Miami Destination Guide 2025: Best Hotels, Things to Do, Where to Eat & Local Tips

South Beach

South Beach is where Miami’s energy shines brightest. With its Art Deco architecture, lively boardwalk, and endless people-watching, it’s as much about the atmosphere as it is the ocean.

Even if you don’t stay here, walking along Ocean Drive in the evening is a must—it’s a feast of neon lights, music, and international flavor.

Key Biscayne beaches

For a quieter beach day, I love Key Biscayne. The beaches feel more local and less crowded, with soft sand and calm water that’s great for swimming.

Arriving after lunch and staying until sunset is my favorite rhythm—you get the golden light over the water and a more relaxed crowd. It’s the kind of place where families can spend the afternoon without rushing.

Wynwood Walls

If you enjoy modern art, Wynwood Walls is a must-see. With over 35 massive murals and multiple galleries, the neighborhood feels like a living museum. I love wandering here with a coffee in hand, seeing how each wall bursts with color and creativity. It’s inspiring, especially if you enjoy photography or simply want to see a different side of Miami.

Little Havana

Little Havana is all about Cuban food, music, and community. Calle Ocho is lined with cigar shops, cafés serving strong Cuban coffee, and local art. The sound of salsa often drifts through the air, and watching a game of dominoes at Máximo Gómez Park makes you feel part of the neighborhood. It’s vibrant, welcoming, and full of character.

Historic tours & outdoor adventures

Miami has a quieter side beyond the city lights. Historic tours like Vizcaya Museum & Gardens let you step back in time among European-inspired architecture and lush landscapes.

For outdoor lovers, kayaking through Biscayne Bay is a chance to spot wildlife like manatees and dolphins. The mix of culture and nature here makes Miami more than just a beach city.

Theme & entertainment attractions

Beyond the well-known beaches and nightlife, Miami has plenty of family attractions.

• Superblue Miami offers immersive art experiences.

• Dezerland Park is packed with activities from go-karts to arcades.

• Tidal Cove Waterpark is perfect for cooling off with kids.

• Everglades boat tours let you experience Florida’s wild side up close.

These options make Miami a surprisingly versatile destination for families.

• Versailles Restaurant (Little Havana): Versailles is known as the world’s most famous Cuban restaurant, and for good reason. The menu is full of authentic Cuban dishes—ropa vieja, croquetas, Cuban sandwiches—and the café window outside serves some of the strongest coffee you’ll ever taste. Eating here feels like a rite of passage in Miami.

• Joe’s Stone Crab (South Beach): Joe’s is a Miami institution, famous for its stone crab claws when in season. It’s upscale but still approachable, and the service makes the whole experience feel special. I love pairing the crab with their key lime pie, which is the perfect sweet finish. Even if seafood isn’t your go-to, the atmosphere here is worth it.

• Espanolita (West Miami): For seafood with a Spanish flair, Espanolita is a hidden gem. The menu highlights fresh catches prepared with Mediterranean influence—think grilled fish, seafood paella, and tapas-style plates. It’s a great option if you want something a little different from the typical Miami beachside fare.

• CVI.CHE 105 (Downtown Miami): This Peruvian spot is a favorite for ceviche lovers. The presentation is as vibrant as the flavors, and the menu is perfect for sharing. I love how it feels both lively and upscale, making it a fun choice for a night out.

• La Mar by Gastón Acurio (Brickell Key): Set inside the Mandarin Oriental, La Mar offers waterfront dining with elevated Peruvian cuisine. The ceviche here is excellent, and the views over Biscayne Bay make it memorable. It’s one of those restaurants where the setting and food come together perfectly.