Miami Beach is one of the best places to spend a holiday in the continental US. It’s got an amazing tropical climate, great beaches, and all the luxuries and comfort of civilization. Truly a tropical paradise experience without the need to board an international flight. If you are planning on spending a weekend at Miami Beach but unsure of what to do, here are some things to try out
Beach bumming
First on the list is, of course, hitting the beach. Miami’s South Beach is one of the best beaches in the continental US. This iconic district is known for its high-end lifestyle making it a favorite go-to for the rich and famous. It is home to many gorgeous Art Deco style buildings and various celebrity chef restaurants.
The beach itself is filled with beachgoers from different walks of life. There are lots of opportunities for people watching or meeting new people. The iconic Miami Boardwalk is a great place to hang out and enjoy the warm afternoons. Haulover Beach and 12th Street Beach are just some of the unique beach experiences in the continental US.
Try out a new watersport
If you are looking for something more fun and exciting, then give stand-up paddleboarding or SUP a try. This boardsport is a mix of kayaking and surfing all in one neat package. This is relatively easy to learn and has plenty of riding opportunities in Miami.
Another fun thing to try is snorkeling. Just like paddleboarding, this is pretty easy to get into and is very beginner-friendly. There are many snorkeling tour companies in the area that offer tutorials as well as touring packages. The waters of South Beach and other nearby places like the Florida keys are great snorkeling spots to checkout.
Don’t forget to bring your dog to the beach and on your SUP! Make sure you have the proper life jackets for both you and your canine best friend.
Go museum-hopping
If you are looking for something to tickle your mind when you visit Miami, why not visit some of the museums in town? Some are the Philip and Patricia Museum of Science. As the name suggests, this museum is an homage to nature and Science. The exhibits include anything from marine life all the way to space and the Universe.
Another great museum to visit for the whole family is the Miami Children’s Museum. Located just outside the city, the museum holds a large collection of interactive exhibits for kids to explore. It has a music studio, interactive learning displays, and even a castle! A great and fun add-on to your beach holiday.
Walk the streets of Little Havana
Experience a splash of color and culture at the heart of the Cuban community in Miami: Little Havana. This small district west of downtown Miami is a little slice of Cuban and Latin American culture. The town’s Cuban roots date back to the 60s as the influx of Cubans grew.
Today, Little Havana has become known for its distinct fusion atmosphere of Cuban, American, and Latin American cultures. The district is also home to a vibrant art scene that draws crowds both national and international. The streets are lined with art galleries, souvenir shops, and restaurants that showcase their unique history and culture. If you want to experience the rich Latin American vibe without leaving the country, this is a must-visit.
Explore the Everglades National Park
Stepping away from the noise of the city is the serene natural paradise that is the Everglades National Park. This expansive area of untamed natural beauty is home to a diverse set of flora and fauna. Some of its native residents include crocodiles, the Florida panther, herons, and manatees. It is a major ecological center that plays a key role in the region’s biodiversity.
There are several exciting things to do in the state park including a guided boat tour, biking, and hiking trips among others. The Anhinga Trail is a wood paved boardwalk trail that lets you go over some of the wetland areas of the park. Kayaking and canoeing is also a fun activity in the park. If you are lucky, you can even get a chance to see manatees up close.
Food tripping
All this gallivanting can surely make anyone hungry. Thankfully, Miami is a gastronomic paradise with many opportunities to experience great food. Though Miami is known for its high-end fine dining restaurants, it actually has a pretty diverse set of options for a wide range of budgets. From cheap eats to five-star dining experiences, there is plenty of everything for everyone.
South Beach, specifically, has plenty of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. And the good thing is, some of them won’t break the bank. Up for some Peruvian seafood? There’s El Chalan on the Beach to hook you up. If you love something Asian inspired, Sriracha House is something you should check out.
Experience Miami nightlife
The adventure doesn’t stop when the sun goes down as Miami gets even more lively at night. As night falls, people from all walks of life head to the different clubs and bars all ready to party and have the best nights of their lives. If you feel like dancing the night away, meeting new people, and having great drinks, Miami has got you covered.
If you’re looking for a wild night then head on over to the Basement. This is a bowling alley, a skating rink, and a club all rolled into one. Aptly named because it is the basement of ultra-high-end Edition Hotel. If you want a more subdued yet classy vibe, head on over to Beaker and Gray. This classy bar is perfect if you just want a nice relaxed environment while enjoying a drink.
Go shopping
Finally, a Miami Beach escapade is not complete without spending a day shopping. Not a lot of people know this but South Beach is actually a great place to get great wardrobe finds. It’s got a wide selection as well. Small trendy boutiques all the way to luxurious high-end outlets, there is always something for everybody.
If you fancy scoring a great statement piece while outdoors on a stroll then check out Lincoln Road. This pedestrian mall is lined with the trendiest brands like Sephora, J. Crew, and many more. Another notable shopping destination is Sunset Harbor. This quaint place by the harbor is home to many trendy and chic boutiques. A great place to visit if you are in the hunt for unique pieces.
