Oleta River State Park

Full Moon Kayak Review! Arrived at sunset and paid $6 for parking. We were guided to lot 1 and checked in at the visitor center on the second floor. Once we were checked in we waited until just before sunset when our tour guides came out and introduced themselves. They were all so friendly and full of life! They got us set up with our life jackets and our kayaks and we were off! We glided along calm waters and amongst the mangroves, until we entered a more open area to stop and watch the main attraction, the moon! The moon was so full and so beautiful with minimal light pollution. We given enough time to take pictures and enjoy. Then we kayaked through abandoned sail boats and more mangroves before getting to the tiki island. The volunteers had a whole island set up for us with bon fires, music, s’mores and drinks! It was incredible! We hung out for an hour before going back. 10/10 would do this again and would recommend to everyone. This was one of the best activities I’ve done in Miami! Please don’t forget to bring cash to tip your tour guides, they absolutely deserved it!

Rented kayaks to paddle to Sandspur Island. Renting was easy and quick, friendly staff. The island was a fairly easy paddle unless water is rough/choppy. Raccoons weren't thrilled about our fruit but LOVED nuts and fresh water. They were so adorable and sweet. We walked around the island to meet them all. We snorkeled by the rocks and saw lots of cool fish and marine life. We ended up spending WAY more time than planned because we were having so much fun. 6 hours I think.

Oleta River State Park is a true gem in South Florida, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. The park is exceptionally well-maintained, with clean trails, scenic waterways, and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're kayaking through mangroves, biking the trails, or simply enjoying the waterfront views, there’s something for everyone. It's an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unwind just minutes from the city. Highly recommended for both locals and visitors.

I actually had very low expectations for this park and was prepared for the worst, especially during the hot summer time. But I was VERY surprised — the place was clean, well-organized. Kayaking out to the little island was an absolute BLAST — so much fun and adventure! An absolute must-try if you're looking for something exciting and refreshing to do outdoors.

Such a wonderful State Park. Lots of people come here for various reasons, but our friends said the main attraction for animal lovers is to rent kayaks to go around the mangroves and some paddle to raccoon island. Lots of wildlife to see all over the place. The place is relatively clean unless you visit Sandspur Island, so please pack it in & pack it out. Overall if you love nature and wildlife come here for an amazing visit.

It was a nice, one time experience for me. I found the little beach was so full. No shade unless you bring your own tent. All the trees are occupied up with families avoiding the sun. It's the only natural shade available. Many signs stating no alcohol allowed, yet every family had alcohol of all types hidden in their cooler and filling them up in water bottles or cups. A little dirty and needs constant upkeep. Lots of people blasting all types of music. A few grills available for cooking. Gazebos must be paid in advance. Kayak rental lines are long due to the filling of paperwork, at your own risk. Alligator signs along the river. Parking is limited towards the end of the park. You will need to walk to park. Pedestrian and bicyclists pay $2 to enter. Vehicle with 2 - 5 people pay $6. Good luck.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had a sensational afternoon as a family! All the kids rode their bikes on the trails, and then I had a blast on my own exploring the technical lines. I love this park because it offers a bit of everything — great trails, fun challenges, and beautiful scenery. I still need to adventure out on a kayak, but I can’t wait to try it next time! Highly recommended for family fun and solo adventures alike.

So much fun to be had here! Mountain, biking, nature trails, paved walking trail, kayak rentals, Tons of picnic tables, grills, and a nice public beach on the intacoastal. Grounds are always clean. Check this place out, you won’t be disappointed. This might be my favorite park of all time.

First time in six years that I've visited this park at first, I was a little bit, not convinced of their trials and little by little and start finding them out. It was a very nice trail and this time around I loved it because it was a little bit wet and it was a nice ride. I tried two trails. One of them was a little bit flooded. The other one was OK. If you visit our PARKS, please keep them clean. Don't throw trash all over the place. people are way too lazy to clean up after themselves and destroy our nature yet they take their time to go there and mess it up for many others. Keep our parks clean, please and enjoy them.

An amazing place to relax, exercise or just to have a great time. If you haven't visited wake up early and just go! Parking fee all day is $6,00 plenty of parking available if you arrive early. If you like to try kayaking, paddle boarding you can rent the equipment. You need to sign a form but is all digital. (Upstairs in a tablet). We rented life vests for $15 x all day. The State Park closes at 7pm so be there before that time so you don't get charge a fee. The river area is really nice but the beach area is just much beautiful. You can also plan ahead and have a bbq day with your loved ones. When we were there we noticed some people were getting baptized, some other people were celebrating their bdays. So in less words this is a wonderful place to enjoy your weekend and nature!

I can't believe i had not visited this park... l should have sooner bc it's beautiful. I went on a weekday, so it was not crowded at all, it was super clean, and plenty of picnic areas to choose from. We got to kayak for a bit, hang out at the beach, and bbq in the picnic area. I saw huge iguanas, lots of fish while kayaking! A raccoon sighting would have made my day perfect! I look forward to visiting again! Parking is $6, they have plenty of clean restrooms, water fountains w actual cold water, showers to rinse.. parking tickets allows re-entry... i did knock off a star because i think customer service could have been friendlier..

This is a huge park with beach, picnic areas, and more but I am focusing on the kayaking part which is the one I've done several times. It is better to get here right when they open at 9am or a bit earlier to avoid the huge line to get in. It is a popular spot and does get busy. Once inside parking is easy and close to the kayak check-in area. Upstairs is where the process starts with filling in forms and signing in. Prices vary depending on what type of kayak you prefer if solo or tandem, and how long you stay out for. The one star off is because the service can be a hit or miss... there's young staff so as you can imagine some are a bit distracted sometime on their phones or just talking with each other but other than that the experience is great. Once you are on the water, it is up to you to make it a great time, go as fast or as slow as you want, soak in being outside with nature, and they have some beaches where you can stop for a bit, relax, before going back to your kayak. It's a pity this place is not closer to us, otherwise we would be there more often.

This is another huge state park. Perfect to spend the day with your family and friends. You can go to hike which is what we did or you can have a beach day or small picnic or all 3. The possibilities are endless. The hiking trails are a bit tiring. We didn't 1hour of a hike. The reason this gets 4 stars is because it is not as clean as other state parks. The bathrooms were not up kept. No toilet paper anywhere and not clean at all ( at least the women's bathroom). You do need to pay to get in. There are jelly fish in the water so be careful. I will come back for a picnic and to relax maybe hike again.

Love this park! Perfect for a Sunday to spend with your family and friends. Lots of picnic table, kayak and paddle board rentals.

I love this park! We went fishing on the pier on Saturday, so much fun. They have lots of picnic tables where you can bbq or bring your food but get there early! There's lots of shade, open spaces for playing with the kids and wonderful trails to walk or bike on. Admission is no more than $6, can't beat that for a good time. They also have a small beach to cool off, not much shade though. There's kayak and paddle board rentals too. Go enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

I absolutely love this park! Last weekend, I got to experience MEG 2 at the beach for a special premiere screening, hosted by Warner Bros. This hands down, has been the best experience of watching a shark movie at night in the ocean under the moon. The ocean was calm and the water warm. Everything was so organized from the time you came in, to getting the foods and drinks. I love the setup of the lights, and of course of the big screen. No matter what part you are at, you can hear the surround sounds. My friends and I had and amazing time. Please host more movies here.

A nice beautiful park. You have to pay an entrance fee. This park is pretty big. I suggest getting a map at the gate. It has. A beach, pier, bike trail, canoes, kayaks and camping area. I have been coming here for ever. Today I came to kayak. You have to go to the office to pay for the kayaks. The place was under construction. It was easy to find the place. It was across from the bight red canoes lol. You have to go to the 2nd floor. The first floor is bike rental. You have to sign a waiver give them your drivers license and they will give you a paper to take down to the first floor to get a vest and paddle. One of the best parks around for kayaking in my opinion. The trails are nice. You have some shades. You get to see animals and fish. If you like kayaking this is a good park to do it at. Today the water was crystal clear and hardly any waves. It was a good day to be out.

I've been here for kayaking and paddle boarding and last weekend I came for the movie screening of Meg 2. What a great venue for a screening of a movie about a shark! The park has lots of parking facilities and you can rent kayaks, etc.. The park is next to the Bay so lots of water sports availability. There is a fee to enter the park.

Camped in a cabin here for a week in July 2024. AC unit worked great! We enjoyed our stay. Bathroom and shower house was well maintained. Very nice place to get away from it all yet be able to enjoy Miami if one so desires.

I absolutely adore this park! My furry friends and I frequent it often - they love it just as much as I do. The park boasts a variety of trails to explore, but the real gem is the kayak and paddle rental. The river trail is absolutely breathtaking and surrounded by trees, making it a refreshing respite from the heat. While the beach is nothing to write home about - it's just okay - I must say that most days it has a strange, unpleasant odor. I've never used the cooking tables they provide either - they're always crowded with loud music and too many kids for my taste. However, if you enjoy that family-oriented environment, then you're in luck - they offer that option as well. Personally, my favorite spot is on the river side with a paddle in hand. Oh, and don't forget about the mountain bike trails - they're also amazing! Overall, I highly recommend this park. There's truly something for everyone here.

Great park for hiking, cycling, kayaking, barbecues, beach. Nature garden. Carload rates for parking. Variety of bike trails / maps available showing novice, intermediate and expert. So fun!

Clear water, a lot of tree's and space to do bbq. Kayaking and beautiful walking zone's. Great mountain biking trails with scenic ocean views accessible to everyone and friendly people out there

Best spot for kayaking hands down !! They upgraded the process so I do recommend coming early if you want a good time to be on the water.

We found it to be a bit ghetto. Different families playing louder than loud music which ALWAYS interferes with ones own fun. We don't go to listen to someone else's music nonstop so turn it down so you and yours can enjoy it only cause otherwise its pretty freakin rude. Lots of trash on the ground too which was weird cause I live in Fort Lauderdale and it's spotless compared to hometown of Los Angeles especially. We just weren't very impressed with this park in the least and we are NOT all all picky people, just wasn't our vibe. I would suggest taking a carload of friends and family, can't really beat $6 for a carload of 8 to get in. They let you motor dirt bike ride, kayak, and there's plenty of other water sports and trails to enjoy so get out there and see what you can find. Little KIDS to elementary kids will probably love it there.

A one of a kind park filled with Florida, is truest nature in mind. One can say that if you were to choose a national park that can embody the spirits and individuality that Florida has it would be Oletta River State Park for sure. I enjoyed it thoroughly with beautiful weather and the trialsare incredible and beautiful with ups and downs and left and right

Here is 200-220 people in the line. And only 2 cashiers working. The queue to the cashiers is not organized as always. They change registration system every 2-3 months, and there is no one to ask.. workers work very slow, barely move.. they don't need to rush, they don't care about the queue, since their hourly salary doesn't depend on it compare to other places!.. if people here worked conscientiously and in an organized manner, it would be better. There is few more rental places down the street with good , fasters employees! Do not recommend this place at all.

This is a beautiful state park north of Miami. We came to kayak. Our first time, we couldn't go because it was too windy, so there was no kayaking. We had better luck the second time. We kayaked for about 60-90 minutes. There's a nice loop path through the mangroves that's really pretty. Part if it goes out into the harbor and to a beach. The beach is a nice place to stop and relax. The park itself is great. I'd recommend bringing your own kayaks if you have them though. It was easy to rent them, but when we tried to return them, the company makes you wait in the same line as people who are waiting to get a kayak. It was fine when we got there, but we waited almost an hour before we could leave (and they had our credit card so we had no choice). The kayak rental company isn't great, but the state park is beautiful.

Writing this review today because it's Earth Day tomorrow and it just feels right to show some love to our beautiful parks and mother nature. Oleta Park has been one of my favorite spots whenever I'm in need of a fresh breath of air or a moment to step outside and disconnect. Whether it's biking around or Kayaking in their beautiful lakes to get to the mini islands -- it's such a beautiful place to reconnect with yourself and remember to stay grounded. Their kayaking routes are my favorite, you get to catch a lot of nature, such as mangroves and beaches + some wildlife life during your route. Everything is well maintained and the service is on point. Such a wonderful time, always!

A beautiful Park that offers so much. There's bike and walking paths everywhere, along with lots of restrooms, picnic tables, and a decent beach. We were here on a Sunday and there was a long lineup to get into the park; this is one popular place! Admission is only $6 per vehicle with 2 or more people inside. The park staff were very friendly; we received a park map and all them on ATVs waved as they drove by us. The trails near the beach are mostly for walking, elsewhere, they are best for bikes, especially the half-pipe. It would take quite a while to go through all the trails; this is one big property. The many different trees and plants you see here is so interesting. Make sure you bring insect repellent as we got bit a few times without it. Also, you might want to bring water and a snack, as the trails are quite lengthy. There's a two-story restaurant in the middle of the park, although we didn't visit it. Next time!

Oleta River State Park has plenty of outdoor activities during this pandemic. We went here for the nature hiking trials. This review is solely reflective of that and does not include the bike trails, kayaking, beach and other activities. There is ample parking in the park; actually too much. There is a trail on the map marked in Orange and we found it fairly simply. It was not marked at all. The trail is not interesting until you get to the south eastern tip where it loops following the bay. Within the Orange trail, there is a nature trail. The head of it is marked. There is little to know wildlife other than ibises. I did see an Osprey overhead. The nature trail is way too small. It then dovetails into a mountain bike trail; where there is a plethora of bike trails at this park. The mountain bike trail was hard on the feet and with the knowledge that a biker could come careening around each corner made that part unenjoyable.

I love this park! It has something for everyone. Fishing, kayaking, canoeing, beach, picnicking, bike riding, walking trails, cabins... too much to mention.

This park is the worst me and my friend went fishing at the pier. It's the smallest and the only pier. It was 4:pm and I had to use the restroom. The park closes at sundown. The next thing I heard, a man there started screaming get out of the restroom, park is close to think they charge to come to this park and they throw you out at 4:30PM VERY RUDE AND SCREAMING IN THE RESTROOMS LIKE THAT AND THE BATHROOMS WERE NASTY. LEAST THEY CAN DO IS CLEAN IT THAT'S WERE OUR MONEY GOES. NO I DON'T RECOMEND THUS PARK NOT WORTH 6 DOLLARS

What a better way to start memorial day weekend by getting off work early to go kayaking with your SO. Yes, it was an impromptu daytime date that was totally worth it. Usually Oleta is full before 10 am on the weekends and as a mom it's hard to plan anything without having to pay an arm and a leg to enjoy date night. For a total of $40 (1.5 hour rental) & $6 to get into the park. The experience was priceless! Bring sunscreen, water & a waterproof case.

First things first, head on over to Groupon and score an amazing deal on Oleta's kayaks and paddleboard rentals! We saved a ton and enjoyed a memorable day out on the water. The process is easy and quick! Once you show your ID and voucher, you receive your ticket upstairs on the second floor and then you get your paddle and life vests on the ground level. The workers by the water help you get on your way and the rest is up to you. You can either guide yourself by their map or take your own routes. We did a little mix of both. Going for the first time with kids and watching neighboring stormy clouds, we wanted to make sure we would head back just in time to avoid any rain. We saw crabs and iguanas in between the mangroves and many birds flying high above, desperately looking for manatees but no luck! With some time to spare, we found their beach after returning the kayaks and enjoyed the shallow waters for a few. Can't wait to go back and rent the kayaks again but also ride the bike trails!

It was wonderful experience doing the kayaking. There are enough areas to remain in the shade. The bay is gorgeous and you could take it as easy as you'd like to. Staff were friendly and able to help. Looking forward to returning.

This is still kinda a hidden gem to me. I recently started getting into more water sports and purchased a kayak.I dock from this beautiful park and it's very convenient. Workers from the park are always nice and it a great place to be when you're trying to get away from the craziness of the city or partying.

Big crowd and a huge wait to rent kayaks but overall the experience was nice. I wish the river ride was longer, you can basically kayak for 45 minutes and you have seen it all. It's nice that you are able to exit the river into the open ocean but a little intimidating with the big boats near by

I finally went kayaking in Oleta River State Park. It was a really fun time and worth the price. The staff in the rental area where you pay for the kayak, and collect the life vests and paddles are not very nice but luckily the staff that hand off your kayak are nice and helpful. We rented a tandem kayak for 2 people for about 2.5 hours and spent about $60 including tip and $6 to get into the park. The park and kayaking area is nice. Unfortunately, there is one area for kayaking right next to the park that was pretty terrible, it smelled very bad and had several dead fish. The rest of the area was pretty nice and enjoyable. The rental area sells towels, sunblock, snacks and beverages which is great in case you need something. Would definitely come back!

Great spot for a morning walk. Lots of water activities including kayak rental. We happened to be there on a windy day when rentals were not available, so that's something to keep in mind. We brought our dog and went for a lovely walk on trails. We found that the trails are very well maintained. My only grievance would be that the trails are not particularly well marked. Will definitely be back!

Beautiful park I. The middle of North Miami. Gorgeous beach, mountain biking trails, kayak, canoe and bike rentals. They also have very nice cabins to rent. Love this park. So much to do. Something for everyone!

So much fun! So many activities for the family. We went kayaking and enjoyed the beach. They even allow dogs to kayak with you. We will definitely be back. Highly recommend

Wonderful state park!! 5 min from Aventura, 30 min from Downtown Miami, who would have thought you can find such an oasis of outdoor activities close to shopping malls and restaurants. We've been coming to this park for 20 years and we just adore it. Biking, hiking, camping, kayaking, fishing, swimming..etc are just some of the activities popular at this park and we have tried them all. If you wake up early and get there before the crowds you can easily spot stingrays still buried in a shallows, and raccoons having a breakfast on the beach. Definitely little paradise in the middle of the urban jungle. Kayaking /Canoeing is a must do, and do go thru the mangrove not just towards the bay. As you slowly move under the mangrove branches, hundreds of crabs are trying to run away from you climbing the roots and branches!! So fun!!

Definitely a Miami park to visit! There is a fun activity for everyone. Oleta River Park has individual kayaking and group tours. As well as mountain bike riding. There is a place to camp and a small beach area within the park. However note that beach has a smell- maybe algae. I don't get into the water but enjoy sun bathing. You can also enjoy a beautiful day just having a bbq with the family and taking a walk around the park. Truly recommend it to anyone.

We enjoyed our family camping vacation here. The cabin is small but cozy. Bring your own bedding. The air conditioning works great in the cabin and the camp host were really helpful and nice. Best fireplace site for s'mores.

This park is really big and nice. There's a few different areas, the kayak rental area, the picnic pavilions, the pier etc. You can see the inter coastal from almost anywhere. Be prepared to pay an entrance fee, there's separate lines for cash or card.

Very rude staff! Don't forget your mask or they will strong arm you into buying one for $8!!! Don't forget your license AND credit card BEFORE you go into the WATER or they will force you to walk all the way back to your car in hot sun

I have been kayaking at this park for years, even have a loyalty card. Yesterday I returned and was told that there had been no internet for the past 4 days so would have to scan their code to electronically sign the waiver. I mistakenly brought my old iPhone which no longer had internet. I asked to sign a paper waiver and the woman said I could not, so would be unable to kayak. At that point I asked to see the manger, to which she gave me attitude and went to inform her. Another employee asked to help and went to give me the paper form. The 1st employee returned, then chewed her out for not asking. (Was it HER fault ("You don't know what you don't know"), or HER fault for not providing complete training? The manger appeared and happily used her phone to help me out. Problem solved. Moral of the story: NEVER humiliate a coworker, especially in front of patrons, plus customer service is always first.

Súper nice activity and the prices were really good. We rented a kayak for 2 people and it was $45 for the first hour and a half and $5 for every extra hour (for the kayak) . There were little islands in which you could get there through kayak and it was super fun. Would definitely recommend

Very well maintained state park with beautiful views of Biscayne Bay. I'm not even much of a nature person, but this place is nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of Miami.

Came out here for some kayaking with a friend, loved the views and loved the park overall. So beautiful, with so much to do as far as outdoor activities go. I will say some of the activities is a little pricy but well worth it. Great place to spend on a weekend with friends and family for sure!

Great place, Kayaking was such a peaceful little adventure . Went early in the morning, waters were calm, not too many people.

This park offers many things! The beach, hiking, water sports and even little cabins to rent! The beach is very peaceful and always a good time. Great location for kayaking also!

Went Kayaking 3 times with groupons & it's a great deal! If you ever see it, take advantage of it! The staff are very nice & teach you anything & everything you need to know before you embark your journey into the water. With some of my friends, we've gone out to the little island that you see when you go more towards open waters, chill there for a bit, & then head back. It's a really nice time!

I live 10 mins away so i go pretty often. Never gets boring. Bbq, kayak, trekking and much more.

DO NOT RENT FROM HERE THEY ARE UNPROFESSIONAL Worst experience ever! I went canoeing and the normal rate is $45 for an hour and a half, my friend and I got lost in the middle of the ocean due to the current pushing us towards the ocean opposite way from returning the canoe to the park. It was so bad we had to call a tow boat to get us back to land. Nicole called 3x complaining about having to wait for us and not being able to leave because we are late . WE TRIED FOR an hour TO GET BACK AND WE COULDN'T! I was charged $100 for a late fee after we told them we needed help we where stranded ! Plus iam pregnant and was really really scarred having a panic attack !!! Maria the manager and Nicole were very loud and disrespectful In response to why we made it 30min late , when we arrived back after getting towed . They kept dismissing my concern and saying I should of gotten a kayake that is easier ! She was repeatedly saying that as if there is a difference in kayake or canoe when you are fighting a strong current that is moving the opposite way!!! I'm being charged extra NO ONE CAME TO HELP!! and was yelled at and disrespected/ laughed at by Nicole When I told her I was pregnant and scarred !! Both where very disrespectful and unprofessional I will call corporate and mention this ! DO NOT RENT FROM HERE THEY ARE UNPROFESSIONAL and have serious problems ABSOLUTELY NO CUSTOMER SERVICE EXPERIENCE!

I loved when I went with my little one to oleta! We played on the swings watched the kayaks go by and we're able to go later in the day since Miami sun is no joke! Super fun and relaxing for the fam!

There is very little order for kayaks. The line length was misleading. 3 hours just to pickup a kayak and it was just uneccesarily chaotic. Huge, beautiful park but not worth the time to wait and see it.