Miami is a breathtaking collaboration of culture, art, and entertainment. You can never be bored in this vibrant city, from the beach to the nightlife there’s always something to do. Here are some of my favorite things to do, places to stay and eat while in Miami:
THINGS TO DO
– Visit South Beach
South Beach is the crown jewel of Miami! This stunning white-sand beach is a summer must, just lay back and relax on the sand, or try out some beach activities like volleyball, surfing, and jet skiing. Walk down the famous streets on the way there, exploring all the pastel-colored art-deco architecture.
– Explore Little Havana
Miami’s vibrant Latino quarter is full of Cuban culture, music and food. Stroll down Calle Ocho for a real sense of Miami’s Little Havana history, making sure to stop at the 24-hour local favorite ‘Versailles’ for an iconic Cuban sandwich and strong coffee.
– Experience Art Basel in December
Celebrated in December at the Miami Beach Convention Center, this is one of the most highly anticipated arts events of the year! Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just like to browse around, this exhibition is one of the world’s must-see’s showcasing work from well-known and emerging artists.
– Go on a Boat Cruise
A boat cruise on the Biscayne Bay is the perfect way to explore – from its marina to the waterfront houses. All the tours create unforgettable experiences, from the Island Adventure to the Sunset cruise.
– Shop in the Design District
The Design District is the artistic hub of Miami, attracting all kinds of fashionistas from around the world. Explore some local artists boutiques for some unique finds or shop the more upscale luxury designers that we all know and love.
– Attend an F1 Race
This is a bucket list experience you need to do – you can sign up for the pre-sale now! Whether you’re a car enthusiast or not, there’s nothing like the thrill of a competition!
– Riding Bikes on the Trails
Miami has some of the best trails. For a more city-scape you can try the ‘Rickenbacker Causeway’ (Key Biscayne) which connects Miami and Key Biscayne over the Bay, or the ‘Venetian Causeway’. For a more picturesque landscape try South Pointe Park, Miami Beach or down Ocean Drive.
HOTELS
– The Hard Rock Hotel
I stayed at the Seminole Hard Rock & Casino when it hosted the Miss Universe Competition. It has beautiful rooms, pools, views, and a fun bungalow layout as well!
– The Four Seasons Hotel Miami
This five-star hotel has some of the best views of the city, towering over all the entertainment, dining and nightlife options below. The Four Seasons also has an incredible Olympic-sized heated pool and luxury spa.
– The Mandarin Oriental, Miami
Located in Brickell Key on a secluded private island, this is the perfect spot for a break away from the hussle of the Miami streets – close enough to enjoy the fun but also gives you a true peaceful break. With a rooftop with unparalleled view of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay.
– The Fontainebleau Miami Beach
The #1 Hotel in Miami Beach, an iconic and lavish beachfront resort designed (and still honouring) the 1950s. Stay in some of the most fashionable and largest guest-rooms in Miami. You can also enjoy a range dining experiences at the elegant Italian cuisine by Chef Scott Conant, casual bites or drink at one of its widely acclaimed bars.
– The Faena Hotel Miami Beach
This luxurious beachfront resort is located in a newly refurbished semi-private section of Miami Beach. With such a glamorous design inside and out, the guests rooms are accompanied by hand-crafted furnishings and beachfront views. Staying at The Faena Hotel is an epicurean’s dream with its exceptional comfy restaurants, pool, and spa.
– The Setai Miami Beach
The Setai Miami Beach is located in the historic Art Deco district of Miami, revelling in modern designs and breathtaking views. It’s famous for its fusion of Art Deco architecture and Asian-inspired elements, continued by a welcoming and beyond helpful service. The delight continues in their magnificent spa and their three infinity pools.
– The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club
This beachfront boutique hotel, this is one of the best kept secrets in Miami, mixing the relaxation from the beach and the entertainment from the streets of the Art-deco strip. It is in the prime location for everything. 3 time-award winning hotel, with two acres of private courtyards and gardens and two pools with an unobstructed view of the beach.
– The Goodtime Hotel, Miami Beach
This beautifully decorated hotel is based around the idea of “simply having a good time”. Relax round the pool in their comfy chaise lounges and private cabanas, on the private beach, or in the intimate library surrounded by art-deco interior. There’s also the Strawberry and Moon, high-energy Mediterranean restaurant or the outdoor terrace cafe that reinforces relaxation while you eat.
– Novotel Miami Brickell
This modern and contemporary hotel blends in with its surroundings in Downtown Miami, with outstanding shopping, eclectic dining and nightlife scene, and world class art. With magnificent views from the infinity edge pool and Vista Pool Bar, which has a delicious selection of signature tapas and cocktails.
DINING
– Drunken Dragon
This hole-in-the-wall spot is the perfect place for a date-night or dinner with friends, most people don’t know it’s there but the people who know about it, love it! It’s served Korean-BBQ style which is always an entertaining experience, and the side dishes are just as good as the mains.
– Coyo Taco
You can never go wrong with Mexican food and Coyo Taco is the best with it’s straight-forward street-food menu. It’s a popular spot by locals and tourists for a reason, where the food in unbelievable and so are the margaritas!
– Peacock Garden Cafe
Peacock Garden Cafe is the perfect spot for lunch, with some lighter meals to fuel you up for the day. The Charleston-esque garden patio is a beautiful place to sit and is popular among families – gives the real feeling of that Miami history.
– Sherwoods Bistro and Bar
Located in the Little River neighborhood, this bistro’s decoration is one of the main reasons to visit, with beautiful Tuscan tiling and leather booths – the perfect dinner spot for your Instagram photos. The interior is beautiful and the food is a classic curation that will satisfy everyone in your party.
NIGHTLIFE
– E11even Miami
For the ultimate Miami night-out you need to go to E11even Miami – a neon-lit nightclub with amazing DJs and live performances, as well as trapeze dancers and burlesque performances. There’s never a dull moment here and is one of the top-50 clubs in the world for a reason!
– LIV Miami
The most famous nightclub in Miami! Mixing such striking architecture with the modern, young feel of Miami makes this the spot to be Monday-Sunday, giving it a Vegas-worthy title.
– Sweet Caroline
If clubs aren’t your scene but you still want an incredible night out, Sweet Caroline’s is the place for you. Spend the night singing, dancing and drinking with your friends at this boutique American-style Karaoke Bar – truly loved by locals and tourists. Whether you can sing or not you are in for an epic night that you won’t forget!
– Black Market Miami
Black Market is one of the best Sport’s Bars in Miami, surrounded by 80s nostalgia of sports and of the city. Situated in the heart of Downtown Miami it’s the perfect spot to catch your favorite games. With over 30 4k screens, multiple seating options and classic American sports bar food. Even if you’re not a native Miamian’s supporter you can still feel the sportsmanship love!
Miami is the destination to go for any trip – whether it’s for a family vacation or a bachelorette, there’s something for everyone. Letting you escape into the history and culture of the city no matter what time of day it is, from the beaches to the nightclubs.
