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Top Spots To Go On A Picnic In South Florida

Last year we introduced you to the Top Spots For A Picnic In Miami. It featured a list of outdoor hotspots that ranged from your everyday park excursion to locales that showcased the natural beauty of South Florida. This year National Picnic Day is on April 23 and in honor of this momentous event, we're profiling picnic places that offer the picturesque, the high class or just the great American park experience. So read on to find out which picnic paradise is perfect for the whole family or for some snuggly time with your sweetheart.
Mr. Moe's Restaurant & Bar
(credit: mrmoes.com)

Matheson Hammock Park
9610 Old Cutler Road
Miami, FL 33156
(305) 665-5475
www.miamidade.com

Matheson Hammock Park is 630-acres of gorgeous with a picturesque beach hugging a man made atoll pool and direct views of Biscayne Bay, making it the go-to wedding destination for many locals. Most people forget about the picnic area which is just steps away from the pool and features several picnic tables and coral rock pavilion. There is a $180 fee to rent out the pavilion and tables might be scarce due to the people visiting the snack bar. Paying the $5 entrance fee and bringing the traditional blanket might be better alternative. Another option is the great grassy area along the hiking trails just under the overhanging mangrove trees that's perfect for nature lovers. Like the beach area, you can either grab a picnic table or use a blanket.

Mr. Moe's Restaurant & Bar
(credit: mrmoes.com)

South Pointe Park
1 Washington Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 673-7006
www.miamibeachfl.com

Located on edge of Miami Beach and boasting views of Fisher Island, South Pointe Park is the perfect picnic park for sea lovers. The terrain is mostly flat and grassy so it's ideal for a warm blanket and the park is only 17-acres in diameter, making it a quaint and quiet spot to eat. Just make sure you plan your picnic accordingly as there aren't many snacks to eat onsite and wind will be a factor with your blanket. Then you'll be all set for a free day at the park for a picnic and a panoramic view.

Mr. Moe's Restaurant & Bar
(credit: mrmoes.com)

Pinecrest Gardens
11000 S. Red Road
Miami, FL 33156
(305) 669-6990
www.pinecrest-fl.com

Before Parrot Jungle Island moved to its new home at Watson Island in 2003, it was formerly located in Pinecrest Gardens. While the move may have taken most of the wildlife, it left behind lush gardens, colorful floral arrangements and a petting zoo, making this an ideal picnic spot for families. There is no need for a blanket since there is a large designated picnic area with shaded tables and benches that can accommodate a family of four. The picnic prep work is also relatively easy and inexpensive since admission is $5 per person, outside food is allowed in and concessions are available onsite. On Sundays, there is even a weekly farmers market so that you and your family can add fresh organic fruit and veggies to your already perfect family picnic.

Related: Guide To Throwing The Perfect Summer Picnic Party

Mr. Moe's Restaurant & Bar
(credit: mrmoes.com)

Deering Estate At Cutler
16701 S.W. 72nd Ave.
Miami, FL 33157
(305) 235-1668
www.deeringestate.com

The former home of businessman and philanthropist Charles Deering, the Deering Estate at Cutler has now become an historic and ecological destination for South Floridians. Admission is $12 per adult and most people come to tour the exquisite estate but many opt to tour the 444-acres of luxuriously landscaped grounds and dine at the picnic tables under the palm trees on Biscayne Bay. Couples like Deering Estate for its many concerts that encourage picnicking by blanket on the lawn and the onsite caterers that are available to prepare pre-ordered picnic baskets. Two days before National Picnic Day, the estate is hosting Picnic In the Park, where guest pay $7 to enjoy a quiet picnic and a few games like human chess.

Mr. Moe's Restaurant & Bar
(credit: mrmoes.com)

Amelia Earhart Park
401 E. 65th St.
Hialeah, FL 33013
(305) 685-8389
www.miamidade.com

At Amelia Earhart Park, there are no breathtaking vistas or views of the bay. It's just 515-acres of park, farmland and lakes and a great place for your children to run unrestricted. There are picnic tables located all over the park, some have a lake view and others take in the natural landscape. Again, concessions are scarce at this location so you are going to want to bring everything in your picnic arsenal. It's up to you whether or not to include the blanket or go for the bench. For $7 per car it's picnic deal that just can't be beat.

Related: Top Parks In South Florida

Niema Hulin was born in Newark, NJ but raised in Lexington, South Carolina for the bulk of her formative years. In 2002, she moved to Miami after graduating from the University of Florida. Since then, Niema has worked in film, television and commercials as a Production Assistant and Production Coordinator. Some of her films have included Bad Boys II and I Am Number IV. Her work can be found at Examiner.com
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