While Miami Beach may be small, it’s certainly big on personality. Sunny beaches, iconic architecture, oceanfront restaurants – this little island has it all.
As locals and expert guides in all things Miami, the team at Miami Culinary Tours has put together the ultimate Miami Beach travel guide. We break down where to stay, what to do, and, of course, where to eat while you’re visiting this Florida gem.
Keep reading for our tips and tricks for visiting Miami Beach, or feel free to contact us for more details on our Miami food tours.
Miami Beach is located just off the coast of Miami, with public transportation such as taxis frequently traveling between the two. While in Miami Beach, you can make use of the public buses, or the free trolley services. There are four trolley routes on the island, and the trolleys run every day of the week, from morning to evening.
You can easily get around Miami Beach on foot, with plenty of pedestrian-friendly pathways available, such as the Miami Beach Boardwalk. If you’d prefer to travel on two wheels, you can rent a bicycle through the Citi Bike program.
While summer may seem like the obvious answer, with high temperatures perfect for seeing the beach, it’s also the most wet and humid time of year. Winter is, in fact, the peak season in Miami Beach, with cooler temperatures and dry weather providing optimal sightseeing conditions. The shoulder seasons provide a happy medium in terms of weather and prices, but expect the partygoers to arrive in spring for a break.
For a more detailed overview, check out our guide to the best time to visit Miami.
While Miami Beach has a reputation for attracting celebrities, it’s by no means inaccessible. Divided between North Beach, Mid Beach, and South Beach, you have plenty of accommodation options to choose from. The city is chock-a-block with hotels, many of which can be found in the ever-popular South Beach. Among the 4- and 5-star hotels are cozy Airbnb and affordable hostels suiting a range of budgets and preferences.
You are spoiled for choice in Miami Beach. The city’s culinary scene is influenced by numerous cultures and cuisines, giving you a diverse array of restaurants and eateries to choose from.
For good food on the go, hit up Cubatón Sandwich Shop or BOTTA Italian Street Food. Ocean Drive is lined with restaurants, with options ranging from Mexican to sushi. There are also plenty of fine dining options, as Miami Beach hosts over 50 Michelin-starred restaurants, including the renowned Surf Club Restaurant at the Four Seasons.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive experience of the cuisine in Miami Beach, you can join a South Beach Food Tour. Walk and eat your way through the city as you stop by restaurants for a taste of everything from Peruvian to Cuban cuisine.
Whether you’re a beach bum or a cultural connoisseur, Miami Beach has something for you. Below are just some of our top picks for things to do in Miami Beach, but believe us when we say there’s so much more!
Miami Beach is famed for its Art Deco Historic District, where you can find over 900 buildings in the architectural style that defined the 1930s. These buildings, with their summery pastel colors and geometric lines, are a photographer's dream and a piece of history. In fact, it’s in this district where Giovanni Verscae was assassinated.
If you want to learn more, read our guide to seeing the Art Deco District.
Lincoln Road is one of the most iconic streets in Miami Beach, lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Anything you need you’re bound to find here. Even if you’re not interested in a little retail therapy, walking along the bustling palm-lined avenue is an experience in itself.
A 74-acre park along South Beach, Lummus Park is the perfect place for some outdoor activities. Kids can have fun on the playground, while adults may use the public gyms. Along the pathways, you’ll come across walkers, cyclists, and skateboarders all soaking up the breezy atmosphere.
The Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a green oasis at the heart of the island. In this 3-acre garden, you’ll find a peaceful contrast to the buzz of the city. Discover beauty in the Butterfly Garden or admire the tranquility of the Koi Pond. You can also enjoy a range of events in the garden, such as yoga classes and live jazz.
South Pointe Park offers some of the best views of South Beach and Downtown Miami. This park is idyllic for picnics and afternoon lounging. You can also walk along the South Pointe Pier and do some fishing, or head straight into the waters of South Beach.
If you happen to encounter a day of bad weather, The Bass Museum of Art is sure to brighten your day. Featuring an eclectic collection of classical and contemporary art, with sculptures, fashion pieces, and design exhibitions, The Bass is intended to reflect the spirit of Miami Beach and its international influences.
Of course, you have to hit the water while in Miami Beach. Jet skiing, flyboarding, wake surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more are all on offer. Rental shops line the shores, meaning you can easily access equipment at nearly any point along the beaches. You can also opt to go on private yacht charters or treat yourself to a stunning sunset cruise.
Miami Beach may only span around 40 square kilometers, but there’s no shortage of action on this island. With its diverse array of attractions, Miami Beach is a highlight of any visit to Florida.
If you ever want to join Miami Culinary Tours as we explore the foodie paradise that is Miami Beach, feel free to contact us for more information.
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