Get off Instagram & Relax at these 5 Scenic Miami Spots on World Mental Health Day

10/10/19
By: Maxi Bonito
5 Minute Read

Miami is known for its beautiful weather, stunning beaches, swaying palm trees, and nightlife that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s idyllic. However, living in this vacation destination, constantly surrounded by rented Ferraris and Instagram “models,” can give a false impression of reality and really take a toll on your self-esteem. 
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You may feel like you need to look like a supermodel, have muscles like The Rock, or go to LIV on Sunday just to fit in. In honor of World Mental Health Day, put your phone away and step outside of your normal routine. Here are our 5 favorite spots in Miami to recollect your positive thoughts:

1. Rickenbacker Causeway Bridge

You’ve probably been over the Rickenbacker Causeway Bridge, but have you ever been under it? This secret spot is easy to miss, but totally worth the U-turn. It’s a little ramp by the first beach to the right as you enter the Key. There’s a little area where you can park and a seawall with an area to fish or have a picnic while taking in the most breathtaking Brickell views in Miami! The views from this spot are jaw-dropping whether you visit during the day, dusk or night!

Image: @lars7457 via instagram

2. Brickell Key

Brickell Key is across a short bridge from Brickell.  Here you can find the best of both worlds: the beautiful views of Brickell without the city noise. The island is in the shape of a triangle with a ~1 mile jogging trail around it. It’s the perfect spot to exercise, bring your young kids in their strollers, or take your dog for a walk. There are plenty of benches to sit and take in the views. There’s also a self-guided tour where you can learn facts about the island’s vegetation, wildlife, and different places around Key Biscayne. Say hi to the community cat who lives to the right of the island’s entrance, in front of the Mandarin Oriental. ​

                                                  Image: @mo_miami via Instagram

3. Exhale Spa

Amid the craziness of the city, Exhale Spa exists peacefully inside the Epic Hotel.  A spa day certainly does come with a higher price tag than a trip to the park, but sometimes it’s exactly what you need.  Exhale Spa offers a number of spa and beauty services as well as exercise classes. They also pride themselves on being male-friendly. If you want to make your spa day last a few weeks, stop by their gift shop in the front to pick up their amazing products.

4. David T. Kennedy Park (Coconut Grove)

David T. Kennedy Park is right on the water in Coconut Grove. Take a relaxing stroll or get your heart pumping with stunning Bay views. This park has a nice synthetic jogging trail that is soft on the joints, and outdoor workout equipment spread around the park. 

MUST-SEE LOCAL SECRET: AC’s Icees Truck operates out of the parking lot. The owner has been there forever and he is Miami Native’s best kept secret. He sells refreshing icees that will cool you down after toughing the Miami heat.

                                                              Image: @sunsets_miami via Instagram

5. Matheson Hammock Park

Hidden down the windy roads of Coconut Grove and through Pinecrest is Matheson Hammock Park. It is a beautiful, quiet beach surrounded by a ring of palm trees. It’s great for families because the man-made atoll pool is not too large. It’s even better for watching sunsets! After the sunset, try the "island casual" seafood restaurant on the sand, Red Fish Grill. Most importantly, don’t forget to bring a hammock to tie between two trees like Maxi did!

Remember, it's okay for you to take a break from your "Miami lifestyle" and focus on your mental health. YOU deserve it! 

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