Curator’s statement
Miami transcends its postcard-perfect beaches. It’s a city where art, architecture, and lifestyle collide in the heat of the tropics, a place that invites indulgence and freedom in equal measure. For me, it’s more than a destination; it’s a second home. I return several times a year, drawn by its rhythm, from Brickell’s sleek skyline to Haulover’s sun-soaked sands. Miami delivers the ultimate balance between sophistication and self-expression, a city that always feels alive, inclusive, and endlessly inspiring.
The Fora Difference
Book with Lucas to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Miami
Unlock perks by contacting Lucas to book your trip.
Things to do in Miami
The lush rooftop garden at Sugar offers one of the most beautiful corners of Brickell for cocktails at sunset. Photo courtesy of Sugar at EAST Miami.
1. Haulover Beach (clothing optional & gay-friendly)
Miami’s only legal clothing-optional beach and an iconic LGBTQ+ hot spot. Between lifeguard towers 15 and 17, expect friendly faces, total freedom, and one of the most beautiful stretches of sand in Florida. It’s equal parts liberating and social, perfect for those who love a sun-kissed sense of community.
2. Brickell: The modern heart of Miami
Stay where the locals live and play. Brickell blends business-class energy with after-hours style, home to the city’s top restaurants, luxury hotels, and the stunning Equinox inside the Four Seasons. It’s the perfect base for those who like their beach with a side of sophistication.
3. Coconut Grove’s tropical charm
Just south of Brickell, Coconut Grove feels like a lush escape within the city, filled with tree-lined streets, charming cafés, and boutique hotels surrounded by tropical greenery. Grab a drink at Panther Coffee, stroll through Peacock Park, or spend a lazy afternoon at GreenStreet Café watching the Grove’s effortlessly stylish crowd. It’s Miami’s oldest neighborhood, but its energy feels timeless and refreshingly chic.
4. Sunny Isles beach runs
For a scenic jog or sunset walk, few places rival Sunny Isles. The oceanfront mansions and golden horizon make this a dreamy spot to clear your mind or capture that perfect photo moment.
5. Doral Outlets
A favorite among Brazilians for good reason. The outlets in Doral and Miami’s Dolphin Mall area are treasure troves for designer deals, from Gucci sneakers to AllSaints leather jackets at surprisingly good prices.
6. South Pointe Park Pier
Located at the southern tip of South Beach, this park offers breathtaking sunset views as cruise ships glide past. Locals gather here for picnics and golden-hour strolls, making it one of Miami’s best free pleasures.
7. Biscayne Bay Beach & sunset spot
Biscayne Bay offers one of the most peaceful and picturesque stretches of water in the city. Along its bayfront parks, you’ll find quiet spots to swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind with a view of the skyline shimmering in the distance. As the sun sets, the sky turns soft pink and gold, reflecting over the calm waves. It’s one of those Miami moments that feels both cinematic and intimate. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone chasing that golden-hour magic.
Places to eat & drink in Miami
The dining room at Cipriani Downtown Miami reflects the brand’s signature blue-and-white elegance, framed by views of Biscayne Bay. Photo courtesy of Cipriani Downtown Miami.
1. Casa Tua Cucina (Brickell City Centre)
A chic Italian marketplace-meets-restaurant where you can enjoy fresh pasta, good wine, and people-watching. Perfect for a relaxed lunch with a friend or a cozy dinner after the beach.
2. Cipriani Downtown Miami (Brickell)
Synonymous with timeless elegance, Cipriani brings Venetian glamour to the heart of Brickell. The setting is stunning, overlooking Biscayne Bay, and the service is impeccable. Order a Bellini, enjoy the sea bass or their famous baked tagliolini, and stay for dessert—the vanilla meringue cake is reason enough to return.
3. Rosetta Bakery (Miami Beach & Brickell)
An Italian café beloved for its pastries, croissants, and creamy tiramisu. Whether you stop for a quick espresso or linger over a pistachio cornetto, Rosetta is the perfect morning ritual before the beach or an indulgent afternoon treat between meetings.
4. Piola (Brickell or Miami Beach)
Home to the best Brazilian-style pizza in Miami, including the Rio de Janeiro, their famous pizza topped with frango com Catupiry—shredded chicken with a creamy, velvety Brazilian cheese spread that’s impossible to find anywhere else. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and brings a true taste of Brazil to the heart of Miami.
5. Pinocchio on the Bay (Edgewater)
Located at 1800 N Bayshore Dr CP2, this waterfront restaurant brings an authentic Italian touch to Miami’s modern scene. Known for its handmade pasta, classic espresso, and a view that captures the calm side of the city, it’s ideal for a long lunch or early evening glass of wine as the sun dips over Biscayne Bay. The service is warm, the setting romantic, and the atmosphere perfectly balanced between casual and refined.
6. Casa Brazil Gourmet Market (Aventura)
A favorite stop for locals and Brazilian travelers alike. Casa Brazil Gourmet Market is stocked with nostalgic snacks, pão de queijo, coxinhas, and even imported Catupiry. It’s the perfect place to grab something delicious before heading to Haulover Beach or on your way back from Sunny Isles. Friendly, authentic, and full of Brazilian flavor, it feels like home in the middle of Miami.
7. Rooftop drinks in Brickell
Finish the day with a cocktail overlooking the skyline. Sugar at EAST Miami is the go-to for its lush rooftop garden, craft drinks, and unbeatable sunset views.
Need to know
Getting around: Renting a car or using rideshare apps makes exploring easier, especially when heading to Haulover or Doral.
Where to stay: Brickell offers a refined mix of luxury hotels, gyms, and dining within walking distance, ideal for travelers who prefer a polished city vibe over the party scene.
When to go: Visit from November to May for perfect weather, warm days, cool nights, and fewer crowds.
Fitness and wellness: Miami has some of the best fitness clubs in the US, and Equinox at the Four Seasons is a local favorite for workouts and recovery.
LGBTQ+ scene: Haulover Beach is a must, but Miami’s openness extends everywhere, from Brickell brunches to artsy Wynwood nights.
Local secret: Sunset at South Pointe Park is one of the city’s most romantic spots. Bring a drink, sit on the grass, and watch the ships sail by.
In February: Miami hosts the Winter Party Festival, a weeklong LGBTQ+ celebration filled with beach parties and nightlife that draws visitors from around the world. If you’re visiting during that time, book early—it’s one of the most vibrant weeks of the year.
Travel Advisor
Lucas El'Osta
Get in touch with Lucas
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Lucas within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Miami page.