South Beach at the Shelborne: Sun, Stay & Savor

To do

• Boat day: Because what’s better than exploring a city from the water? Opt for a tour of the skyline, luxury homes, or just enjoy the crystal clear blue waters. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in your wake. Choose between group or private charters depending on your budget or preferences.

• Wynwood Walls: A unique outdoor street-art museum that is a great option for first-timers searching for a feel of the local art scene. Expect to spend about 1–2 hours max here depending on your preferred pace. They offer add-ons to enhance your stay, such as a spray paint experience. After you’re done, explore one of Miami’s most famous neighborhoods before you head back to South Beach.

Snapshot from the Wynwood Walls

• Spa day: Unwind at one of the luxurious spas around town. Many hotels have their own, or try out a new property. We spent a long morning at The Standard, Miami Beach where we indulged in a 90-minute couples massage, before enjoying their co-ed hydrotherapy rooms that had sound baths, saunas, hot stones, cold plunges, and more. After you finish at the spa, you’re welcome to spend the day at their pierside pool where they also have chair-side lunch service or table service in their restaurant. One thing to note, was the pool vibe was a little higher than our spa day was prepared for. So if you choose to stay for the day, make sure you’re ready to match the Miami energy.

• Beach club: Post up at your hotel or get a day pass for another to enjoy a full-service beach setting. The Shelborne has set-up assistance and full food and drink service to your chair, all day. Get the mahi tacos, you won’t be sorry!

The Shelborne pool deck

To eat

Miami’s food scene blew me away. They have something for everyone and every budget.

Mandolin Aegean Bistro was a perfect Greek garden experience with wooden white chairs and string lights throughout to set the mood for your al-fresco dining. The portions were plentiful, the produce was fresh, and the manti dumplings are not to be missed. I repeat, order the dumplings. You’ll thank me later.

Matador Room at The Miami Beach EDITION provided an explosion of Latin-fusion flavor to delight your tastebuds. Each course left us asking for more in the best way. The short-rib taco was one of my favorite bites of the whole trip.

Art Basel prep

Joe’s Crab Shack was a local gem that I’m grateful we experienced. I was a little worried it wouldn’t live up to the hype, but the packed lobby that greeted us when we arrived assured me we wouldn’t be disappointed. It was full of regulars greeting the staff, and large families gathering for their bibbed-up crab leg experiences. As first timers, we opted for the classics, but made sure to add an extra slice of their new peanut butter pie to-go.

Casa Tua provided another al-fresco dining experience that I refused to miss, even in the pouring rain. We sat in a covered section of the patio which we had to ourselves for most of the evening and enjoyed three courses of Italian perfection. If you’re hungry, consider adding an extra appetizer or pasta dish. They had the most impressive non-alcoholic menu of the bunch.

Identify how you want to experience Miami before you book your trip. The vibe can change significantly between properties and parts of South Beach and the city. Be prepared with some activities for days that might not be best spent on the beach, like the Wynwood Walls. Make sure you leave your hotel property at least once, no matter how tempting it is to stay. Miami and South Beach have a lot to offer that can only be experienced if you get out there for yourself!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Miami page.