Tag Archives: Picnicking

Matheson Hammock Park gives glimpse of Miami past

The drive to Matheson Hammock Park is just as gorgeous as the natural setting that surrounds the actual park. Located on scenic, tree-lined, woodsy Old Cutler Road, the park is a wonderful glimpse into Miami’s past.  

Opened in 1930, the original idea of preserving the natural beauty surrounding the park remains today and is evident in the beautiful expansive view of Biscayne Bay. The man-made atoll pool, one of the park’s highlights which is flushed naturally with the tidal action of the Bay.

The sea breeze is ideal for picnicking at their pavilions, enjoying their nature trail or perhaps grabbing lunch in their coral stone restaurant. Kayakers and canoers love visiting here for a rest stop and grabbing lunch and relaxing before heading back.

Matheson Hammock Park is located at 9610 Old Cutler Road, 305-665-5475 , www.miamidade.gov/parks/Parks/Matheson_beach

Crissy Field: Weekend Windsurfing & Everything Else

Looking for an all-purpose, exquisitely maintained outdoor venue without the private club membership? Head to Crissy Field in the Marina District, where boredom and inactivity are not an option. This is where San Francisco spends its weekends: on windsurfing boards, kayaks, nature trails, dog-friendly beaches, bike paths, and open lawns.

Crissy Field is also the perfect place to photograph the Golden Gate Bridge, with no need to drive to the north viewing terrace in Sausalito, let alone homepage_san_fransicopay for the toll or the fancy postcards. Not to mention you can kill two birds with one stone, since Alcatraz, “The Rock,” is just off the coast in the center of the bay. Stick around with your blankets and folding chairs for sunset over the bridge- it’s a soft, romantic light show you won’t want to miss.

Originally a US Mail Airfield, Crissy Field has been transformed by the community through years of native plant restoration, historic preservation, and refurbished park amenities. All the years have paid off as this is now an amazing venue for the beach, sightseeing, and everything in between.