Miami's coastline features pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. From the iconic South Beach to hidden gems like Virginia Key, experience the ultimate beach lifestyle with water sports, beachfront dining, and spectacular sunsets.
The most iconic beach in Miami, famous for its Art Deco architecture, colorful lifeguard stands, and energetic atmosphere. The Ocean Drive area buzzes with restaurants, bars, and people from around the world. White sand stretches for miles with calm, warm waters perfect for swimming. Best visited early morning for fewer crowds or sunset for stunning views. The beach is free to access with public facilities available.
A scenic 4-mile paved path connecting South Beach to Mid-Beach, perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. Enjoy panoramic ocean views, access points to various beaches, and outdoor fitness equipment. The boardwalk features benches, showers, and is beautifully landscaped with native plants. Popular for sunrise walks and evening strolls, offering a more relaxed beach experience than the main beach areas.
A vibrant open-air shopping and entertainment complex on Biscayne Bay. Features over 150 shops, restaurants, and bars with live music daily. Take boat tours to Millionaire's Row to see celebrity homes, or enjoy waterfront dining with skyline views. The marketplace hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Free admission with plenty of dining options from casual to upscale.
Located on Key Biscayne, this beach offers calmer waters and a more family-friendly atmosphere than South Beach. Features 2 miles of pristine coastline with shallow waters, picnic areas, and nature trails. The park includes cabana rentals, a vintage carousel, and outdoor showers. Consistently rated among America's top beaches with excellent facilities and lifeguards. Small parking fee required.
Miami Beach boasts the world's largest collection of Art Deco architecture, with over 800 preserved buildings from the 1920s-1940s. The pastel-colored facades and geometric designs create a unique visual landscape that defines Miami's aesthetic identity.
The first 20th-century neighborhood listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Spanning roughly one square mile, this district contains the world's largest concentration of Art Deco architecture. Stroll along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, and Washington Avenue to see iconic buildings like The Colony Hotel, Carlyle, and Breakwater. The colorful facades feature neon lights, porthole windows, and nautical themes. Free to explore on foot, best experienced during golden hour for photography.
Located in the historic Art Deco Welcome Center, this museum showcases the history and preservation of Miami's architectural treasures. Join expert-led 90-minute walking tours departing daily at 10:30am, exploring the district's most significant buildings with fascinating historical context. Learn about the Mediterranean Revival and Streamline Moderne styles. Tours cost approximately $30 per person. The gift shop offers excellent books and vintage-inspired souvenirs.
The most photographed street in Miami, lined with pastel Art Deco hotels, sidewalk cafes, and classic cars. This iconic thoroughfare runs parallel to South Beach and is the heart of the Art Deco District. Best experienced by walking, stopping at cafes for people-watching and mojitos. The street comes alive at night with neon lights and vibrant nightlife. Free to explore, though dining can be pricey and touristy.
Miami's art scene rivals major cultural capitals, featuring world-class museums, contemporary galleries, and street art. From the waterfront Pérez Art Museum to the colorful Wynwood Walls, art permeates every corner of the city.
A stunning waterfront museum designed by Herzog & de Meuron, featuring contemporary international art with a focus on 20th and 21st-century works. The permanent collection emphasizes Latin American, Caribbean, and African diaspora artists. The building itself is architectural art with hanging gardens and bay views. Includes a bay-front restaurant and museum shop. Admission $16 for adults. Free on first Thursday and second Saturday of each month.
An outdoor street art museum featuring massive murals by world-renowned artists. This former warehouse district has been transformed into Miami's hippest neighborhood with constantly changing graffiti art. Free to visit, the walls showcase works by Shepard Fairey, Kenny Scharf, and many others. Surrounded by trendy galleries, craft breweries, and restaurants. Best visited during the day for photos, but the area has vibrant nightlife. Second Saturday gallery walks are particularly popular.
A spectacular Italian Renaissance-style villa built in 1916 as a winter residence. The estate features 34 decorated rooms filled with European furnishings and art, plus 10 acres of formal gardens overlooking Biscayne Bay. The gardens include fountains, sculptures, and native Florida landscapes. This National Historic Landmark offers guided tours and photography opportunities. Admission $25 for adults. Popular wedding venue, so check for special event closures. Allow time to explore both mansion and gardens.
A state-of-the-art science center in Downtown Miami's Museum Park. Features an aquarium, planetarium, and interactive exhibitions exploring South Florida's ecosystems. The three-story aquarium showcases a Gulf Stream habitat with sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The planetarium offers immersive shows about space and astronomy. Perfect for families with hands-on exhibits about physics, biology, and technology. Admission $29.95 for adults. Reserve planetarium shows in advance.
Miami's diverse neighborhoods each offer distinct cultural experiences, from the Cuban flavors of Little Havana to the upscale Design District. Exploring these areas provides authentic insight into the city's multicultural identity.
The heart of Miami's Cuban community, where Spanish is the primary language and salsa music fills the air. Calle Ocho (8th Street) is the main thoroughfare lined with cigar shops, cafeterias serving Cuban coffee, and domino parks. Watch cigars being hand-rolled, taste authentic Cuban sandwiches, and experience live music at Ball & Chain. Visit Maximo Gomez Park to see locals playing dominoes. The neighborhood hosts the massive Calle Ocho Festival each March. Free to explore.
Miami's trendiest neighborhood, transformed from warehouses into an arts haven. Beyond the famous Walls, explore dozens of galleries, street art, craft breweries, and hip restaurants. The area explodes with activity during Second Saturday art walks. Visit breweries like Wynwood Brewing Company, dine at innovative eateries, and shop at boutiques. The district has a young, creative vibe with Instagram-worthy murals around every corner. Safe during the day; exercise caution at night in less-trafficked areas.
An upscale neighborhood featuring luxury fashion boutiques, contemporary art galleries, and fine dining. Home to flagship stores of Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and other high-end brands in architecturally stunning buildings. The district also hosts the Institute of Contemporary Art (free admission) and public art installations. Palm-lined streets create an elegant atmosphere perfect for window shopping and dining. Parking validation available at many stores. Less crowded than Lincoln Road with a more sophisticated vibe.
Miami's oldest neighborhood, known for its bohemian atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and waterfront location. Features CocoWalk shopping center, the historic Barnacle State Park, and numerous sidewalk cafes. The area has a laid-back, village-like feel with art festivals, outdoor dining, and sailing culture. Visit the Vizcaya Museum nearby or enjoy the farmers market on Saturdays. Popular with families and those seeking a more relaxed Miami experience away from the beach crowds.
Despite being a urban metropolis, Miami offers abundant natural beauty from tropical gardens to mangrove wetlands. The Everglades ecosystem begins just outside the city, providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Just 45 minutes from Miami, experience unique wetlands teeming with wildlife including alligators, manatees, and over 360 bird species. Take airboat tours through sawgrass marshes, walk elevated boardwalks, or kayak through mangrove tunnels. The Shark Valley area offers 15-mile loop trails perfect for cycling. Visitor centers provide ranger programs and educational exhibits. Entrance fee $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
An 83-acre paradise showcasing rare tropical plants, palms, and flowering trees from around the world. One of the premier botanical gardens in the United States, featuring themed collections including a rainforest exhibit, butterfly conservatory, and extensive palm collection. Take the free tram tour or explore winding paths at your own pace. The garden hosts events, plant sales, and educational programs. Admission $25 for adults. Particularly beautiful during spring blooming season. Located in Coral Gables, about 30 minutes from downtown.
Florida's largest urban park, offering 1,043 acres of natural beauty just minutes from downtown Miami. Features miles of mountain biking trails, kayak and paddleboard rentals for exploring mangrove waterways, and a swimming beach on Biscayne Bay. The park preserves native coastal habitat with opportunities for fishing, bird watching, and camping. Rent cabins or primitive campsites for overnight stays. Very popular with cyclists on weekends. Entrance fee $6 per vehicle. Bring insect repellent for mosquitoes.
A 32-acre urban oasis in Downtown Miami along Biscayne Bay. Features amphitheater hosting concerts and events, playgrounds, walking paths, and waterfront views. The park includes monuments, the Challenger Memorial, and the flying saucer-shaped Tina Hills Pavilion. Free yoga classes offered regularly. Popular spot for jogging, picnics, and watching cruise ships depart. Free admission with easy access via Metromover. Adjacent to Bayside Marketplace for dining and shopping.
Miami's entertainment scene is world-class, featuring professional sports teams, performing arts venues, and legendary nightlife. From the American Airlines Arena to South Beach clubs, the city offers non-stop excitement.
Home of the Miami Marlins baseball team, this retractable-roof stadium hosts MLB games from March through September. The modern facility includes unique features like a home-run sculpture and aquariums behind home plate. Beyond baseball, the park hosts concerts and special events. Affordable ticket options available, especially for weekday games. Located in Little Havana, combine with a neighborhood visit. Parking available on-site or via public transportation. Food options include Cuban and Latin American specialties.
Home arena of the NBA's Miami Heat, offering electrifying basketball games from October through April. The waterfront venue in downtown Miami provides an exciting game-day atmosphere with passionate fans. Beyond sports, hosts major concerts, ice shows, and entertainment events. Pre-game festivities in nearby Bayside Marketplace create a full entertainment experience. Ticket prices vary widely based on opponents and seat location. Book in advance for popular games. Accessible via Metromover and Metrorail.
The epicenter of Miami's legendary nightlife scene with world-famous clubs like LIV at Fontainebleau, Story, and E11EVEN. International DJs perform regularly, and celebrities frequent these venues. The dress code is strict (no shorts, sandals, or sportswear), and cover charges range from $40-100+. Table service available with bottle minimums. Ocean Drive and Washington Avenue feature more casual bars and lounges. The scene doesn't start until midnight and continues past sunrise. Reserve VIP tables through club websites or concierge services.
One of the largest performing arts centers in the United States, hosting Broadway shows, ballet, opera, and symphony performances. The architecturally stunning complex in downtown Miami features multiple theaters with world-class acoustics. Season includes Broadway tours, Miami City Ballet, Florida Grand Opera, and celebrity concerts. Dress code varies by performance. Tickets range from affordable to premium based on seating and show. Check the calendar for family-friendly matinee performances. Dining options available on-site.
Miami's coastal location offers endless aquatic adventures from snorkeling to yacht charters. The warm waters and Biscayne Bay provide perfect conditions for water sports year-round.
Discover Miami's celebrity homes and waterfront mansions on narrated boat tours through Biscayne Bay. Tours pass by Star Island, Fisher Island, and the Venetian Islands, showcasing homes of famous residents. 90-minute tours depart multiple times daily from Bayside Marketplace. Learn about Miami's history, architecture, and maritime culture. Some tours include stops at sandbars or Monument Island. Prices around $30-40 per adult. Sunset cruises offer romantic views of the Miami skyline. BYOB options available on some tours.
A 38-acre marine park on Virginia Key featuring shows with dolphins, sea lions, and killer whales. Interactive programs allow visitors to swim with dolphins or feed sea turtles. The facility includes tropical reef aquariums, manatee exhibits, and a shark channel. Educational presentations focus on marine conservation. Popular with families, though some criticize captive animal programs. Admission $50 for adults, $40 children. Dolphin interaction programs require advance booking and additional fees. Allow 4-5 hours to see all exhibits and shows.
Multiple operators along South Beach and Virginia Key offer jet ski rentals and guided tours. Explore the bay at high speed, visiting sandbars and seeing the city from the water. No boating license required for jet skis in Florida. Tours range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, priced $80-200 per jet ski. Other activities include parasailing ($70-90), paddleboard rentals ($25/hour), and kayaking. Safety briefings provided before all activities. Book morning slots for calmer water conditions.
A unique national park where 95% is underwater, protecting coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life. Located south of Miami, accessible by boat from Homestead. Snorkeling and diving tours explore the Maritime Heritage Trail featuring six shipwrecks. Glass-bottom boat tours available for non-swimmers. The park also includes mangrove shorelines and small islands perfect for kayaking. Ranger-led programs offered seasonally. Park entrance is free, but tour costs vary ($45-100 for snorkel/dive trips). Bring underwater camera for incredible photo opportunities.
From luxury boutiques to vibrant markets, Miami offers diverse shopping experiences. The city's fashion scene reflects its Latin American connections and beachside lifestyle.
A pedestrian-only outdoor shopping promenade in South Beach, designed by Morris Lapidus. Features over 200 shops, restaurants, and galleries in a beautiful Art Deco setting. Mix of mainstream retailers (Apple, H&M, Zara) and local boutiques. Sunday farmers market offers fresh produce and artisan goods. Sidewalk cafes perfect for people-watching. Free events include outdoor concerts and art shows. The mall stays lively day and night with street performers and bustling energy. Parking in nearby garages ($2-3/hour).
One of the largest shopping centers in the United States, featuring 300+ stores including Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, and Apple. Luxury wing includes Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier. The mall offers exceptional dining options, an AMC movie theater, and interactive art installations. Aventura Slide Tower provides unique entertainment. Located north of Miami Beach, about 30 minutes from South Beach. Tax-free shopping available for international tourists with proper documentation. Free parking with validation from participating stores.
A charming Mediterranean-style village in South Beach hosting weekend markets with local artisans, vintage items, and handmade crafts. The pedestrian street features Spanish-style architecture with colorful buildings. Friday-Sunday markets showcase jewelry, art, clothing, and accessories. Surrounding area has sidewalk restaurants serving international cuisine. Popular spot for street performers and live music. Free to browse with a bohemian, artistic atmosphere. Less crowded alternative to Lincoln Road with unique shopping finds.
A massive outlet shopping center near the airport offering discounted prices on major brands. Over 240 stores including Nike, Coach, Michael Kors outlet stores. Features entertainment options like Dave & Buster's arcade and 24-screen movie theater. Food court and full-service restaurants provide dining variety. Popular with bargain hunters and families. Located 20 minutes from South Beach, convenient stop before flights. Tax refunds available for international visitors. Free parking. Check for additional coupons at the visitor center.
Peak Season (December-April): The most popular time with perfect weather - temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C), low humidity, and minimal rainfall. Expect higher prices and crowded beaches. Book accommodations well in advance. This is when Miami truly shines with outdoor festivals and events.
Shoulder Season (May & November): Excellent value with good weather, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates. May can be warm and humid, while November offers comfortable temperatures. Best time for budget travelers seeking deals without sacrificing weather quality.
Summer (June-October): Hot, humid, and rainy with temperatures averaging 85-90°F (29-32°C). This is hurricane season with afternoon thunderstorms common. Significant hotel discounts available (50%+ off peak rates). Best for travelers who don't mind heat and want to experience local life without tourist crowds.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 76°F | 63°F | 2.0" | High |
| April | 83°F | 71°F | 3.1" | High |
| July | 91°F | 77°F | 6.5" | Low |
| October | 86°F | 75°F | 6.2" | Medium |
Special Events: Art Basel (December), Miami Music Week (March), South Beach Wine & Food Festival (February), Miami International Film Festival (March).
From the Airport (MIA): Located 8 miles from downtown. Options include rental cars ($40-80/day), taxis ($25-35 to South Beach), ride-share services ($20-30), SuperShuttle shared vans ($22), and the Miami Beach Airport Express bus ($2.65, runs every 30 minutes).
Public Transportation:
Ride-Share & Taxis: Uber and Lyft widely available throughout Miami. Taxis require metered fares. Expected costs: South Beach to Wynwood ($12-18), South Beach to Downtown ($15-22), Downtown to Little Havana ($10-15).
Rental Cars: Recommended for visiting multiple neighborhoods and attractions. Parking in South Beach is challenging and expensive ($3-4/hour, $20-40/day in lots). Most hotels charge $30-50/night for parking.
Bicycles & Scooters: Citi Bike stations throughout Miami Beach and downtown ($4.50 for 30 minutes, $24 day pass). Electric scooters from Lime and Bird available. Dedicated bike lanes on many major streets.
Water Taxi: Connects downtown Miami to Miami Beach via Biscayne Bay. Scenic option but limited schedule ($25-30 per trip).
Pro Tip: South Beach is very walkable - consider staying there and using public transit/ride-shares for other neighborhoods to avoid parking hassles.
What to Buy:
Best Shopping Areas:
Bargaining Tips: Haggling is not customary in stores or malls. Acceptable at outdoor markets, flea markets, and some art galleries. Always polite and reasonable. Many stores offer price matching.
Tax Information: Florida sales tax is 7% (6% state + 1% county). International visitors can obtain tax refunds at participating stores - ask for tax-free forms and present passport. Refund processed at special booths in major malls or at the airport.
Store Hours: Most malls open 10am-9pm Monday-Saturday, 11am-7pm Sunday. Independent boutiques vary, typically 11am-7pm. Some South Beach shops stay open until 11pm or midnight.
Major Events:
National Holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day (3rd Monday Jan), Presidents' Day (3rd Monday Feb), Memorial Day (last Monday May), Independence Day (July 4), Labor Day (1st Monday Sept), Thanksgiving (4th Thursday Nov), Christmas (Dec 25). Expect closures and traffic during holiday weekends.
Note: Book accommodations months in advance during major events. Prices increase significantly, especially during Art Basel and Miami Music Week.
Morning (8am-12pm): Start with breakfast at The Front Porch Cafe on Ocean Drive. Walk the Art Deco Historic District, taking photos of iconic buildings. Visit the Art Deco Museum and join the 10:30am walking tour. Stroll along South Beach, rent a chair and umbrella.
Afternoon (12pm-5pm): Lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Continue beach time or walk the Miami Beach Boardwalk. Explore Lincoln Road Mall for shopping and people-watching. Stop for Cuban coffee at a local cafe.
Evening (5pm-late): Return to hotel to freshen up. Dinner at Joe's Stone Crab (seasonal) or Italian at Osteria del Teatro. Evening stroll on Ocean Drive watching the neon lights. Drinks at a rooftop bar or experience South Beach nightlife.
Morning (9am-1pm): Breakfast in Wynwood at Zak the Baker. Explore Wynwood Walls and surrounding street art. Browse galleries during a self-guided walk. Visit Wynwood Brewing Company for craft beer tasting.
Afternoon (1pm-6pm): Lunch at KYU or another Wynwood restaurant. Drive to the Design District to see luxury boutiques and public art. Visit the Institute of Contemporary Art (free admission). Explore the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) with bayfront views.
Evening (6pm-late): Dinner in the Design District at Michael's Genuine or Mandolin Aegean Bistro. Attend a performance at the Adrienne Arsht Center or return to Wynwood for nightlife.
Morning (9am-1pm): Drive to Little Havana. Breakfast at Versailles Restaurant - iconic Cuban diner. Walk Calle Ocho, stopping at cigar shops and watching cigars being hand-rolled. Visit Domino Park to see locals playing. Tour the Bay of Pigs Museum. Sample Cuban coffee at a ventanita (window cafe).
Afternoon (1pm-5pm): Lunch at El Exquisito or El Rey de las Fritas. Drive to Coconut Grove. Visit Vizcaya Museum & Gardens (allow 2-3 hours). Walk around CocoWalk and the village center.
Evening (5pm-late): Dinner at Lulu or waterfront restaurant. Explore the Grove's relaxed nightlife or attend a concert at Bayfront Park if available.
Morning (7am-12pm): Early departure to Everglades National Park (45-minute drive). Stop at visitor center for maps and information. Take an airboat tour through the marshes ($30-50). Walk the Anhinga Trail boardwalk for guaranteed alligator sightings. Consider cycling or tram tour at Shark Valley.
Afternoon (12pm-5pm): Pack a picnic lunch or eat at nearby restaurants in Homestead. Optional: Continue to Biscayne National Park for snorkeling tour (advance booking required) OR return to Miami for Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.
Evening (5pm-late): Return to Miami Beach. Relaxed dinner at a local favorite. Evening beach walk and early rest after active day.
Morning (9am-1pm): Breakfast at hotel or local cafe. Book a Biscayne Bay boat tour from Bayside Marketplace ($30-40, 90 minutes). View celebrity homes and Miami skyline from the water. Stop at Bayside for shopping.
Afternoon (1pm-5pm): Lunch at Garcia's Seafood or Bayside restaurant. Choose activity: jet ski rental, paddleboard at Oleta River State Park, or visit Miami Seaquarium. Alternative: Spa afternoon and pool time at hotel.
Evening (5pm-late): Sunset dinner cruise or waterfront restaurant. Final evening exploring favorite neighborhood. Pack and prepare for departure, or experience one last South Beach night out.
Customization Tips: These itineraries can be mixed and matched based on interests. Allow flexibility for weather. Book water activities and tours in advance. Consider purchasing tourist passes for multiple attractions.
Photography Tips: Miami is incredibly photogenic year-round. Bring polarizing filter for beach and water shots to reduce glare. Wide-angle lens captures architecture best. Respect private property and ask permission for portraits of street performers. Many locations are free; arrive early to popular spots during peak season.
Voltage & Frequency: United States uses 120 volts AC, 60 Hz. This differs from most other countries which use 220-240V.
Plug Types: Type A and Type B (American standard)
Adapters: Visitors from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania will need plug adapters to fit US outlets. Buy adapters before departure or at airport shops. Available at drugstores like CVS and Walgreens ($5-15).
Voltage Converters: Many modern electronics (laptops, phone chargers, cameras) are dual voltage (110-240V) and only need plug adapters. Check your device's label. Hair dryers, curling irons, and some appliances may need voltage converters if not dual voltage. Hotels often provide hairdryers.
USB Charging: Most hotels offer USB ports in rooms or at front desks. Miami International Airport has charging stations throughout terminals. Many restaurants and cafes have outlets available.
Important: Using high-wattage European appliances (like hair dryers) without proper converter can damage devices and create fire hazards. When in doubt, use hotel-provided appliances.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dining Areas:
Dining Tips:
Budget Dining: Cuban ventanitas offer meals under $10. Food trucks in Wynwood provide quality food $8-15. Publix supermarket has excellent prepared foods and sandwiches. Farmers markets offer fresh, affordable options.
Dietary Restrictions: Miami has excellent options for all dietary needs. Many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus. Latin cuisine naturally includes many plant-based options. Always inform servers of allergies.
Local Secret: Skip touristy Ocean Drive restaurants. Walk 2 blocks inland for better food at half the price with local atmosphere.
Access to 25+ attractions with one pass including hop-on-hop-off bus tours, boat cruises, and museum entries. Choose from 1, 2, 3, or 5-day passes. Prices start at $89 for adults, $69 for children (3-12). Best value if visiting multiple paid attractions. Includes skip-the-line benefits at select venues. Mobile pass delivered instantly after purchase.
Included attractions: Miami Seaquarium, Everglades airboat tours, Vizcaya Museum, Zoo Miami, bicycle rentals, and more.
https://gocity.com/miamiCompletely FREE trolley service covering South Beach, Mid-Beach, and North Beach routes. No pass required - just hop on at any stop. Runs approximately every 15-20 minutes from 8am-midnight (schedule varies by route). Excellent for exploring Miami Beach without rental car. Trolleys are air-conditioned with bike racks available.
https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/parking/getting-around-miami-beach/Reloadable transit card for Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus. Purchase at stations or CVS/Walgreens stores for $2 (plus fare). Single ride $2.25, day pass $5.65, weekly pass $29.25. Metromover downtown is always free. Card provides convenience over exact change requirements. Refillable and reusable throughout stay.
https://www.miamidade.gov/transit/easy-card.aspFind discounted attraction tickets, restaurant vouchers, and activity deals up to 50-70% off. Options include boat tours, spa treatments, dining experiences, and water sports. Deals change frequently. Read fine print carefully regarding restrictions and expiration dates. Great for budget travelers willing to be flexible with plans. Download app for mobile redemption.
https://www.groupon.com/browse/miami