Summer is here and, for many, the beach is the perfect place to relax. We caught up with Airport Fast Park manager Louie LaGora to talk about his favorite beaches in sunny Miami.
 
We might be biased, but we think Miami, Fla. is a great place to visit for a beach getaway. With so many of our customers making their way to Florida’s beaches this year, we sat down with Airport Fast Park manager Louie LaGora to talk about beaches in the Magic City.
 
What is your favorite beach in Miami and why? 
Crandon Park Beach, Key Biscayne and South Beach are great destinations if you want to enjoy the bars and restaurants along Ocean Drive. Crandon Park Beach is a well-maintained local beach that has lots of white sand. The long two-mile stretch of sand and tropical palm trees leads you straight to Cape Florida State Park, which is number seven on Dr. Beach’s top ten beaches of 2014.  
 
If travelers are looking to get away from the crowds, where should they go? 
Head toward the Broward County area to Hollywood Beach. It is a quiet, relaxing destination with a clean, well-maintained beach and a boardwalk with restaurants and bars usually frequented by locals. It provides a nice balance of eateries and ocean in a quiet setting. You can always pick up some lunch and enjoy it in your own private area of white sand. Additionally, you can rent a bicycle and ride along the boardwalk.
 
What are your tips for people traveling to Miami beaches for the first time? 
First, follow the rules you exercise at home, try to blend in and not look like a tourist. Have fun and enjoy your time in the sun. Remember, the beaches mentioned above do not allow bottles, and you could face big fines if you are caught. Crandon Park Beach offers cabana rentals between $50 and $75 per day, including electrical outlets.
 
What are the go-to items in your beach bag? 
I always pack a beach chair, beach towel, UV protection and an interesting read.
 
Do you have any favorite books to read on the beach? 
I enjoy a lot of philosophical reads. The peaceful environment the beach provides is a great setting for these subjects. 
 
What’s happening at Airport Fast Park this summer? 
If you’re traveling with the kids for this summer, we have something ready for you: a FunTime FastPak that includes a book, crayons, snack and toy.
 
Anything else we missed? 
If you love getting connected with nature, Everglades National Park is a short drive from Miami. The Big Cypress Preserve and Shark Valley are also good points of interest to view indigenous animals, and, if you’re lucky, you may see one of fewer than 200 Florida panthers in existence. Those who really enjoy nature can even sign-up for a guided swamp walk. 
 
Next week, we’ll share our favorite tips to help you plan a relaxing beach vacation.