway to Key Biscayne
This 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.
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.