Miami conjures images of luxury yachts and sprawling estates, but you don’t need an oligarch’s budget to enjoy the city’s vibrant sports scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Miami offers a wealth of options to get your heart pumping, all without setting sail.

Parks and rec for every sport

Miami-Dade County boasts over 50 parks scattered across its vast sprawl. These parks are public playgrounds, featuring courts for basketball, tennis, volleyball, and even racquetball. Many parks also have open fields perfect for soccer or frisbee games. The beauty? Most have night lights for evening play, and some even offer equipment rentals and lessons. Check out popular parks like Flamingo Park in South Beach, Alice C. Wainwright Park on the Coconut Grove waterfront, or Margaret Pace Park in the Edgewater neighborhood.

Hit the beach, spike the ball

Miami’s iconic beaches aren’t just for sunbathing. The soft sand provides a natural playing field for beach volleyball enthusiasts. Head to Matheson Hammock Park or Crandon Park for some bump, set, spike action with a breathtaking ocean backdrop.

Water sports: no yacht required

While a yacht might be the ultimate watersports indulgence, Miami offers more accessible options. Wakeboarding enthusiasts can head to Amelia Earhart Park’s crystal-clear lake for some thrilling rides on the water. The park offers lessons and equipment rentals, so you can leave your board (and yacht) at home.

Catch a game, or join one

Miami is a major sports hub. Catch a professional basketball game at the state-of-the-art FTX Arena and witness the Miami Heat light up the court. Eager to test your own skills? Join a pick-up basketball game at one of the many parks mentioned earlier. The same goes for soccer – you can watch Inter Miami CF play at DRV PNK Stadium or organize a friendly match at Kendall Soccer Park or Esther Mae Armbrister Park.

Miami may be a playground for the rich and famous, but its energetic sports scene is accessible to everyone. So ditch the yacht fantasy, grab your sneakers, and head to one of Miami’s many parks or beaches. You might just discover your new favorite court, field, or stretch of sand.