Curator’s statement
With great cocktails, boutique hotels, parties and beaches, South Beach lacks nothing. One does not need to go far for entertainment or relaxation. The neighborhood is diverse, welcoming people from all over the world. It boasts luxury on a boutique level. You can spend a few days with no regrets in this walkable area, relax, eat great food and soak up some much-needed sun on its south Florida coastline. A plus is many hotels offer free beach access even though they are not directly on the beach!
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Where to stay in South Beach
MSC Seashore
With breathtaking ocean views, state-of-the-art amenities and an array of exciting activities, this cruise ship promises an unforgettable journey to beautiful destinations.
The Betsy Hotel
Luxe boutique hotel in a former Georgian Revival building from the 1940s with colorful rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
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Welcome treat in room on arrival.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fountainbleu Hilton Miami Beach
Iconic beachfront resort in Miami Beach, offering luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, a stunning pool deck, vibrant nightlife and direct access to the white sands of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Drexel
A lovely Miami hotel with chic interiors and an excellent restaurant.
Esmé Miami Beach
An artful retreat amid the buzz of Española Way, with a standalone guesthouse and separate village rooms, plus a rooftop pool and hotspot eatery.
Fora Perks
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$40 food / beverage credit.
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Welcome amenity.
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Upgrade & guaranteed late check-out.
The Setai, Miami Beach
A beloved beachfront stay in prime South Beach, split between a stunning Art Deco building and modern glass tower.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
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Things to do in South Beach
Entertainment
Visit a drag brunch at Palace and prepare yourself to be entertained!
Cool off at one of several rooftop pools.
The Goodtime Hotel, created by Pharrell, has day parties with DJs, cabanas and the occasional celebrity sighting.
For a low-key rooftop pool, check out Gale South Beach.
Escape on Sunday for a Jazz Brunch at The Setai Miami Beach, filled with champagne and a mojito bar.
Make a reservation at the tropical-themed luxury oasis at Nikki Beach.
Party until you can't anymore at LIV nightclub.
Along Washington Ave, there are several clubs and places for dancing to visit including Vendôme Miami, Do Not Sit on The Furniture, Cameo, Mango's Tropical Cafe and Havana Vieja.
Day Trips
Visit Wynwood for a colorful district full of art, murals and museums. The perfect 'Instagram-worthy' place where you can take great pics, shop and enjoy craft cocktails at revamped warehouses.
Places to eat & drink in South Beach
Have breakfast at Puerto Sagua for delicious Cuban food and try their paella.
Happy hour at the El Salon located in the Esme Miami Beach hotel is a must. An intimate cocktail bar with speakeasy vibes and beautiful minimal decor. Their restaurant known as The Rooftop @ Esme Hotel, serves some amazing fares including Tuna Tartare, Skirt Steak and strawberry watermelon salads with feta.
Along Espanola Way, there are several restaurants to choose from with delicious food. Oh Mexico has delicious shrimp quesadillas that pairs well with margaritas and can be finished with churros. A la Foile Café is an elevated French bistro perfect for small cheese plates, crepes, quiche, and of course, French onion soup.
For food outside of the area, try Bar One, Jackson’s Soul Food and Sunday’s Eatery.
No trip to South Beach is complete without visiting Havana 1957 for Cuban food.
Travel Advisor
Diamond Durant
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Allcall's guide: 72 Hours in South Beach: Food & Culture Guide.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Miami, Florida.