Surfside · Florida · USA
96th Street Beach
You'll smell salt and sunscreen before you spot the blue-and-white lifeguard stand marking this residential stretch. Families spread blankets between the dunes and the tide line, while joggers trace the hard-packed sand at dawn. The Atlantic here feels democratic—no velvet ropes, no bottle service, just shore.
Reading live conditions…
Live from Open-Meteo · sea surface temperature and wave data modelled at 1-km grid resolution for 96th Street Beach. Numbers refresh at the hourly tick.
- Purity
- 0%
- Conditions
- 0%
- Crowd
- 0%
- Vibe
- 0%
The OnlyBeaches Index weighs four pillars against your chosen persona. Purity comes from water clarity and air-quality heuristics; Conditions from Open-Meteo waves, wind and temperatures; Crowd from historical patterns; Vibe from nearby events within 50 km. The score rebalances throughout the day.
You'll smell salt and sunscreen before you spot the blue-and-white lifeguard stand marking this residential stretch. Families spread blankets between the dunes and the tide line, while joggers trace the hard-packed sand at dawn. The Atlantic here feels democratic—no velvet ropes, no bottle service, just shore.
Photos
8 captures from 96th Street Beach
About this beach
Where it is
96th Street Beach
Surfside, Florida, USA
25.8798°, -80.1219°
Top things to do
At 96th Street Beach
Wade the Shallows
Gentle surf, lifeguard on duty
Stake Your Spot
Pavilion shade available midday
Sunset Frame
Unobstructed western horizon views
Boardwalk Jog
Hard sand at low tide
Near this beach
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of 96th Street Beach.
Questions people actually ask about 96th Street Beach.
Is 96th Street Beach safe for swimming and families?
96th Street Beach is generally safe for swimming, with calm waters typical of Surfside's protected coastline. Lifeguards are stationed at nearby beaches during peak hours, though coverage varies seasonally. The beach features a gradual slope ideal for children, and the quieter atmosphere compared to Miami Beach makes it family-friendly. Check local surf and weather reports before swimming, especially during winter months when occasional swells occur. Jellyfish can appear seasonally, so ask locals or check beach condition boards for current water conditions.
What is the best time to visit 96th Street Beach?
96th Street Beach is enjoyable year-round, with water temperatures remaining swimmable even in winter. December through April offers the most comfortable weather with lower humidity and temperatures in the mid-70s to low-80s°F. Summer months (June-September) bring warmer, more humid conditions with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. The beach faces east, making mornings ideal for swimming and early sun, while late afternoons provide excellent sunset views over the inland waterway. Weekdays are noticeably less crowded than weekends throughout the year.
