The Best Spots for Outdoor Swimming in Miami, FL

It doesn’t get more Miami than a dip in a hotel pool with a cocktail in hand, and the Freehand Miami provides just that. The pool at the Freehand hotel in South Beach may be unimpressive, but it’s a hot hangout spot due to its proximity to the local Broken Shaker bar that produces the most delicious craft cocktails. Drink, swim, and enjoy a little Miami sunshine.

The historic Biltmore Hotel, built in the 1920s and located in Coral Gables, features one of the largest swimming pools in the country. Roomy enough for a few laps, the sprawling 23,000-square-foot (2,137sqm) pool is done in polished marble and holds 600,000 gallons (2,271,247.07 liters) of water. Enjoy a swim in the glorious pool lined with classic statues and columns fit for a Roman consul.

Go for a swim underneath waterfalls and exotic cave grottoes at the Mediterranean-style Venetian Pool, located in the suburbs of scenic Coral Gables. The historic Venetian Pool, built in 1923, boasts Italian architecture made of coral rock and is fed from a spring that pumps 820,000 gallons (3,104,037.66 liters) of water into the pool daily.

Float along the 1,000-foot (305km) Lazy River at the McDonald Water Park in Hialeah. The perfect antidote to the humid and hot Miami weather, visitors can plop on a floatie or enjoy a refreshing soak to cool down in the heat. The water park also boasts a wave pool with three different wave variations to keep things fun, as well as a water playground for kids.

After kayaking along the Oleta River, put your paddles aside and venture to the park’s beach to enjoy a swim in the salty water. The 1,200-foot (366m) beach is set among the tropical forested area that also boasts mangroves, exotic plants and wildlife. Visitors can even book a stay in an air-conditioned cabin to enjoy a weekend of camping in the great outdoors without roughing it.

With 35 water slides, a giant wave pool and a lazy river, you’ll probably end up with your ears clogged with buckets of water, but you won’t regret visiting. The largest water park in South Florida is a bit of a drive from Miami, but it’s worth it for a whole day spent tunneling through slides and soaking in pools.

Just adjacent to the Zoo Miami, this park encompasses 270 acres (109ha) of South Florida woodland and is home to a freshwater lake with a beach where visitors can swim. There are also hiking trails, bike trails and campsites for RVs.

For those in the mood for a swim with a side of a raucous party, head to the Raleigh Hotel Miami Beach. Due to its stunning pool and party atmosphere, this oceanfront hotel is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Order cocktails from the pool bar, and relax in style with a delicious mojito.