Travel Guide for Miami Beach, South Beach, Miami FL
Travel Guide for Miami Beach
Of all the places I’ve traveled in the world, Miami Beach is one of my favorites. This often surprises people but it’s true. I usually go down every March to escape the cold and relax for a week. A lot of people think of Miami as a fake, clubby, materialistic city (and It certainly can be) but I feel that Miami Beach is whatever you make it. You can have a quiet retreat-like trip, a crazy wild party trip of a bit of both. The food, culture, and people make it a unique and must-visit city.
Where is Miami Beach?
Miami Beach is an island city located in south Florida on the Atlantic Ocean. It’s connected to mainland Miami via bridges. Miami Beach refers to the whole island area, whereas the actual beaches have different names (South Beach, Mid-Beach, North Beach).
How to Get to Miami Beach?
Miami International Airport (MIA) is the easiest and best airport to fly into when visiting Miami Beach, but you can also fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) if you don’t mind a longer uber ride. I always fly into MIA and get an uber (about $40-50) to wherever I’m staying out on Miami Beach.
Where is South Beach?
South Beach is a beautiful, large beach that runs down the south eastern side of Miami Beach (the Island). It’s the most famous beach in Miami Beach, yet there are lots of other great (and quieter) beaches like Mid Beach and North Beach if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe. North Beach is great for watching/trying Kite Surfing as they offer classes there.
Where to eat in Miami Beach?
Coyo Taco located in Wynwood & Brickell they have the best tacos around!
Las Olas Cafe located in Miami Beach, Las Olas Cafe has one of the best Cuban Sandwiches in Miami Beach (aka the world)
Watr at the 1 Rooftop looking for a fancy night out with great views? Enjoy Watr - an upscale Peruvian/Japanese rooftop restaurant with ocean views (for a hefty price tag)
27 Restaurant and Bar Located within the Freehand Miami Hostel, 27 Restaurant offers classic American Fare and creative craft cocktails in a restored 1930s home.
Where to stay in Miami Beach?
Hostels:
Freehand Miami Awesome historic building with pool, award winning bar + restaurant
Generator Miami Beautiful poolside bar and restaurant on site, modern rooms, easy to meet people
Hotels:
1 Hotel South Beach If you’re looking for luxury, your search begins and ends with 1 Hotel South Beach. This place is what dreams are made of and dreams start at $600/weeknight
HotelTonight If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay at a better rate than the 1 Hotel… you can use Hotel Tonight to find great deals on beachfront properties in South Beach (use code @pcorgan for some perks!)
5 Best Things to Do in Miami Beach
1. Visit South Beach
The huge, sandy beach is perfect for families to enjoy during the day, and the oceanfront city becomes a world-famous party area at night. I always spend the majority of my time in Miami here, just relaxing and swimming at the beach. You can also see some incredible volleyball matches being played on the courts in Lummus Park
2. Visit the Wynwood Arts District
The Wynwood District is famous for beautiful murals on every possible surface around, but it also offers a ton of great shopping, restaurants, and clubs! Check out the art by day (incredibly Instagram-able), and come back at night to party!
3. Explore the Art Deco District
Miami is famous for its Art Deco architecture, and there are plenty of examples of it to see – especially in the Art Deco District. I'd recommend grabbing your camera (or phone) and doing a morning photoshoot before it gets too hot!
4. Relax in Coconut Grove
Perfect for more relaxed shopping and dining than South Beach, Coconut Grove is also home to several historic landmarks. Plus, they have wild Peacocks roaming the streets!
5. Run, Bike, and/or Workout on the Miami Beach Boardwalk
The Miami Beach Boardwalk runs all the way from South Pointe Pier Park to North Beach. Enjoy running or biking along the boardwalk and stop off in Lummus Park to workout with the body builders or play some beach volleyball at the courts there.
Is Miami Beach Worth Visiting?
Yes! No matter what you’re looking for, I think you can find it in Miami Beach. If you love partying and clubs, you’ll love it. If you love being active and working out, you’ll love it. If you love quiet beach walks at night and quaint wine bars, you’ll love it. If you love SUP or boating, you’ll love it. If you love art and design, you’ll love it. There is something for everyone in Miami Beach!