After years and years of dreaming about visiting Miami, I finally made it a few months ago, and I’m happy to say that it lived up to the billing.
Walking down the street in South Beach, my husband and I would constantly be pinching ourselves that we were actually there and at the fact that the Art Deco buildings and beaches were almost exactly as pretty as we thought they would be.
So, fresh off my first visit, here are my personal picks for the best things to do in Miami Beach (mostly in South Beach and Mid-beach), especially if it’s your first time visiting.
Experience Española Way
This pedestrian-only corridor, nestled between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenues, evokes the romantic allure of Mediterranean Europe with its fairy lights and pink stucco architecture adorned with tiles. Dating back to 1925, the ambiance has a more ‘bohemian’ feel than other sections of South Beach and you can expect to hear delightful music and the sounds of flamenco dancing emanating from a variety of restaurants and bars lining the street. Next time we come to Miami, we probably will choose to find something on cozycozy in or around this super cool street.
Have a Drink at the Broken Shaker
This cocktail bar is a haven of creativity and innovation and is located within the stylish and eclectic Freehand Miami hostel. We loved escaping into a world of artisanal cocktails and laid-back charm here with its intimate courtyard setting adorned with twinkling lights (I’m a big fan of twinkling fairy lights!) and lush greenery, the ambiance is both inviting and enchanting. Naturally, the handcrafted concoctions are to die for and are often infused with locally sourced ingredients.
Take an Art Deco Walking Tour
Nestled along the sandy shores of Ocean Drive, in the vibrant heart of South Beach’s Art Deco District, lies the Art Deco Museum and Welcome Center—an essential stop for architecture aficionados. Here, visitors can delve into the history and allure of the vibrant buildings that have become a symbol of this neighbourhood (and Miami for that matter) to the world at large. The Miami Design Preservation League offers daily guided walking tours of the district (starting promptly at 10:30 AM) which provide a deeper insight into the architectural treasures of South Beach’s Art Deco and the league’s efforts to preserve it.
Have a Stroll Through Collins Park
Collins Park is a picturesque retreat nestled amidst the vibrant energy of South Beach. Anchored by the renowned Bass Museum, this verdant oasis offers a blend of art, culture and natural beauty. Wander through lush greenery and winding pathways, pausing to admire (and take photos of) striking contemporary sculptures that punctuate the landscape. My favourite piece of art was the eye-catching Miami Mountain sculpture, which consists of five boulders stacked on top of each other, painted in glowing shades.
Eat at Joe’s
Joe’s Stone Crab has been packing them in for over a century and no trip to Miami would be complete without a stop for some of the delicious crustaceans on offer. Located in the heart of South Beach, Joe’s is renowned for its legendary stone crab claws harvested from local waters and other tasty dishes all set amidst an elegant yet bustling atmosphere. Go to Joe’s, you won’t regret it.
Hit the Beach
You can’t come to South Beach and not stick your feet into the sand on its namesake beach, which is arguably the epitome of the Miami experience. Sun, surf and a unique energy converge to create a truly unforgettable scene on South Beach. The beach is free and open to all, and is at its liveliest at the section accessed through the Lummus Park. As you stroll along Ocean Drive, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coastline, framed by swaying palm trees and dotted with colourful umbrellas, and to a backdrop of colourful Art Deco facades.
Extra points if you wake up early and catch a sunrise like we did. The soft light and the sight of the sun just edging its way over the Atlantic was truly an unforgettable experience.
Do Some People-Watching at The News Cafe
This venerable sidewalk cafe is a prime spot for people-watching enthusiasts, offering a front-row seat to the vibrant tapestry of South Beach life. Situated in the heart of the bustling Ocean Drive, it serves as a magnet for locals and tourists alike, offering up 24/7 food and drinks. We enjoyed a delicious Cuban Club sandwich here, good coffee and a couple of delightful frozen cocktails. Highly recommend it!
Visit the Miami Beach Botanical Garden
A visit to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden offers a serene retreat amidst the vibrant energy of South Beach. Tucked away amidst the bustling urban landscape, the garden provides a peaceful oasis where visitors can stroll through lush greenery, vibrant flower beds, and tranquil water features. Here, you will be able to discover a diverse array of plant species, from exotic orchids to native Florida flora and walk away feeling refreshed.
Dive into The Duece
Steeped in history and character, Mac’s Club Duece dates back to 1926 and claims to be the “oldest bar in Miami”. This beloved institution is a genuine taste of old-school Miami and an all-time great dive bar. Step inside and be transported to a bygone era, where stiff drinks, friendly faces, and lively conversations flow freely without any pretence. Naturally, Mac’s even made a cameo in Miami Vice back in the 80s.
Leave a Reply