Miami Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

Paddle Board & Kayak Rentals in Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

Paddle board and kayak rentals in Historic Virginia Key Beach directly from your smartphone! Simply download the PADL app, select the station of your choice in your area and get out on the water in seconds! Our self-service rental station is located just steps from the water to provide you with the best paddleboarding and kayaking experience possible. After your ride, check your stats and share your experience! Explore Historic Virginia Key Beach Park with paddle board and kayak rentals from PADL. Enjoy a day of adventure on the water with our easy rentals!

About the Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

Historic Virginia Key Beach Park is a culturally significant and scenic public park located on Virginia Key, just off the coast of Miami, Florida. Established in 1945, the park holds a unique place in Miami’s history as it was the only beach in the area designated for African Americans during the era of racial segregation. Today, it serves as both a recreational area and a site of historical and cultural remembrance.

The park was established in response to the growing demand for a public beach accessible to Miami’s Black community, who were barred from using the city’s other beaches due to segregation laws. After a protest in 1945, Miami-Dade County designated a portion of Virginia Key as a “Colored Only” beach. Over the years, Historic Virginia Key Beach Park became a vibrant gathering place for the Black community, hosting family outings, church picnics, social events, and more.

In the 1960s, after the Civil Rights Movement led to the desegregation of public spaces, the park’s popularity declined as African Americans gained access to other beaches. The park eventually closed and fell into disrepair, but it was revitalized and reopened to the public in 2008 after significant restoration efforts. Today, it stands as a symbol of the struggle for civil rights and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Things To Do (by this PADL Station)

Here’s the updated list of the top three things to do in Virginia Key:

PADL at Virginia Key Beach Club and North Point Park and Trails: For outdoor enthusiasts, PADL offers paddleboarding, kayaking beach chairs, and umbrellas at Virginia Key Beach Club and also includes mountain biking at North Point Park and trails. You can explore the tranquil waters of Biscayne Bay and enjoy the scenic beauty of Virginia Key. The North Point area is also great for hiking and biking, with trails that wind through mangroves and offer plenty of opportunities for wildlife observation.
Gramps at Rickenbacker Marina: The popular Miami bar, Gramps, has opened a new location at the Rickenbacker Marina in Virginia Key. Known for its eclectic vibe, live music, and great drinks, Gramps offers a fantastic waterfront spot to relax after a day of outdoor activities. Whether you’re enjoying a craft cocktail, grabbing a bite to eat, or listening to live music, Gramps at Rickenbacker Marina brings a fun and vibrant atmosphere to Virginia Key.
Miami Seaquarium: A must-visit attraction on Virginia Key, the Miami Seaquarium offers an array of marine life shows and educational exhibits. Visitors can watch dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals perform in engaging shows, and learn about marine conservation efforts. The Seaquarium is ideal for families and anyone interested in exploring the wonders of ocean life.

Ready to make some waves? Rent a paddle board or kayak at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park today! Download the PADL app for fast and convenient rentals!

$ 25 / hour

Oceanside
Beach Launch
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Memberships

Stop paying by the hour and rent worry free when you sign up for the PADL membership. Our plans include 2 rentals hours per day on the first paddle board or kayak, and discounts for additional paddle boards, kayaks and overtime hours. All for just $30 per month or $100 every 6 months! Sign up in the PADL app today.