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North America, Travel Guides · June 8, 2021

7 Highlights of Miami Beach: What to Do and See

A south Florida island city, Miami Beach is the perfect place to go on holiday.

Why? Well, there’s just so much going for it. From endless sunshine to tall palm trees and a glorious beach — what more could you ask for?

Miami Beach is also renowned for its Art Deco Historic District, touristic Ocean Drive and pretty pastel-coloured buildings that pop against a clear blue sky.

For all of these reasons, I was excited to visit for the first time with my sister in June 2016 and then for the second time with my husband in December 2020.

7 Highlights of Miami Beach

How to Get to Miami Beach

First things first, getting to Miami Beach from the UK is pretty straightforward in normal times.

You can grab a direct flight from London through Virgin Atlantic, Norwegian Air and British Airways. Alternatively, you can take two flights from Manchester and connect via Dublin, Atlanta, New York or Paris.

Either way, you’ll arrive at Miami International airport after somewhere between nine and fifteen hours. Then it’s a 25-30 minute cab or Uber ride to Miami Beach (but oh-so-worth the journey!).

When to Travel to Miami Beach

The best time to visit Miami Beach is in springtime between March and May. This time of year is ideal because the sun is shining but it doesn’t get too hot and humid. In fact, the temperatures usually fall between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius.

In terms of peak times of the year, these are typically around Christmas and New Year, Spring Break and in the summer. (Sweating hell!)

How to Get Around Miami Beach

Once you’re in Miami Beach, it’s easy to get around in the following ways:

  • Car rentals, such as Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo or Budget
  • Rideshare, via Uber, Lyft or taxis
  • Metrorail, which is a 25-mile system connecting Miami Airport to South Beach and running through downtown
    • Fares start at $2.25
    • Need to buy a rechargeable EASY card or an EASY ticket that can be purchased at the ticket offices
    • No cash allowed
    • Unlimited one-day, seven-day and 30-day passes are also available
  • Buses, which cover 95 routes with fares starting at $2.25

If you’d like to see more of the area around Miami Beach, there are some other modes of transportation:

  • Metromover, which is a monorail system that services the downtown area for free
  • Miami Trolleys, which have a few routes that connect popular areas around the city for free, including North Beach Loop, Middle Beach Loop, South Beach Loop and Collins Express (which links the Middle and Northern routes)

Handy, right?

Pro traveller tip: Try to make the most of public transportation and rideshares and only drive into Miami Beach if you really need to. Parking can be expensive in prime locations and cost you around $40 per day.

Downtown Miami

Where to Stay in Miami Beach

The wonderful thing about Miami Beach is that there are several options in terms of where to stay in the surrounding region, whether you’re looking for a budget hotel, Airbnb or luxury complex.

  • Miami Beach, which is central for all travellers and family-friendly
  • South Beach via Collins Avenue, Ocean Drive or Washington Avenue, which has shopping malls, celebrity-chef restaurants and lots of bars and clubs, attracting a younger crowd
  • Downtown Miami, where there are tons of up-and-coming art galleries, museums, entertainment complexes and shopping outlets
  • Coconut Grove, which consists of many waterfront bars and restaurants and is home to several festivals

Needless to say, where you decide to stay all depends on the type of holiday you want. Keep in mind that because Miami is so beautiful, it’s unlikely you’ll be in your hotel room for anything but to sleep!

7 Highlights of Miami Beach

Now that you know how to get there, how to get around and where to stay, let’s talk about the key highlights of Miami Beach.

1. South Beach

Stretching along the entire east coast of Miami Beach, the soft white sand and crystal-clear blue waters of South Beach make it one of the most stunning and well-maintained beaches I’ve ever laid eyes on.

During the day, you can expect it to be packed with all nationalities, ages, shapes and sizes up for letting their hair down and having a good time. It will also make you do the heart-eyed emoji at sunrise and sunset.

Even though it’s busy every day, there’s plenty of space to put down your towel, apply suncream and soak up the rays. However, you also have the option of renting a sun-lounger or umbrella from numerous sellers down the sand.

Pro traveller tip: Grab a selfie or standard photo with one of the lifeguard towers for an “I’m in Miami B*tch”-inspired social media post.

Highlights of Miami Beach South Beach
Highlights of Miami Beach

2. Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive is the main road that’s lined in palm trees overlooking South Beach and the Atlantic Ocean on one side with an array of hotels, bars and restaurants on the other side.

It’s right in the heart of the Art Deco District, an area containing 960 historic buildings that’s well-known for being the place of residence of Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace.

Oh, and did I mention that the cafes, bars and restaurants are incredible in terms of food, drink and atmosphere? The only thing is, be prepared to pay for the location.

Pro traveller tip: Miami Beach is expensive in general. It’s not really the type of place you can or want to backpack around. Go into it thinking that it’s a luxury holiday and you won’t be crying into your purse wondering where all your money went at the end of your trip. (Me circa 2016.)

Ocean Drive

3. Shopping

Whether you choose to shop until you drop in the luxury boutiques down Collins Avenue or in the high street stores at Lincoln Road’s outdoor mall, Miami Beach offers a diverse variety of shopping.

As well as all your old favourites (American Eagle Outfitters, Forever 21, ZARA, H&M, Sephora, etc.), there are many independent stores where you can buy decent swimwear, beach outfits and Miami souvenirs.

And the good news? All the stores are pretty walkable (and exploring them is a fun way to spend the day!).

Lincoln Road Mall
Espanola Way

4. Española Way

Just North of 14th Street between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenue is a pedestrian-only street called Española Way. Built in the 1920s, it was originally designed to capture the essence of Mediterranean villages in France and Spain.

Nowadays, it’s full of quirky drinking, dining and shopping establishments and essentially a spot where locals and travellers come together to celebrate life amongst historic architecture.

Take a stroll down there day or night and you’ll be amazed by the delightful sights, sounds and smells. Trust me!

5. Nightlife

Granted, the Miami Beach nightlife is quite similar to Las Vegas in terms of exclusivity. That said, it’s worth trying to make contact with the right promoters because they’ll look after you and put you on their free guest lists.

Pro traveller trip: FYI, you can sometimes just be approached on the beach or in the street. Or just search “Miami Promoter” on Instagram.

My sister and I went to LIV nightclub to see Steve Aoki DJ during my first trip to Miami Beach — and it was such a special experience! We also got to go to Justin Bieber’s PURPOSE world tour official after-party at STORY nightclub, which certainly made for a night to remember.

6. South Pointe Park

Located at 1 Washington Ave at the tip of the island, South Pointe Park is definitely one of the highlights of Miami Beach.

As well as gorgeous greenery, it offers panoramic views of the breathtaking South Beach shoreline. A 20-foot-wide walkway lines the park where you can jog, bike, rollerblade or stroll until your heart’s content.

You can also head down the South Pointe pier to fish or grab some more great views of the coast — all for free!

7. Duck Tours

Lastly, another of my top highlights of Miami Beach? A duck tour.

What is a duck tour, you ask? Well, it’s basically a tour in a duck boat so that you get to see the city by land and water. Cool, huh?

We paid something like $30 and had a very pleasant afternoon on our duck tour, which picked us up from Lincoln Road Mall. Available at different times throughout the day, the tour allows you to soak up the mesmerising scenery while your guide performs what can only be described as a one-man-show.

It was such a laugh, as well as being educational, and definitely something I would recommend to anyone visiting Miami Beach for the first time.

Miami Beach Duck Tours

Miss the Highlights of Miami Beach, Miss Out

The truth is, Miami Beach is such a fun place that you have to visit at least once in your lifetime. Although, keep in mind that it’s quite a small area so it constantly feels busy and overflowing with tourists.

In other words, just a few nights exploring is often enough for most travellers to enjoy themselves and get a true feel for the Miami vibe.

All together now… “Party in the city where the heat is on, All night, on the beach till the break of dawn, ‘Welcome to Miami’, ‘Bienvenidos a Miami’!”

Katie Davies

Katie Davies is the Yorkshire-based freelance writer who founded Trendy Tourist. Since 2017, she has written for over 100 companies on a range of subjects, from fashion to marketing. When she’s not producing content, you can find her shopping, exploring a new place or sitting somewhere having a cup of builder’s tea.

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Posted By: Katie Davies · In: North America, Travel Guides

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MORE AIRPORT LOOKS ✨ …that are comfy yet styl MORE AIRPORT LOOKS ✨
…that are comfy yet stylish!
1. Jumpsuit Queen
(For those who want to feel like they can breathe and move comfortably on the go while looking super chic for summer)
2. Cute and Cool
(Featuring an on-trend co-ord for sleek airplane style that you can effortlessly throw together)
3. Modern Simplicity
(A contemporary update on the jeans-and-a-tee classic clothing uniform ideal for travelling, with key pieces like the shacket and jeggings) 
Which one would you wear? 1, 2 or 3?
All products shown are in stock right now! I’ve linked them via my LTK shop but I’ll also link them in my Story for you guys. 🔗
Copy and paste this @shop.ltk in your browser: https://liketk.it/3Im8t 💕
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Current bottomless brunch uniform: an oversized sh Current bottomless brunch uniform: an oversized shirt, high-waisted jeans and square-toed strappy heels. 💃🏼
This is basically the 2022 version of “jeans and a nice top” — comfortable and practical for a long day/evening out but still contemporary and stylish.
I went for a soft colour palette for Saturday’s brunch in York because I thought it would look fresher for the summer season. 👀 
I also usually add a light jacket to tackle the pesky British elements but I didn’t need one last weekend. 🥵
The gorgeous mint green satin shirt is from @zara and my straight-leg jeans are @topshop (old), adding some nineties nostalgia to the mix.
I’ll link all pieces in my Story. 💕 
#bottomlessbrunch #goingoutoutfit #zarashirt #zarastyle #springlooks #springlook #oversizedshirt #straightjeans #topshopstyle #topshopgirls #jeansandanicetop #millennialfashion #sheingb #outfitblog #outfitblogger #outfitbloggers #outfitideas4you #outfitideasforyou #outfitdiary #outfit4real #outfitsoftheday #styleonabudget #highstreetfashion #highstreetstyle #trendytourist #midsizegals #midsizegirl #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #midsizeblogger
Seeing all these news headlines about airport queu Seeing all these news headlines about airport queues is so frustrating. 😖
A trip abroad starts at the airport, and it breaks my heart that people who haven’t been able to travel or go on holiday for years and have worked so hard to save up are now experiencing delays and cancellations when it’s finally time for their trip to begin.
Speaking from experience, these queues stress you out before you’ve even got to your final destination. ✈️
I’ve flown from Leeds Bradford airport three times in the last nine months and Manchester airport once in the last few weeks. Each trip to the airport has taught me something different.
That said, I wanted to share a few things you can do to speed up your time at the airport so that you can make your flight and have the much-needed holiday you deserve. 🤗
Above all, follow your specific airline or airport recommendations. (These usually come in the form of an email or text message a couple of days before your flight.)
To read more about my recent airport experiences, check out the full article either via the link in bio or my Story.
Hope this helps. 💕
#airportdiaries #airportsecurity #traveltip #traveltipsandtricks #traveltiptuesday #traveltipstuesday #traveltips101 #traveltuesday #traveltuesdays #tblogger #tbloggers #tblogs #tbloggersuk #travelbloggervibes #travelblogs #travelbloggerslife #yorkshireblogger #yorkshirebloggers #leedsbradfordairport #leedsbradford #manchesterairport #tripplanning #tripprep #holidayprep
“…Eyes of the bluest skies.” 🎶⛅️ (Wi “…Eyes of the bluest skies.” 🎶⛅️
(With a shirt to match!)
I went for a bronzed, natural makeup look last weekend for drinks with the girls.
I’m really enjoying makeup more now that I’m older - it’s just so fun to play around with when you’ve got the time. 
Here are the products I used: 🤗
Primer - @nyxcosmetics_uk Pore Filler
Tinted Moisturiser - @tartecosmetics Skin Treat in shade “Medium”
Concealer - @esteelauderuk Double Wear Stay in Place in shade “Light Medium (Cool)”
Blush - NYX Sweet Cheeks in shade “Bang Bang”
Setting Spray - @urbandecayuki All Nighter
Eyeshadow - @toofacedlovestheuk “Teddy Bare” Palette
Mascara - Tarte Cosmetics “Big Ego”
Eyeliner - @kvdbeauty Tattoo Eyeliner
Brushes - @realtechniques Essential Eye Brushes
Eyebrows - @anastasiabeverlyhills Brow Wiz in “Medium Brown”
Lipstick - Tarte Cosmetics Lip Paint in shade “Bestie”
Shirt - @targetstyle 
All products (or similar) linked via my @shop.ltk app (find it in my bio or latest Stories). 💕
#liketkit #LTKbeauty #LTKunder100 #ltkeurope #ltkunder50 #nyxcosmetics_uk #realtechniques #abhbrows #targetfinds #targetrun #targetstyle #beautybloggeruk #beautyblogging #beautybloggersuk #naturalmakeuplook #naturalmakeuplooks #makeupbloggeruk #makeupbloggers #makeupblogs #makeupcommunity #bbloggersuk #bbloggeruk #makeupproducts #makeupessentials #bronzedmakeup #holidaymakeup #vacationmakeup
Mentally I’m still here… 💭 I wish I could Mentally I’m still here… 💭
I wish I could say that one of the yachts in the background is mine but I think I’ve got a fair few more articles to write first. 😩
Anyone else loving sixties-inspired prints for Spring/Summer? 🌞
This cute little shirt dress is ideal for those warmer evenings on holiday when you want to flash your tan and feel comfortable but still look like you’ve made an effort. 💁🏼‍♀️ 
Entire outfit is @shein_gb and will link all products via @shop.ltk app (head over to my Stories for the dress link - currently 41% off!).
Ltk shop link: https://liketk.it/3G3Yb 💕 
#liketkit #LTKunder50 #LTKstyletip #ltkeurope #ltkunder100 #ltkfashion #ltkstyle #holidaystyle #holidayfashion #vacationstyle #trendytouristuk #travelfashion #travelstyle #vacaystyle #sheingb #sheinforall #vacationdress #holidaydress #summerdresses #anotheroutfitpost #outfitblog #outfitbloggers #outfitblogger #fbloggeruk #fbloggersuk #bloggerstyle #fbloggerstyle #fashionbloggeruk #ukfashionblogger #styleblogging
Courtyard strollin’… (Looking for my next cup Courtyard strollin’…
(Looking for my next cup of coffee or glass of sangria — it all depends on the time of day!) 😉☕️🍹
This cute courtyard was in the middle of Palma city. The architecture and restaurants huddled in the square with al fresco drinking and dining instantly transported me back to Italy.
It reminded me of past cruise ship holidays with my parents where we visited the likes of Naples, Capri, Rome, Florence and Pisa and we would be in awe of the charm and beauty of these places.
But this post is about Palma in Majorca. 🇪🇸
Palma itself is a delight!
There’s so much going on in the centre, so much life and hustle and bustle, which is refreshing to experience after over two years of lockdowns and travel restrictions. 😅
I enjoyed our leisurely peruse of the city, soaking up the sun and seeing historic sights such as The Cathedral of Santa Maria, which dates back to 1601.
We even spent some time getting lost amongst the cobbled backstreets, popping in and out of shops before we regained our bearings once again. 😍
Our day in Palma reminded me how much I love exploring and how much travelling makes me feel fulfilled.
You just can’t beat it, right? ❤️
I already can’t wait for my next European city break (which hasn’t even been booked yet!).
What are some of your fave European cities? 👇🏻
#palmamallorca #trendytouristuk #palmacity #europetravels #exploreeurope #spaintravel  #travelblogging #travelbloggervibes #tbloggers #tbloggersuk #travelbloggersofig #travelbloggeruk #uktravelblogger #uktravelbloggers #visitpalma #travelgram #travelsquad #visitmallorca #mallorcaisland #mallorcagram #balearicisland #balearicislands
Happiest when I’m by the seaside. 🌊 One of Happiest when I’m by the seaside. 🌊 
One of my all-time favourite travel fashion pieces is the blue denim “mom-style” shorts.
You know, the relaxed-fit and high-waisted type that go with just about anything? 😉
You can pair them with a strappy top and sandals or flip flops for those warm summer days.
Or you can take them from day to night by swapping the strappy top for a chic blouse or cropped shirt and the flat sandals or flip flops for heels.
They’re just so comfy and cute! J’adore. ❤️
These ones are from @marksandspencerfashionpr which I’ll link via the @shop.LTK app along with some similar options.
(Check out the post here: https://liketk.it/3F1wG)
I lived in mine for my most recent trip to Majorca - even throwing them on over a bikini with a kaftan for those lazy pool days. ✌🏻 
Who else is a fan of denim shorts for summer holidays? ☀️
#liketkit #LTKswim #LTKunder50 #ltkunder100 #ltkstyle #ltkfashion #ltkstyletip #ltkstyle #ltkeurope 
#swimwearfashion #bikinistyle #bikinifashion #denimshorts #denimshort #jeanshorts #holidaystyle #holidayfashion #vacationstyle #trendytouristuk #travelfashion #travelstyle #vacaystyle #poolfashion #poolstyle #beachlook #beachfashion #beachstyle #beachoutfit #momshorts
That post-holiday feeling! You know, when you lan That post-holiday feeling!
You know, when you land after a few days in the sun and you feel refreshed, recharged and ready to take on the world again. 🙌🏻
And it helps if you travel in comfy clothes.
Plane, train and bus rides can be time-consuming (and stressful when things go wrong) so comfy travel gear makes the journey that little bit more bearable. ✈️ 
I’m currently loving lounge sets to travel in, such as this “Bon Voyage” lemon number from @lornaluxe x @inthestyle . 🍋
You can still get your hands on the shorts but, unfortunately, the sweatshirt is out of stock.
Not to worry though - I’ve linked some more pretty lounge sets to travel in via my shop on the @shop.LTK app. 
Shop this post and get my exclusive app-only content by visiting: https://liketk.it/3EAx9.
#liketkit #LTKstyletip #LTKeurope #ltktravel #ltkstyle #ltkfashion #ltkunder50 #ltkunder100 #trendytourist #airportoutfit #airportstyle #airportlook #airportfashion #airportvibes #travelfashion #travelstyles #traveloutfit #traveloutfits #travelfashionista #travellook #travelclothes #travelclothing #inthestyle #travelista #ukfashionbloggers #ukfashionblogger #fbloggerstyle #fbloggeruk #fbloggersuk
One of the best feelings in the world is those nig One of the best feelings in the world is those night-before-the-airport butterflies. 🦋
You know, when the suitcase is finally packed, the plane outfit is laid out and there’s nothing left to do other than get a good night’s sleep before you head to your new destination ✨ tomorrow ✨!
(But then you’re so excited that you end up not having the best sleep! 🤦🏼‍♀️)
Are you one of those travellers who gets to the airport super early or one of those super last minute people? ✈️ 
(I’m the former!)
#travelquote #travelquotes #travelquotestoliveby #travelquoteoftheday #travelthursday #travelthoughts #travelblogging #travelbloggervibes #travelinspirations #travelpassion #lifeinspiration #lifeinspo #quoteofday #quoteoflife #quoteoftoday #trendytourist #tbloggers #tbloggersuk 
#travelsquad #travelgirlsgo #travelgirlshub #planelife #airportlife
I’m blue da ba dee da ba di. 🎶 Okay so I uni I’m blue da ba dee da ba di. 🎶
Okay so I unintentionally wore blue, white and black all weekend.
Outfit one was for a Betty’s brunch for the hubby’s birthday and exploring Thirsk. 👀
The blue denim dress and checked shacket combo felt a bit sixties inspired and sassy teamed with black tights and white boots.
Then outfit two was for a pub lunch and drinks with the family (hubby’s birthday celebrations part two).
I went for a blue floral top, comfy black jeggings, a blue denim shearling jacket and those white boots again. 👢
This felt more seventies rocker vibes so naturally I had to wear it with attitude!
Which outfit is your fave? Details below. ✌🏻
Denim dress, shacket, tights, boots: all @marksandspencerfashionpr
Bag: @coach
Floral top and boots as before: @marksandspencerfashionpr
Jeggings: @uniqlo_uk 
Jacket: @levis_uk 
Sunglasses: vintage
Bag: @nastygal 
#outfitblog #outfitblogger #outfitbloggers #outfitlook #outfitselfie #outfitshot #outfitideas4you #outfitideasforyou #outfitdiary #outfit4real #outfitsoftheday #outfitrepeater #denimdress #denimdresses #denimjackets #denimjacketstyle #fashionblogging #ootddetails #ootdbloggers #styleonabudget #highstreetfashion #highstreetstyle #trendytourist #midsizegals #midsizegirl #midsizestyle #midsizefashion #midsizeblogger
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