Nestled along the scenic 9610 Old Cutler Road in picturesque Coral Gables, Matheson Hammock Park & Marina offers a tranquil escape from the bustling Miami atmosphere. This breezy sheltered beach features a unique man-made atoll pool, perfect for new swimmers and kiteboard enthusiasts alike, making it a beloved spot for families and outdoor lovers. With its lush palm trees, calm lagoon waters, and a backdrop featuring the Miami skyline and Key Biscayne, this park is a visual delight and a refreshing alternative to crowded South Florida beaches.
Matheson Hammock Park is especially popular with families thanks to its shallow swimming areas and lifeguard supervision that provide peace of mind for parents. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, kiteboarding, and boating with marina slip rentals available. For those looking to unwind, the park's picnic tables and serene walking paths offer ideal spots for relaxation and scenic strolls. While swimming may feel different—due to a natural sandy and slightly slimy lagoon bottom—water shoes can enhance comfort, making it an inviting experience for all ages.
On-site, visitors can savor delicious meals and refreshing drinks at the charming Redfish restaurant housed in a historic coral building, featuring romantic outdoor seating and live music. Signing up for the restaurant’s text updates can score you perks like free desserts or a glass of wine. The park also boasts clean bathrooms, showers, and changing rooms, enhancing comfort during your visit. Ample parking is available at a reasonable flat rate, making it easy to enjoy a full day of fun and relaxation.
- Family-friendly atoll pool – safe and shallow waters ideal for kids and new swimmers.
- Recreational kayaking and kiteboarding – rentals available for a fun-filled water adventure.
- Historic dining experience – savor fresh meals at Redfish restaurant with waterfront views and live tunes.
- Convenient amenities – including clean restrooms, showers, and plenty of parking with a flat-rate fee.
Visitors consistently praise Matheson Hammock Park for its peaceful ambiance and the variety of activities it offers. The sheltered lagoon and atoll pool receive special mention as excellent spots for children to swim safely. Many guests appreciate the clean facilities and the charming atmosphere created by the surrounding palm trees, making it a happy place to explore, relax, or celebrate special moments like weddings. The scenic views of Miami’s skyline further enhance the park’s appeal.
- Is Matheson Hammock Park pet-friendly? No, pets are not allowed in Matheson Hammock Park.
- What are the park's operating hours? The park is open from sunrise to sunset daily.
- Are there any entrance fees? Yes, parking fees are $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends and holidays.
Nestled along the scenic Old Cutler Road in Coral Gables, Florida, Matheson Hammock Park & Marina stands as a cherished natural retreat with a rich historical legacy. Established in 1930, it holds the distinction of being the very first county park in Dade County, thanks to the generous donation from William J. Matheson. This park not only offers visitors a stunning blend of lush tropical landscapes and tranquil waterfront views but also features a unique man-made atoll pool that is naturally refreshed by the tidal movements of Biscayne Bay, making it an ideal and safe swimming area especially favored by families and new swimmers.
Matheson Hammock Park's history is marked by significant developments that reflect its importance to the community and its resilience through time. Opening its gates in 1930 as Dade County’s inaugural park, it quickly became a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. In 1936, the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program aimed at providing jobs and improving public lands, contributed to the park’s enhancement by developing the bayfront area, enriching its facilities and natural beauty. Remarkably, the park's structures endured the severe hurricane damage that hit the region in 1945, underscoring both the quality of its construction and the community’s dedication to preserving this treasured space.
Today, Matheson Hammock Park remains a serene oasis that perfectly balances natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a breezy sheltered beach and the calm, shallow waters of the atoll pool, making it especially safe and enjoyable for children and new swimmers. The park's picturesque lagoon lined with iconic palm trees is a popular backdrop for photography sessions, from family portraits to romantic weddings. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the availability of kayak and kite rentals, while food lovers can indulge at the Redfish restaurant, housed in a charming historic coral building, offering indoor and romantic outdoor seating with views of the Miami skyline and Key Biscayne in the distance.
- Family-friendly swimming area with shallow water and lifeguards on duty.
- Historic park structures that have stood since its opening and withstood major storms.
- Recreational amenities including kayak and kite rentals, picnic tables, and bike paths leading into Coral Gables.
- Dining options at Redfish restaurant with scenic outdoor seating and occasional live music.
- Visitor guidelines such as no grilling at the beach area, no pets allowed, and rules to maintain a calm and clean environment.
Nestled along Old Cutler Road in the charming city of Coral Gables, Matheson Hammock Park & Marina offers a delightful escape for families, nature lovers, and recreational enthusiasts alike. This scenic park is renowned for its unique atoll pool—a man-made lagoon that creates a calm, shallow swimming area perfect for children and novice swimmers. Surrounded by lush palm trees and mangroves, the park offers a picturesque setting with views of the Miami skyline and the nearby Key Biscayne, making it a favorite spot for peaceful strolls and memorable photo sessions.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities including biking along scenic paths that connect to the city, kayaking, and kiteboarding, with rentals conveniently available within the park. The swimming area is kept clean and safe, featuring several lifeguards on duty, making it a secure environment for families. For those seeking a relaxed dining experience, the on-site Redfish restaurant, housed in a historic coral building, offers waterfront seating and a charming ambiance, perfect for romantic dinners or casual meals accompanied by pleasant music.
While Matheson Hammock Park boasts many charms, there are a few practical aspects to keep in mind. Parking requires a flat fee, which some visitors consider reasonable given the ample space and convenience, but it remains an additional cost. The park maintains a strict pet-free policy to preserve cleanliness and safety, which dog owners should consider when planning their visit. Additionally, dining options beyond the on-site restaurant are limited, so bringing your own snacks or planning a meal elsewhere might be necessary for longer stays.
- Scenic park with diverse recreational activities: Enjoy biking, kayaking, and kiteboarding in a beautiful natural setting.
- Family-friendly atoll pool: Shallow, calm waters ideal for children and beginner swimmers.
- On-site restaurant with waterfront dining: Redfish offers a memorable dining experience in a historic setting.
- Pet-free environment ensures cleanliness: Maintains a pristine and safe atmosphere for all guests.
- Rich historical significance: Combines natural beauty with cultural heritage for a unique experience.
