Bright, sunny days bring crowds of people to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne. The state park is one of the most well known in the country, specifically for its 1.25 miles of white-sand beaches. Drawing a laid-back crowd of families and sunbathers, Cape Florida is an ideal spot for the low-key beach bum and tourists looking to slow down for the day.

Biking, hiking, and camping are among the many activities available. On warm summer days, many flock to host barbecues at the park’s free picnic areas. Park-goers can also tour the historic lighthouse, which was built in 1825 and is the oldest standing structure in all of Miami-Dade County.

The park is open from 8 a.m. through sundown all year, and daily admission ranges from $2 for pedestrians and cyclists to $8 for cars of 2-8 people. A lesser-known tip: Patrons showing up close to sunset enter for free!

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
1200 South Crandon Boulevard
Key Biscayne, FL 33149
(305) 361-5811
www.floridastateparks.org/park/Cape-Florida

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr senza senso

On your next date night or evening out with friends, head over to Cardon y el Tirano, a popular Venezuelan eatery with ambiance to boot. This Miami favorite features dim, romantic lighting, rich leather and reclaimed wood furnishings and a sleek bar that makes the perfect spot to sit and enjoy a nightcap. If you’re hungry, the menu includes modern takes on Venezuelan favorites, from tostones picanha to skirt steak arepas with avocado and Guyana cheese. There are also tacos that come with your choice of meats and vegetarian ingredients. Many of the dishes are served tapas-style, with small plates that are meant to share amongst the table, but you’ll also find larger entrees if your appetite is a bit larger. The desserts are colorful and full of exotic flavors, and the exceptional wine list is one of the best in town. If you’re looking to experience the very best in Miami dining, Cardon y el Tirano is not to be missed.

Cardon y el Tirano
3411 SW 8th Street
Miami, FL 33135
(305) 392-1257
www.cardonyeltirano.com

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Rich900

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