Historic 630-Acre Waterfront Park with Full-Service Marina
Miami’s First County Park with Scenic Marina & Unique Atoll Pool
Matheson Hammock Park & Marina is a treasured 630-acre urban oasis just south of Coral Gables, surrounding the north and western ends of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. As Miami-Dade County’s first park (opened 1930), this historic waterfront destination combines a full-service marina with pristine natural beauty, featuring a unique man-made atoll pool, miles of nature trails, and Coral Gables’ only waterfront restaurant—all in a stunning Biscayne Bay setting.
Marina Overview & Location
Address: 9610 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL 33156
Coordinates: 25°40’37.06″N 80°15’29.58″W
Phone: (305) 665-5475
Park Office: (305) 665-5475
Hours:
- Park: Sunrise to sunset daily
- Office & Marina: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Management: Miami-Dade County Parks and Recreation
Matheson Hammock Park sits on a scenic peninsula extending into Biscayne Bay, just south of Coral Gables and north of Coconut Grove. The park’s winding entrance road was intentionally designed to take visitors through three distinct Florida landscapes—swamp and dense mangrove forests transitioning to open cove overlooking Biscayne Bay.
Matheson Hammock Marina – Coral Gables
Table of Contents
Historic Significance
Miami-Dade’s First County Park (1930)
Original Gift:
- William J. Matheson donated 80 acres to Miami-Dade County in 1930
- Vision: Preserve “wild and natural beauty” for public enjoyment
- First opened to public in 1930
Park Expansion:
Grew to 630 acres through:
- Additional donations by Matheson heirs
- Purchases by County Commissioner Charles Crandon
- Other community donations
Historic Development (1936-1945):
- Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) crews assigned in 1936
- Built during Great Depression as federal jobs program
CCC Construction Projects:
- Coral stone buildings—still standing today
- Miles of hand-hewn coral stone walls
- Picnic shelters and pavilions
- Roads and pathways
- Bayfront park infrastructure
1945 Hurricane Test:
- 12-foot waves rolled over Matheson Hammock
- Massive damage to equipment and furnishings
- CCC structures stood firm—testament to craftsmanship
- Park quickly recovered
National Recognition:
- Listed on National Register of Historic Places
- Designed by renowned landscape architect William Lyman Phillips
- Phillips also designed Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (1938)
The Famous Atoll Pool
Unique Natural Swimming Experience
Man-Made Marvel:
- Naturally flushed atoll pool—tidal action from Biscayne Bay
- Circular design surrounded by limestone and coral stone
- Sandy beach perimeter—white sand with swaying palms
- Calm, shallow waters perfect for families with young children
- Safe swimming in protected environment
- Stunning views of Florida coastline panoramas
How It Works:
- Twice-daily tidal flush—fresh bay water flows in and out
- Natural filtration—tidal action keeps water clean
- Temperature: Matches Biscayne Bay (72-86°F year-round)
- Depth: Shallow throughout—ideal for non-swimmers
Perfect For:
- Young children learning to swim
- Families seeking calm waters
- Relaxing beach days
- Sunset viewing
- Photography
Full-Service Marina Facilities
Boat Accommodations
- Wet slips for vessels up to 50 feet
- Boat launch ramps—convenient trailer access
- Dockside services—professional assistance
- Protected basin—calm, secure anchorage
Marina Services
- Fuel dock—gasoline and diesel
- Pump-out services—waste disposal
- Fresh water at docks
- Electrical hookups available
- Ice sales—block and cube
- Bait sales—live and frozen bait available
Marine Education
- Castle Harbor Boating School—located on-site
- Powerboat lessons—learn safe boating
- Sailing instruction—available nearby
- Youth programs—teaching next generation
- Safety courses—US Coast Guard approved
Park Amenities & Activities
Beach & Swimming
- Matheson Beach—white sand shoreline
- Atoll pool—unique tidal swimming area
- Lifeguard supervision—safe swimming conditions
- Beach chairs welcome—relaxing waterfront
- Picnic areas nearby—combine beach and dining
Water Sports
- Kiteboarding paradise—active breezes, calm shallow waters, effortless launching
- Stand-up paddleboard rentals—concession stand
- Kayak rentals—explore mangrove shoreline
- Canoe rentals—paddle Biscayne Bay
- Sailing—nearby instruction available
- Fishing pier—cast from shore
Nature & Wildlife
- Nature trails—miles of scenic pathways
- Mangrove forests—dense, pristine ecosystems
- Hardwood hammocks—Florida native trees
Birdwatching—rare species including:
- Sulphur-bellied flycatchers
- Black-throated gray warblers
- Townsend’s warblers
- Herons and egrets
- Ospreys and hawks
Picnic Facilities
- Coral rock pavilions—historic CCC-built structures
- Charcoal grills—cook outdoors
- Picnic tables and benches—throughout park
- Scenic lakes—perfect picnic backdrop
- Reservable shelters—$230.05 including tax (capacity 75 persons)
Family Recreation
- Playground—modern equipment for children
- Biking trails—paved paths throughout park
- Jogging paths—scenic waterfront routes
- Open green spaces—perfect for games and activities
NOMA Beach at Redfish – Waterfront Dining
Coral Gables’ Only Waterfront Restaurant
NOMA Beach at Redfish:
- Located in historic coral rock pavilion (CCC-built)
- Replaced iconic Red Fish Grill (damaged by Hurricane Irma)
- Celebrity Chef Donatella Arpaia helming kitchen
- Italian-style seafood specialties
- Fresh, local ingredients—Florida catches
- Outdoor terrace—beautiful Biscayne Bay views
- Romantic atmosphere—perfect for special occasions
- Casual elegance—waterfront dining at its finest
Menu Highlights:
- Fresh fish daily
- Italian seafood preparations
- Pasta specialties
- Steaks and chops
- Creative appetizers
- Extensive wine list
- Craft cocktails
Dining Options:
- Indoor seating in historic building
- Outdoor terrace with bay breezes
- Sunset dinner views
- Weekend brunch (check schedule)
Reservations Recommended:
- Popular destination
- Limited seating
- Special events and private parties available
Entrance Fees & Reservations
Park Admission & Rates
| Category | Weekdays (Mon-Thu) | Weekends/Holidays (Fri-Sun) |
|---|---|---|
| Car Entry | $5 per car | $7 per car |
| Boat Ramp Launch with Trailer | $13 | $17 |
| Bus/RV | $15 (every day) | $15 (every day) |
| Picnic Shelter Rental | $230.05 including tax (max 75 people) | $230.05 including tax (max 75 people) |
Payment Methods:
- Cash accepted
- Credit/debit cards
Special Events & Weddings
Perfect Wedding Venue
Natural Backdrop:
- Stunning Biscayne Bay views
- Historic coral stone architecture
- Lush tropical landscaping
- Swaying palm trees
- Romantic sunset settings
Ceremony Locations:
- Waterfront with bay views
- Under historic pavilions
- Garden settings
- Beach atmosphere
Reception Options:
- NOMA Beach at Redfish restaurant
- Pavilion rentals
- Outdoor spaces
- Indoor/outdoor combinations
Why Choose Matheson Hammock:
- Unique historic setting
- Professional park staff assistance
- Beautiful photo opportunities
- Natural Florida beauty
- Convenient South Florida location
Nearby Attractions
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (Adjacent)
- 83-acre garden—one of world’s finest tropical gardens
- Rare plant collections—palm trees, cycads, flowering trees
- Art exhibitions—rotating outdoor installations
- Educational programs—classes and tours
- Special events—concerts, festivals
- Walking distance from Matheson Hammock
Old Cutler Road Scenic Drive
- Historic route—beautiful tree-canopied road
- Banyan trees—massive, picturesque
- Coral Gables estates—Mediterranean architecture
- Bike-friendly—popular cycling route
- Multiple parks—corridor of green spaces
Coconut Grove (10 minutes)
- Vibrant village atmosphere
- Restaurants and shops
- CocoWalk entertainment complex
- Villa Vizcaya Museum
- Sailing community
Coral Gables (5 minutes)
- Mediterranean-revival architecture
- Miracle Mile shopping district
- Venetian Pool (historic swimming pool)
- Biltmore Hotel
- Upscale dining and culture
Transportation & Access
By Water
- From Biscayne Bay: Direct access to marina
- From Atlantic Ocean: Through Biscayne Channel
- From Miami Beach: South through bay
- Protected approach: Calm waters, well-marked
By Land
Driving Distances:
- From Downtown Miami: 15 minutes via US-1 South
- From Miami Airport: 20 minutes via FL-836 E and US-1 S
- From Coconut Grove: 5 minutes south on Old Cutler Road
- From Coral Gables: 5 minutes east and south
- From Homestead: 25 minutes north on US-1
Address for GPS:
9610 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL 33156
Parking:
- Ample parking lots throughout park
- Parking included in entrance fee
- Trailer parking for boat launch
- Accessible parking spaces available
Find Professional Boat Services
Need Maintenance or Repairs at Matheson Hammock Marina?
YachtService.VIP connects you with certified marine professionals serving Matheson Hammock Marina and the Coral Gables/South Miami area.
Common Marine Services Available
| Service Category | Services Offered |
|---|---|
| Engine Services | Outboard and inboard engine service and repair |
| Hull & Bottom | Bottom cleaning, antifouling painting, fiberglass repair |
| Detailing | Complete boat cleaning, waxing, polishing |
| Electronics | GPS, fish finders, VHF radios, navigation systems installation |
| Canvas & Upholstery | Covers, cushions, enclosures, bimini tops |
| Mechanical Systems | Steering, controls, propulsion, trailer maintenance |
| Electrical | Battery systems, wiring, troubleshooting |
| Plumbing | Bilge pumps, live wells, freshwater systems |
| Propeller Service | Repair, balancing, replacement |
Why Choose Matheson Hammock Marina?
Unique Advantages
✓ Historic Setting – Miami’s first county park with CCC-built structures
✓ Natural Beauty – 630 acres of pristine Florida landscapes
✓ Unique Atoll Pool – Only tidal-flushed swimming pool in South Florida
✓ Full Park Amenities – Beach, trails, picnic areas, playground, restaurant
✓ Convenient Location – Just south of Coral Gables, near Coconut Grove
✓ Water Sports Paradise – Kiteboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing
✓ Family Friendly – Safe swimming, calm waters, children’s activities
✓ Waterfront Dining – NOMA Beach at Redfish, Coral Gables’ only waterfront restaurant
✓ Nature Trails – Miles of scenic pathways through mangroves and hammocks
✓ Birdwatching – Rare species and diverse wildlife
✓ Wedding Venue – Stunning natural backdrop for special occasions
✓ Affordable – Reasonable entrance fees and service rates
Weather & Conditions
Year-Round Weather Conditions
| Season | Air Temperature | Water Temperature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Nov-Feb) | 68°F – 75°F | 72°F – 76°F | Peak season, comfortable weather |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 75°F – 85°F | 76°F – 82°F | Ideal boating, fewer crowds |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 85°F – 90°F | 82°F – 86°F | Warm water, afternoon thunderstorms |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 75°F – 85°F | 78°F – 84°F | Hurricane season, lower rates |
Best Months: November through April (drier, less humid)
Hurricane Season: June 1 – November 30
Park Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily (park closes at dark)
Contact Information
Matheson Hammock Park & Marina
9610 Old Cutler Road
Miami, FL 33156
(Coral Gables/South Miami area)
Phone: (305) 665-5475
Park & Marina Office: Same number
Website: www.miamidade.gov/parks/matheson-hammock.asp
Email: Through county parks website
Management: Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation & Open Spaces
Hours:
- Park: Sunrise to sunset
- Office & Marina: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
NOMA Beach at Redfish Restaurant:
- Phone: (305) 668-8788
- Check restaurant website for hours and reservations
Emergency: 911 or park rangers on duty
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the atoll pool unique?
It’s a man-made pool that’s naturally flushed by tidal action from Biscayne Bay twice daily, creating a constantly refreshed swimming area with calm, shallow waters perfect for families.
Can I have a wedding at Matheson Hammock Park?
Yes! The park is a popular wedding venue with stunning waterfront settings, historic pavilions, and natural beauty. Contact the park office for reservations and details.
Is there a restaurant in the park?
Yes, NOMA Beach at Redfish is Coral Gables’ only waterfront restaurant, located in the historic coral rock building overlooking Biscayne Bay.
Are dogs allowed in the park?
Check with park office for current pet policies. Generally, leashed pets are allowed in designated areas but not on the beach or in the atoll pool.
Can I rent kayaks or paddleboards?
Yes, the park’s concession stand offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals for exploring Biscayne Bay.
Is kiteboarding really popular here?
Absolutely! Matheson Hammock is known as one of South Florida’s best kiteboarding spots due to consistent breezes, calm shallow waters, and easy launching conditions.
How much does it cost to enter the park?
$5 per car on weekdays, $7 on weekends and holidays. Boat launch fees are additional.
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Last updated: October 2025 | Information subject to change. Contact park directly to confirm current hours, rates, and availability.
