A historic shoreline on Virginia Key marks a milestone of culture, resilience and community.
When the City of Miami was founded in 1896, about one-third of the city charter signers were Black men. But because of segregation, beaches were not open to Black people. In 1945, Virginia Key Beach Park opened as Miami-Dade County’s “Colored Only” beach. Today, this beach off the Rickenbacker Causeway is known as Historic Virginia Key Beach Park and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. More than just a beautiful beach, the park hosts learning programs for students on the historic and ecological significance of the park, and volunteers help with coastal cleanups and exotic plant removals.
Celebrate the Historic Virginia Key Beach Park’s 80th Anniversary:
Fri., Aug. 1 – The Museum Project Commencement Ceremony
Sat., Aug. 2 – Fun in the Sun: Free community activities, tours, oral histories, plus treats
Sun., Aug. 3 – Poetry Potluck: Grassroots community gathering with live music, food and voices celebrating or culture and connection
Historic Virginia Key Beach Park
4020 Virginia Beach Drive
