Miami Beach Day Trip, Florida
Miami Beach Day Trip, Florida
Description
Miami Beach is where a mix of cultures, residents and travelers
mingle. A wide variety of people – including waifish models, amateur
architecture critics, distinguished seniors and sun-seeking families –
enjoy the renowned shores of "America's Riviera." North Miami Beach is
where you'll find the kid-friendliest beaches and the most affordable
restaurants and hotels. Less than 10 miles away are the galleries,
museums and theaters of Greater Miami.
And then there's South Beach. This popular southernmost neighborhood proves that Miami Beach is more like two cities – a family-friendly vacation when the sun is shining and a super-chic metropolis come nightfall. If want to keep up with the Joneses, you'll have to exercise your credit card at the high-end stores, schmooze at the cutting-edge fusion restaurants, dance at the energetic nightclubs and relax poolside at the art deco-style hotels. But the rich and famous aren't the only ones who will enjoy their time here. More laid-back travelers can relax along the sands of Haulover Park or Lummus Park, learn a little more about architecture on an art deco tour or even try their hand at fishing off of the South Pointe Pier. Another must-do? Window-shopping and strolling along the Lincoln Road Mall. And you can't leave Miami Beach without chowing down on tasty small plates and enjoying cocktails at a rooftop bar.
And then there's South Beach. This popular southernmost neighborhood proves that Miami Beach is more like two cities – a family-friendly vacation when the sun is shining and a super-chic metropolis come nightfall. If want to keep up with the Joneses, you'll have to exercise your credit card at the high-end stores, schmooze at the cutting-edge fusion restaurants, dance at the energetic nightclubs and relax poolside at the art deco-style hotels. But the rich and famous aren't the only ones who will enjoy their time here. More laid-back travelers can relax along the sands of Haulover Park or Lummus Park, learn a little more about architecture on an art deco tour or even try their hand at fishing off of the South Pointe Pier. Another must-do? Window-shopping and strolling along the Lincoln Road Mall. And you can't leave Miami Beach without chowing down on tasty small plates and enjoying cocktails at a rooftop bar.
Best Time to Visit Miami Beach, Florida
The best time to visit Miami Beach is between March and May when the sun shines with temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s during the day. Aside from the gorgeous weather, a spring visit allows you to sidestep the peak winter rates.
Getting to Miami Beach, Florida
Whether you want to take public transportation, a taxi or rent your own car, there are plenty of ways for you to get from Miami International Airport to South Beach. When your flight lands in Miami, the first thing you need to decide is what form of transportation you want to use.
From Miami International Airport there are many options like UBER or Taxi, Express Bus Service and Rent A Car available.
Things to Do in Miami Beach, Florida
Miami Beach caters to the moneyed crowd. At upscale shopping centers like Lincoln Road Mall and renowned spas (agua Spa at the Delano South Beach is a particular favorite), residents and visitors spend boat loads for decadent experiences and comfortable clothing. Night owls shell out hundreds on drinks at dance clubs and bars. Sophisticated types observe the art deco architecture and stop by the Ancient Spanish Monastery in the afternoons. Relaxing on the sand is truly the best "free" activity. Most cost-conscious visitors spend their days lounging on the beach or swimming, surfing and kayaking in the Atlantic Ocean. (But if you want to splurge, don't pass up on renting a Jet Ski or a parasailing tour) Also, don't forget to stop by the very moving Holocaust Memorial.
1. South Beach
Miami Beach caters to the moneyed crowd. At upscale shopping centers like Lincoln Road Mall and renowned spas (agua Spa at the Delano South Beach is a particular favorite), residents and visitors spend boat loads for decadent experiences and comfortable clothing. Night owls shell out hundreds on drinks at dance clubs and bars. Sophisticated types observe the art deco architecture and stop by the Ancient Spanish Monastery in the afternoons. Relaxing on the sand is truly the best "free" activity. Most cost-conscious visitors spend their days lounging on the beach or swimming, surfing and kayaking in the Atlantic Ocean. (But if you want to splurge, don't pass up on renting a Jet Ski or a parasailing tour) Also, don't forget to stop by the very moving Holocaust Memorial.
2. Ocean Drive
One of the most famous boulevards in the city, the country, or maybe even the world, Ocean Drive is characterized by its distinct art deco buildings, its constant streams of crowds and its glittering hotel and club fronts in the nighttime. Suffice it to say that you're truly blessed if you've booked a hotel along Ocean Drive because you're guaranteed to be in the thick of things. Shopping, dining, beach activities and more are all within a comfortable walking distance.
3. Haulover Park
Clothing-optional Haulover has long been a favorite of laissez-faire residents and vacationers, but there's more to do here than nude sunbathing. You can fly kites, go charter fishing and even play volleyball at this shore located just north of Bal Harbour. And you don't have to strip to your birthday suit to enjoy this area, as there are also designated sections for swimsuit-clad beach bathing (the northern area of the beach is where you'll find nude sunbathers).
4. Lincoln Road Mall
Located on Lincoln Road, between Alton Road and Washington Avenue, the Lincoln Road Mall is a mile-long, can't-miss pedestrian shopping area. Originally designed in the 1950s, the Lincoln Road Mall received a makeover in 1997 that lead to a resurgence in popularity. In 2011, the Lincoln Road Mall was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Shoppers can expect to find everything from Banana Republic, Gap and Macy's to Lululemon Athletica, Apple and Madewell. In addition to several stores and restaurants, the area hosts a farmers market on Sundays, morning yoga classes throughout the year and outdoor concerts.
5. Lummus Park
This is the beach and park area that fulfills all of South Beach's stereotypes. Fit sunbathers, bikini-loving celebrities, supermodels (often occupied with a photo shoot) – all of the above crash on the beige-colored sand here, which runs along Ocean Drive from about 5th Street to 15th Street. Volleyball nets, beach gear rental kiosks and restrooms dot the area as well. The grassy stretch between Ocean Drive and the beach features plenty of palm trees and a winding paved pathway that attracts runners, bikers and rollerbladers. (It's also the home of the South Beach Triathlon.) Spending some time here will put you within walking distance of Ocean Drive's many restaurants and bars and allow you to experience the Art Deco District, in addition to the sun and sand.
6. Ancient Spanish Monastery
Set in North Miami Beach, this monastery has a storied past. Officially known as the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux, construction on the structure began in A.D. 1133 in northern Spain and was completed eight years later. It was inhabited by monks for nearly 700 years but after a revolution in the 1830s, the monastery was taken over and sold. In 1925, the cloisters and the rest of the monastery were purchased by William Randolph Hearst and shipped to the U.S. After years of sitting in storage, the monastery was rebuilt over the course of 19 months and reopened to the public in 1964 as a tourist attraction. (Time magazine called it "The World's Largest and Most Expensive Jigsaw Puzzle," as it involved 35,000-some stones.) It didn't do too hot as a tourist attraction alone, so it was sold to a local diocese and was turned into a church. Today, it's an active congregation that welcomes churchgoers and also acts as an attraction highlighting the monastery's beautiful architecture and its surrounding gardens.
7. Art Deco tour
Miami Beach is known for its art deco architecture, a design style of the 1920s and '30s that's characterized by bold colors and geometric shapes. It often incorporates styles of cubism, expressionism and other varying art movements. You'll spot this architectural style adorning the city's gorgeous hotels, storefronts, restaurants and buildings that line South Beach. The best way to experience all the art deco Miami Beach has to offer is on a walking tour of the South Beach neighborhood.
8. South Pointe Park and Pier
Located at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, South Pointe is a 17-acre park that features walking paths, grassy knolls and sweeping views of the ocean. The area also has a playground with water features, and a dog park. There's plenty of seating throughout the park and there are several art and light sculptures throughout. The South Pointe Pier juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular place to fish. After undergoing a $4.8 million renovation in 2014, the 450-foot-long pier now offers stations for cutting bait and washing fish, recycling bins for fishing line and more seating for additional vantage points of the ocean.
9. Holocaust Memorial
Located near the intersection of Dade Boulevard and Meridian Avenue, the Holocaust Memorial in South Beach is a moving tribute to the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. The idea was conceived by a small group of Holocaust survivors in 1984 and the memorial officially opened to the public in 1990. The site features a series of statues, architectural pieces, a garden of meditation and a memorial wall. The main sculpture features dozens of emaciated people reaching out for help, clinging to one another, that make up an outstretched arm reaching up to the sky.
10. Miami Children's Museum
The Miami Children's Museum is located on a little island between downtown Miami and South Beach. Kid-friendly interactive exhibits are the focus of this museum, which caters to youths with things like a 6-foot piggy bank (to learn about financial literacy), the Castle of Dreams (a colorful sand castle designed to inspire imagination) and the Music Makers Studio (where children can learn how musical sounds are made), among several other engaging activities.
1. South Beach
Miami Beach caters to the moneyed crowd. At upscale shopping centers like Lincoln Road Mall and renowned spas (agua Spa at the Delano South Beach is a particular favorite), residents and visitors spend boat loads for decadent experiences and comfortable clothing. Night owls shell out hundreds on drinks at dance clubs and bars. Sophisticated types observe the art deco architecture and stop by the Ancient Spanish Monastery in the afternoons. Relaxing on the sand is truly the best "free" activity. Most cost-conscious visitors spend their days lounging on the beach or swimming, surfing and kayaking in the Atlantic Ocean. (But if you want to splurge, don't pass up on renting a Jet Ski or a parasailing tour) Also, don't forget to stop by the very moving Holocaust Memorial.
2. Ocean Drive
One of the most famous boulevards in the city, the country, or maybe even the world, Ocean Drive is characterized by its distinct art deco buildings, its constant streams of crowds and its glittering hotel and club fronts in the nighttime. Suffice it to say that you're truly blessed if you've booked a hotel along Ocean Drive because you're guaranteed to be in the thick of things. Shopping, dining, beach activities and more are all within a comfortable walking distance.
3. Haulover Park
Clothing-optional Haulover has long been a favorite of laissez-faire residents and vacationers, but there's more to do here than nude sunbathing. You can fly kites, go charter fishing and even play volleyball at this shore located just north of Bal Harbour. And you don't have to strip to your birthday suit to enjoy this area, as there are also designated sections for swimsuit-clad beach bathing (the northern area of the beach is where you'll find nude sunbathers).
4. Lincoln Road Mall
Located on Lincoln Road, between Alton Road and Washington Avenue, the Lincoln Road Mall is a mile-long, can't-miss pedestrian shopping area. Originally designed in the 1950s, the Lincoln Road Mall received a makeover in 1997 that lead to a resurgence in popularity. In 2011, the Lincoln Road Mall was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Shoppers can expect to find everything from Banana Republic, Gap and Macy's to Lululemon Athletica, Apple and Madewell. In addition to several stores and restaurants, the area hosts a farmers market on Sundays, morning yoga classes throughout the year and outdoor concerts.
5. Lummus Park
This is the beach and park area that fulfills all of South Beach's stereotypes. Fit sunbathers, bikini-loving celebrities, supermodels (often occupied with a photo shoot) – all of the above crash on the beige-colored sand here, which runs along Ocean Drive from about 5th Street to 15th Street. Volleyball nets, beach gear rental kiosks and restrooms dot the area as well. The grassy stretch between Ocean Drive and the beach features plenty of palm trees and a winding paved pathway that attracts runners, bikers and rollerbladers. (It's also the home of the South Beach Triathlon.) Spending some time here will put you within walking distance of Ocean Drive's many restaurants and bars and allow you to experience the Art Deco District, in addition to the sun and sand.
6. Ancient Spanish Monastery
Set in North Miami Beach, this monastery has a storied past. Officially known as the Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux, construction on the structure began in A.D. 1133 in northern Spain and was completed eight years later. It was inhabited by monks for nearly 700 years but after a revolution in the 1830s, the monastery was taken over and sold. In 1925, the cloisters and the rest of the monastery were purchased by William Randolph Hearst and shipped to the U.S. After years of sitting in storage, the monastery was rebuilt over the course of 19 months and reopened to the public in 1964 as a tourist attraction. (Time magazine called it "The World's Largest and Most Expensive Jigsaw Puzzle," as it involved 35,000-some stones.) It didn't do too hot as a tourist attraction alone, so it was sold to a local diocese and was turned into a church. Today, it's an active congregation that welcomes churchgoers and also acts as an attraction highlighting the monastery's beautiful architecture and its surrounding gardens.
7. Art Deco tour
Miami Beach is known for its art deco architecture, a design style of the 1920s and '30s that's characterized by bold colors and geometric shapes. It often incorporates styles of cubism, expressionism and other varying art movements. You'll spot this architectural style adorning the city's gorgeous hotels, storefronts, restaurants and buildings that line South Beach. The best way to experience all the art deco Miami Beach has to offer is on a walking tour of the South Beach neighborhood.
8. South Pointe Park and Pier
Located at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, South Pointe is a 17-acre park that features walking paths, grassy knolls and sweeping views of the ocean. The area also has a playground with water features, and a dog park. There's plenty of seating throughout the park and there are several art and light sculptures throughout. The South Pointe Pier juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular place to fish. After undergoing a $4.8 million renovation in 2014, the 450-foot-long pier now offers stations for cutting bait and washing fish, recycling bins for fishing line and more seating for additional vantage points of the ocean.
9. Holocaust Memorial
Located near the intersection of Dade Boulevard and Meridian Avenue, the Holocaust Memorial in South Beach is a moving tribute to the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. The idea was conceived by a small group of Holocaust survivors in 1984 and the memorial officially opened to the public in 1990. The site features a series of statues, architectural pieces, a garden of meditation and a memorial wall. The main sculpture features dozens of emaciated people reaching out for help, clinging to one another, that make up an outstretched arm reaching up to the sky.
10. Miami Children's Museum
The Miami Children's Museum is located on a little island between downtown Miami and South Beach. Kid-friendly interactive exhibits are the focus of this museum, which caters to youths with things like a 6-foot piggy bank (to learn about financial literacy), the Castle of Dreams (a colorful sand castle designed to inspire imagination) and the Music Makers Studio (where children can learn how musical sounds are made), among several other engaging activities.
Distance from South Florida Yacht Rental
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