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Crandon Park Beach 4000 Crandon Blvd. Key Biscayne, FL 305-361-5421 This former coconut plantation on Key Biscayne now finds itself consistently among the Top 10 beaches in the nation. Crandon Park Beach is two miles of "lagoon-style" beach, with calm water protected by a sandbar. Picnicking, an amusement park and parking in a somewhat far-off lot for more than 3,000 cars. Activities include tennis, swimming, snorkeling, sailing, running, roller-skating, boating, kayaking, snorkeling, inline skating, strolling the Crandon Gardens in the old Metrozoo, and fishing. Directions: Take the Rickenbacker Causeway to Key Biscayne ($1.25 toll). Call 786-336-6982 for marine safety patrol and beach conditions. Facilities: Besides the pristine sand and quiet ocean, the park offers a winding promenade, concession stands, changing rooms, restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic areas with tables and grills, bicycle and walking paths, tennis center, golf course, marina and two restaurants. Beach chairs, bicycles and other equipment are available for rent. The Family Amusement Center, open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., features a restored 1949 carousel, roller rink, splash fountain, beachfront playground and more. Surf chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but it helps to call ahead. Lifeguards: Guards patrol from 13 towers, set about 150 yards apart on the most-traveled areas of the beach, from 9:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. April through October; 9:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. during the winter. Rules: No glass containers, pets, open fires. Swim near the lifeguards. Other rules are posted in the park.
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