Home > Alternative Sports in Miami

Alternative Sports in Miami

Looking for a thrill beyond playing sports in Miami? The city is your gateway to a unique and exhilarating world of alternative sports, from high-octane racing to aquatic adventures. Whether you’d like to sit back and watch the action or jump in with two feet, we’ve got plenty of options to match your mood.

The historic comeback of jai alai

Step back in time to Miami’s golden age of glamour, when jai alai, the “fastest ball sport on Earth,” captivated the city. From the 1950s to the 1970s, jai alai games were a major social event, attracting massive crowds, celebrities, and a vibrant betting scene. The sport’s electrifying pace, with the ball reaching speeds over 180 mph, made it a must-see spectacle.

While its heyday may have passed, jai alai is making a comeback. The World Jai-Alai League is leading the charge, revitalizing the sport with a modern twist. You can catch live matches for free every Friday at Magic City Fronton, complete with a lively atmosphere, food, drinks, and entertainment.

Formula 1’s high-speed invasion

Miami’s reputation as a global hub for sports reached new heights with the arrival of Formula 1 in 2022. The Miami Grand Prix, held at the Miami International Autodrome built around Hard Rock Stadium, has quickly become a standout event on the F1 calendar, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans.

The Miami F1 circuit offers a unique and challenging layout, measuring 3.36 miles with 19 turns, three straights, three DRS zones, and top speeds of over 200 mph.

A water sports paradise

Given its stunning coastline, it’s no surprise that Miami is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The city’s turquoise waters serve as the perfect playground for a wide array of aquatic activities, from the serene to the adrenaline-fueled.

Jet skiing is a popular way to explore Biscayne Bay, offering a high-speed tour of the city skyline and the lavish homes on Star Island. For a more relaxed pace, kayaking and paddleboarding provide a unique perspective of Miami’s natural beauty, allowing you to glide through mangrove forests and tranquil coves. 

Pushing the limits with extreme sports

Miami is a fantastic destination for the adventurous spirit. On the ground, ATV tours take you off the beaten path, offering a muddy, high-octane adventure through the rugged countryside. 

Or why not try flying? 

For those who want to feel like a superhero, flyboarding is the ultimate thrill. A water jetpack strapped to your feet propels you up into the air, with beginners soaring 5 to 12 feet above the water. 

A less physically demanding way to get airborne is to go parasailing and enjoy views over the water from your parachute as a boat pulls you along.

Finally, for animal lovers, airboat tours through the Everglades National Park offer a wild and exhilarating ride. As you glide through the “River of Grass,” you may catch a glimpse of alligators, turtles, and diverse bird species.