Loved as a getaway for spring breakers, a haven of relaxation for tired businesspersons, and a Mecca of nightlife, gastronomy, and gorgeous beaches, South Beach has made quite a name for itself as the sun-soaked, crown jewel of Miami Beach. It’s located amidst the Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean and is also referred to as SoBe. The addictive array of places of interest has been attracting millions of tourists from all corners of the world. The Art Deco Welcome Center, Bass Museum, Jewish Museum of Florida, Lincoln Road Mall, Ocean Drive, and more such magnificent attractions will add colorful memories to your travel diary. Not just during the day, South Beach is perfect for socializing at night, too.
While Miami itself is home to plenty of amazing vacation rentals and adults-only hotels, those planning to stay close to the renowned South Beach or “SoBe” will enjoy a vacation in one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the country, and arguably the world. Want to know how to make the most of your time in SoBe? Take a look at these best things to do in South Beach, Miami, Florida.
Events to look out for
Wine connoisseurs can attend the South Beach Wine and Food Festival, organized in February. This event showcases the talents of the world’s most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs, and culinary personalities. It includes tastings, dinners, and seminars.
Art lovers can plan a trip around January to attend the annual Art Deco Weekend that is celebrated to preserve the unique and historic Art Deco architecture of South Beach. Here, you can enjoy the lectures, guided tours, family-friendly events, and more.
Go City
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Art & culture galore: explore South Beach's creative energy
If you’re an art and culture enthusiast, South Beach has a lot in store for you! Discover its creative side, from interesting museums to excellent galleries.
1. Marvel at the amazing artworks at Romero Britto Fine Art Gallery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
????????????????❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️???????? #britto #love #peace #romerobritto
Posted by Romero Britto on Saturday, 13 July 2019
Witness the exceptional artwork of globally renowned Romero Britto at this fine art gallery. With fans all over the world, he is an artist, painter, sculptor, and serigrapher. He uses bold, vibrant, and colorful patterns to reproduce his positive views about the world around him which has been an inspiration for millions. His work has been showcased in extremely famed museums and galleries in over 100 countries. The beautiful display exudes warmth and is a true visual delight. The staff at this gallery is also very knowledgeable and attentive.
Romero Britto Fine Art Gallery
Address: 2425, 1102 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States
Website: Romero Britto Fine Art Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Wed, Sun: 10am - 10pm; Thu - Sat: 10am - 11pm
Price: Free
2. Stay at Gianni Versace Mansion
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
You’ve never stayed at a place as stunning as #CasaCasuarina! #Vacation #MiamiBeach #SouthBeach #VersaceMansion
Posted by The Villa Casa Casuarina on Thursday, 2 March 2017
Previously owned by the highly celebrated Italian fashion entrepreneur Gianni Versace, today the Villa Casa Casuarina, also referred to as the Versace Mansion, functions as a luxury boutique hotel, event venue, and restaurant. Post the designer’s death, millions have been spent on renovating the apartments into state-of-the-art suites having spacious closet space, balconies, and patios. The mansion also features a gym, spa services, and a stunning pool made of more than a million tiles, of which thousands are 24-karat gold. The luxurious amenities and the breathtaking décor give a fairytale-like feeling. Every corner of this exceptional 19,000-square-foot (1,765.1 square-meter) villa exudes opulence.
Gianni Versace Mansion
Address: 1116 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Price: from 795 USD
Miami Tour Guide
Alexander Gorn
I was born in Leningrad, now St. Petersburg, in the Soviet Union, and left for the USA when I was 23 years old, just out of college. Leningrad was and still is a city with great cultural traditions. I fell in love with its world-famous museums, art galleries, theaters, and other attractions. I have been guiding tours for most of my life and began while still in high school. During the summer... Read more
Tours by Alexander
3. Browse through modern-age artefacts at The Wolfsonian-Florida International University
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by The Wolfsonian-FIU on Monday, 18 September 2017
The Wolfsonian–Florida International University or The Wolfsonian-FIU is positioned in a prime location of the Art Deco District of Miami Beach. It is not just a museum but a library and a research center, too, which demonstrates the power of art and design through its collection. It is home to an astonishing collection of 120,000 objects including metal, ceramics, glass works, rare books, paintings, and textiles. Viewing artwork, tours, design, talks, workshops – there is always something brewing at this highly engaging venue.
The Wolfsonian-Florida International University
Address: 1001 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: The Wolfsonian-Florida International University
Opening hours: Mon - Tue, Thu, Sat: 10am - 6pm; Fri: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Wed)
Price: 5 USD
4. Stop by Art Deco District Welcome Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Miami Design Preservation League on Thursday, 30 May 2019
If you want to find out more about what to do in Miami, then a visit to Art Deco Welcome Center is a must. Art Deco Welcome Center is managed by the Miami Design Preservation League. Positioned on the very popular Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, this is the idyllic place to get tourist information about Miami Beach. Further, the Art Deco Welcome Center concierge can assist you in planning your Miami Beach vacation. Get assistance related to hotel bookings, adventures, tours, and much more! It is a beautifully renovated venue full of information, event guides, and brochures. Also, the center arranges films, lectures, and exhibitions, as well as 90-minute walking tours for visitors to understand the idea of Art Deco.
Art Deco District Welcome Center
Address: 1001 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: Art Deco District Welcome Center
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
5. Check out the incredible art collection at The Bass
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by The Bass on Tuesday, 9 July 2019
The Bass Museum of Art is home to the private and incredible art collection of John and Johanna Bass, who bequeathed it to the city. Started in 1964, this beautiful place has acquired the stature of being extremely renowned for presenting great exhibitions by impressive artists like Isaac Julien, Eve Sussman, Piotr Uklanski, and many others. Focused on exhibitions of international contemporary art, the museum showcases new artists as well as reputable artists, depicting the spirit of Miami Beach. It even has an education program for visitors from all age groups.
The Bass
Address: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: The Bass
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: From 5 USD
6. Learn about Miami's large Hebrew community at Jewish Museum of Florida
A fascinating museum oozing history and character, the Jewish Museum of Florida has a phenomenal collection of over 10,000 items. Want to know about the 250-year-old Jewish art, culture, and heritage in Florida? This is the only museum with all the stories. Two reinstated historic buildings that were previously synagogues are home to this museum today. The focal point of the museum is ‘MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida, 1763 to Present’. The Collections and Research Center and many films make it enjoyable for visitors of all ages. The museum store with lots of unique stuff, Bessie’s Bistro, and the timeline wall of Jewish history complete your experience. You will be guided by very knowledgeable guides.
Jewish Museum of Florida
Address: 301 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: Jewish Museum of Florida
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: From 2.50 USD (entry free on Sat)
7. Watch a live music concert at New World Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Copyright: 2009 Redav, Inc.
Posted by New World Center on Thursday, 14 July 2011
Positioned in the heart of South Beach, New World Center is an orchestral academy that crafts and polishes talented musicians for distinguished orchestras across the globe. This is a one-of-a-kind music laboratory, where innovative ideas about teaching music are experienced, taught, and presented in unique ways. This architectural marvel has been designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. From October to May the place functions as the venue for performing arts and live music. Other than this, it is available for a variety of events and conferences. It also has a beautifully designed concert hall, several rehearsal areas, and outstanding acoustics.
New World Center
Address: 500 17th St, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: New World Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: From 5 USD
8. Attend Art Basel
Each December, South Florida’s art scene comes alive in the form of Art Basel, an international art festival that comes to Miami and Hong Kong once a year. While any reason is a good reason to make a trip to Miami, those fortunate enough to be in town during Art Basel can experience world-class art, meet artists and art aficionados from around the world, and attend some of the best art-related parties in Miami, and arguably the world.
Website: Art Basel
Scintillating escapades: experience South Beach's adult amusements
South Beach is well-known for its party scene. Discover the glitz, glamor, and much more with these adult-friendly experiences in the area!
9. Pay a visit to World Erotic Art Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
WEAM is officially a teenager! The World Erotic Art Museum opened its doors for the first time 13 years ago today. Come...
Posted by WEAM - World Erotic Art Museum on Monday, 15 October 2018
Dedicated exclusively to captivating erotic art, the World Erotic Art Museum, or WEAM, is something truly unique. Housing the biggest collection of erotic art in America, this museum, library, and educational treasure illustrates the marvelous history of this art. The collection here comprises about 4,000 works of international and thought-provoking art that range from 300 BCE to the current year. Very quickly, the museum has achieved a lot of fame for collecting and preserving erotic artworks of the most premium quality. There is a bed with carvings of Kama Sutra, dildos of different shapes and sizes, and more related to this genre.
World Erotic Art Museum
Address: 1205 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: World Erotic Art Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 10pm; Fri - Sun: 11am - 12am
Price: 15 USD
10. Enjoy the immense nightlife at Ocean Drive
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Ocean Drive Miami Beach on Friday, 18 November 2011
The most iconic street of Miami, Ocean Drive stretches from 1st Street to 15th Street and is packed with activities that you don’t want to miss. Day or night, the wide array of cafes, award-winning restaurants, dance clubs, and shopping choices is at your disposal. The stunning architecture is also something to admire. Voodoo Lounge, Mango’s Tropical Café, Gianni Versace Mansion, The Clevelander, and many more such venues make the ambiance extremely lively. There are walking tours that you can join to explore this fantastic locale. You can even rent bikes which is a favorite activity here.
Ocean Drive
Address: Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: Ocean Drive
11. Attend a pool party at one of the area’s most famous hotels
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
South Beach is home to a plethora of iconic, world-class hotels, that all love a good party. During peak tourist season, from March to October, many of these hotels hold unforgettable, can’t-miss, pool parties. Best of all, at most hotel pool parties, you don’t have to be a guest to attend, though guests often receive free admission. Looking for the best hotels to make a splash in during pool party season? Be sure to check out the pool parties at the Fontainebleau and the Clevelander to name a couple.
12. Enjoy a few pints of draft beer at Playwright Irish Pub
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Katie Murray & Loretta Egan Murphy at Playwright Pub 1-23-2022 #livemusic #traditionalmusic #tradsession #session #theplaywrightpub #music
Posted by Bernard Keilty on Sunday, January 23, 2022
A Dublin-inspired pub and sports bar, Playwright Irish Pub features a hearty menu comprising of scrumptious preparations, a huge oval-shaped bar serving draft beers, and other specialty drinks. Buffalo wings to Denver lamb ribs, shepherd’s pie, and meatball sliders are some of the popular dishes. Choose from booth and tabletop arrangements, seat yourself in the very lively ambiance of this delightful pub, and enjoy the breezy service of the always friendly staff. The presence of pool tables, weekend DJs, and a dance floor add to the fun. You will find a big crowd of sports fanatics enjoying their favorite sports on the huge screens. Visit during the happy hours from Monday to Friday or the Ladies’ Night on Monday.
Playwright Irish Pub
Address: Address: 1265 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: Playwright Irish Pub
Opening hours: 11am - 5am (daily)
13. Test your vocal chords at Kill Your Idol
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Kill Your Idol on Wednesday, 7 November 2018
The highlight of this place is the statue of Bruce Lee overlooking the bar. There is a chandelier made up of glass bottles next to an astronaut hanging in a space suit and there is more of such quirky and interesting stuff all around. Another attractive feature of this amazing place is the karaoke nights that are held regularly. There are also gay party nights on Mondays and ladies’ nights on Wednesdays–you have something exciting to look forward to each night. Accompanying all of this is the catchy electro-pop dance music and a wonderful range of craft beer and delicious cocktails. Upstairs is the VIP room which gives it an upscale vibe.
Kill Your Idol
Address: 222 Española Way, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: Kill Your Idol
Opening hours: 8pm - 5am (daily)
14. Dance the night away at LIV
A five-star hotel by day, the Fountainbleu Hotel turns into a renowned bustling nightclub at night, called LIV. Without a doubt the most high-profile and exclusive club in SoBe, LIV is frequented by celebrities, supermodels, Miami elite and tourists with plenty of cash. Does it live up to the hype? DJs like David Guetta, and socialites like Kim Kardashian sure seem to think so. This South Beach attraction has a strict dress code and a hefty cover fee, but once you’re in, the party goes on until 5 a.m.
Website: LIV
15. Party by the beach at Miami’s famous Nikki Beach
Loved by tourists and locals alike, this famous Miami restaurant turns into a lively beach club at night. Filled with beautiful people, tiki bars and torches, Nikki Beach makes the perfect venue for a night of dancing, drinks and tapas.
Website: Nikki Beach
Book Tours : South Beach Nightclub Party Package
Beachside bondings: discover South Beach's wholesome family-friendly offerings
Whether it’s having a picnic in a scenic park, building sand castles on the beach, or rollerblading with your loved ones, South Beach has many wholesome offerings for families to enjoy.
16. Plan a family picnic at South Pointe Park
Lush green spaces, benches, walking trails, a pier for fishing, a playground for kids with water activities plus a beach alongside all of this – this is what South Pointe Park is all about. Spread over 17 acres (6.7 hectares), it is a paradise for picnickers as there is a big bunch of state-of-the-art amenities. The sunsets specifically are gorgeous here so don’t forget your camera. There is a 20-foot (6 m) wide walkway that is perfect for bikers, joggers, rollerbladers, or just a relaxing stroll. When tired, you can rest at the shaded pavilions or you can try the Smith and Wollensky steakhouse located here. There is a barbecue area as well and the park also hosts events and festivals at the amphitheater.
South Pointe Park
Address: 1 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: South Pointe Park
Opening hours: 7:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
17. Attend a service at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
I proclaim to you good news of great joy: today a Savior is born for us, Christ The Lord. Les anuncio una gran alegría: Hoy nos ha nacido El Salvador, que es Cristo, el Señor.
Posted by Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Church. South Beach, FL on Wednesday, 25 December 2013
Established in 1940, St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church was initiated by the first Bishop of Miami, Bishop Coleman F. Carroll. It was originally a mission chapel. A cozy and very well-maintained structure, the church is a great place to keep in tune with your spiritual nourishment. Mass is offered in English as well as Spanish. You will find the priests very warm and the sermons delivered are very moving. Everyone is welcome to pray here and be a part of the parish.
St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church
Address: 600 Lenox Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139A
Website: St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church
18. Have some retail therapy at Lincoln Road Mall
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
For brunch, lunch, happy hour, or dinner- your table is always ready on #lincolnroad.
Posted by Lincoln Road Mall on Wednesday, 6 February 2019
Stroll down the premier outdoor and pedestrian-only mecca of entertainment, shopping, and terrific dining choices, positioned a few blocks away from the beach, Sunset Harbor, Ocean Drive, and Española Way. From day to night, there is always something electrifying happening at this mile-long (less than 2 km) promenade, which boasts over 200 national retailers, a wide variety of designer brands, cultural venues, boutiques, nightclubs, and much more to keep you entertained. Designed by iconic architects, Lincoln Road Mall is true architectural eye candy. As the night progresses, the vibe transforms completely and the place becomes even more enticing.
Lincoln Road Mall
Address: Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: Lincoln Road Mall
Opening hours: Mon - Fri, Sun: 10am - 11pm; Sat: 10:30am - 11pm
19. Rent out some rollerblades and skate along Collins Avenue
Rollerblading is a South Beach pastime that never goes out of style. SoBe’s plethora of pedestrian walkways make it easy and enjoyable to throw on some rollerblades and skate along the main streets of Miami Beach.
Book Tours : Rollerblade Rental in Miami Beach
20. Relax and unwind at Collins Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Tonight at 8PM enjoy Beats After Sunset with The Bass Museum as they premiere their new exhibition 'TIME' . Cocktails and art all in the middle of Collins Park! Love it. ❤
Posted by Collins Park on Saturday, 2 November 2013
Collins Park has all the elements to make you feel relaxed and have an extremely enjoyable time. This wonderful and beautifully manicured spot is an oceanfront beach full of shops, entertainment venues, and a botanic garden. A place with a very tranquil ambiance, this particular neighborhood is widely known as the cultural hub of Miami Beach. It is because of the presence of iconic institutions like the Miami City Ballet, Bass Museum of Art, SoBe Music Institute, Miami Design and Preservation League, Holocaust Memorial, and most recently, the development of CANDO Art’s Co-op. Enjoy easy access to the ocean and watch out for dolphins!
Collins Park
Address: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA
Website: Collins Park
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free
21. Explore Biscayne National Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Biscayne National Park is a hidden gem - nearly 95% of the park is underwater, making this a must-see when in southern Florida!
The National Park is located just 20 miles south of Miami which means that travelers can leave the busy city and submerge into a whole new world. Biscayne Bay is a marine sanctuary home to manatees, turtles, exotic fish, and a shipwreck or two! The best way to explore Biscayne is through a guided eco-adventure with Biscayne National Park Institute! These eco-adventures offer deeper connections with the history and habitats of the park, taking visitors through the park on boats, paddleboards, snorkeling, or scuba diving adventures!
The drive to the park can be a little taxing, but Biscayne National Park Institute offers a NEW Coconut Grove Snorkel Adventure that picks visitors up from Dinner Key Marina (literally on the dock right next to Miami City Hall) and takes them through the bay and right into Biscayne National Park.
Biscayne National Park
Address: 9700 SW 328th Street, Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, FL 33033
Website: Biscayne National Park
Opening hours: Dante Fascell Visitor Center: 9am - 5pm (daily) / Convoy Point grounds: 7am - 5:30pm (daily) / Navigable waters: Open 24 hours a day / Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key: Open for camping / Adams Key: 9am - Official sunset (daily)
Price: 25 USD camping fee / No fee for park entrance
22. Spend the day on the beautiful white sand beach
South Beach is a 2.5 mile (4 kilometer) stretch of gorgeous white sand met with Caribbean water. It’s the perfect place to bring a towel, rent a chair and soak up the splendor of the Miami sun. Miami’s tropical climate means that the beach is swimmable almost all year-round, so there is no bad time to go, however, most head to SoBe when the weather in their own hometown is too cold to bear.
Book Tours : The Golden Beaches Helicopter Tour
Foodies assemble: dig into the gastronomic delights of South Beach
Are you a foodie visiting South Beach? Dig into fresh seafood, explore Cuban cuisine, and end the day with a cocktail while here!
23. Try various international cuisines at FL Café
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by FL Café on Monday, 17 March 2014
Relish the sunset on the beach and then head towards this refreshing bistro that serves extraordinary French, American, Italian, and Latin-style preparations. You will also love the range of wines and the exquisite cocktails that symbolize the Miami culture. Be it any meal of the day, you can enjoy the wide variety on the menu. The atmosphere is very relaxing and the staff ensures fast service. Amazingly presented, the dishes are truly appetizing. Chefs very proficiently use premium quality ingredients and seasonings. Try the tuna tartare served with avocado and cucumber, tuna steak, French toast, pancakes, and many such mouthwatering dishes.
FL Café
Address: 1360 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Website: FL Café
Opening hours: 8am - 12am (daily)
24. Have a Cuban Cafecito at Las Olas Cafe
Cuban culture is alive and well in Miami, and the best way to soak it all in is by starting your day with a cup of Cuban coffee, or a cafecito.
Facebook: Las Olas Cafe
Book Tours : Miami: South Beach Food Tour
25. Have a seafood lunch at Joe’s Stone Crab
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Over a hundred years old, this Miami restaurant has a reputation as South Florida’s most famous restaurant. Joe’s Stone Crab attracts locals, tourists, and celebrities with its famous seasonal stone crabs with a “secret” garlic sauce. Be prepared for a wait, but one that is worth the while.
Traveler Review: “Just incredible! We were debating trying the stone crabs since they are so expensive, and yes they taste very close to regular crabs, but boy was it worth it! We had the medium crabs with crab bisque, key lime pie and the fried chicken. The takeaway spot is the better option than the dine in. Highly recommend!” - Nadia
See what other travelers are saying about Joe’s Stone Crab through this guidebook from Airbnb host, Derek. If you’re looking for places to stay, check out Derek’s stunning two-bedroom vacation rental on our list of Airbnb vacation rentals in South Miami.
Website: Joe’s Stone Crab
26. Indulge your tastebuds at Sugar Factory American Brasserie
Sugar Factory American Brasserie, named “The Most Instagrammed Restaurant in the United States,“ by Food & Wine Magazine, offers a sweet escape with a fun-filled location on Miami Beach’s Ocean Drive.
The family-friendly, high-energy, celebration destination known for its Insane Milkshakes, colorful rainbow dishes, and smoking goblets recently introduced all-new incredible, photo-worthy eats for brunch, lunch, and dinner. For brunch, guests can find all new insane pancake stacks, waffles, french toast, omelets, spiked mimosas, insane iced coffees, and more.
With an emphasis on colorful dishes and whimsical desserts, highlights of Sugar Factory’s lunch and dinner menu include over-the-top burgers, pasta, seafood, steak, and more. The Ocean Drive restaurant is a one-stop-shop of fun for the entire family featuring instagrammable, photo-opp walls and large flower murals, neon art, a video wall, and a candy retail store, which is home to Sugar Factory’s signature floor-to-ceiling candy wall.
Sugar Factory American Brasserie
Address: 1060 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States
Website: Sugar Factory American Brasserie
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 12am; Fri: 11am - 1am; Sat: 9am - 1am; Sun: 9am - 12am
Get set, go: hop on exciting tours to explore the best of South Beach
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a culture buff, South Beach offers tours of all kinds to appeal to every traveler. Pick from its various exciting offerings and discover the best of the area!
27. See South Beach from above on a private air tour
For a tour that takes luxury and sightseeing to new heights, book this private airplane adventure. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be served with complimentary drinks, setting the stage for an indulgent experience.
Your journey kicks off with a spectacular takeoff from Miami Executive Airport, and from there, the magic unfolds. As you soar over the captivating skyline of Miami, you’ll witness the top tourist attractions in South Beach and iconic landmarks, such as the Miami Seaport and the enchanting Miami Seaquarium. The scene stealer, however, is undoubtedly the breathtaking Star Island, where you’ll marvel at the opulent mansions of the rich and famous from your privileged vantage point in the sky.
28. Experience riding a unique amphibious vehicle on a duck tour
Dive into the best places to go in South Beach, Miami, with this “duck tour”, a thrilling 90-minute adventure that promises to be a highlight of your visit. Climb aboard a unique amphibious vehicle for an extraordinary journey that takes you from the city streets to the shimmering waters of Biscayne Bay.
With your Coast Guard-certified captain at the helm, you’ll cruise along the bay, all while enjoying captivating views of the iconic Art Deco district and the opulent Millionaires Row. This tour is a fantastic fusion of exploration and entertainment, providing a one-of-a-kind experience where you get to see Miami’s stunning landmarks from both land and sea.
Book Tours : Miami: Duck Tour of Miami and South Beach
29. Join an Art Deco walking tour
Do you want to experience quick but fun activities in South Beach? A fun way to spend two hours here is simply walking its streets with an expert guide! This walking tour takes you to the city’s Art Deco buildings and landmarks, with narrations of the neighborhood’s rich history and stories about Hollywood and even mobsters.
South Beach sure has its fair share of juicy secrets and scandals, and you’re about to have a front-row seat to all of it! Some of the places you’ll stop by are the Versace mansion and renowned film locations like The Carlyle Hotel.
Book Tours : Miami South Beach Art Deco Walking Tour
30. Cruise along Venetian Islands and celebrity homes
When you decide to cruise Biscayne Bay, why not make it an eventful trip by booking this 90-minute Viator tour? This excursion takes you around the wonderful Venetian Islands and some of the breathtaking houses of celebrities and other well-known figures.
Some of the places you’ll pass by include Star Island and Hibiscus Island, where you’ll find Al Capone’s mansion and other elite homes, along with Skyviews Miami and Bayside Marketplace. Get ready for an inside look at Miami’s most prestigious spots, and sign up for one of the best South Beach activities now!
31. Get a taste of Spanish architecture, food and culture at Espanola Way
Just a few blocks from the hustle and bustle of Ocean Drive is a street reminiscent of the romance and culture found in Spain. Not only is Espanola Way a great place to stop and take pictures, it is also the perfect place to have dinner and drinks after a long day at the beach. The gorgeous European-style buildings and traditional cafes and restaurants will have you confusing this sunny city with Barcelona.
Weekends are always a celebration on the Española Way but what makes it more thrilling are the flamenco shows. Watch the gorgeous flamenco dancers surrounded by the attractive decor of this place. Among the many cafes and restaurants, Tapas & Tintos is one of the most festive spots here. Accompanying the fantastic live music and flamenco dancing are paella, tapas, beer, and Spanish wine.
More Information: Espanola Way
32. Rent a boat in Miami
One thing you must add to your list of things to do in South Beach is to rent a boat or charter a yacht with a local Miami captain to take you around!
GetMyBoat, a boat rental company with over 900 options in Miami and around South Beach, offers charter yachts and boat rentals for visitors. Also available on a mobile app, the rental is sometimes known as the “Airbnb of Boats”.
Find boat rentals for as cheap as $50/hour, or book a luxury yacht with a captain and crew to provide an unforgettable experience. You can cruise to islands like Pace Picnic Island, Haulover Sandbar, Star Island, and more, and admire seeing all of South Beach from the perspective of the water and your boat. Soak up the sun, stop and go for a swim, and so much more while enjoying your time in Miami. Rent a boat right on your phone with the GetMyBoat app.
Rent a boat in Miami
Website: Rent a boat in Miami
Price: Starting at 65 USD per hour
33. Extend your trip and catch a cruise to the Caribbean
Running out of things to do in the city, but not quite ready to go home? Miami is a port city with rock-bottom fares to the Caribbean with cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival and more. So while a trip to Miami itself is a getaway, by extending your trip, you won’t have to pack away your sunglasses and flip flops just yet.
Website: Royal Caribbean
Website: Carnival
34. Rent jet-skis and take to the ocean
Miami is known for its boat-life and water culture, so it’s no surprise a local favorite on a day off is renting jet-skis and heading out into the ocean! There are plenty of companies in the area that rent out jet-skis, and some even offer lessons for beginners.
Book Tours : Jet Ski Rental 60 Minutes
Art, beaches, food and more!
Indeed, there’s so much to squeeze into your itinerary when visiting South Beach, Miami. From unbeatable art to gorgeous beaches– this vacation city is the perfect place to put your life on pause and soak up the sun. You’ll also find the best beach resorts and vacation rentals nearby to put your feet up. Start planning your trip now and fill your itinerary with some of these fun activities in South Beach, Miami.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in South Beach
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