Miami: A spot where white sand beaches, palm trees, world-class architecture, decadent pool parties and a famed night-club scene all converge. Here’s how to take in all the sunny decadence, South Beach-style.
Visit the Design District
Once a poster child for urban blight, this newly renovated hot spot is now home to upmarket art galleries, furniture stores and eateries. On the second Saturday of every month, take part in the Design District Gallery Walk — an evening of art, dining and cocktails in the area.
Cruise along South Beach
Also referred to as “The Art Deco District,” this is prime Miami territory for people-watching. Sit at one of the numerous restaurants and bars on Ocean Drive and enjoy the show along with beach views. For more serious insight into the history of the colorful architecture, join a daily tour organized by the Art Deco District Welcome Center.
Watch the sun go down
There are plenty of fabulous bars for a sunset cocktail on South Beach, from the new W Hotel to popular classics like the Delano. But for a great sunset, you’ll need to be on the west side of the strip. Hit the Mondrian, where you can watch the sunset over mainland Miami from the glamorous “indoor-outdoor” Sunset Lounge, designed by famed designer Marcel Wanders.
www.delano-hotel.com, www.mondrian-miami.com
Expect to splurge!
Miami’s rich culinary scene is highly influenced by Latin, Cuban and Asian cuisines. Two notable spots: Ola — a Nuevo Latino restaurant known for creative ceviches and mouth-watering fish tacos — and, for the best Cuban restaurant on Ocean Drive, stop by Larios on the Beach.
Don’t stop when the sun goes down
Velvet ropes abound at Miami nightclubs. Our favorites? South Beach’s Skybar at Shore Club features a Moroccan-themed garden, private cabanas and a rum bar by the pool. Or, party into the small hours with Miami’s most gorgeous at the palm-fringed rooftop pool bar, Plunge, at the Gansevoort Hotel.
