Miami Beach is a dynamic blend of Art Deco architecture, a vibrant cross of cultures, and a spirit that makes it one of the most enjoyable weekend destinations. There is endless exploring to be done at the heart of Miami Beach, with the Art Deco Historic District making it the largest concentration of Art Deco architecture in the world. Miami Beach exudes a sense of glamour and nostalgia, perfectly complementing the beach's sunny ambiance. At its core, Miami Beach is a beach destination. The pristine, sun-soaked shores along the Atlantic Ocean provide the perfect backdrop for a city that thrives on outdoor life. Miami Beach is a crossroads of cultures, with a strong Latin American and Caribbean influence that infuses the city with energy and flavor. The music, food, and language here are vibrant expressions of Miami’s multicultural identity. We always find ourselves enjoying the more laid-back, local finds that are off the beaten path. Explore our list below to experience the sometimes not so 'Miami' Miami.
Where to Stay
Soho Beach House: We love the Cuban inspired interiors in this Soho House location. Offering a perfect location in South Beach, access to the pool and beach club as well as a gym - Soho Beach House is our favorite spot for a classic Miami Beach weekend.
The Standard Miami: Located on the Belle Isle, a small island away from the crowds (and often times chaos) of Miami Beach. We have always loved this refuge on the bay, with access to their spa. This hotel has a 1960's motel vibe creating a charming and serene oasis. While it's not on the beach, it's only a short drive or bike ride to South Beach and in our opinion worth the distance.
The Faena: One of our favorite hotels on South Beach, The Faena is chic and exactly what you want from a classic Miami Beach holiday. Located right on the boardwalk, their beach club is quiet, with a more upscale and family-friendly crowd.
Hotel Trouvail: This is our favorite hidden gem on South Beach. It's often times priced very affordably and designed well. The rooms are spacious enough for a weekend trip and the hotel has a charming pool in their yard. This hotel is a few streets from the boardwalk and offers bikes to get around South Beach.
Esme Miami Beach: A well designed and well priced boutique hotel located just off Española Way. This hotel is right in the heart of South Beach, offering an authentic experience to all the city has to offer but in the comfort of a charming space.
The Four Seasons Surfside: Located in Surfside, a bit out of the way from the crowds of South Beach and a quieter feel, The Four Seasons at The Surf Club is the perfect hotel. With a stunning bar and restaurant, the hotel simply feels iconic and one you never want to leave.
Where to Eat
Casa Tua: Located in a historic home right in South Beach, this restaurant will bring you to another world. Casa Tua offers an ambiant with stunning interiors and Italian dishes.
La Natural: For a more local feel, La Natural offers some of the most delicious sourdough pizza and vegetable dishes in Miami. Located in Little River, a bit out of the way from South Beach and well worth the short drive.
Mandolin: Located in the Design District, Mandolin immediately transport you to a Greek taverna. The setting is perfection, with all the tables located on an outdoor terrace in a blue and white setting and fresh Greek dishes. This is the perfect lunch after a long day on the beach.
Boia de: Grab a seat at the bar and enjoy this wildly delicious restaurant. Located in an unassuming strip mall, but do not let that deter you as this is a true local favorite.
Krüs Kitchen: Located in downtown Coconut Grove, Krüs Kitchen is a favorite amongst locals and in a more residential setting.
Lucali: A New York favorite transplanted into Sunset Harbor. Incredible pizzas in the charming residential enclave of Sunset Harbor.
Macchialina: In the heart of South Beach, Macchialina offers a charming vibe with some of the best handmade pizzas and pastas you can find. This is a more local find offering a more New York feel to Miami Beach.
Cafe La Trove: For an authentic Cuban experience, Cafe La Trove offers live music, dancing and classic Cuban food that is a must visit while in town.
Cafes and Juice Bars
Under the Mango Tree: A true favorite for fresh juices, smoothies and vegan dishes. Located in the heart of South Beach off 5th, it's the perfect break from the sun and sand.
Pura Vida Miami: The go-to spot for fresh juices, smoothies and all around healthy food offerings.
Miami Juice: Located North of Bal Harbour, Miami Juice offers an incredible selection of fresh juices. It's well worth the visit if you're staying in North Beach.
True Loaf Bakery: A delicious bakery in the heart of Sunset Harbor that offers a perfect morning pastry and coffee.
SunLife Organics: For a quick and casual pick up for fresh juices and smoothies in the heart of South Beach.
Where to Drink
The Broken Shaker: A local spot located in the Freehand hotel in South Beach. This bar is incredibly charming, offering a tiki style atmosphere surrounding a 1960's swimming pool equipped with string lights and backyard feels.
The Champagne Bar at The Surf Club: This bar is iconic and quintessential old world Miami glamour. The center bar is surrounded by intimate seating, perfect for a pre-dinner martini and people watching.
The Living Room at The Faena: The place to go if you're looking for a glamorous drink in a classic upscale Miami Beach hotel.
Dante's HiFi: An off the beaten path vinyl listening bar located in Wynwood. This bar will not disappoint, offering vibey music and a good time.
Things To Do
The center focus of this city is the beach. People gather there all weekend long, spending hours with friends and family by the ocean - occasionally dipping into the sea and enjoying the sun. Our favorite beaches are noted below as well as something to do beyond the beach.
Soho Beach House: While Soho House is members only, it will be worth finding that friend to bring you to the beach. Always lively, their hundreds of beach chairs on the sand are the perfect way to spend the afternoon - swimming, having lunch and drinks right on the sand.
The Standard Miami pool and spa: Book a treatment or day pass and enjoy the wonderful spa at The Standard hotel. We love spending time in their saunas and hammam and after dipping into their pool (or in the bay).
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: Stunning preserved Italian villa located right on the bay. The grounds of the space are worth visiting alone, not to mention their incredible collection.
Boat Day to Stiltsville: Once a mecca for Prohibition era gangsters and “rumrunners”, the 1940’s Stiltsville had established invite-only clubs and gentlemen’s establishments that quickly became a popular playground for Miami’s affluent and connected.
Essential Tips
When to visit: We'd suggest avoiding hurricane season (June 1st to November 3rd). Our favorite time to visit is November through April, when the weather is perfectly mild and sunny - avoiding the heat and humidity the summer season offers.
Transportation: We'd suggest renting a car to explore other neighborhoods nearby such as Coral Gables, Coconut Grove or Key Biscayne. While in South Beach though, our favorite form of transportation is on bike or foot
The boardwalk: Miami Beach offers an extensive boardwalk that extends nearly the entire length of it. It is a beautiful walk from top to bottom, where you'll find people running, biking and walking along the beach all day long.
Nightlife: While Miami Beach can offer a party-focused holiday, we suggest exploring the wellness side of Miami which is just as thriving. There are incredible fitness studios throughout as well as outdoor activities like paddle boarding on the bay and outdoor gyms.
