best time to visit south beach florida

Miami Beach   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Miami Beach

The best time to visit Miami Beach is between March and May when the sun shines with temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s during the day. Aside from the gorgeous weather, a spring visit allows you to sidestep the peak winter rates. This part of Florida enjoys a subtropical climate, meaning it's usually warm year-round and a bit rainy. Pack an umbrella if you visit in summer or fall; at the very least, you can expect some afternoon showers that clear up quickly. In the worst-case scenario, you could experience torrential downpours since Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November. If you're trying to keep your bank account in check, hotel rates and flight fares tend to decrease in the summer as the temperature and precipitation increase.

Weather in Miami Beach

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Miami Beach

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Best Time to Visit Miami, Florida: Weather by Month

By: Author Guest Blogger

Posted on Last updated: January 17, 2024

When is the best time to visit Miami, Florida? Whether your trip to Miami includes a stay at one of the area's exclusive hotels like the W Hotel or staying in one of the many luxurious  vacation rentals in Miami Beach ,  when  you visit impacts what you'll pay and can experience.

If you go in the high season, you'll get great weather in the summer, but you'll miss out on lower prices and smaller crowds (but still pleasant weather) in the winter months.

Of course, Florida is the Sunshine State. South Florida and Miami are noted for a moderate average temperature year-round, but significant events and seasonal adjustments will play a part. Let's take a closer look.

Table of Contents

What To Expect in Miami

In January, Miami enjoys mild temperatures that are a far cry from the sweltering heat of summer.

The average high hovers around a comfortable 74 F (23 C), while the average low dips to about 60 F (16 C). It's weather that's perfect for a light jacket in the evening and beachwear during the day.

In addition to being the coldest month, January is one of Miami's drier months, with an average rainfall of about 1.7 inches.

If you're interested in visiting Miami at one of the most cost-effective times of the year and work or children in school aren't a burden, January is a good time. There are often great deals available.

While January in Miami can be cool, and the beach may not always be an option if a cold wave reaches South Florida, it's the off-season.

In the off-season, you can visit Miami's clubs, museums, zoos, and other attractions with fewer crowds and possibly better prices, including luxury accommodations.

There are also great events at this time of the year (especially in late January), such as the Miami Marathon and the famous Art Deco Weekend .

February continues the mild, pleasant weather trend, making Miami a winter escape haven.

Temperature-wise, you're looking at an average high of around 76 F (24 C) and an average low of about 62 F (17 C).

It's that sweet spot where you can still rock a swimsuit by day and maybe throw on a light sweater for those evening strolls along Ocean Drive.

As for rainfall, February is still in Miami's dry season, but it's a tad wetter than January. The average rainfall for the month is approximately 2.3 inches.

While you might see a few more clouds in the sky, rain showers are generally short-lived and often happen overnight or in the early morning.

So, your beach plans are pretty safe, and an umbrella is more of a “just in case” item than a necessity.

The South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) is in late February.

The weather is nearly perfect in Miami and South Florida during the spring months.

From March to May, the Magic City starts to heat up in more ways than one, offering a blend of warm temperatures and a lineup of outdoor events that'll make you want to extend your stay.

The dry season is still in place, and temperatures are warm but generally moderate. This period has a low chance of rain, so it's a great time to get out and enjoy live music or a food festival.

March kicks off the spring season with average high temperatures around 78 F (26 C) and lows around 64 F (18 C). Rainfall is still relatively low, averaging about 2.3 inches for the month.

The month of March is known for world-famous events like the Ultra Music Festival and Miami Music Week .

April sees a slight uptick in temperatures, with highs averaging around 81 F (27 C) and lows at 68 F (20 C). Rainfall starts to increase a bit, too, with an average of 3.1 inches. April is the shoulder season.

It's often the best time of year to visit, with warm weather and outdoor events but without the days of rain that you can get in the wettest months.

While large crowds of college students on Spring Break impact the community, its adverse effects are minimal, like elsewhere in Florida.

The Miami Heat (basketball team) is winding down their season, while the Miami Marlins (baseball team) are getting started with theirs.

May is when you'll start to feel that Miami heat. The average high temperature climbs to about 85 F (29 C) and lows around 72 F (22 C).

As for rainfall, May marks the beginning of Miami's wet season, with an average of 5.3 inches.

While you might encounter more frequent showers during the rainy season, they're often in the late afternoon and clear up quickly, leaving you plenty of sunshine for daytime adventures.

Travel Tip: Save money in Miami with Go City. Buy a 1, 2, 3, or 5-day  all-inclusive pass  to enjoy tours, museums, and the Everglades at a discounted rate. Get your  Go City pass here .

June is when Miami's wet season is in full swing. The average high temperature is around 88 F (31 C), while the low averages at about 76 F (24 C). Rainfall is significant, with an average of 7.4 inches for the month.

It's also the start of the Atlantic hurricane season in Florida. As temperatures are heating up, so does the tourist season and the number of events scheduled throughout the community.

South Beach is popping every night of the week, and the beautiful beaches are packed, making it perhaps the best time to travel to Miami.

The summer peak season is also the time when this city shines. Weekend festivals, art shows, and community events abound—you'll enjoy your time during this period, no matter your interests.

July is the hottest month of the year in Miami, so prepare to embrace the heat.

The average high temperature is a toasty 89 F (32 C), and the low is around 77 F (25 C). Rainfall averages about 5.8 inches

August keeps the heat coming with average high temperatures of 89 F (32 C) and lows around 77 F (25 C). Rainfall is a bit higher than July, averaging around 6.8 inches for the month.

The afternoons often feature brief showers or thunderstorms that are seldom cause to cancel plans, although you may need to adjust.

Fall is another opportunity for great deals, with terrific off-season pricing and exceptional availability of luxury accommodations.

The humidity in Miami's weather lessens, and locals begin to appreciate more moderate temperatures.

The average high temperature is around 87 F (31 C), and the low is about 76 F (24 C). Rainfall is still significant, averaging about 8.1 inches, making it one of the wetter months.

It's still hurricane season, but it's coming to an end. The beach weather is outstanding, and the crowds have begun to thin out.

The Miami Dolphins (football team) and college football's Miami Hurricanes start their seasons. Again, if your situation allows, this is a prime time to schedule a visit to the city.

October marks the beginning of the transition to cooler weather. The average high temperature drops to about 84 F (29 C), and the low hovers around 72 F (22 C).

Rainfall decreases to an average of 6.3 inches, and you'll start to feel the high humidity lifting.

Related: Underrated U.S. Cities

There are good values to be found toward the end of the year, but visitors and rates increase as the holidays approach.

The average high temperature is around 78 F (26 C), and the low dips to about 66 F (19 C). Rainfall drops significantly to an average of 3.3 inches, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and al fresco dining.

December is one of the most pleasant months to visit Miami.

The average high temperature is a comfortable 75 F (24 C), and the low is around 61 F (16 C). Rainfall is at its lowest, averaging just 2 inches for the month.

One of Miami's major cultural events of the year, Art Basel Miami Beach, takes place in early December, and the Christmas season is hectic.

Plan for the accommodations you desire during this time, and you shouldn't be disappointed.

If you're arriving from a colder climate, the combination of shorts, sandals, holiday decorations, and palm trees can be both disorienting and enjoyable.

Alright, folks, let's wrap this up! When it comes to the best time to visit Miami, the answer depends on what you're looking for.

If you're all about that sun and surf, the summer months are your jam. Just be prepared for higher prices and bigger crowds.

On the flip side, the winter months are a solid bet if you're looking for milder temperatures and fewer people.

Miami is a city that thrives all year round, each season offering its unique vibe and set of activities.

From the high-energy events of March's Ultra Music Festival to the cultural richness of December's Art Basel, there's always something happening in the Magic City.

So, when's the best time to visit Miami? Well, whenever you decide to go, know that Miami is always ready to show you a good time.

Just pack according to the season, keep an eye on event calendars, and, most importantly, bring your sense of adventure.

With its year-round moderate temperatures and vibrant lifestyle, Miami is always a good idea.

This story was published in partnership with Luxury Rentals Miami Beach.

This post was written by a guest contributor. Please reference the author's byline in the post above for more information. If you would like to guest post on Go Backpacking, please read our submission guidelines . For information on advertising opportunities, go here .

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

• G Adventures for small group tours.
• Hostelworld for booking hostels.

These are the best times to visit Florida

Florida: It may be a quirky place (just Google "Florida man" and you'll see what we mean) but it's also one of the most popular vacation destinations in America. Why? There are so many reasons. First of all, the state is beautiful with incredible coastlines and beaches , rivers and springs, maritime forests and Everglades National Park. If you want to get away from it all, Florida can help.

But the state is also home to some incredibly vibrant cities, such as Miami , Orlando , Tampa , St. Petersburg and Naples. In those hot spots, you can find museums and cultural events, fine dining, ethnic cuisine and luxury hotels. And finally, we can't forget that Central Florida is home to a handful of world-class theme parks, from Walt Disney World to Universal Orlando to Legoland .

Whether you're planning a romantic weekend away, a family vacation or a girls' or guys' getaway, Florida is a terrific destination. If you're making the trip, here are the best times to visit.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

The best weather in Florida

Florida is known as the Sunshine State so you may assume there is no bad time to visit. And that's largely true as long as you're ready for heat and humidity in the summertime and sometimes chilly temperatures in the winter in points north.

When putting the weather into context, it's important to remember how big Florida is. The state is twice as large as the country of Ireland . It's long too: 540 miles from Amelia Island, the northernmost major city in Northeast Florida, to Key West. That's about an 8 1/2-hour drive. So the weather across the state, especially north to south, can vary quite a bit — especially during the winter.

Related: Florida's top 10 vacation regions for different types of travelers

Weather also varies depending on which coast you're visiting — or if you're traveling inland to Central Florida. The Atlantic Ocean hugs the east coast of the state while the beautiful Gulf of Mexico laps the west coast. Coastal regions tend to be a bit cooler and a bit less humid in the summertime than inland regions.

Average high/low temperatures in top Florida destinations

While Americans tend to associate South Florida and the Gulf of Mexico with hurricanes, these storms have traveled across nearly all of Florida in recent years, hitting the Panhandle , Central Florida and even as far north as Jacksonville. Hurricane season spans from June through November. Hurricane Michael made landfall at Mexico Beach, 25 miles southwest of Panama City on the Panhandle, on Oct. 18, 2018. In 2017, Hurricane Irma made landfall at Cudjoe Key in the Keys on Sept. 10.

It can get downright chilly at night in North Florida so if you're traveling in January, for instance, and want to be assured mild temperatures, you're better off picking a destination farther south.

Floridians will tell you that the best months to visit are November to May, when temperatures are comfortable, humidity is low and the chance of thunderstorms is much less than the summer months. Just remember that January to March can have chilly days in North Florida so pick your destination accordingly when visiting in the winter.

The best times to visit a Florida beach

Florida has some of the world's most beautiful beaches and you can have a good time visiting no matter the season. Just remember that Florida is notorious for its afternoon thunderstorms that can pop up nearly daily when temperatures soar from June through September.

The state is also the lightning capital of the United States. Lightning storms can be fierce and should be taken seriously. Smartphone weather apps will alert you when there's been lightning in your area and you should heed the warning and take cover. Get off the beach (or golf course or other open area) for 30 or so minutes and you can return when the danger has passed.

One other thing we have to mention: sand flies, aka biting midges. Called no-see-ums by locals, these little buggers can overtake a beach, or other outdoor area, during hot periods. These bugs are really small and hard to see. The problem is worse at dusk and when the air is still. The bites can be more painful than those from mosquitos. You can use repelling lotions, such as Avon Skin So Soft, or repelling sprays, like the No No-See-Um Natural Insect Repellent.

They can even get through screens so if you're getting bitten inside a pool enclosure, that's why. (Buy a can of flying insect bug spray or a mosquito fogger and use it an hour or so before you plan to use the pool.)

The best times to visit a Florida theme park

Choosing when to visit one of Central Florida's major theme parks, such as Walt Disney World , Universal Studios, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or Legoland , is an art in itself. People consider three factors: weather, historical crowd levels and their schedules.

If you're just looking at the weather, TPG recommends visiting anytime from late October through the end of March. While hurricane season does run through November, it is rare for storms to race through Orlando — though it has happened seven times throughout its lifetime (most recently for Hurricane Irma in 2017). And while you could experience a cold snap when visiting in the winter months, it's rare. (Here's what to do at Disney when it's cold .)

Related: What to do when it rains at Disney World

When it comes to low crowd levels, the weeks after Thanksgiving and before the December holidays are nearly perfect. You can often walk on to rides with no or minimal lines, get reservations for the top restaurants at the times you wish to dine and just enjoy a crowd-free day at the parks. And since Disney prices its tickets dynamically, visiting during a less crowded time of year will also be cheaper.

Related: How to use points to buy Disney tickets

Of course, you often can't control when you visit. If your kids are in school, or you're an educator, you're probably locked in to visiting during holidays, vacation periods and summer break.

Related: These are the best times to visit Disney World

The best times to see wildlife

Because of Florida's large footprint, it's tough to say exactly when the "best" time to see wildlife is. It will vary a bit depending on where in the state you're visiting. Generally speaking, here are good times to visit to see the following animals:

Birds: January through early April — especially in South Florida — is a good time to see shorebirds, waterfowl, wading birds, passerines and raptors. October through December are also terrific birding months, with an abundance of shorebirds, colonial birds, white pelicans and other migratory birds arriving in greater numbers. Florida has many wildlife preserves and those are usually the best spots to go birding.

Related: Best state parks in Florida

Alligators: It's not tough to spot an alligator in Florida. They are everywhere, including lakes and retaining ponds, so never swim in those bodies of water and don't even get too close to the edge. In the springtime, you'll see plenty of alligators, including babies, during mating season. Just be very careful when approaching alligators. You may not see the babies but if they are there, mama gator will fiercely protect them.

Manatees: It's possible to see manatees, or sea cows, any time of the year. But it's often easiest to track them down March through September. In the colder months, manatees look for warm water and often swim up rivers like the Suwannee River and Crystal River or enter springs like Wakulla Springs, Weeki Wachee Springs or Homosassa Springs.

Dolphins: Dolphins are commonly found on both the east and west coasts of the state. They are most active at sunrise, from around 10 a.m. to noon and then again from 2 p.m. to sunset. If you're staying on the coast, you can easily spot dolphins right from the beach or take a dolphin watching cruise.

Reptiles and amphibians: Be aware that Florida has its fair share of snakes, frogs and geckos. While there are 50 species of snakes in the state, only six of them are dangerous to people: the Southern copperhead (highland mocassin), cottonmouth (water mocassin), Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, timber rattlesnake, dusky pigmy rattlesnake and Eastern coral snake. If you plan to go hiking or walk through remote areas, be sure you have an understanding of which snakes are dangerous and which are not. The University of Florida is a good resource.

The best times to go on a cruise from Florida

The state is known for its many cruise ports, including the Port of Miami , Port Canaveral , Port Everglades and Port Tampa Bay. From these ports, you can visit the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Panama Canal and even book transatlantic voyages to Europe. If you're flying into one of these ports, you may want to avoid hurricane season between June and November or purchase a trip insurance policy with a cancel-for-any-reason clause . If you're driving to the port, you can always book at the last minute (a week or so ahead of embarkation) so you can check the long-term weather forecast. Just know that booking last-minute cruises often means you don't have your first choice of cabin locations and dining times (if you select a set dinner time over the more flexible "anytime" dining arrangements).

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

When to visit to avoid crowds

Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations in America. That means certain destinations, especially cities like Orlando , Miami , Tampa and Naples, can get crowded during peak season. For most of Florida, peak season is roughly Thanksgiving through mid-April and then again during the summer months for places like Amelia Island, Daytona Beach and the theme parks of Central Florida.

Visiting at shoulder season, right before and directly after peak season, can provide a great value and fewer crowds. And visiting when school is in session means you're not competing with all the families that normally descend on the state during school vacation breaks.

Related: Our favorite Florida hotels for every type of traveler

The cheapest times to visit

The cheapest months to fly to Florida are September, May (except for Memorial Day weekend) and early June before schools let out.

You can find terrific values on hotels and activities in the fall (Sept. 1 to right before Thanksgiving) and spring (from mid-March through mid-June, except for Easter and spring break weeks).

Related: What to do on Florida's Space Coast when you need a break from the theme parks

Some of the less expensive areas to visit include Clearwater Beach , Jensen Beach (Port St. Lucie), New Smyrna Beach (south of Daytona Beach), Panama City Beach (on the Panhandle) and Marathon in the Florida Keys.

South Beach in Miami: Your Ultimate Guide for a Perfect Visit

• Scott Cisco
• April 12, 2023

South Beach is one of Miami’s most iconic destinations, known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and vibrant Art Deco architecture. Located in the heart of Miami Beach, South Beach offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, soak up the culture, or indulge in delicious food and drink. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit to South Beach.

Table of Contents

Getting to South Beach

South Beach is easily accessible from anywhere in Miami. During peak season, you may need to pay high prices at several parking garages and lots in the area if you’re driving. If you prefer not to drive, there are plenty of public transportation options, including buses and the Miami Beach Trolley, which is free to ride.

Exploring South Beach

Once you’ve arrived in South Beach, there are plenty of things to see and do. Of course, the main attraction is the beach itself. With miles of pristine white sand and crystal-clear water, South Beach is the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun. There are plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent, as well as water sports equipment like jet skis and paddleboards.

South Beach is famous for its beautiful beach and its iconic Art Deco architecture. Take a stroll down Ocean Drive to see the colorful buildings or book a guided tour to learn more about the history and design of the buildings. You can also check out the Art Deco Welcome Center, which features exhibits and information about the architectural style.

For art and culture enthusiasts, South Beach has much to offer. The Wolfsonian-FIU Museum is a must-visit for those interested in design and decorative arts. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including furniture, industrial design, and propaganda posters from the early 20th century. For contemporary art, check out the Bass Museum of Art, which features works by artists from around the world.

Of course, South Beach is also known for its vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beach bar or a high-end club, there’s something for everyone. Some popular spots include the Clevelander, which features live music and DJs, and LIV, which is located in the iconic Fontainebleau Hotel.

Where to Eat in South Beach

No visit to South Beach is complete without indulging in the delicious food and drink. There are plenty of options for every taste and budget, from casual beachfront cafes to high-end restaurants. Some must-try spots include:

• Joe’s Stone Crab: This iconic seafood restaurant has been serving up fresh stone crabs since 1913. Be prepared for long lines, especially during peak season.
• Yardbird Southern Table & Bar: If you’re in the mood for Southern comfort food, Yardbird is the place to be. The menu features classics like fried chicken and biscuits, as well as creative cocktails.
• News Cafe: This casual cafe is a South Beach institution, serving up breakfast, lunch, and dinner 24 hours a day. Grab a table on the outdoor patio for some prime people-watching.
• The Bazaar by José Andrés: For a high-end dining experience, check out The Bazaar, located in the SLS Hotel. The menu features innovative Spanish cuisine, including tapas and paella.

Where to Stay in South Beach

There are plenty of options for accommodations in South Beach, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular options include:

• The Delano: This iconic hotel features a sleek, modern design and an upscale pool area. The hotel is located right on the beach and is known for its high-end restaurants and nightlife scene.
• The Betsy Hotel: If you’re looking for a boutique hotel with a touch of history, The Betsy is a great option. This restored Art Deco hotel offers elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and a rooftop bar with stunning ocean views.
• The Plymouth South Beach: This boutique hotel is known for its retro-chic design and laid-back atmosphere. It features a beautiful courtyard with a pool and cabanas, as well as a stylish rooftop lounge.
• The Freehand Miami: If you’re on a budget, The Freehand Miami offers a trendy hostel experience with a variety of room options, including private rooms and shared dorms. The hostel features a vibrant atmosphere, a pool, and a popular on-site bar.

Tips for Visiting South Beach

Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit to South Beach:

• Expect crowds when visiting South Beach, as it is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak season. Make sure to prepare for bustling beaches, crowded restaurants, and busy attractions, and plan your visit accordingly.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun: Miami’s sun can be intense, so make sure to drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and a beach umbrella for extra protection.
• Explore beyond the beach: While the beach is the main attraction, South Beach has much more to offer. Take the time to explore the historic Art Deco architecture, visit the museums, and indulge in the local food and drink scene.
• Consider public transportation: Parking can be challenging and expensive in South Beach, so consider using public transportation options like buses or the Miami Beach Trolley to get around. It’s a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the area.
• Stay safe: Like any tourist destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings secure and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.

South Beach is a vibrant and iconic destination that offers something for everyone. From its beautiful beaches and historic Art Deco architecture to its art and culture scene, nightlife, and culinary delights, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. By planning ahead, staying hydrated, and exploring beyond the beach, you can have a memorable and enjoyable visit to South Beach.

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10 Best Things to Do in South Beach

Pola Damonte / Getty Images

If you want an authentic taste of Miami in all its glory, head to South Beach. The Miami Beach neighborhood, also known to many as SoBe, is home to more than 40,000 people and regularly welcomes visitors from all across the world. In South Beach, just a quick 10 to 15-minute drive from downtown Miami, you should feel at home amongst both those who crave an active lifestyle (yoga, biking around town, vegan eats) and those who are fascinated by the glitz, glamour, and sparkle of South Beach’s effervescent shopping, architecture, and nightlife. Keep reading for our favorite things to do in South Beach. A long weekend is the perfect length of time to experience all that the South Florida beach city has to offer.

Stretch It Out with Yoga at 3rd Street

thelegendaryalex /  Twenty20

Whether you want to start or end your day with yoga on the beach , 3rd Street has you covered with a by-donation class that takes place daily at sunrise and sunset. Every day of the year, this yoga class takes place on 3rd and Ocean Drive. Students and the instructor meet at the lifeguard hut. Bring a towel, water, and some sunblock and get ready for some fluid movements that will get your blood flowing. Between April and October, classes take place at 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.; between November and March, between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., rain or shine. Detoxify your body and get your mind right so you can truly enjoy all that SoBe eating and drinking. 

Get Cultured at Various South Beach Museums

 1davidlange / Twenty20

Whether you choose to visit The Bass, Miami’s contemporary art museum founded in 1964 and housed in a historic art deco space with a garden, or The Wolfsonian—FIU, a museum, library and research center with an extensive art collection, South Beach is bound to have a museum that will tickle your curiosity. Like something a little wilder where art is concerned? The World Erotic Art Museum is a museum, library, and education center that focuses on the history of erotic art with a collection owned by Naomi Wilzig. Find everything from paintings, drawings, photos, and sculptures here. You’ll even recognize pieces by world-renowned artists like Salvador Dali, Picasso, Fernando Botero, and Rembrandt. 

Enjoy It All With Your Four-Legged Friend in Tow

Luckily, South Beach is a super dog-friendly town, so if you’re traveling with your pups, they don’t have to be excluded from the fun. The boardwalk and Ocean Drive allow dogs, and so do most of the restaurants with outdoor seating. Hotels like the W and 1 Hotel South Beach are all dog-friendly, and if you want to take your pooch to play in the sand and swim in the ocean, you can do so just a short car ride away at Haulover Beach Park. Dogs are allowed to hang here daily until 3 p.m.

Dance and Drink the Night Away

Courtesy of Mango's Tropical Cafe - South Beach

Start or end your evening with a pina colada at Mango’s Tropical Cafe, a nightclub with live Latin music and entertainment until 5 a.m. daily. You haven’t truly experienced South Beach until you’ve done some dancing at Mango’s. Then there’s Nikki Beach. This indoor-outdoor club has been around for more than two decades, has a DJ on deck, and is the perfect place to party, day or night. If you want something a little quieter and more sophisticated, head to Rose Bar at the Delano Hotel. A glass of champagne is a no-brainer here; you can also indulge in LVE Wines, John Legend’s exclusive brand of rosé. Swizzle Rum Bar and Drinkery is the spot to hit up for a rum cocktail. Inside the Stiles Hotel, this 24-seater bar (plus additional seats in the lounge and outdoor pool area) is open until 5 a.m. daily and hosts happy hour daily from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. as well as themed nights like Tiki Monday, Smuggler Tuesday, and Prohibition Thursday. East Coast meets West Coast at the new Blind Barber inside the Nautilus Hotel. Neon lights and hip hop define this speakeasy-style club that you must enter through the barbershop—nothing like a not-so-secret secret bar in SoBe.

Get a Taste of Tropically-Influenced Cuisine

Courtesy of Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

If it’s vegan dining with breathtaking decor you’re going for, look no further than Planta South Beach. For a hint of Southern style (think mint juleps and fried chicken), Yardbird never disappoints. The seasonal Joe’s Stone Crabs will give you a real taste of South Florida, whether you’re in the mood for stone crabs, good old lobster, or a key lime pie. And then there’s Katsuya—consistently delicious no matter what city you’re in, the sushi here is always fresh, and the food presentations are impeccable. When you want to celebrate with steak frites and some terrific people-watching, Prime 112 will be your go-to. In the Prime family, there’s also Prime Italian, Prime Fish, and Big Pink, so no matter what you’re in the mood for this restaurant group will have you covered from all angles. 

Spot Celebrity Homes on a Stand-Up Paddleboard or Kayak

You may choose to just rent stand-up paddleboards or kayaks on your own and head out on an adventure tailored by you, or you may want a little guidance if it’s your first time out on the Miami waters. The good thing is that here waters are relatively calm, weather permitting. If it’s a sunset excursion you’re looking at, spend a little more money for the tour. You can also take a two-hour guided tour to Monument Island Beach, which is secluded and only accessible by water. 

Take an Art Deco Walking Tour

Julien Borean / Unsplash

It’s not the most affordable tour you’ll ever take (nothing in South Beach is cheap), but we can say with confidence that it’s absolutely 100 percent worth it. This two-hour walking tour will introduce you to Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and Miami Modern (MiMo) architectural styles that are found in the Miami Beach Architectural Historic District. Tours are $30 per person, discounted at $25 per person for seniors (65 and over), veterans and students, and they take place rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Comfortable walking shoes and a rain jacket or an umbrella should do the trick. 

Do Some Window Shopping on Lincoln Road

Just a few blocks from the beach, Lincoln Road Mall is a superb place for shopping, dining and people watching. From Madewell and Urban Outfitters to Pottery Barn, Taschen, CB2, and Williams-Sonoma, Lincoln Road has all your clothing, home, shoes, decor, and gift needs. Enjoy happy hour on weekdays (a few of the dining spots even offer happy hour on Sundays) at some of the outdoor mall’s restaurants, like Doraku, Havana 1957, Meat Market and Sushi Samba. There’s even a movie theater on Lincoln Road in case you want to catch a pre-shopping matinee or a flick after dinner. Regal South Beach ScreenX, IMAX & VIP is everything you need a theater to be with multiple screens, new release films, comfortable seating for lounging, and, of course, a concession stand with all the sweet treats and popcorn you’d want to pair with a movie. 

Transport to Europe’s Quaintest Streets at Espanola Way

TripSavvy / Katelyn Chef

If you’re looking for a European getaway without the price tag, head to Espanola Way, Miami’s historic Spanish village just three blocks south of Lincoln Road. Here, you can take a leisurely walk up the paved and tree-lined street, stopping in at different restaurants for Spanish, Cuban, French, Italian, and Mexican food, along with cocktails, coffee, and dessert to enjoy pre or post-dinner. 

Discover the Beauty of South Pointe Park

Marie LaFauci / Getty Images

Take a stroll through the 17-acre space known as South Pointe Park, which includes playgrounds, a dog park, a fishing pier, and more. Break for meditation or sit on one of the benches and listen to the sound of the ocean with a good book. Rollerblade or jog on the sidewalk, and if you get hungry, Smith and Wollensky is within walking distance with great steaks, wine, and all the excellent views. 

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Your Guide to South Beach

South Beach lies at the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, and its 2-mile-long swath of beautiful beaches attracts celebrities, sun-seekers and spring break partiers. 

Where to Stay

Nautilus, a SIXTY Hotel

Originally designed by famed Miami architect Morris Lapidus in the 1950s, this iconic Miami Beach property recently reopened as the ultra-luxe Nautilus hotel. When not in their guestrooms, travelers staying at the 250-room, beachfront property can admire the Art Deco touches sprinkled throughout the hotel, or lounge in a poolside cabana or garden hammock. After dark, stroll down to the sunken lobby bar for a drink before dining at the sprawling Driftwood Room restaurant.

Photo by: Adrian Gaut for SIXTY Hotels

Adrian Gaut for SIXTY Hotels

Sense Beach House

A soothing color palette and stylish, laid-back vibe greet guests upon their arrival at Sense Beach House. This 18-room boutique hotel's decor could be defined as beach house-chic thanks to funky local art decorating the lobby, and cozy guestrooms filled with crisp, white linens. Head up to the rooftop pool for a sunset swim, or to the downstairs restaurant, Local House, for cocktails and a plate of fresh oysters.

Photo by: Sense Beach House

A soothing color palette and stylish, laid-back vibe greets guests upon their arrival at Sense Beach House. This 18-room boutique hotel's decor could be defined as beach-house-chic thanks to funky local art decorating the lobby, and cozy guestrooms filled with crisp, white linens. Head up to the rooftop pool for a sunset swim, or to the downstairs restaurant, Local House , for cocktails and a plate of fresh oysters.

Aloft South Beach Hotel

Steady70 photography 2015 Aloft Hotel South Beach

One of South Beach's newest hotels is also one of its hippest. Aloft South Beach Hotel's mod exterior offers guests a glimpse of the mid-century modern touches they'll experience inside their accommodation. Rooms and suites feature balconies with views of the canal, pool, lake, or city, and include free wifi. Walk 3 minutes to the beach, or relax in the outdoor pool and hot tub.

Photo by: Aloft South Beach Hotel

Art Deco Walking Tour

Thanks in large part to the '80s television classic, Miami Vice, if one visual were to define South Beach, it's the pastel-colored Art Deco architecture that dominates so many of its streets. Gain a better understanding of the neighborhood's historic architecture during a 90-minute walking tour sponsored by the Miami Design Preservation League. Tours depart daily from the Art Deco Welcome Center.

Photo by: Jorge Láscar [ CC BY 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Jorge Láscar [ CC BY 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Thanks in large part to the '80s television classic, Miami Vice , if one visual were to define South Beach, it's the pastel-colored Art Deco architecture that dominates so many of its streets. Gain a better understanding of the neighborhood's historic architecture during a 90-minute walking tour sponsored by the Miami Design Preservation League. Tours depart daily from the Art Deco Welcome Center.

Lincoln Road Mall

Whether you want to shop for a new swimsuit, sit down for an al fresco meal, or simply hang out and people watch for a few hours, the Lincoln Road Mall will suit your needs. This outdoor, pedestrian-only stretch of shops, restaurants, and bars fills with swarms of people, particularly as night falls.

Photo by: Visitor7 [ CC BY-SA 3.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Visitor7 [ CC BY-SA 3.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

Whether you want to shop for a new swimsuit, sit down for an al fresco meal, or simply hang out and people watch for a few hours, the Lincoln Road Mall will suit all of your needs. This outdoor, pedestrian-only stretch of shops, restaurants, and bars fills with swarms of people, particularly as night falls.

Hit the Beach

South Beach regularly ranks among the world's best beaches with good reason. Sprawling for 2-plus miles along Miami Beach's southeastern tip, this stretch of sand is extraordinarily wide and perpetually lapped by turquoise waves. Bring your own chairs and umbrella, or rent one from a vendor. Amateur photogs will have a blast snapping photos of the colorful, retro lifeguard stands dotting the coastline.

South Beach regularly ranks among the world's best beaches with good reason. Sprawling for 2-plus miles along Miami Beach's southeastern tip, this stretch of sand is extraordinarily wide and perpetually lapped by turquoise waves. Bring your own chairs and umbrella, or rent one from a vendor. Amateur photogs will have a blast snapping shoots of the colorful, retro lifeguard stands dotting the coastline.

Where to Eat

Continental

Famed restaurateur Stephen Starr recently launched Continental (an outpost of his original Philly restaurant of the same name), in South Beach to much fanfare. Tucked into a tiki bar-meets-mid-century modern setting, the Continental will keep you stuffed silly with favorites like the lobster mac and cheese and cheesesteak egg rolls. Start your meal with one of Continental's classic cocktails, like the Astronaut martini, made with peach vodka and rimmed with orange Tang.

Photo by: The Continental

The Continental

Yardbird Southern Table and Bar

Check your cholesterol level at the door upon entering Yardbird, otherwise you might find it shooting through the roof. But guess what? It's totally worth it. Yardbird's claim to fame -- and the reason it's become a trendy mainstay of the city's hippest set -- is its fried chicken, which is lovingly brined for 27-hours before being cooked to juicy perfection. Don't miss the divine Chicken 'n Watermelon 'n Waffles, served with honey hot sauce, chilled spiced watermelon, and a cheddar cheese waffle.

Photo by: Valerie Conners

Valerie Conners

Check your cholesterol level at the door upon entering Yardbird, otherwise you might find it shooting through the roof. But guess what? It's totally worth it. Yardbird's claim to fame -- and the reason it's become a trendy mainstay of the city's hippest set -- is its fried chicken, which is lovingly brined for 27-hours before being cooked to juicy perfection. Don't miss the divine Chicken 'n Watermelon 'n Waffles, served with honey hot sauce, chilled spiced watermelon and a cheddar cheese waffle.

Joe's Stone Crab

Arguably South Beach's most iconic restaurant, Joe's Stone Crab transformed from a tiny lunch counter in 1913 to one of Miami's most popular restaurants. Today Joe's ranks as one of America's highest-grossing establishments. What's the big draw? Stone crabs. Their sweet, meaty claws are only available seasonally from October through May. Joe's tuxedo-clad waiters also serve tasty plates of other seafood and shellfish, like oysters, as well as a surprising local's favorite: barbecue ribs.

Arguably South Beach's most iconic restaurant, Joe's Stone Crab transformed from a tiny lunch counter in 1913 to one of Miami's most popular restaurants. Today, Joe's ranks as one of America's highest-grossing establishments. What's the big draw? Stone crabs. Their sweet, meaty claws are only available seasonally from October through May. Joe's tuxedo-clad waiters also serve tasty plates of other seafood and shellfish, like oysters, as well as a surprising local's favorite: barbecue ribs. 

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By Angela Caraway-Carlton

March 29, 2023

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The Ultimate Guide To South Beach Miami

Ahh South Beach Miami , a beautiful, lively and charming place that will always leave you wanting more. South Beach Miami is one of the most sought-after summer vacation places in the country offering plenty to do for both locals and visitors. South Beach is famous for its Cuban influences, rooftop bars, sugar-white sands, luxury hotels – many that feature balconies – outdoor dining, fresh seafoods, bustling art shows, proximity to nightlife and the beach all at once. It’s the kind of place you can visit over and over again without ever getting tired of it. 

I’ve personally been visiting the South Beach Miami area for years and still have so much left to see! But I’ve been able to experience a lot of great parts that make for a very well-rounded trip, especially when visiting for the first time. There’s amazing restaurants and bars , colorful art deco buildings, classic Miami palm trees, beautiful green spaces like South Pointe Park, beach clubs, bowling alleys and many other fun activities for both locals and visitors. 

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The Ultimate Guide to South beach Miami

One of the best parts about South Beach Miami is  you can truly visit this destination year-round. Of course, some months are less humid than others, but overall, you really can’t go wrong with a trip to Miami. It’s especially enticing if you live in colder climates because Florida will immediately make you feel like you’ve been transported to a tropical island , any day of the year. While South Beach Miami is typically associated with younger crowds and spring break trips, there’s definitely something for everyone.  Regardless of the kind of traveler you are, South Beach is  great for friends traveling together, solo travelers, couples and families. 

Although Florida is technically laid-back when it comes to COVID restrictions, it’s important to remember that South Beach Miami is a very populated area and can be very crowded at times. Many people still where masks when outdoors and most indoor facilities require it when visiting museums, shopping stores, restaurants and bars. It’s important to stay mindful of these precautions and protocols when visiting such a bustling city. 

Transportation

South Beach, aka SoBe is a popular and iconic neighborhood in Miami Beach, Florida, United States located due east of Miami City between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. You can get to Miami by car, plane or train. The best way to get to South Beach Miami by car is to take I-95 all the way down to Collins Avenue. There’s also the option to take Amtrak to Miami as well as the Brightline train from Orlando. 

Miami International Airport is only 13 miles away and is the closest airport to South Beach and Lincoln Road . Direct buses, shuttles and ridesharing services are available from the airport . All of these options are great, but taking a private taxi or Uber is the quickest way, landing you in South Beach in an average of 20 minutes. The Miami Beach Airport Flyer bus (Route 150) provides express service between Metrorail and runs from 6am to 11:50pm, 7 days a week. The shuttle costs $2.65 to ride. Ridesharing and Ubers typically cost $20, taxis typically costs $35 and private airport shuttles typically cost $20.

What to Do in South Beach Miami

Spend the day at the beach.

The sugar-white sands and crystal clear waters are easily accessible when you’re in South Beach, so spending the day or a quick afternoon there is always a great idea. The beach access is easy and quite expansive so there’s plenty of room for everyone. You can bring your own beach chairs and cooler with food and drink s or you can rent chairs at the beach. If you’re staying at a hotel along Ocean Drive (or close-by) they will often-time provide them for you, complimentary. All you have to do is let your hotel know and they will direct you OR they will have huts setup on the beach with employees who help you find a spot with chairs, umbrellas and towels.

Walk along Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive is an iconic street that is split between the city buildings, palm trees and beach. It’s a great place to take photos of your trip to Miami and offers a ton of things to do along the strip. Here you’ll find a plethora of Miami history, the famous art deco buildings, restaurants, bars and shopping. 

Visit Wynwood Walls

One of the most unique places to visit in South Beach is none other than Wynwood Walls , an Urban Graffiti Art Museum . This special art community was established back in 2009 after Tony Goldman decided there should be a place for the largest and greatest street art in Miami. Some of the greatest in graffiti have been able to display their talents at Wynwood Walls with over 50 artists representing 16 countries, having covered over 80,000 square feet of walls. This is definitely an ideal spot for artist lovers and those looking for unique photo opportunities. 

Take a boat cruise

A trip to Miami wouldn’t be complete without a boat cruise . Miami is notorious for having amazing boat tours and parties, most of which take place on Biscayne Bay . There’s historic cruises, sightseeing tours, party boats and private boats all ranging from about $30 to $500 for a group. Of course, private yachts are thousands of dollars, but you can ultimately decide which kind of boat is best for your trip. 

Where to Stay in miami

The betsy hotel.

Looking to stay at a  prime art-centric hotel  at  the  heart of  South Beach, Miami ? Look no further, because  The Betsy Hotel  might be the one for you. I’ve heard about The Betsy for quite some time now, having friends who live and travel in the area, and knew I had to visit this  iconic hotel  one day. Initially, I expected the hotel to be newer but the hotel itself is actually very historic with an older, classic Miami feel. I decided to stay at this boutique hotel to see what the experience was like and if it was worth the hype. Well, it certainly is because I had the most pleasant experience while staying here.

The Betsy Hotel is located on the iconic  Ocean Drive  in South Beach where toursits attractions and interesting things to do are at every corner. The  emblematic architecture  and overall  ambiance  make the hotel stand out from the rest in the  Art Deco District  and possesses a magical touch. Being in such a prime location allows you to have access to a plethora of shops, restaurants, bars and of course the beach, just a few steps away. 

Check out the full hotel review on The Betsy Hotel HERE .

Book your hotel stay HERE to access VIP perks & benefits with a trusted travel advisor, at no extra cost to you. 

The Local House hotel

The Local House Hotel   is perfect for any Miami getaway, regardless of how long you plan to visit. This South Beach quaint and charming hotel resides just a couple hundred feet away from Miami Beach and makes for an amazing tropical retreat.

This super laid-back, elegant and heavy beach-vibe hotel is perfect for small groups, girls trips or even a little staycation. It’s small enough for a more intimate experience, but offers an excellent atmosphere between the in-house restaurant, cozy rooms, private balconies and stunning rooftop views and pool . You really get the best of all worlds between the hotel accommodations , proximity to the beach and other hot-spots worth visiting . 

Check out the full hotel review on The Local House HERE .

The Plymouth Hotel

The Plymouth Hotel is located at  336 21st St, Miami Beach, FL 33139  and is  centrally located around Miami’s most recognized restaurants, shopping, nightlife  and more. It’s one of two  Small Luxury Hotels of the World  on the East Coast. And was also the 2019 Condé Nast Best Urban Hotel Winner. Aside from it’s prime location, tourists are attracted to this hotel in particular because of it’s  intimacy, charm, aesthetic and insta-worthy patio & pool.  The Plymouth stands out from other luxury hotels in the area and around the country with a rich history dating back to the 1940s. As a classic Art Deco Hotel with just 110 rooms, the intimate clubhouse feel with it’s oval-shaped lobby, cabana-inspired bar, onsite restaurant and outdoor European vibes makes for a truly unique experience.

Check out the full hotel review on The Plymouth HERE .

Where to Eat in South Beach Miami

A trip to  South Beach Miami  would not be complete without the food. Believe it or not,  Miami is considered as one of the best food cities in the world.  One of the best parts about South Beach other than its culture, is the fact that there are a variety of restaurants both indoors and outdoors that include fresh local seafood, grilled chicken, roasted pork, tacos, chips & guacamole, key lime pie, strong coffee , and more. I’m drooling just thinking about it.

If you’re into outdoor seating, beautiful architecture, good vibes and delicious eats, South Beach is definitely for you. Whether you’re looking for breakfast lunch, dinner or dessert suggestions, we have you covered. 

The Local House Restaurant

The Local House  happens to be one of my favorite spots in South Beach. Not only is it a  brunch and seafood restaurant , but it’s also a hotel! Make sure to check out my  hotel review  if you’re interested in staying at The Local House. It’s truly the perfect place for a South Beach getaway because of the accommodations, laid-back atmosphere, delicious food and proximity to the beach.

This restaurant in particular is super popular for brunch because of the  menu options, aesthetic  and of course the  mimosas . It’s a beautiful and quaint little restaurant with both indoor and outdoor seating. It’s also an ideal insta-worthy spot. Make sure to have your phone or camera ready because all the dishes are displayed so beautifully. 

Now on to the food! The menu offers an array of choices ranging from brunch, lunch, dinner and happy hour drinks. A few dishes I recommend trying include the  seafood scramble, avocado toast, key lime pie french toast, caramelized banana french toast, the lobster mac & cheese and the Mahi tacos.  They have excellent drinks too so whether you’re looking for an iced coffee, mimosa or cocktail for happy hour, they have some great selections. 

The Local House offers in-room dining, takeout and delivery through third party apps like Uber Eats, Grub Hub and DoorDash.  Get directions to the restaurant here.

If you’re looking for a  healthier option  in South Beach,  Pura Vida  is the way to go. This street-side, surf-themed restaurant is the perfect spot for lunch to grab some health-conscious juices, sandwiches and salads . Pura Vida is beautifully decorated and offers outdoor seating alongside a more local and non-touristy street. 

This restaurant specifically thrives off their philosophy of using  fresh  and  simple ingredients.  Shopping consciously and responsibly and serving up local and  sustainable  food, is something they take pride in. It’s also meant to feel like an extension of home where you can eat in comfort with your friends and family.

Another great thing about Pura Vida is they offer  all-day breakfast  including different kinds of  breakfast toasts  like avocado, salmon and berry as well as  bagel sandwiches, fruit salads, acai bowls  and  overnight oats . I highly recommend ordering the  mango salmon bowl  or the  summer grilled chicken bowl  for lunch, as both are excellent and filling choices. They also have fresh pressed juices to help with  nutrition  and  hydration , especially in the heat of Miami. 

Pura Vida offers outdoor dining (seat yourself), takeout and no-contact delivery.  Get directions to the restaurant here.

Koa Poke and Burrito

This highly rated sushi restaurant with poke bowls, sushi burritos and acai bowls is a must-try for sure. Koa Poke and Burrito brings a healthy and fresh Hawaiin-style take on sushi and has a variety of options to choose from. With its hip, upbeat and casual Miami beach vibe, it’s the perfect place to stop in for a quick lunch before or after a day of shopping or being at the beach. 

Highly recommend making your own poke bowl with high-quality, fresh ingredients or one of their tasty acai bowls. They serve all different types of beverages as well, including alcohol!

Koa Poke and Burrito offers outdoor dining, takeout and no-contact delivery. Get directions to the restaurant here.

Malibu Farm

Located right behind the luxurious  Nobu Miami , you’ll find  Malibu Farm  located right on the beach with break-taking  ocean views . Malibu Farm Miami is defined as the epitome of  laid-back luxury  and is an organic, American restaurant offering the taste of Hawaii in  simple, straight-forward ingredients.  The menu includes seafood, sandwiches, flatbreads, nachos and delicious finger foods. It’s the perfect spot for a light lunch or appetizer if you’re feeling a little hungry a few hours before dinner. 

Popular food items include the  avocado pizza, chicken ricotta burger and the fish and shrimp tacos.  As if the appetizers and stunning views aren’t enough, they also have a  wide array of signature cocktails  with some of the most fresh and delicious drinks I’ve had. Highly recommend trying the  Passionfruit and Watermelon cocktail  (also available as a mocktail!)

Malibu Farm offers outdoor dining, takeout and no-contact delivery.  Get directions to the restaurant here.

LT Steak & Seafood

Hotel restaurants are some of my favorite and I believe they are highly underrated. While I also love venturing off to try restaurants in the area, I do believe  the on-site restaurant of a hotel says a lot about the integrity of the hotel  between the food, decor and staff.  LT Steak & Seafood  is an indoor and outdoor restaurant in the lobby of The Betsy offering a  casually elegant New American style.  After having 2 breakfasts and 1 dinner here, I came to the conclusion that it’s a fabulous restaurant, indeed. I love the ability to sit outdoors to enjoy the fresh air on Ocean Drive while people watching, but I also love the option to sit indoors where it’s cool. The staff is extremely kind and accommodating, so you’ll be taken care of regardless of where you choose to sit. 

For breakfast they offer classic  sweet & savory brunch dishes, fresh juices, coffee made the way you like it  as well as  gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and dairy-free options.  The breakfast each morning was well-balanced and delicious with all the important food groups you need to start the day.

For dinner, they specialize in  steak & seafood  (hence the name) so we ordered  sushi . The sushi was fresh and delicious and paired well with the wine and beer we ordered. The prices of the meals are on the more expensive side but the  portions are huge and the flavors are delicious . You’ll definitely get your money’s worth.

The restaurant is open from 7:30-11am for breakfast, 11-2:30pm for lunch, 5:30-10pm for dinner and open at 11am on the weekends for brunch.

LT Steak & Seafood offers indoor and outdoor dining, takeout and no-contact delivery. Get directions to the restaurant here.

Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant

No proper visit to South Beach is complete without a trip to  Joe’s Stone Crab Restaurant .  The  100-year, family-owned restaurant  has been attracting crowds longer than anyone can remember and it’s obvious why. It’s a fabulous restaurant in Miami that has created some of the best memories for people when visiting, in general. They even have an entire page dedicated to sharing your  Joe’s Memories . Whether you’re visiting for a celebration, family gathering, romantic dinner or dinner just because,  Joe’s Stone Crab has something for everyone. 

Now when it comes to menu selections, you really can’t go wrong. But crowd favorites over the years include  stone crab claws, friend chicken, skirt steak  and of course, any of their  fresh seafood dishes . They also have excellent  key lime pie  for dessert, an absolute must-try in South Florida.

Joe’s Stone Crab offers indoor dining, takeout and no-contact delivery.  Get directions to the restaurant here.

Española Way

No foodie visit to Mimai is complete without a trip to Española Way , otherwise known as “historic Spanish village.” The palm-tree lined street with string lights hanging throughout goes back to the 1920s, creating a European feel and culture. Here you’ll find a ton of charming outdoor restaurants, shops, live entertainment and boutique hotels. It’s an extremely quaint and lively part of the city that you’ll want to experience at night.

We grabbed a table for dinner at Mercato Della Pescheria where we enjoyed happy hour specials and an Itlalian meal complete with fresh bread, Fettuccine Alfredo and a delicious aperol spritz.

  Get directions to Española Way here.

Serena Rooftop

The famous  Moxy Hotel , just a few blocks over from Ocean Drive, hosts one of the hottest restaurant & bar,   Serena Rooftop . This classic and  laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere  makes for a great night out under the sun and then the stars once you watch the sun go down. The rooftop offers  vibrant colors filled with lounges, seating areas and lush greens  to make for a truly cozy and fun place to hangout. 

As far as the menu goes, you’ll get a variety to taste including  chips and guacamole, salsa verde, traditional Mexican ceviche, roasted pork, tostados and more.  The drinks are definitely flowing here. So  put on a cute outfit , head to the rooftop and treat yourself to some  margaritas  with salt on the rim.

Serene Rooftop offers indoor and outdoor dining and takeout but they do not offer delivery.  Get directions to the restaurant here.

The Sugar Factory

The Sugar Factory on Ocean Drive is a classic stop for a sweet treat. In fact, The Sugar Factory offers grab-and-go selections with novelty bulk candy, snow cones, gelato and ice cream sandwiches. They also offer a full menu with delicious food like pancakes, crepes, salads, and burgers. Famous treats to order include the King Kong Sundae, hot chocolate, frozen hot chocolate and decadent shakes.

One of the most appealing and fun elements, however, are their premium cocktail mixes with spiked adult beverages, including Sugar Factory’s signature alcohol-infused smoking candy goblets . These are so fun for a hot afternoon outdoors and make for a great experience on Ocean Drive. 

The Sugar Factory offers indoor and outdoor dining, as well as delivery options. Get directions to the restaurant here.

What to Wear in South Beach miami

This travel guide may have you ready activities in South Beach Miami, but what should you wear? Since the weather is quite predictable year-round, it’s easy to pack when you know what to expect. Even though South Beach is ideal year-round, the best warm weather and less humidity is during the spring between March and May . Regardless of when you visit Miami, it will almost always be sunny with bits of rain here and there.

For a trip to Miami, you’ll want to be sure to pack d resses, crop tops paired with pants and/or skirts, bathing suits and cover ups, jeans for cooler evenings and accessories like beach bags, sunglasses, head scarves and jewelry . Check out the full guide for what to wear in Miami here.

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South beach.

The famed South Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach glitters with nightlife — even after the sun comes up. Though it’s known for attracting the rich, famous, and youthful, it has become recognized around the world as a vacation destination everyone can enjoy, from celebrities to families of all ages.

Lounge on the beach, see South Beach’s historic Art Deco architecture, and experience fine oceanside dining . Shop at the Lincoln Shopping District , an eight-block-long mall featuring Art Deco architecture with more than 200 shops and restaurants on either side of the street, or at historic Española Way .

By day, get outdoors and hop on a Citi Bike or head to beachfront Haulover Park for fishing, tennis, and golf. Families with children will love Flamingo Park’s water playground, swimming pools, and walking trails.

When the sun goes down, check out the legendary South Beach nightlife , from dance clubs to dive bars, and for a club experience during the day, go to Mango’s Tropical Cafe , which evokes 1930s Cuba with Latin food, music, and dancing.

Plan your stay at Miami and Beaches .  

Splash in the warm turquoise waters and stroll along the white sand beaches of South Beach.

• South Pointe Park & Beach
• Lummus Park
• More beaches

South Beach’s family-friendly attractions include water playgrounds and museums.

• Flamingo Park
• More family-friendly attractions

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Visitors will find no shortage of outdoor concerts, art museums, and architectural attractions in South Beach.

• Art Deco Historic District
• New World Symphony
• The Wolfsonian
• More South Beach arts and culture

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Go kayaking, boating, and biking in South Beach.

• Water sports
• More outdoor adventures

PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES

Four-legged family members are welcome at a number of South Beach attractions, hotels, and restaurants.

• South Pointe Tavern
• South Pointe Park
• Pet-friendly travel information

ACCESSIBILITY

Travelers with disabilities will find many accessible attractions, hotels, restaurants, and places to shop in South Beach.

• Miami Beach Botanical Garden
• Lincoln Shopping District
• Wheelchair accessible beaches
• Accessible attractions

Choose from countless restaurants offering upscale oceanfront dining, beach fare, international cuisine, and more.

• Stiltsville Fish Bar
• LT Steak & Seafood at The Betsy Hotel
• PLANTA South Beach
• More places to eat

Miles of pedestrian shopping await.

• Española Way
• More places to shop

Head to South Beach’s luxurious spas for the ultimate relaxing getaway.

• K’alma Spa
• Bamford Wellness Spa

From dance clubs to dive bars, South Beach has plenty to do after dark.

• Mac’s Club Deuce
• Mango’s Tropical Cafe

INCLUSIVITY

South Beach is the heart of the Miami Beach LGBTQ+ scene.

• LGBT Visitor Center
• Axel Beach Miami

PLACES TO STAY

Find the perfect place to stay among the luxury resorts and boutique hotels of South Beach.

• Boutique hotels
• More places to stay

Quick Facts

Nightlife hotspot with energetic vibe.

Nearest Airport

• Miami International Airport

Plan a Trip to South Beach

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Famous Places in South Beach Miami: The Ultimate Guide to SoBe’s Iconic Spots

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When it comes to famous places in South Beach Miami , the list is endless. From the iconic Ocean Drive to the historic Art Deco District, South Beach , or SoBe, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

This comprehensive guide will take you through the most famous places in South Beach Miami that you simply can’t afford to miss.

South Beach Miami is not just a destination; it’s a lifestyle. Known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history, South Beach Miami offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a party lover, or someone who just wants to soak up the sun, the famous places in South Beach Miami have got you covered. Let’s explore these iconic spots that make South Beach Miami the crown jewel of the Magic City.

Table of Contents

Ocean Drive: The Heartbeat of South Beach Miami

When people think of famous places in South Beach Miami, Ocean Drive often comes to mind first. This bustling boulevard is the heartbeat of South Beach Miami, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences that define the city’s essence.

Lined with vibrant Art Deco buildings, trendy cafes, and some of Miami’s most popular bars and clubs, Ocean Drive is a must-visit.

What Makes It Famous?

Ocean Drive is famous for its colourful Art Deco architecture, which gives South Beach Miami its unique character. The street is also home to iconic establishments like The Clevelander and Mango’s Tropical Cafe , where the Miami nightlife comes alive.

What to Do?

• People-watching: Grab a mojito from one of the many sidewalk cafes and indulge in some quality people-watching.
• Photography: The vibrant buildings and neon signs offer excellent photo opportunities.
• Dining: From seafood to Cuban cuisine, Ocean Drive offers a culinary journey like no other.

If you’re looking to experience the best of Miami’s nightlife and architecture, Ocean Drive is one of the most famous places in South Beach Miami to do so.

The Art Deco Historic District: A Walk Through History

Another gem among the famous places in South Beach Miami is the Art Deco Historic District . This area offers a visual feast of pastel-coloured buildings, neon signs, and intricate architectural details that transport you back in time.

The Art Deco Historic District is home to the world’s largest collection of Art Deco architecture, making it one of the most famous places in South Beach Miami for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

• Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of Art Deco design.
• Art Deco Museum: Visit the museum to delve deeper into the architectural style that defines South Beach Miami.
• Shopping: Many of these historic buildings now house boutique stores where you can shop for unique souvenirs.

For those interested in architecture and history, the Art Deco Historic District is among the most famous places in South Beach Miami to explore.

Lummus Park: The Beach Paradise

No list of famous places in South Beach Miami would be complete without mentioning Lummus Park . This public park is a beach lover’s paradise, offering pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of Miami’s iconic skyline.

Lummus Park is famous for its clean, sandy beaches and a plethora of activities, making it a family-friendly spot among the famous places in South Beach Miami.

• Water Sports: From paddleboarding to jet skiing, the park offers a range of water activities.
• Picnic: Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean.
• Fitness: The park has several fitness areas where you can break a sweat while enjoying the sea breeze.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach experience, Lummus Park ranks high among the famous places in South Beach Miami.

The versace mansion: a testament to luxury and legacy.

Among the famous places in South Beach Miami, the Versace Mansion , officially known as Casa Casuarina, holds a special allure that is both historical and opulent.

This mansion was the former residence of Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace and is now a luxury hotel and restaurant. Its unique blend of history, architecture, and luxury makes it a must-visit among the famous places in South Beach Miami.

The Versace Mansion gained worldwide attention not only for its opulent Italian architecture but also for being the site where Gianni Versace was tragically murdered in 1997.

Since then, it has been transformed into a luxury boutique hotel, The Villa Casa Casuarina, and stands as a testament to Versace’s extravagant lifestyle and artistic vision.

• Guided Tours: While the mansion is a private property, guided tours are available that offer a glimpse into the life of Gianni Versace and the history of the mansion.
• Fine Dining: The mansion is home to Gianni’s Restaurant, where you can indulge in gourmet meals in a setting that screams luxury.
• Stay the Night: If you’re looking to splurge, you can book a room and experience the opulence firsthand.

Architecture and Design

The mansion is a marvel of Italian architecture, featuring an open courtyard, a stunning mosaic garden, and the famous “Million Mosaic Pool” lined with thousands of 24-karat gold tiles.

The interiors are equally lavish, adorned with frescoes, statues, and an array of artwork that reflects Versace’s love for all things beautiful.

For those looking to experience the epitome of luxury and delve into the life of one of fashion’s most iconic figures, the Versace Mansion is one of the most famous places in South Beach Miami to do so.

Lincoln Road Mall: The Shopper’s Paradise

When it comes to shopping, Lincoln Road Mall stands out among the famous places in South Beach Miami. This pedestrian-only street is a haven for shopaholics, offering a wide range of retail experiences, from high-end boutiques to quirky local stores.

Lincoln Road Mall is famous for its diverse shopping options and its unique open-air setup, making it one of the most visited and famous places in South Beach Miami.

• Retail Therapy: From designer labels to local crafts, Lincoln Road Mall offers a shopping experience like no other.
• Dining: The mall is lined with cafes and restaurants, offering a variety of culinary delights.
• Street Performances: Enjoy live music and performances as you stroll through the mall.

If shopping is on your Miami itinerary, then Lincoln Road Mall is one of the most famous places in South Beach Miami to indulge in some retail therapy.

Espanola way: the european charm of south beach miami.

Espanola Way is a charming, European-style street that offers a different vibe from the rest of South Beach. Among the famous places in South Beach Miami, Espanola Way stands out for its old-world charm and eclectic atmosphere.

Espanola Way is famous for its Mediterranean revival architecture and its range of boutique hotels and quaint shops, making it a unique spot among the famous places in South Beach Miami.

• Dining: From authentic Italian to Cuban cuisine , Espanola Way offers some of the best dining options in Miami.
• Shopping: The street is lined with boutique stores offering unique souvenirs and crafts.
• Nightlife: Espanola Way is also home to some cosy bars and lounges where you can enjoy a relaxed evening.

For a unique, European experience in the heart of Miami, Espanola Way is among the most famous places in South Beach Miami to explore.

The wolfsonian-fiu: a cultural gem.

If you’re interested in history and art, The Wolfsonian-FIU is a must-visit among the famous places in South Beach Miami. This museum offers a fascinating look into the cultural and historical influences that have shaped South Beach and the greater Miami area.

The Wolfsonian-FIU is famous for its extensive collection of art and historical artefacts, making it a cultural gem among the famous places in South Beach Miami.

• Exhibitions: Explore the museum’s rotating exhibitions that cover a range of topics from politics to design.
• Workshops: The museum often hosts workshops and talks, offering a deeper understanding of its collections.
• Museum Shop: Don’t forget to visit the museum shop where you can buy unique souvenirs.

For culture vultures looking to explore Miami’s rich history, The Wolfsonian-FIU is one of the most famous places in South Beach Miami to visit.

Nightclubs and bars: the pulse of south beach miami.

South Beach Miami is famous for its electrifying nightlife. Clubs like Mango’s Tropical Cafe and The Clevelander offer a night of dancing, music, and fun.

The nightlife in South Beach Miami is famous for its high-energy atmosphere, world-class DJs, and diverse music scenes, making it the go-to destination for night owls.

• Dancing: Let loose and dance the night away at one of the many nightclubs.
• Live Music: Enjoy live performances ranging from jazz to Latin music.
• Cocktails: Sip on some of the most exotic cocktails crafted by expert mixologists.

If you’re looking to experience the best of Miami’s nightlife, the clubs and bars are among the most famous places in South Beach Miami to do so.

Frequently asked questions, what is the best time of year to visit south beach miami.

If you’re looking to escape the daily grind and experience some freedom, there’s no better place than South Beach Miami.

The best time of year to visit is during the winter months when temperatures are mild, crowds thin out, and hotel rates drop.

With dozens of top-notch hotels offering luxurious amenities and prime beachfront locations, finding accommodations that suit your needs won’t be a problem.

And once you’ve settled in, it’s time to hit the sand!

From sunbathing and swimming to paddleboarding and jet skiing, the beach activities here are endless.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, leave the stress behind, and come discover why South Beach Miami is one of America’s most iconic destinations.

Are There Any Hidden Gems Or Lesser-Known Attractions In The Area?

Looking for Offbeat Finds and Local Recommendations in South Beach Miami? Look no further!

While this vibrant city is known for its famous attractions, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Venture off the beaten path and explore the quirky boutiques, street art murals, and unique dining experiences that give South Beach its eclectic charm.

Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds or simply want a taste of local flavour, these lesser-known attractions offer an authentic glimpse into the heart and soul of this iconic destination.

So why not take a chance and discover something new? After all, isn’t that what travel is all about – embracing adventure, exploring possibilities, and satisfying your subconscious desire for freedom?

What Are Some Popular Nightlife Spots That Are Not Located On Ocean Drive?

Looking for a break from the crowded and touristy Ocean Drive scene in South Beach Miami?

Check out some of the city’s hottest rooftop lounges offering stunning views and unparalleled cocktails.

Or, head to one of the live music venues dotted around town where you can dance to anything from salsa beats to hip-hop jams.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening or a wild night out, South Beach has something for everyone craving freedom from the norm.

So why not escape the crowds and explore these hidden gems tonight?

Can Visitors Take A Guided Tour Of The Versace Mansion?

Visitors to South Beach Miami won’t want to miss the guided tour experience of the iconic Versace Mansion.

This stunning property, which once belonged to fashion designer Gianni Versace, is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into the glamorous world of Miami’s elite.

From its opulent decor to its meticulously maintained grounds, this mansion is truly one-of-a-kind.

As you explore the various rooms and learn about the fascinating stories behind them, you’ll feel transported back in time to an era when excess was celebrated and anything seemed possible.

So why not indulge your inner adventurer and book your tickets today? You won’t regret it!

Is It Easy To Find Parking In The South Beach Area?

Looking for parking in South Beach can be a challenge, but there are alternatives and solutions.

Pros include the convenience of having a car to explore nearby areas such as Miami’s Wynwood or Little Havana neighbourhoods.

However, the cons include high prices for street parking and limited availability during peak hours.

One solution is to use public transportation or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.

Another alternative is to park further away from the beach area and walk or bike to your destination.

Don’t let the hassle of finding parking deter you from exploring all that South Beach has to offer!

South Beach Miami is a microcosm of what makes Miami great—diversity, beauty, history, and an undeniable sense of fun. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a seasoned local, the famous places in South Beach Miami never cease to amaze and inspire.

From the iconic Ocean Drive to the shopper’s paradise at Lincoln Road Mall, each location offers a unique slice of Miami life that you won’t find anywhere else.

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21 Best Things to Do in South Beach, Miami

Are you looking for the best things to do in South Beach ? Whether you’re all about the beach or nightlife, this post will give 21 fun ideas to choose from!

Lying between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, South Beach welcomes millions of visitors yearly, thanks to its reputation as one of the best nightlife hotspots in the country.

But there is much more to this Miami Beach neighborhood than hitting the clubs; the beaches are delightful, the food is delicious, and the Art Deco architecture and museums are impressive.

Disclosure:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

And with such an eclectic range of attractions, you’ll be spoiled for choice of what to do in South Beach, Miami.

We know it’s hard to do everything, that’s why we’ve rounded up a list of 21 of the best things to do in South Beach, including what to see and explore so you can enjoy this neighborhood like a true local. 

 Best Things to Do in South Beach, Miami

Read on to discover the best South Beach activities not to miss, regardless of whether you’re looking for a fun night out or a chill day on the beach.

1. Unwind on the tranquil Beach of South Pointe Park and Pier

You haven’t truly explored South Beach if you don’t soak up the beauty of South Pointe Park . Whether you’re spending a day in Miami or a week, this place is unmissable!

This serene park offers stunning views of Miami’s skyline and departing cruise ships. It also has a beautiful sand beach, which is in fact one of the best beaches in Miami , with endless fun activities like kayaking, surfing, and other water sports.

You can start the day by strolling along the park’s walking trails with your furry friend or let them roam free at the off-leash bark park.

Later, head to the pier which is the perfect spot for fishing or simply taking photos and enjoying the views!

If the kids are tagging along, they will love the motion-activated mini splash zone with water cannons at the picnic area.

There is also an onsite restaurant, Smith & Wollensky which serves mouth-watering steaks when you need an energy refill.

And when the sun begins to set, there’s no better place to enjoy the view than on one of the park’s picnic benches.

2. Explore contemporary artworks at The Bass

Tamanoeconomico , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Housed in a 1930s Art Deco building, The Bass is one of the popular tourist attractions in South Beach you shouldn’t miss.

The stylish architecture is art in itself but it’s the impressive collection of contemporary work that will captivate you the most.

Spread across a 35,000 square-foot space, you will find a variety of artifacts dating from the 7th century to present times from all around the world and modern and contemporary architecture artworks depicting the pre- and postwar design history of Miami Beach in their permanent collection. They also hold a number of temporary exhibits throughout the year.

It also has a sculpture garden with a number of sculptures scattered around, but the most famous is probably the colorful stack of boulders, known as 8th Magic Mountain . It’s perfect for photos if you’re looking for Instagram spots in Miami .

And when you need to recharge after your visit, make a stop at the museum’s café, where you can enjoy an assortment of beverages and shareable bites. 

3. Take in the tranquility of Miami Beach Botanical Garden

Photo by Miami Beach Botanical Garden

If you are a plant enthusiast or just a lover of serenity looking for things to do in South Beach, Miami Beach Botanical Garden is the perfect place to be.

The garden has a collection of rare native Florida plants, tropical plants, orchids, and various palm species.

As you stroll through the garden, keep an eye out for the little red bridge stretched across a pond covered in water lilies. It leads to the garden’s highlight — a beautiful Japanese garden.

There are also other stunning features like the refurbished fountains, a koi pond, a wetland with mangroves, and the beautiful banyan tree. You can also visit the botanical boutique to grow your own orchids. 

And the best part is that entry to Miami Beach Botanical Garden is completely free.

4. Explore the Colorful Art Deco Historic District

When it comes to historic neighborhoods, it’s hard to beat this colorful district, which houses the world’s largest collection of Art Deco buildings.

Located between Ocean Drive and Washington Avenue, it has 960 historic buildings that date back to the 1920-40s and have been carefully renovated to retain their charm.

You will find incredible geometrically-shaped and pastel-hued architecture with stunning murals and neon lighting on their walls.

A notable mention is the 1930s Spanish-style mansion, Casa Casuarina or Versace Mansion as sometimes known, where Gianni Versace once lived.

While you can roam freely, the best way to explore this district is to sign up for this walking tour . You’ll learn about the history of South Beach from a knowledgeable guide while taking in the beauty of the district.

Then after your dose of history, you can enjoy tasty treats at one of the district’s many restaurants.

And make sure to come back at night to see the buildings glowing in neon; it is a beautiful sight to behold.

>>> Click here to sign up for the Art Deco Historic District walking tour !

5. Shop at Lincoln Road Mall

Lincoln Road Mall is one of the fun places to go in South Beach.

Although it is called a mall, it is in fact an open-air pedestrian shopping street lined with designer boutiques and eclectic shops alongside restaurants, cafés, and galleries that make this neighborhood beat.

This Art-Deco-style retail paradise is adorned with sculptures and native plants and offers a bit of everything to satisfy any avid shopper.

Exclusive SoBe shops like French Connection invite shoppers in, while those searching for designer labels will find plenty to browse, including Victoria’s Secret, Foot Locker, and H&M.

Asides from shopping, you can view colorful artworks at Romero Britto Gallery , watch a show at Art-Deco-style Colony Theatre , or watch street performers.

And after a day of meandering the mall, it’s easy to find good food and drinks at its many lively restaurants, especially Lincoln Eatery , which has a nice rooftop bar if you’re looking for cool Miami rooftop bars !

And if you visit on Sunday, you will find local vendors selling fresh produce during the weekly farmer’s market.

Related Post: Best things to do in Miami with Teenagers

6. Check Out modern-age artifacts at The Wolfsonian

Acroterion , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

For ages, art has been used to tell stories, and this South Beach Miami attraction uses a unique array of media created between 1845 to 1945 to tell a compelling one about the time from the Industrial Revolution to the end of the Second World War.

The beautifully restored 1927 Mediterranean Revival building, formerly home to Washington Storage Company, is where over 180,000 artifacts collected by Mitchell Wolfson Jr., alongside his unique collection of rare books and objects from the 1970s, are kept.

You will also find a design-oriented gift shop onsite, where you can purchase Wolfsonian publications, jewelry, toys, and more as souvenirs.

7. Stroll along the iconic Ocean Drive

Colors, fast cars, light displays, Art Deco buildings, and palm trees! These are just a fraction of what this scenic road offers.

Running from 1st to 15th Street, there’s a high chance you’ve come across Ocean Drive in a movie, as this iconic Miami street has had its fair share of film appearances.

Some of its notable landmarks include the Clevelander Hotel , Gianni’s at the Villa in the former house of Gianni Versace, and the 1939 Colony Hotel which is believed to be the most photographed building on the street.

The street also has a number of famous restaurants, bars, clubs, and brunch spots — but bear in mind that they’re extremely pricey!

However, this road is better discovered at night when the neon lights are in full swing! Heck, we recommend visiting both during the day to people-watch and take cute pictures and later in the night for a beautiful display of lights.

8. Learn about Florida’s Jewish History at the Jewish Museum of Florida -FIU

Alexf , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

In 1763, Jews were allowed to live in Florida for the first time, and this museum documents their journey more than 250 years later with over 100,000 artworks, including documents, photographs, artifacts, and oral history.

These artworks are displayed across two former synagogues built in 1929 and 1936, respectively.

Having undergone extensive renovation, JMOF boasts 80 stained-glass windows, a marble bimah, a Moorish-style copper dome, and Art Deco features that are also worth seeing!

The museum focuses primarily on people who influenced Jewish life in Florida and the relationship between Jews and non-Jews.

Also, JMOF hosts periodic exhibitions alongside programs focused on Jewish studies.

9. Relax At Soundscape Park

What Soundscape Park lacks in size, it makes up for in intimacy and vitality. This 2.5-acre urban park sits adjacent to the New World Center and combines art and nature to give you a memorable experience.

Palm trees and blooming bougainvillea vines adorn the open spaces, and the concrete mosaic walkways are ideal for a quiet evening stroll.

However, the most interesting part is that this multi-use park regularly turns into an outdoor movie theatre where you can enjoy free film screenings and cultural programming, perfect for the entire family or a date for those looking for cool date night ideas in Miami .

10. Explore Miami Beach Marina

Nicknamed the Gateway to the Caribbean, Miami Beach Marina is the perfect place for a waterfront stay in South Beach, and it is moments away from all the nightlife, restaurants, and shops the area is famous for.

Located adjacent to Government Cut, this marina has 400 boat slips with fresh water, electricity, telephone, and cable hook-ups and can handle boats of up to 250 feet.

Staffed by a friendly team working to make every visitor feel welcome, docking at this marina provides you with outstanding service for your boat and easy access to water activities like fishing, sailing, and cruising.

However, even if you don’t have a boat of your own, you can still enjoy this place! It’s perfect for a nice evening walk while taking in the beautiful views of the sunset, dining at one of the waterfront restaurants, or even booking water activities.

11. Pay homage to Holocaust victims at the Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach

Daniel Di Palma , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach was an idea born in 1984 by a group of Holocaust survivors and has turned into one of the free but memorable things to do in South Beach.

Commissioned on February 4, 1990, this memorial highlights the harrowing and moving account of the Holocaust that took the lives of 6 million Jews through sculptures, film screenings, music programming, victims’ accounts, and more.

But the heart of this memorial is the Sculpture of Love and Anguish , a breathtaking bronze artwork featuring an outstretched arm emerging from the ground and reaching toward the sky.

The body of this sculpture illustrates family members helping each other as they struggle to climb toward the hand.

Another worthy mention is the Memorial Wall , engraved with the names of those who didn’t survive the tragedy.

12. Spend a night out at one of South Beach’s nightclubs

Miami Beach has a long history as a city that knows how to party, and the SoBe neighborhood carries on this legacy with its vibrant and unforgettable nightlife scene.

Whether you’re into hip-hop, electronic dance music, or rock, you’ll find top DJs spinning beats and partiers dancing till dawn at the clubs in South Beach.

To enjoy Maimi’s nightlife to the fullest, make a stop at LIV to party with celebrities, Do Not Sit On The Furniture for house and techno music, Mango’s Tropical Café for Caribbean vibes, Treehouse for an intimate evening of underground house music, or Nikki Beach for a VIP experience.

You can also check out other cool nightclubs in Miami if those above are not up your alley.

13. Relax and unwind at Lummus Park

There are so many things to do in South Beach, Miami, and visiting the gorgeous Lummus Park is one of them.

Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Ocean Drive and running from 5th to 14th Street, this 74-acre park is an outdoor lover’s paradise with its volleyball courts, playgrounds, fitness areas including Muscle Beach , and winding paved pathways perfect for strolling and taking in the scenic beauty.

This Miami treasure is also brimming with swaying palm trees and will entice anyone to explore its beauty through walking, biking, rollerblading, swimming, sunbathing, and many other recreational opportunities.

Also, the park’s funky-colored lifeguard towers at the beach lend themselves as a backdrop for your Instagram photos.    

14. Take memorable photos at the Museum of Illusions, Miami

Photo via Museum of Illusions

No place on this list is quite as Instagrammable as the Museum of Illusions .

With over 40+ Interactive, 3D illusions, this museum takes inspiration from Miami culture, pop culture, and movies to give you quirky and colorful photo backdrops.

Whether it is crossing a lava bridge or walking on the edge of a skyscraper, there are up to 40 realistic displays to choose from, and you can even ask the museum’s professional photographers to help you with your pictures.

Also, their “Smash It!” room allows you to write out your negative emotions on plates and smash them to feel better, but it is only open to adults and children (12+).

This place is perfect if you’re looking for fun things to do with teenagers in Miami !

15. Enjoy a rooftop movie night at the Rooftop Cinema Club

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rooftop Cinema Club (US) (@rooftopcinemaclub)

A first-of-its-kind in Miami Beach, Rooftop Cinema Club stuns with its gorgeous sunset and skyline views, comfy seats, elevated eats, and handpicked movies, making it one of the best things to do in South Beach Miami for couples.

The 18+ spot also boasts a beautiful floral wall for your cute Instagram photos, a concession stand for buttery popcorn and gourmet hot dogs, as well as a full bar to grab beer, wine, or specialty cocktails before the movie.

Then once the 24-foot LED screen lights up, you will be handed a wireless headphone for crystal clear sounds, and couples can snag one of the loveseats for an intimate evening.

Plus, the cinema hosts monthly programs like sing-a-longs and special screenings that you shouldn’t miss. 

16. Stroll along Espanola Way

Espanola Way looks like a slice cut out of the Mediterranean villages of Spain and France, but it’s rich in Miami Beach’s vibes.

Located on 14th Street between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenue, this two-block pedestrian-only path is adorned with peach-colored European-inspired buildings, preserving most of its old-world beauty.

There’s no shortage of food, drinks, music, and fun, as this thoroughfare is lined with many drinking, dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Every section of the street oozes unmatched charm and thanks to its lively atmosphere, it is also perfect for people-watching.

So take a stroll and discover the beauty that keeps attracting visitors.

17. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic Miami Beach Boardwalk

Extending from South Pointe Park to North Beach, this seven-mile boardwalk is flanked by the stunning Atlantic Ocean on one side and luxurious hotels and beautiful parks on the other.

The scenic pathway is a top place to go in South Beach as it serves as the neighborhood’s hub of activity, populated by many dining, drinking, and shopping options, as well as public restrooms for your convenience.

18. Tour the World Erotic Art Museum

Cullen328 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The World Exotic Art Museum (WEAM) is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Miami South Beach as it showcases the intriguing world of human s8xuality from Roman times to date.

Housed in a 12,000-square-foot space, there are 4,000 artworks on the history of erotic art all collected by Naomi Wilzig and accompanied by fascinating nuggets of information. These include paintings, sculptures, photographs, and drawings.

You will also find works by famous names like Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Rembrandt, and some must-sees like the Kama Sutra-themed four-poster bed and the six-foot carved wood phallus.  

The museum also doubles as a library, research center, and educational institution with regular cultural programs and academic events. But keep in mind that WEAM is 18+ only, and photographs and videos are not allowed.  

19. Party like a VIP at Nikki Beach Miami

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nikki Beach Miami Beach (@nikkibeachmiami)

Partying in the sand should be a no-brainer when it comes to things to do in South Beach, and Nikki Beach Miami delivers the perfect toes-in-the-sand experience.

Since 1998, this beach club has built a cult following, thanks to its comfy beach beds, lush chic decor, tasty cocktails, delicious seafood, and epic parties with killer house and dance tunes from resident DJs.

Guests can enjoy globally-inspired meals and creative cocktails in the stylish indoor area with a large dance floor or the beautiful outdoors with an oceanfront pool.

The vibes at Nikki are always on with live music from 3:00 pm daily, but on weekends, world-class DJs take it up a notch, and it is not uncommon to spot A-listers basking in the lively atmosphere.

However, this high-class establishment sticks to a strict beach chic dress code, so dress to impress. And since it’s a very popular place, we highly recommend making a reservation to get a spot.

This place is also perfect if you’re looking for bachelorette party ideas in Miami !

20. Immerse Yourself in spectacular digital art at ARTECHOUSE Miami

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ARTECHOUSE ® (@artechouse)

How would you feel if you could manipulate artwork with your fingers? This is exactly the exciting and unique experience that ARTECHOUSE Miami offers.

Unlike traditional art museums, this interactive and immersive digital art gallery uses videos, light displays, extended reality (XR), and installations to draw you into a virtual world.

You will feel like you are in the mind of the artists as you interact with these innovative artworks! It is also a perfect place to take cool Instagram photos.

21. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Collins Park

If you are looking for a South Beach attraction that is perfect for relaxing but also offers a plethora of activities for all ages, then head to Collins Park .

This small oceanfront beach park is a haven of palm trees and perfectly manicured lawns, where you can momentarily forget that you’re in the heart of the bustling Miami Beach.

And, it is dotted with shops, restaurants, walking trails, and entertainment venues to keep you occupied for hours.

Also, kids will enjoy running around the playground, while the grassy areas make for the perfect picnic spot.

But don’t leave without taking a picture in front of the park’s iconic colored stacked stones, knowns as the 8th Magic Mountain.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in South Beach

The best things to do in South Beach run from seriously fun to awesomely educational, so no matter where your interest lies, you will always find something to get excited about in this bustling neighborhood.

So start planning your vacation with our roundup of the very best that South Beach has to offer.

But before you go, consider sharing these South Beach activities if you found the article helpful!

Sharing is caring!

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

Best Time To Visit Florida: When To Go And When To Avoid

November 3, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you wondering when is the best time to visit Florida? You are in the right place. In this article, we will walk you through the best time of year to go to Florida depending on your needs.

By the end of this article, you will be able to decide which is the best month to go to Florida and how to plan accordingly. We will talk you through the best weather months in Florida, when the state is least crowded and when it can be cheapest to visit.

Florida is an incredible state with so much to offer from the beautiful Emerald Coast beaches to the swampland of the Everglades to the wonderful vibrant Key West it has something to please every traveler.

Whether you are looking for a romantic Floridian getaway or family-friendly beaches you will want to know when to go to Florida. We have you covered.

So pull up a chair grab and drink and let us walk you through the best time to vacation in Florida.

When is The Best Time To Visit Florida

Deciding when to go to Florida is never easy. As Floridians, we prefer the winter months when it gets a little cooler but traveling in winter is a luxury most don’t have.

I would say the best time to visit Florida depends on a lot of factors such as budget, your tolerance to heat if you have an aversion to crowds, and of course if your vacation time is dictated by school holidays. All these factors come into play when you are choosing the best time of year to go to Florida.

It is also dependent on where you want to go in Florida as the average temperatures and conditions can change considerably from the Panhandle beaches in the north to the Key West beaches in the south. The temperature difference can be as much as 5 -10 degrees Fahnenhieght.

Most agree the best time to go to Florida is between March and April or September and October. This is when the weather is great and not too hot, it tends to be less crowded and is often cheaper. However, this is also when children are in school so most can’t travel then.

As a guide, April and November tend to have the lowest rainfall, and May and October have the combination of warmth and low rainfall. May tends to be the best month for beach holidays and October/November tends to be less crowded times in Orlando.

When you are thinking of when to go to Florida also keep in mind where you are going. Central Florida tends to be less crowded and has more tolerable weather from January to April. South Florida tends to be the best in the winter months, and Northern Florida is a great place to visit in the summer as the heat is less intense.

If you are thinking of Visiting The Florida Keys our article on the best time to visit the Key West might be helpful.

Worst Time To Go To Florida

Personally, we don’t think there is a bad time to go to Florida. As long as you plan, know what to expect, and aren’t going at a time where the conditions are hard for you to tolerate you will have a great time.

However not all months are equal, so here are our thoughts on the worst time to go to Florida.

If you find heat and humidity intolerable then July and August are the months for you to avoid. As a Floridian resident, I find these months just far too hot and tend to favor staying indoors.

June tends to be the highest rainfall month followed by July and September, so if you are after a beach holiday these months may not be great.

Hurricane season runs from June until November and while hurricanes hitting the coast are rare recent events have shown the real danger. Chances of hurricanes tend to be more prevalent in late summer to early fall.

As for crowds, it is very dependent on where you are going, however, any time the children are on vacation, there is a national holiday or a specific event like Pride in Key West attractions can get packed.

Also, keep in mind that during the Florida off-season some attractions may not be open or running at a lower capacity with areas closed so check before you go to avoid disappointment.

When it comes to the worst time to go to Florida it really is what is worse for you in your situation.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Travel To Florida?

The cheapest month to go to Florida can vary based on where you are going in Florida and where you are traveling from. It’s often cheaper for us as Floridians to travel in the summer months however if you are traveling from the U.K. for example summer is the most expensive.

The high season in Florida is considered May to June and consequently, this is when prices can be higher. As for flights the cheaper months tend to be January, September, and May but any time outside of school and national holidays will see cheaper fares. Cheap flights for those in the USA can also be found in late August after the children have gone back to school.

Early September to Thanksgiving can see cheaper theme park tickets (minus Halloween festivities). And early February to May (minus Easter) can see prices lower.

For great hotel deals, September to Thanksgiving and mid-March to mid-June tend to be great. Obviously minus the school holiday periods.

To save money also think about the destination. For example, staying at New Smyrna Beach rather than Daytona will save you money, and staying at Marathon rather than Key West making your money go further. Panama City Beach will be less expensive than the Destin beaches and deals can be found at some of the lesser-known beach destinations like Jenson.

The cheapest time to visit Florida depends on so many things but there is always a deal to find and if you can travel during the off-season in Florida you will always bag a bargain.

What Is Rainy Season In Florida?

Florida gets the majority of its rainfall during certain months which are known as the rainy season. The rainy season tends to run from the middle of May to the middle of October although this can change slightly depending on where you are in Florida.

During these months brief intense showers fall almost every day normally mid to late afternoon. Florida rain tends to be different from the rain most are used to. The showers are heavy and very brief but you can get soaked. The rest of the time it is hot with bright sunshine and often these showers are a welcome relief.

The Hurricane season runs from June to November with the biggest risk between September and October.

What Month Is The Best Weather In Florida? 

The best time to visit Florida based on the weather is a hard question to answer as we each have our preferred weather. Florida has a humid subtropical climate which means the summers are very hot and sticky and the winters are drier and sunny.

For us personally, we prefer the weather from October through April, this is when the heat tends to calm down and there is less rainfall.

The hottest month tends to be July where the average temperature is a high of 34 C 93 F and a low of 24 C 75 F. The coldest month is in January with an average high of 22 C 71 F and a low of 11 C 51 F. However, these temperatures can differ a lot from the northern Panhandle to the southern Keys.

In terms of rainfall, June is the highest and December the lowest.

Most tend to agree the best weather months in Florida tend to be between October and May.

High And Low Season For Florida 

As a rule of thumb high season in Florida tends to be when the schools are on holiday and there are national US holidays. November through April is also considered peak season as this is when tourist flock to the south to experience the best weather in the USA.

Low season in Florida tends to run from May to October missing out on school holidays where it can be busy. Outside of the school holidays during the off-season at Florida, you will be able to find hotel deals.

However, this all comes with a caveat as it depends on where you are going in Florida. South Florida beaches are packed during spring breaks, the northern beaches are packed during summer. Theme parks tend to be the busiest during the summer school holidays and Key West is popular in December .

February and September tend to be great months to visit and accommodation prices can drop up to 50%.

Visit Florida In Summer If You:

Visit Florida in Summer if it’s the only time you have available. If you have children and this is one of the only times to visit then this is the best time to travel to Florida for you.

The water is warmer and the temperatures are hot, hot, hot and it can get very humid. Just be prepared for rain and heat and make sure you protect yourself.

It can get very busy in the summer and hotel rates in some -places will increase. On the good side, all tourist attractions and activities will be open and you will enjoy around eight hours of sunshine a day.

Visit Florida In Winter If You:

If you are after less rain and more tolerable temperatures then winter is perfect for you. However, winter does not necessarily mean fewer crowds and lower prices. Florida’s population can increase by up to a million people as seasonal sun seekers head to the state, particularly during December and February.

The visitors tend to be of the older generation so tourist attractions can be less packed and certain areas will see a fall in prices.

Water temperatures are a bit cooler and the hours of sunshine tend to be about 6. You are also out of hurricane season in winter.

Winter can be the best time to vacation in Florida.

Visit Florida In Fall If You:

Most feel fall is perhaps the best time to go to Florida. You will find fewer crowds, warm but more tolerable weather and some deals to be had. Again this depends on where you are going because Disney during the Halloween period can be packed.

There is the biggest chance of hurricanes in early fall though so keep that in mind. September can still see a lot of rainfall but this eases in October and November.

While the leaf colors are not dramatic in Florida there are still places to see fall foliage in Florida . And Florida goes all out for Halloween with Universal Halloween Horror Nights , Howl O Scream at Seaworld, and Fantasy Fest in Key West.

We feel fall is the best season to visit Florida particularly if you love Halloween.

Visit Florida In Spring If You:

If you avoid Easter/Spring Break Spring can be the best time to vacation in Florida. The weather is perfect, the crowds are fewer and the prices tend to be lower than in other seasons.

March and April see little rainfall but this can increase in May. The average hours of sunshine a day is 9 and humidity levels are at their lowest.

If you are wondering when to go to Florida and you can pick and choose your dates pick Spring, it really is lovely around this time.

Spring can be the cheapest time to visit Florida.

When To Go To Florida By Month:

Florida in january.

January in Florida is surprisingly quite a popular time to visit. While there may not be lots of tourists the people that make Florida their home in winter are still here.

It is a very dry season and the average temperature is 60 F 15 C. Prices tend to be mid-range but the further north you go the more likely you are to find a bargain.

It is the coolest month of the year. However, temperatures vary a lot depending on where you visit. Higher temperatures are naturally found in the south and lower in the north.

Key events around this time include The Art Deco Weekend in Miami, the Gasparilla Pirate Fest in Tampa, and the Kumquat Festival in Dade City.

January also sees the Crystal River Manatee Festival and the Orange City Blue Spring Manatee Festival both located near sites where hundreds of manatees gather in the winter.

Read our article on the best place to see wild manatees in Florida .

Florida In February

February in Florida sees temperatures begin to edge upwards but it tends to still be too chilly for tourists. This is also the time when the winter sunseekers begin to leave consequently the state can be less crowded and prices are lower.

Florida in February also seems to be the festival month with the Florida State Fair, the Edison Festival Of Light, and the South Beach Food and Wine Festival taking place.

The end of February sees the Daytona 500 and Mardi Gras celebrations get underway in Universal. The Mount Dora Art Festival and the Naples National Art Festival are also worth a mention.

Most feel February is the best month to go to Florida and we would be inclined to agree. It’s definitely the least crowded time to visit Florida and can be the cheapest month to go to Florida.

The average temperature in February is 62 F 17 C

For a look at some of The Florida Festivals take a look at our article 20 Best Festivals in Florida You Can’t-Miss.

Florida In March

March in Florida sees the onslaught of spring breakers consequently taking us into the high season in Florida. The temperatures are warm and it’s dry making it perfect beach weather some beaches such as Daytona are a Spring Break Mecca. If you are after a relaxed holiday this is not the month to come although early March sees fewer people.

March is probably the last month you can see manatees before the water gets too warm. Hiking in Florida and camping are also perfect in March.

The International Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot in Orlando is in March along with Marathon Seafood Festival and the St. Augustine Lions Spring Festival.

If you are young and after a party vibe then this is the best month to go to Florida. It is also one of the best weather months in Florida.

Average temperatures tend to be 66 C, 19 F.

Florida In April

April in Florida sees the spring breaks leave and prices drop making April the least crowded time to visit Florida.

The days start to feel longer, the weather warms up and the beaches are just perfect. there are also some great festivals In April.

The Fort Myers Beach Film Festival, the infamous Interstate Mullet Toss, and the Fort Lauderdale Air Show are all worth a mention but there are lots more.

April can also be the cheapest month to go to Florida. Most agree Spring is the best season to visit Florida. Florida in April is just perfect in so many ways. Many believe it is the best month to visit Florida.

Average temperatures tend to be 71 C, 21 F.

Florida in May

May in Florida sees the start of summer’s wet season and the humidity starts to rise. As temperatures start to rise so do mosquitoes so keep that in mind.

The north Florida beaches in the state tend to start getting busy and the southern ones can get a little quieter. It is also the start of sea turtle-nesting season so some beaches or part of the beaches may be closed off.

The crowds while busy are manageable for the most part.

Pensacola becomes a hive of activity with the Memorial Day Weekend Gay Party and generally from Memorial Day things start to get busier.

In terms of festivals, Sunfest on West Pam Beach, Florida Folk Festival in White Springs, and the Key West Singers and Songwriters Festival are all worth a mention.

May is the best month to visit Florida if you want the heat but not the crowds. Florida in May is perfect beach weather for those who love the heat. Since it’s the low season in Florida you may be able to find some great deals.

Average temperatures for Florida in May tend to be 76 C, 24 F.

Florida in June

June in Florida is when the heat really starts to kick in, it is also the start of hurricane season although that tends to peak in September and October.

As schools in the USA break for the holidays, crowds begin to build up, especially in theme parks. June is also the wettest month so expect rain.

Gay Days and St Pete PrideFest can pull in upwards of 40,000 members of the LGBTQIA+ community which also pushes prices up. Miami Fashion Week also happens in June.

Florida in June is all systems go with all attractions open and operating at full capacity.

Average temperatures tend to be 81 C, 27 F.

Florida in July

In some ways, July in Florida is very similar to June it can get unbearably humid and the bugs are out in full force.

The Florida Springs can be a welcome relief from all the heat although they will be busy. The 4th of July sees celebrations everywhere with Miami really putting on a show.

July is also the beginning of scallop season. The Pensacola Beach Air Show and Hemingway Days in Key West are also events worth considering a trip to.

Average temperatures for Florida in July tend to be 82 C, 28 F.

Florida in August

August in Florida is still hot humid and thundery however towards the middle of August the crowds tend to lessen.

If you can stand the heat and don’t mind the rain there are deals to find in late August. Miami Spice starts in August and it is also the International Ballet Festival.

Average temperatures tend to be 82 C, 28 F. Florida in August is hot but there are some great deals.

Florida in September

September in Florida sees the heat let up a little and the crowds start to subside. It is also the month that is most active for hurricanes, so take any alerts or evacuation alerts seriously.

Most of the main attractions are still operating at full capacity even though the crowds have calmed down so it can be a great time to visit Florida.

You will encounter rain so be prepared, and of course, Labor Day will bring in the crowds again. You will also see the start of some of the autumn festivities beginning.

If you are wondering when to visit Florida September can be a perfect month.

Average temperatures tend to be 80 C, 27 F.

Florida in October

Prices tend to lower during Florida in October but the theme parks can get crowded around Halloween events. The temperature begins to drop, the rain eases and we are toward the end of hurricane season.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights are in full swing and Oktoberfest events are far and wide.

Key West Fantasy Fest draws in a massive crowd too.

October in Florida sees good weather and relatively crowd-free beaches and outside of theme parks and Halloween events things tend to be quieter.

Average temperatures tend to be 74 C, 23 F.

Florida in November

November in Florida sees the start of the dry season and the start of the winter sun seekers often referred to as Snowbirds.

Thanksgiving sees a spike in visitors but a lot of the usual tourist traps will be much quieter. Temperatures are lower but the sea is still pleasant to swim in and the downpours cease.

Florida in November key events include Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival the McIntosh 1890s Festival in Gainsville and the Florida Seafood Festival in Apalachicola. The Miami Book Fair also takes place.

November is in the Florida off-season and you can find deals.

Average temperatures tend to be 67 C, 19 F.

Florida in December

December in Florida sees the state go all out for Christmas. It might not have the snow but the festive spirit is in full swing.

Winter sun seekers tend to flock to the south Florida beaches and the Art Basel Miami Beach pulls people into Miami.

Christmas Parades take place all over the state although the theme parks seem to have the biggest and best. The Winterfest Boat Parade is a must-see and the Victorian Christmas in Tampa will get you in a festive mood.

While it can be busy we feel there is something special about this state in December. While it might not be the perfect Christmas postcard location it certainly puts a different spin on Christmas.

If you are going to be in Florida in December take a look at our 16 Festive Ways To Celebrate Christmas In Florida. December can be the best time to visit Florida if you are looking for a different kind of festive season.

Average temperatures tend to be 62 C, 17 F.

As you can see the question of when is the best time to visit Florida is not easy to answer. When to go to Florida is so personal and really depends on what you like.

Florida off-season is a perfect time to visit if you don’t have children but the best month to go to Florida for you might be in high season. The best time to go to Florida is when you can go.

We hope this article has helped you decide the best month to visit Florida for you and whenever you go we hope you have an incredible time. Enjoy your vacation and come back and let us know all about it.

The Best Time to Visit South Beach, FL, US for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit South Beach for ideal weather are

November 19th to April 1st

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

South Beach Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other South Beach Travel Info

Weather in south beach.

Average temperatures in South Beach vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 35th percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit South Beach, the hottest months are August, July, and then September. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early August where highs are regularly around 92.2°F (33.4°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 77.3°F (25.2°C) at night.

South Beach Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

South beach temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

South Beach Perceived Temperature (F)

South beach perceived temperature (c), average south beach temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in South Beach are January, December, and then March. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early January. For example, on the week of January 1st there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in mid to late August with an average of 4 days of significant precipitation the week of August 20th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in South Beach.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in South Beach (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

South Beach has some high humidity months, with other comfortably humid months. The least humid month is March (55.8% relative humidity), and the most humid month is September (69.7%).

Wind in South Beach is usually calm . The windiest month is April, followed by March and May. April’s average wind speed of around 8 knots (9.2 MPH or 14.8 KPH) is considered “a gentle breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in late May where average top sustained speeds reach 14.8 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in South Beach.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to south beach.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for the United States; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Dec 04, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in South Beach, FL, US is March, followed by January and February. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit South Beach in November. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall south beach travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 89°F (31.7°C) and 80.4°F (26.9°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 4 to 6 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with 12 to 13 days of precipitation per month. June – August is fairly slow season for tourism in South Beach, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly less.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 90.9°F (32.7°C) and 81°F (27.2°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 6 to 13 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in South Beach to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 81.5°F (27.5°C) and 78.1°F (25.6°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 3 to 4 times per month. These times of year are the second busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › the United States › South Beach, FL, US

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The best things to do in Miami for locals and tourists

Pride events, summer festivities, iconic sightseeing and more of the best things to do in Miami right now

June 2024:  Miami is heating up (literally) and we've got tons of June events in Miami  to ensure you get out and make the most of these last, fleeting spring days. Of course, there's so much to explore in the Magic City no matter the weather (be sure to bookmark our guide to Miami's best things to do on a rainy day now that those summer storms are starting to roll in). Below, check out all of our picks for the best things to do in Miami right now. 

Locals and tourists can agree that the best things to do in Miami extend beyond lounging on the sand—though it goes without saying that spending some time on the best Miami beaches  is fundamental to life in the 305. Aside from dabbling in our famous nightlife and exploring Miami's best bars , no trip to the Magic City would be complete without scoping out the booming culinary scene and our award-winning Miami restaurants . In between sunbathing, swimming and sipping cocktails, check off these essential Miami experiences, a mix of year-round attractions, seasonal events, cultural staples and exciting one-offs vetted by our expert editors. By the way, this list is curated, as always, but isn’t ranked—we just couldn’t choose favorites.

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Best things to do in Miami

1.  Fly your raindbow flag at Wynwood Pride

• Things to do
• Until Jun 30, 2024

What is it?  The annual Pride celebration on the mainland returns for a fifth year, standing defiantly in the face of heat waves, tropical storms and gay flight to Fire Island. Unlike Miami Beach Pride, Wynwood Pride happens in June, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community alongside the rest of the world during World Pride Month. The concept was to create a more music and performance-driven atmosphere in the heart of Miami’s booming arts district that appealed to different ages and underserved groups.

Time Out tip:  Events for this year span across weekends in June, including a special edition of First Fridays at ICA Miami . Stay tuned to their Instagram page for the latest.

2.  Mingle with film buffs at American Black Film Festival

• Film events
• Jun 12 Jun 16, 2024

What is it? This annual festival in the heart of Miami Beach features five days of screenings, celebrity interviews, workshops, panel discussions and networking events celebrating Black television and filmmaking.

Why go? As in years past, the 28th ABFF will host a packed schedule of Hollywood premieres, an indie showcase, a comedy night, an awards show and an epic closing gala on Saturday. Events take place primarily across Miami Beach Convention Center and New World Center.

3.  Stimulate your senses at Miami Beach Classical Music Festival

• Performances
• South Beach Jun 27 Jul 28, 2024

What is it? This annual, month-long music festival platforms over 200 classical musicians across Miami Beach for a series of free public performances and ticketed events, including three full opera productions and three symphonic concerts.

Why go? This year features the return of its popular Fourth of July orchestra and fireworks show at Lummus Park and an immersive space symphony concert at Faena Forum backdropped by 360-degree live projection-mapped visuals, among other unique offerings.

4.  Stroll the magnificent Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

• Event spaces
• Coconut Grove

What is it? Miami’s number one attraction (at least on Trip Advisor) is a surreal Italian Renaissance-style villa in the middle of lush, laid-back Coconut Grove . Its meticulously landscaped gardens, sprawling bayfront terrace and, well, the house itself, make up a total of 43 acres.

Why go?  Vizcaya is home to some of  Miami’s most Instagrammable  floors and staircases and  makes for the most fetching photo backdrop in the city (just ask the quinceañeras and brides roaming about). Its inimitable collection of European antiques and decorative works from the 16th to 19th centuries is truly breathtaking. 

5.  Peep modern works at Pérez Art Museum Miami

• Apr 7, 2024

What is it?  With a collection of works from such artists as Robert Rauschenberg, James Rosenquist, Frank Stella and Ana Mendieta, not to mention some high-caliber traveling exhibitions, this relatively young museum (formerly Miami Art Museum) is worth a visit.

Why go?  Family-friendly interactive programs bring art home: during free Second Saturday (of the month) programs, museum teachers lead families in hands-on activities inspired by the works on display.

6.  Explore the lush grounds at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

What is it? One of South Florida’s natural jewels, this 83-acre garden, named after renowned botanist and Miami resident David Fairchild, is filled with tropical splendor: a lush rainforest with a stream, sunken garden, dramatic vistas, an enormous vine pergola and a museum of plant exploration.

Why go?  Winter is the absolute best  time to visit Fairchild; the breezy weather just beckons you to explore every inch of this sprawling tropical land. 

Don't miss: Jurassic Garden , a new exhibit in which life-size dinos hold court amid a collection of cycads, ferns, conifers and all sorts of flowering plants that date back to primitive times

7.  Catch this season’s best concerts

What is it? Amid the season’s plusses (nice weather, fleeing snowbirds), Miami concerts are now in full bloom, spanning everyone from Justin Timberlake to Bad Bunny, Blink-182 and more. Click through to scope them all and snag tickets while you can.

8.  Bask on the best beaches in Miami

What is it? Not all beaches are created equal. That becomes abundantly clear when you live near one of the world’s best and then try leaving. In Miami, it’s actually hard to find a beach you won’t like. Still, we all have our favorites, and different occasions call for different beaches. Yes, we have that many. From sunbathing meccas to shady spots for picnicking, we've compiled our picks for the best beaches in Miami.

Why go? Looking to chill in nature? Perhaps try a beach on Key Biscayne . Wanna strip down to your birthday suit? Haulover  (the nude section) is your destination. Ready to party? We probably don’t have to tell you which beach is best for that. 

9.  See a show at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

What is it?  This is Miami's premier performing arts center. 

Why go? The striking postmodern architecture alone makes it worth a visit. But the fact that it’s home to Zoetic Stage, the Florida Grand Opera and the Miami City Ballet, and occasionally hosts the New World Symphony and Cleveland Orchestra, doesn’t hurt either. Not sure where to start? Explore our critic's picks for the best Miami theater and shows to see this season .

Don't miss: Arrive to your show early for a meal (or just drinks and apps if you're short on time) at Teatro , the Arsht's recently debuted on-site restaurant that's high on drama (and Latin American-inspired flavors).

10.  Dine in paradise at Miami's best waterfront restaurants

• Restaurants
• American creative

What is it? When it comes to dining on the water, Miami has a bit of everything: Lively dockside dives, glamorous Mediterranean-inspired lounges and wellness-focused options abound—not to mention storied hotspots where celebrities (both legit and aspiring) arrive via yacht.

Why go? From seafood towers and $1 oysters to dog-friendly decks where piña coladas flow like water, Miami has that and more. If you’re not seizing every opportunity to indulge at one of Miami’s many waterfront restaurants, you’re doing something wrong. Click through to scope out our full guide to Miami's best waterfront dining.

11.  Shoot for the stars at Frost Science

• Exhibitions

What is it?  Frost Science is an aquatic-driven museum that occupies four buildings—the Aquarium, the Frost Planetarium and the North and West Wings— and features year-round exhibits and is a delight for curious minds of all ages.

Why go?  The museum is as state-of-the-art as it gets, featuring interactive exhibits, a 500,000-gallon Gulf Stream aquarium that houses all sorts of sea creatures and a planetarium dome that hosts monthly laser light shows.

Don't miss:  Running through October 6, the new Journey to Space exhibit explores human space travel with a hands-on, climb-aboard experience that brings to life what it takes to live and work in space. 

12.  Travel to Cuba by way of Café La Trova

• East Little Havana
• price 2 of 4

What is it? Authentic cuisine, cocktails and culture—this charming Cuban restaurant in Little Havana packs the neighborhood’s hallmarks into one inviting spot.

Why go? It’s rare to find a place that ticks off all the boxes of a proper touristic experience and also captures the attention of locals. James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein is behind the stellar menu, featuring favorites like the irresistible jamón serrano croquettes, hand-cut steak empanadas and risotto-style arroz con pollo. While decorated cantinero Julio Cabrera mixes up all kinds of cocktails, earning La Trova the No. 24 spot on the World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 awards .

Don’t miss: The house band playing Trova-style music nightly. Let the sounds of Cuban  son  sweep you away!

13.  People-watch along Lincoln Road

• Shopping centers

What is it? Designed by iconic architectural guru Morris Lapidus in the 1950s, Lincoln Road Mall was once dubbed the “Fifth Avenue of the South,” though it’s now commonly referred to as “Lincoln.” Endless sidewalk cafés, lounges and cultural venues—such as the Colony Theatre—stretch along its length from Washington Avenue to Alton Road.

Why go? The Herzog & de Meuron–designed 1111 Lincoln Road is quite possibly the world’s most glamorous parking garage and houses upscale retail on the ground level. But there are more than several blocks of stores and boutiques to browse and shop for hours. 

Don't Miss: Chime Garden , the tranquil new wind chime installation that's one of the largest of its kind in the world. Go on the weekends so you can also catch the Lincoln Road Antiques and Collectibles Market, which happens every other Sunday. 

14.  Have your mind blown by art at Superblue Miami

What is it?  A massive 50,000-square-foot art space dedicated to the production of experiential mediums.

Why go?  With so many so-called Instagrammable installations floating about, it’s hard to get excited about anything that bills itself as experiential —but that’s not Superblue Miami, one of the city's best immersive experiences . Featuring brand-new works by some of the art world’s most creative installation artists like  Devlin, James Turrell and teamLab, the groundbreaking venture challenges perceptions, heightens the senses and generally wows.

15.  Immerse yourself in sound at New World Center

• South Beach

What is it? America’s only full-time orchestral academy, the New World Symphony grooms graduates from conservatories for careers in the symphony and other high-profile posts. Concerts range from classical to experimental, and the quality is high: guest teachers have included Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman and past guest conductors have included Sir Neville Marriner and Paavo Järvi. Founder Michael Tilson Thomas of the San Francisco Symphony often lends a hand too.

Why go? Since 2011, the symphony’s home has been a Frank Gehry-designed showstopper in SoundScape Park, where they regularly hold free, outdoor WALLCAST concerts and movie screenings.  

16.  Groove to Latin American and global sounds at ZeyZey

• Pop-ups and food events
• Little Haiti / Lemon City

What is it? A live music venue and cultural space in Little River that is possibly the best place to find refreshing, new, global and up-and-coming artists in town. 

Why go? This is where you go when you want to come as you are and just dance—not to EDM, not to reggaeton (OK, sometimes to both)—but to refreshing sounds like Afro-Caribbean funk, Brazilian disco, salsa, boogaloo or electro cumbia. 

Time Out tip: Zey Zey is currently the home base of Little River Flea , one of Miami's most popular weekend vintage markets. Check Instagram for dates.

17.  Check out the new murals at Wynwood Walls

What is it? The city’s first and only outdoor museum dedicated to street art.

Why go? The decade-old cultural institution is the famed epicenter of the Wynwood Arts District, legitimizing graffiti art with a roster of more than 50 murals painted by renowned artists around the world—from Shepard Fairey and Kenny Scharf to Kelsey Montague. Vibrant in color, deep in meaning and large in scope, the groundbreaking Walls are the undisputed selfie capital of Miami and chances are you’ll recognize some of the murals from the profile pics in your Insta feed.

18.  Party till dawn at E11EVEN

• price 3 of 4

What is it? Miami’s 24/7 ultraclub is a playground for celebrities and hard-partying locals alike.

Why go? If you’re in the mood for going all out, E11even has you covered with a full nightlife experience—think dancers, bottle service and tons of big-name musical performances. 

Don’t miss: The people-watching at Giselle , the club's extravagant rooftop restaurant. Just sit back and take it all in.

19.  Shop local at one of the best farmers’ markets in Miami

• Markets and fairs

What is it? An afternoon spent wandering the isles of Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods sounds fun, but nothing beats a dewy Saturday morning picking through organic produce and testing out kitchen-made salt scrubs as the Florida sun warms your shoulders. We’ve rounded up the best farmer’s markets in Miami, from year-round staples to options with air conditioning, too. 

Why go? For nearly every neighborhood in Miami, there is a farmers’ market, and nothing says “I support local” like giving small farms and mom-and-pop businesses the chance to peddle their homegrown and homemade goods. Oftentimes, you’ll find the produce is fresher (and cheaper) than grocery stores, and packing a picnic blanket to lay out on after a shopping trip makes for a fabulous family or dog-friendly afternoon.

Don't miss: Free yoga under the banyan trees on Saturday mornings at Legion Park .

20.  Entertain the kiddos at Miami's most family-friendly destinations

What is it?  From visits to the best Miami attractions and spending the day getting splashed by some marine life to day trips that put them face-to-face with wild animals, there’s plenty to keep children entertained with our guide to Miami's best things to do with kids.

Why go?  These are actually activities the whole family will enjoy—not just the little ones in the bunch. Rather than boring your kids with Miami tours , or trekking to kid-friendly Orlando for a quick escape, treat them to one of these local experiences they’ll never forget.

21.  Forage the abundance at Fruit & Spice Park

• price 1 of 4

What is it? The only garden of its kind in the US: a 37-acre park exhibiting more than 500 varieties of fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, nuts and exotic edibles. An old schoolhouse and coral rock building recall South Florida’s pioneer life, while the charming gift shop sells spices, jams and jellies, unusual seeds and aromatic teas, plus cookbooks on tropical fruits and vegetables.

Why go? The park is also the site of recurring events like an annual orchid festival, blues concerts and a summer fruit festival where you can really stock up. 

Don't miss:  This month, the park hosts its annual Summer Fruit Festival . If you can't make it, there are free guided tours offered daily. Learn about the fruits as you eat them—visitors are allowed to try anything that's already fallen from a tree.

22.  Hop on a boat tour of Everglades National Park

• Walks and tours

What is it? This massive national park spans 1.5 million acres of wetlands. See alligators, cranes, turtles, manatees and even panthers roam their native habitat freely.

Why go? There’s no place in the world like it, and it’s within driving distance of Downtown Miami. With three separate entrances, visitors can explore on foot, bicycle and via boat.

Don’t miss:  A sunrise in the everglades by booking a room at Flamingo Lodge, the only hotel inside Everglades National Park.

23.  Indulge your senses on Española Way

What is it? Find a slice of old-world Europe right in the middle of South Beach. Española Way is a charming, pedestrian strip lined with shops, restaurants and cozy, bilevel hotels that transport you to far-flung places.

Why go? Much larger Lincoln Road may have overshadowed it at one point, but the bustling tourist corridor is attracting more locals than ever before with its sidewalk eateries and free outdoor programming. Experience Paris’ café culture at enduring favorite A La Folie Café , serving up hard-to-find French classics. Drink your way down the tree-lined street’s mix of open-air bars and restaurants, stopping to take in the live music and unique people-watching, and get away from Miami without the need to go very far.

Don’t miss: Breezy rooftop cocktails above it all at the chic new Esmé Miami Beach  hotel. 

24.  Chill out at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

• Key Biscayne

What is it? At the tip of serene, secluded Key Biscayne is this 400-acre state park with beach access, picnic tables, bike trails, and watersport rentals.

Why go? A great place for families with accessible parking close to the sand, Bill Baggs is home to South Florida’s only lighthouse. Take the kids and let them climb the 109 steps to the top of the lookout.

Don’t miss: Boater’s Grill is one of Miami’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away at a far corner of the park, the waterfront spot provides free docking for small vessels and serves moderately priced breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plus, The Cleat is just steps away for a sunset cocktail with your toes in the sand.

25.  Admire Miami Beach's iconic architecture in the Art Deco District

What is it? More than 800 buildings from the 1930s and early ’40s survive in the city’s historic Deco District, between 5th Street to the south and Dade Boulevard to the north. 

Why go?  Amazingly, these buildings were almost destroyed by developers in the early 1970s. Their survival is due to a handful of activists who, in 1976, founded the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL). With their help, a number of the best Miami hotels, and even some South Beach clubs, have maintained their beautiful façades and historical designation.

Don't miss: A few of our favorite Art Deco buildings , including the Celino Hotel, the Carlyle and the historic Miami Beach U.S. Post Office. 

26.  Take in the wonders of the Rubell Museum

What is it? Don and Mera Rubell’s eponymous museum houses over 7,700 works by more than 1,000 contemporary artists. From Basquiat and Warhol to Koons, the whos-who of 20th-century artists is well represented.

Why go? It’s a former warehouse the couple turned into a sprawling exhibition space after outgrowing their Wynwood gallery of more than 26 years. With 53,000 square feet to play with, the Rubells have room to exhibit as well as engage the community via school partnerships and curatorial training programs.

Don’t miss: Dig into elevated tapas at Leku , the onsite Basque restaurant that’s every bit as enchanting as the contemporary art collection you just witnessed.

27.  Explore the historical and charming Deering Estate

• Palmetto Bay

What is it? Built by James Deering’s similarly well-off brother Charles, the vast property served as his winter escape and encompasses several buildings, a mangrove boardwalk and a significant archeological discovery. 

Why go? Outdoorsy types will appreciate the guided nature walks and birding opportunities. Plus, the estate boasts a fossil pit of 50,000-year-old animal bones and 10,000-year-old human remains; the latter are Paleo-Indians.

28.  Flood your IG feed with works from the Bass

• Cultural centers

What is it? What began in 1964 as a small, private collection of contemporary art is now an internationally recognized institution with hundreds of pieces within its multiple halls. The 1930s Art Deco building also has meeting areas and classrooms for family-friendly programming, though some of that is on hold for now.

Why go? The Bass’s permanent collections, as well as its traveling exhibitions, comprise art people actually want to see—and Instagram (the real reason we go to museums these days, right?). Think large-scale works made up of found objects that probe us and a site-specific work of LED signs that make you feel at home.

Don’t miss: Spend some time on the lawn exploring the museum’s public art, including Jim Drain’s chess table, Ugo Rondinone’s unmissable Miami Mountain and  Najja Moon’s monument to motherhood, Yo ur momma’s voice in the back of your head , which debuted this past spring.

29.  Visit Miami’s most popular fruit stand at Robert is Here

What is it? A throwback to Florida’s fruit stands of old, Robert is Here started in 1959 when the shop’s namesake, then six, began selling his family’s cucumbers from a roadside table. It has since grown into an emporium of exotic fruit and vegetables—and a huge tourist attraction.

Why go? A lovely farm setting, a bevy of exotic fruit—which you can ask to be whipped into a fresh milk shake—and an adorable petting zoo make this worthy of the trek down (way) south.

Don’t miss: Beyond sourcing nearly every type of fruit available, Robert is Here stocks “Grandma’s Kitchen,” its small general store, with local honey, artisanal bread and other yummy, Miami-made treats. 

30.  Walk the tree-lined sidewalks of Coconut Grove

What is it? Dubbed “Miami’s original neighborhood,” Coconut Grove is an eclectic waterfront enclave with a rich history as the oldest continually inhabited neighborhood in the city. Beyond its recent real estate boom, Coconut Grove is a pretty little neighborhood with some of Miami’s most beautiful architecture and pockets that are full of character.

Why go?  One of our favorite neighborhoods in the city, Coconut Grove ranked number 29 on Time Out’s list of the 51 coolest neighborhoods in the world in 2022. It was the only Florida neighborhood to make the list.

Don't miss: Catch the sunset at Monty’s , a lively dockside raw bar with strong tiki drinks and picturesque views of the marina. For dinner, Ariete (New American) and Los Félix (Mexican) both earned nods in the  Miami Michelin Guide .

31.  Go for a scenic jet ski ride in Biscayne Bay

What is it? Contrary to what any rap or reggaeton music video might have you believe, life’s not all about flexing on a megayacht around here. In Miami, we get down with watercraft in all their forms. On the beach, in the bay and dotting the canal and river-crossed landscapes in between, you can find rental options aplenty spanning everything from pontoons and  Miami boat tours to those delightfully zippy jet skis. 

Why go?  Because it's hot, and zipping around on the water sounds like a really fun way to cool down. On the jet ski front, we’ve vetted some primo locales for zooming through Miami’s glistening waters, as well as go-to companies for ensuring the rental process goes smoothly. When your next Miami jet ski adventure calls, we’ve scouted out who to turn to and where to go for an amazing time on the water, plus tips on pricing, tours and more.  

32.  Sip a fancy cocktail in the sky at Sugar

• Cocktail bars

What is it? A stunning rooftop bar that sits atop East, Miami, rewarding those who venture up with 360-views of the city and Asian-themed cocktails. It’s a bougie crowd, so dress accordingly.

Why go? While a rooftop bar on the mainland might not instantly seem like an essential thing to do in the city, Sugar is deserving of its spot on the list. At 40 floors, it’s the tallest bar in Miami and its secluded, storybook garden setting is like none other.

Don’t miss:  Come before the crowds to catch an absolutely stunning sunset over the Miami skyline. Stick around for the lively after-dinner crowd, or bop around Downtown after wetting your beak to find less pricy drinking options. Reservations are definitely recommended. Looking for more rooftop action? Check our full guide to Miami's best rooftop bars .

33.  Try famous Cuban food at Versailles restaurant

• West Little Havana

What is it? This self-proclaimed “most famous Cuban restaurant in the world” is arguably more popular than its palatial namesake in France. The Little Havana institution is the unofficial meeting place for the city’s Cuban community, who crowd the cafecito window 24/7 sipping on Cuban coffee.

Why go?  Toasted Cuban sandwiches, piping-hot Cuban coffee served in thimble-sized cups, authentic Cuban pastelitos made the exact same way for 40-plus years, yummy arroz con pollo...shall we go on? 

Don’t miss: Versaille’s adjacent bakery (it all connects inside) doubles as a charming dessert shop selling mini flans and key lime pies as well as Cuban-inspired ice cream. Get your meal to-go or take advantage of the large tents in the parking lot, offering loads of socially distant outdoor dining.

34.  Surround yourself with the finer things at the Miami Design District

• Design District
• price 4 of 4

What is it?  Our former Decorators’ Row has expanded into a hub for vanguard architecture, fashion and art. There are several multilevel, open-air shopping complexes like Palm Court and Paradise Plaza where you can shop luxury fashion labels including Emilio Pucci and Giorgio Armani. 

Why go?  There's always something happening at the District. If your pockets aren’t deep enough for the shops, there’s always the neighborhood’s growing number of galleries, a slew of public art and free admission to the district's main art museum, the  ICA .

Don’t miss:  The food! From Michelin-starred Cote Miami  and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon to  Contessa , Tablé and Sushi Yasu Tanaka, some of the best meals in Miami are within walking distance here.

35.  Score designer discounts at the best Miami outlet malls

What is it? What do tourists like more than exploring South Beach , scarfing down Cuban sandwiches or basking on the best Miami beaches ? Of course, it’s shopping in a Miami outlet mall. Vaguely lost-looking visitors shuffle through the perennially bottlenecked corridors of these bargain emporiums, loading up their empty suitcases with just about every sale item imaginable—from clothes to housewares to accessories.  Occasionally, it’s locals who begrudgingly schlep across highways and massive parking lots and dodge swarms of sale shoppers all in the name of a good deal. 

Why go? Are outlet malls in Miami pleasant? If you can avoid going on a weekend, they can be. Will they save you loads of money? Always, so we visit them anyway. Click through to 

36.  Go back in time at the Ancient Spanish Monastery

• North Miami Beach

What is it? Built in the mid-1100s near Segovia, Spain, this monastery was occupied by Cistercian monks for 700 years before it was converted to a granary and stable. In 1924, newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst purchased the cloisters and outbuildings and had the structure dismantled and shipped to the United States. It was intended for his California coastal mansion, Hearst Castle, but Hearst had financial problems, so most of his collection was sold at auction, and the stones remained in a Brooklyn warehouse for 26 years before finally being purchased and reassembled at a cost of $1.5 million.

Why go? Today, this Romanesque structure is an anomalous oasis in a noisy area. Things to look out for include a life-size statue of the Spanish king Alfonso VII (the monastery was originally constructed to commemorate one of his victories over the Moors) and a couple of attractive round stained-glass windows.

Time Out tip: The monastery is a favorite spot for weddings – so much so that it’s often closed to the public, especially on Sundays; call in advance before setting out.

37.  Check out the wildlife at Zoo Miami

What is it? The city’s premier wildlife center is home to thousands of animals, from reptiles to mammals to birds. The sprawling facility spans across 750 acres and is the largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida.

Why go? Due to the zoo’s sub-tropical temps, species native to Australia, Africa and other warm climates comfortably reside here. Forget a safari—Zoo Miami is where you’ll safely spot zebras, giraffes and lions. 

38.  Bargain-hunt at the best flea markets in Miami

• Thrift stores

What is it? Yes, Miami can be over-the-top bougie. But there’s also plenty to experience here on the cheap, like a day sunbathing on one of Miami’s famous beaches or scouring for treasures at the best thrift shops in Miami. For the latter, peruse our full guide to the best flea markets in Miami.

Why go? If it’s time to give your wallet a little break or the thrill of a great bargain just gets you off, look no further. We’ve hunted down all of Miami’s best flea markets so you can get your fill of guilt-free shopping.

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The Best Times to Visit Florida (Month-by-Month Travel Tips)

Wondering what month or season is the best time to travel to Florida? Our team of Florida locals have you covered!

Florida is the only peninsula in the country and the only state that maintains a true subtropical climate year-round, meaning that there’s never a bad month to visit. That said, some months can definitely be better than others, depending on your preferences.

If you’re booking a trip to Florida this year and wondering when to go and what to do, we’ve covered every single detail to consider before planning your trip.

Everyone visits for different reasons, so we’ve broken down the best times to visit for every possible type of vacation and preference.

Best Times to Visit Florida: Quick Summary

• Best Time for a Beach Vacation in Florida: April, May and November (great weather, lower crowds)
• Best Time for Going to Theme Parks in Florida: January, February, September and October (lower crowds and cost)
• Best Time to Visit National Parks in Florida: Spring and Fall
• Best Time for Fishing in Florida: Summertime; June, July, August and September
• Best Time for Golfing in Florida: almost all year with Winter months having the best weather
• Best Time to Visit Miami & the Keys in Florida: January, February, March, April and May
• Best Time for Lower Crowds in Florida: July, August and September
• Best Time for Lower Prices in Florida: January & September

We’ll explain each of these times of year in greater depth later in this post, as each topic deserves a more detailed description of why it’s best to select specific months for certain purposes.

Florida Seasons At a Glance

Peak Beach Season in Florida: We realize many visitors will be coming to Florida with one thing in mind: getting to the beach! It’s nearly impossible to come to Florida without considering where you’ll be beaching on vacay, especially if you’re coming from a landlocked area. And because Florida is literally the warmest state in the country, there’s almost no bad time to go to the beach. However, March seems to be peak season for the beaches will everyone coming down here for Spring Break.

If we had to choose, we’d suggest going when there are fewer people and optimal temperatures. The best months for going to the beach in Florida are April, May and November. At this point in the year, there may be a moderate crowd, but you’ll be getting some of the best wind and water temperatures. In the Winter, the ocean breeze and waters can be quite cold for swimming and in the Summer months you have very high chances of hurricanes, tropical storms and daily rain showers that could ruin your plans.

Peak Theme Park Crowds in Florida: It’s shocking that theme park high seasons don’t necessarily follow the peak and slow seasons of Florida’s tourist crowds. We base our theme park volume on Walt Disney World, which is the vacation capital of the world and the place that most vacationers will be headed upon arrival in Orlando. However, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, Sea World and Legoland are all in close proximity and will fluctuate similarly.

Despite rainy weather being at it’s worst, most crowds will be at the theme parks in June, July and August. Not only will you be competing with other tourists at this time, but locals are also coming to have fun in droves. Amusement parks will also see an uptick in March for Spring Break and December for Christmas. This leaves the great weather months ripe for the picking with lower ticket and accommodation prices. To take advantage of this, plan to visit Florida’s theme parks during the months of January, February, September or October (can still be hot).

Slow Season in Florida: Florida is a “snowbird” haven, harboring Winter visitors and retirees who either come for extended vacations or who will be here for a full six months before heading back North for the hot months. They often arrive in October and go North in or before May. When they’re here, the state will be noticeably fuller, especially around the holidays and in the Spring when more tourists are here.

The slow season is inevitably the time when few people, even Florida residents, want to be here: Hurricane Season. Hurricane season lasts June through November, but the worst weather tends to be in July, August and September. Not only are these months riddled with daily thunder storms (and the somewhat rare potential hurricane or tornado), but the air is at it’s hottest and muggiest. Most people try to avoid this when vacationing in Florida.

Florida Month-by-Month

This breakdown for each month will help you determine which time of year is the best fit for your preferred activities. Even though Florida weather is pleasant year-round, each month has small changes from the other. We’ve covered these in detail from month to month.

Florida in January

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in January

January weather in Florida is usually the coldest month of the year. In the Northern part of the state (Central Florida to the Panhandle) average daily highs will be around 65°F (18.3°C) and lows will be about 36°F (2.2°C). In the Southern part (Central Florida to the Keys) average highs will be closer to 72°F (22.2°C). You’ll almost never see snow, even in the Northern part of the state and rain is fairly scarce this month. When packing, it’s best to bring a variety of layers as the mornings will start cold and get warm throughout the day.

January crowds in Florida tend to be some of the slowest of the year. The places where you’ll experience the biggest influx of visitors will be in towns that are popular with snowbirds. Most travelers will be pleasantly surprised with the cheaper accommodations in Florida this time of year.

Best Beaches in January: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in January: Everglades National Park, Mount Dora, Diving in the Keys, Golfing, Amusement Parks, Hog Hunting

Events in January: South Florida Fair, Florida Manatee Festival, Saint Augustine Film Festival, Homestead Championship Rodeo, Art Fort Lauderdale, Mecum Auto Auction, Key West Food & Wine Festival, Gasparilla Pirate Festival

Florida in February

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in February

February in Florida can vary each year, but it’s usually cooler. The Northern half of the state will average highs around 68°F (20°C) and lows at 45°F (7.2°C), while the Southern half will average highs closer to 74°F (23.3°C). Very often the cold air collides with humidity at this time, creating fog on the roadways for a few hours every morning until about 10am.

February crowds in Florida will vary depending on which region you visit this month. However, February tends to be a little slower month for vacationing. Most parts of Florida will experience a lull, even on the beaches, as most families will not be traveling this month in general, but snowbirds will keep the state busier this month.

Best Beaches in February: Gold Coast, Treasure Coast, the Florida Keys

Best Things to Do in February: South Florida, Ocala, Mount Dora, Swimming Crystal River, Diving in the Keys, Everglades National Park, Golfing, Amusement Parks, Spring Training

Events in February: Valentine’s Day, Spring Training Games, Florida State Fair, Florida Strawberry Festival

Florida in March

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in March

March weather in Florida can be cool, with warmer days sprinkled throughout averaging lows of 50°F (10°C) to highs of 75°F (23.9°C). Spring in Florida tends to have drastic changes in temperature each day, so expect to pack light layers you can put on and strip off when necessary. March is also a windy month for Florida with fogginess of the morning hours.

March crowds in Florida see a bit of uptick with most residents around the country vacationing for Spring Break. Florida is a popular Spring Break destination for it’s abundance of beaches and warm weather so most of the beach towns and big cities will be pretty busy.

Best Beaches in March: Gold Coast, Space Coast, Emerald Coast

Best Things to Do in March: Orlando, Jacksonville, South Florida, Space Coast, Snorkel Devil’s Den, Explore Florida Caverns, Golfing, Spring Training

Events in March: Spring Training Games, Florida Strawberry Festival, Sarasota Jazz Festival, Florida Renaissance Festival

Florida in April

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in April

April weather in Florida is starting to feel warmer, with less fog and less wind and more sunshine and breezy afternoons. April is also considered the last month of the dry season; rains will start to pick up in late May through the summer. Most of Florida will average 55°F (12.8°C) to 85°F (29.4°C) in the month of April. Humidity levels are always fairly high, with April seeing approximately 70% humidity.

April crowds in Florida die down just a little after the surge of Spring Break visitors in March. April is an excellent time to take advantage of lower hotel rates, while experiencing the oceans, beaches and inland areas before the heat becomes unbearable in the summer months. Snowbirds are still in town this month, so their most popular cities will still be fairly busy.

Best Beaches in April: Treasure Coast, the Florida Keys, Gold Coast

Best Things to Do in April: Orlando, West Palm, Apalachicola, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Explore Florida Caverns, Snorkel Devil’s Den, Hike National & State Parks, Dive in the Keys

Events in April: Florida Keys Island Festival, Pioneer Days Festival

Florida in May

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in May

May weather in Florida is definitely warmer than the start of the year with temperatures rising throughout the month. May tends to have the nicest weather out of the Spring months, with significantly less fog and more sunshine throughout the day. May is the start of the wet season in Florida, so expect random rainfall during your trip. Most of Florida will average 65°F (18.3°C) to 85°F (30°C).

May crowds in Florida are moderate. It’s usually the point in time when the snowbirds will begin to head back North with the increasing rise in temperature this month. It’s an excellent time to take advantage of lower hotel rates, while experiencing the oceans, beaches and inland areas of the state before the heat rises. The beaches should be fairly busy, but not full like they were in Spring Break.

Best Beaches in May: the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast, Gold Coast

Best Things to Do in May: Key West, Sarasota, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Bahia Honda State Park, Big Cypress State Park, Tube the Itchetucknee, Offshore Fishing

Events in May: Cinco de Mayo, Suwannee River Jam, Oceanfront Bandshell Concert Series, Orlando International Fringe Festival, Megacon, Jacksonville Jazz Fest

Florida in June

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in June

June weather in Florida will feel noticeably hotter and more humid than the other Spring months. June is in the wet season, so expect random showers and thunderstorms to occur at any point during your trip this month. Typically, rainfall in the Summer months in Florida will happen in the afternoons for about an hour or so and then taper off in the evening. But some days will have thunderstorms lasting all day through the night.

Even though the weather can be overcast and rainy, the sun still shine brightly and often in the month of June. The sun will be out most of the day this month, so come prepared with plenty of protection and sunblock because sunburn and heat rashes can happen quickly with limited sun exposure in Florida. It’s extremely important to stay hydrated, too. Most of the state will average 70°F (21.1°C) to 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

June crowds in Florida are busy. Many tourists like to travel to Florida at the beginning of the summer when the weather isn’t unbearable and the kids are out of school. There are plenty of beautiful white, sandy beaches around the state, so most visitors will spread out, but the popular public beaches like Miami, Cocoa and Clearwater will remain highly populated.

Best Beaches in June: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in June: Tallahassee, Central Florida, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Tube the Itchetucknee, Boating, Offshore Fishing

Events in June: Savor Sarasota, Sarasota Music Festival, Summer Sizzle Restaurant Week Naples, Bands on the Beach Pensacola, Rock the Docks Destin

Florida in July

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in July

July weather in Florida is very hot and muggy and even considered the hottest month of the year. This is the official start of summer, and summer in Florida is always pretty warm, sunny and rainy. Daily showers and thunderstorms are typical of July with higher chances of hurricanes. Average temperatures stay around 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

July crowds in Florida start to taper off. Being the hottest and most times wettest month of the year, most families aren’t crowding the beaches, but will still fill up the inland tourist spots and theme parks. Again, the sun is powerful even when it’s cloudy, so sun protection is always a must.

Best Beaches in July: First Coast, Treasure Coast, Cultural Coast

Best Things to Do in July: Panama City, Anna Maria Island, Central Florida, Fishing, Boating, Water Parks

Events in July: Independence Day, Fireworks at the Fountain Orlando, Star Spangled Spectacular Celebration, America’s Birthday Bash Miami, Celebrate America Tallahassee, Key Lime Festival Key West

Florida in August

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in August

August weather in Florida is very hot and muggy, usually the second hottest month of the year. We’re well into hurricane season at this point, so tropical storms and hurricanes are always likely this month. Aside from the major storms, expect random showers and thunderstorms to occur daily. It’s extremely important to have plenty of sun protection and hydration no matter the weather. Average temperatures will still be around 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

August crowds in Florida are fairly low. Even though August is ghastly hot and rainy and most families are heading back to school, the theme parks can still have decent crowds this month. Most beach goers will favor the Northern part of Florida up through the panhandle. The Southern beaches, especially those on the Atlantic side can be dangerously hot and more susceptible to bad storms.

If you’re looking for lower crowds when visiting Florida, definitely don’t miss our list of the 12 Quietest Beaches in Florida .

Best Beaches in August: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Sun Coast

Best Things to Do in August: Panama City Beach, Anna Maria Island, Tallahassee, Gainesville, Fishing, Boating, Water Parks

Events in August: Miami Spice, Key West Lobster Fest

Florida in September

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in September

September weather in Florida is still hot and muggy and it’s the main month that is heavily affected by hurricane watches and warnings. Also, Florida is often called the lightning capital of the world and while most visitors aren’t in danger, boaters should use caution. When it’s not overcast and rainy, the sun will shine brightly, so it’s important to prepare yourself with sun protection and hydration.

September crowds in Florida are low with most children back in school. Plus, hurricane season keeps tourists at bay. This makes it a nice month to visit the beaches and theme parks, but the weather can turn on you in an instant. Most of the state will average about 85°F (29.4°C) in the month of September, reaching over 75% humidity.

Best Beaches in September: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Sun Coast

Best Things to Do in September: Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Venice, Florida National Scenic Trail, Fishing, Boating, Amusement Parks, Water Parks

Events in September: Key West Sunset Celebration, Miami Spice, Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, Flavor Palm Beach

Florida in October

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in October

October weather in Florida is cooling off and getting drier. Hurricane season is nearly over and October typically won’t have too many hurricane watches or warnings. Daily rain showers and thunder storms begin to slow down this month. October is one of the first months that you begin to see cooler temperatures, as well, though hot days will still occur. Temperature averages a high of about 80°F (26.7°C) and a low of 67.5°F (19.7°C) occurring at nighttime.

October crowds in Florida are low. Most people aren’t traveling much this month anyway, but with the hurricane season unpredictability, it tends to keep visitors away. This is one of the last best times to get in a good beach day or go to a theme park with lower crowds.

Best Beaches in October: Sun Coast, Cultural Coast, Emerald Coast

Best Things to Do in October: Palm Beach, Amelia Island, Gainesville, Weeki Wachee, Florida National Scenic Trail, Amusement Parks

Events in October: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Howl-O-Scream, Halloween Horror Nights, Sea World Spooktacular, Brick or Treat Legoland, Halloween Zoo Bashes, Fantasy Fest Key West, Pensacola Interstate Fair, Ghost Tours, Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes

Florida in November

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in November

November weather in Florida is usually cool and dry. Hurricane season is over by the end of the month, but that doesn’t mean chances are eradicated completely. November temperatures may not be cold, but they’ll usually be comfortable with less humidity, making it easier to be outdoors for longer periods of time. The average a high is 77°F (25°C) and low is 62°F (16.6°C).

November crowds in Florida are beginning to grow again with the increasing number of snowbirds coming back to the state for the Winter. This is one of the last times you can get to the beach without it being overly crowded with winter guests. The Southern beaches, especially those on the Atlantic side, can still be very warm and more susceptible to bad storms, but these are infrequent.

Best Beaches in November: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in November: Melbourne, Venice, Weeki Wachee, Big Cypress National Park, Swimming in Crystal River, Hiking National & State Parks, Golfing

Events in November: Ice! at the Gaylord Orlando, Nights of Lights St. Augustine, Merry and Bright Orlando, Thanksgiving Day

Florida in December

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in December

December weather in Florida will be cooler, but usually never truly cold. The humidity is typically waning at this point, with very low chance of showers and almost never a chance of snow. The wind will pick up on occasion, but for the most part expect cool and dry days and nights.

It’s best to pack a variety of layers as the mornings will start cold around 43°F (6.1°C) and get warm throughout the day around 63°F (17.7°C), then turn back to cold in the evenings. Except for South Florida, which remains an even 76°F (24.4°C) on average.

December crowds in Florida will vary depending on which region you visit this month. However, December tends to be a bit busier across the board since the holidays are underway. Most parts of Florida will experience the hype of the season, especially in medium to large cities. It should also come as no surprise that Florida travel rates will be a little pricier this time of year, though you can still find cheaper options available.

Best Beaches in December: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in December: St. Augustine, Tampa Bay, Celebration, Ocala, Hiking National & State Parks, Golfing, Holiday Events, New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Events in December: Santa’s Enchanted Forest Miami, Pensacola Winterfest, Ice! at the Gaylord Orlando, Key West Holiday Fest, Sandi Land West Palm, Nights of Lights St. Augustine, Merry and Bright Orlando, New Year’s Eve

Final Recommendation

There are many great things to do in Florida at every season throughout the year. It’s one of the best states to visit year-round for it’s warm climate and it’s vast number of things to occupy your time all over the state, so it’s very difficult to objectively rank one season ahead of the others.

If you plan to only go to the beach or even explore the National and State Parks, you may want to consider coming in the Spring or Fall for great weather and water temperatures. If you want to visit Walt Disney World, you’d best come early Fall or late Winter for the best prices. If saving money is your goal, you can’t beat the great rates in the cold month of January or the hot month of September for a Florida vacation.

Our personal favorite things to do in our home state of Florida are going to the beach and heading to the theme parks. With that in mind, we suggest coming for a beach trip in May when the weather is warm and less rainy with fewer people crowding the beach at this time. For a week-long trip to Walt Disney World, we suggest coming in late September for lower crowds and better experiences in the parks.

Ultimately, you as the visitor determine what the best time of year is for going to Florida. The Sunshine State has so many different opportunities available all throughout the year, giving you a huge range of choices for your own vacation.

Whether you’re coming to experience the hot, lively beaches of Miami, hitting up the amusement parks in Central Florida, taking an historical trip through St. Augustine or exploring the Everglades, each trip has something special to offer.

Florida in December: Everything You Need to Know

Why Yosemite is Worth Visiting (Full Travel Guide)

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When Is The Best Time To Visit South Beach?

Lincoln Road is a must-visit when in South Beach!

Picking the best time to visit South Beach is really up to the visitor. Below, you’ll find info to help you make a better visiting decision. As a beach town – daily style tends to be more casual and relaxed (shorts, t-shirts, tank-tops, and athleisure wear). Forget to pack something? Visit Lincoln Road Mall for the latest fashions, accessories, and essentials. Here’s a link to the  Lincoln Road Store Directory.

June-August Summer means more families on the beach. With temperatures in the high 80s and mid-90s, be sure to use sunscreen and stay hydrated. After sunset – the cafes, restaurants, and shops on Lincoln Road are brimming with locals and tourists alike.

September-November Less crowded than Summer (kids are back in school, and it’s Hurricane season). Temps average high-70’s to mid/high-80’s. You’ll find great rates on hotels and most restaurants offer off-season specials. Events: Miami Spice, Halloween on Lincoln Road

December-February Winter in South Beach comes with higher prices. With temps in the mid-70s, enjoy great people-watching from the bars and cafes on Lincoln Road. Hotel rooms are at peak rates, and restaurants & cafes are packed. Events: Art Basel, South Beach Food and Wine Fest

March-May South Beach is really in party mode during this period. Temps average low-70’s to low/mid-80’s. Spring Break, Winter Party, the Ultra Music Festival, and Miami Beach Gay Pride keep the island buzzing. Events: Winter Party, Ultra Music Festival, Miami Beach Gay Pride

Tip: Visit Lincoln Road, Sunset Harbour, and Espanola Way for great places to Eat , shop, and relax.

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The Ultimate Guide To Florida's 30A—The South's Best-Kept Beach Secret

Including where to eat, stay, and play along these scenic beach communities.

At first, beachgoers landed on Scenic Highway 30A the same way sand settles on the seashore: slowly and without much fanfare. But then a wave began to build and—bam!—all of a sudden, this unassuming stretch of roadway, just 24 miles long, was one of the most popular destinations in the South. These picture-perfect towns are welcome sights for weary Southern travelers, some of whom have been driving for hours amid crumpled potato chip bags, empty sippy cups, and restless children in car seats. A greeting of powdery-white sand, clear cerulean water, and a decidedly sunny disposition instantly gets you in vacation mode.

The beaches of 30A are Florida's best-kept secret. Wander from one town to the next, and your view of this Southern coast will constantly change. Here's our beginner's guide to the beloved destination and its scenic communities.

Where Is 30A?

Perched on the northwest Gulf Coast of Florida, the beaches along Highway 30A are easily accessible from nearby Southern states. (The area is also referred to as the Florida Panhandle.) The namesake 30A comes from the actual local road in South Walton County, known as County Road 30A, where the beach towns sit. It spans roughly 20 miles along the Florida coastline and is located smack in the middle of the stretch between Destin and Panama City. The closest airport to 30A is the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City. Another nearby option is the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS).

Get to Know the Communities of 30A

The scenery along this stretch of South Walton road is enough to make you want to pull over and take a second look, but its collection of communities will make you want to stay the night (or even the week).

Check out our guides to its beloved beach communities below, or read on to see where to eat, what to do, where to shop, and where to stay on 30A :

• Grayton Beach
• Rosemary Beach

Plus, other popular communities such as WaterColor and Seagrove. All of 30A's towns feature charming accommodations, local food options, diverse shopping, family-friendly activities, and incomparable water views that will captivate you. Here are our best recommendations.

Where To Eat on 30A

From classic Southern fare to bustling rooftop bars to seafood dives, the restaurants scattered along 30A will satisfy (and fill up) everyone, from the most fastidious foodie to the pickiest nibbler. NEAT, a bottle shop and tasting room in Alys Beach, will expand your cocktail palate—and teach you how to make your own at home—while the simple, fresh ingredients at Grayton Beach's Chiringo will transport you around the world with internationally-inspired beach fare.

For a snack to tote to the water, Seaside's Airstream Row has five excellent options to choose from. Take in the morning rays at Black Bear Bread Co. (pictured) in Grayton Beach, and enjoy the pastel swirls of sunset at Pescado ' s rooftop in Rosemary Beach. Whatever you choose, you can be sure that you won't go hungry on 30A .

What To Do on 30A

Beyond the obvious long days on the beach, 30A is bursting with outdoor activities to help you make the most of the sunny Gulf weather. Rent classic bikes at one of many rental agencies up and down the highway, or go for an easy-breezy electric bike from Pedego 30A to roll across the sand or the streets with no problem. Take to the water with kayak or paddle board rentals from Yellowfin Ocean Sports , and the more adventurous can hit the waves in the spring and summer with Austin Magee's Surf School.

Where To Shop on 30A

Visitors have their pick of clothing shops, toy stores, bookstores, and more. Beau Interiors in Grayton Beach can be the place you go to furnish your dream beach home or the place you go to make your inland home feel like a beach home. Seaside's Sundog Books (pictured) will supply you with the beach read you've been searching for—make sure to check out the record store upstairs—and unique boutiques across the area—including The Art of Simple and Patchouli's —offer plenty of gifts and goodies to take home. When you're going to 30A, forgetting to pack a bathing suit isn't such a bad thing.

Where To Stay on 30A

On 30A, accommodations typically mean home or condo rentals. The WaterColor Inn & Resort, in the community of the same name, is a luxury oceanfront option with its own restaurants and shopping in addition to its 60 guest rooms; and The Pearl in Rosemary Beach (pictured) offers recently refreshed accommodations that are beyond dreamy. In Grayton Beach, book a room at the charming Hibiscus Coffee & Guesthouse .

Other small inns and B&Bs are scattered across the communities of 30A, but for long stays or big groups, a rental is the best option.

Grayton Beach: The Relaxed Village with Nowhere to Be

If a typical beach town is laid-back, then Grayton Beach is fully reclining—in a hammock, with an ice-cold margarita in hand. In fact, this beach village even comes with an unofficial slogan: "Nice dogs, strange people."

Read more for recommendations: Grayton Beach, Florida: What to Do in This Tiny Beach Town with a Groovy Soul

Seaside: The Happy Town with an Old Soul

The 1998 cult-classic film The Truman Show , shot in Seaside, features a town so idyllic that it could exist in a movie. This place, however, is absolutely real—from the pristine amphitheater lawn to a charming string of food trucks to the crisp white, Instagrammable Seaside Post Office.

Read more for recommendations: The Perfect Beach Town: Our Favorite Things to Do in Seaside, Florida, This Summer

Alys Beach: The Worldly Sophisticate

Four gleaming minaret-style towers welcome visitors to Alys Beach and a stretch of the scenic highway flanked by towering palm trees. In case the sophisticated surroundings tempt you to put on airs, remember that this beach town was named after its original developer's wife. That's like naming your firstborn after your mama, and we all know it doesn't get more relatable—or Southern—than that.

Read more for recommendations: Dreaming of a Caribbean Getaway? Alys Beach, Florida, Is Basically That—But Way Closer

Rosemary Beach: The Charming Spot with a Quiet Side

With the same sugar-white sand and thoughtfully planned layout as its due-west counterparts, Rosemary Beach makes a play for the distinction of "miss congeniality." In between boogie boarding and bike rides, don't be surprised if you stumble upon a nicely shaded, secluded bench. In fact, you might find yourself sitting a spell. This place has that kind of effect.

The town itself is bursting with restaurants and shops to explore, but make sure to hit Edward's Fine Food & Wine for deviled eggs and crab cakes, as well as La Crema Tapas & Chocolate for a whimsical dessert.

Read more for recommendations: The Best Things To Do In Rosemary Beach On Florida’s Highway 30A

WaterColor: A Cheerful Family-friendly Community

Tucked between Seaside and Grayton Beach State Park's Western Lake, WaterColor—a resort town centered on the waterfront WaterColor Inn & Resort —combines resort amenities with the homey comforts of a residential community. Shops like The Blue Giraffe provide off-sand entertainment, and a selection of restaurants, from the resort's celebrated Fish Out of Water to casual off-site spot The Wine Bar, promises days of fresh, vacation-perfect meals without repeats. (Unless you return for an encore, of course.)

Read more for recommendations: 12 Best Things To Do In WaterColor, Florida

Seagrove: An Old Florida Feel That Can't Be Beat

Surrounded by a thick grove of trees—the source of the community's name—Seagrove's stretch of beach houses and sand marks a relaxed departure from the picture-perfect planned communities of Seaside and Alys Beach. The Cowgirl Kitchen Market & Cafe and The Perfect Pig have foodie takes on classic beach fare that make this stretch of 30A a must-visit, and a mindful yoga class at Balance Health Studio can give you a new perspective on your whole vacation. And don't forget the beach: Passing under a cluster of vines to get to the ivory sand feels like stepping into another world.

Read more for recommendations: 11 Best Things To Do In Seagrove, Florida

More Beach Towns To Visit

But, wait: Highway 30A is much more than just these few favorites. Take a drive and explore in-between beaches, from Blue Mountain Beach to WaterSound Beach and beyond. With plenty of cottages to rent and seafood dives to hit, you won't dare miss out on everything that Florida's Highway 30A has to offer.

Get To Know The Beaches of Florida's 30A

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Apr 4, 2024 • 6 min read

Despite all you’ve read about recent political controversies, LBGTIQ+ communities thrive in many Florida cities © YES Market Media / Shutterstock

The Sunshine State indeed has all you’ve read about:  luminous golden beaches , the action of  Walt Disney World , alligators sunbathing by the road in the Everglades , roadside orange groves...and much more, too. 

With so many  possible experiences  in Florida , it’s easy to plan a multifaceted journey – one you can’t get in any other US state. I’ve called Fort Lauderdale home for eight years and have taken countless  road trips to Florida from Virginia to visit family – which means I’ve witnessed firsthand how a Florida journey can go sour. Think families covered in sunburns, a lack of consideration for the quick-changing weather (thunderstorms and even hurricanes happen here) and a misunderstanding of just how diverse this state truly is.

So to help you plan your time here, I’ve put together a few tips – the top things to know about health, safety and local etiquette in Florida.

1. Consider a spring or fall adventure to avoid the crowds and heat

November to March is considered peak “snowbird season,” when northerners flee frigid temperatures and decamp to their Florida homes for the winter. Count on hotels, restaurants and attractions statewide being busiest during this time frame, and try to book any experience ahead of time whenever you can. On the contrary, the summer months (June through August) are among the hottest, with temperatures peaking in the mid-to-upper 90°Fs. To avoid the crowds and heat, consider a trip in spring (April–May) or fall (September–October).

Here’s when the Sunshine State  gets the most sunshine  (and other great times to visit)

2. Plan on spending at least a week in Florida

One of the biggest mistakes on any Florida visit? Only experiencing one tiny part of it, most often either Orlando ’s theme parks or a single beach. To broaden your Florida horizons, rent a car or take the Brightline – a high-speed train that opened new routes in September 2023 between Orlando and Miami – and see more. In between and well beyond, there are historic towns worthy of pit stops or multiday stays, from America’s oldest city ( St Augustine ) to craft-brewery-packed  Tampa .

3. Add a state park to your itinerary of national park visits

Florida has three national parks :  Biscayne , Dry Tortugas and Everglades . All in the southern part of the state and heavily water-focused, they are each buzzworthy – and often packed. Yet overlooked and for a bit of a quieter venture, Florida’s state parks have equally dazzling attractions. Think snorkeling with starfish in the Florida Keys at Bahia Honda State Park , navigating caves at Florida Caverns State Park outside of Tallahassee, looking at marine life through a glass-bottomed boat at Silver Springs State Park near Ocala, and much more.

Save our ultimate guide to Florida's national parks

4. Stay safe during the Atlantic hurricane season

The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Surrounded by warm ocean waters that open all the way to Africa as well as the Gulf of Mexico, Florida seems to be a prime target for nasty storm systems each year. Keep an eye on the National Hurricane Center ’s latest forecasts before and during your trip to see what may be coming your way.

5. If you rent a car, prepare for driver- and traffic-induced mayhem (especially in South Florida)

South Florida – comprising Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach – is one of the most densely populated stretches of land in the continental US. And there simply aren’t many north–south options for getting from city to city, with Interstate 95, Florida’s turnpike and (if you’re not in a rush) US Rte 1 as options. Whether because of an overdose of sun or just the sheer number of people on the road, tempers can flare notoriously, with motorcycles weaving through traffic, heavy horn usage and road rage being norms. Stay vigilant and avoid engaging with an angry driver.

Check out our full transportation guide to Florida

6. Book a trip to one of the Sunshine State’s LGBTIQ-friendly destinations

In recent years, Florida has been no stranger to controversial legislation and political debates about race, parents’ role in education and LGBTIQ+ rights and other hot-button topics. Yet despite the headlines, the Sunshine State is home to some of the strongest and most inclusive communities you’ll find anywhere in the world. Among them is Wilton Manors , “Florida’s gayborhood,” which is packed with welcoming bars, LGBTIQ-inspired art, galleries and more. Key West , Miami Beach , Gulfport , Orlando and Sarasota are long-standing LGBTIQ+ destinations as well.

7. Embrace the cafecito

Regardless of how you like your coffee – con leche , as a cappuccino or black – you have to try Florida’s cultural must, the  cafecito , particularly in the southern part of the state. A tradition from Cuba, just 90 miles away, the cafecito  is a beloved staple for Florida’s Cuban Americans – and today, well beyond that community. Often served in a plastic cup the size of a super-sized thimble, it’s an instant kick, with dark roast espresso and pure sugar. It’s sweet and ultra-caffeinated – and the typical choice rather than a regular coffee. Your  cafecito should be enjoyed in its purest form, too, to avoid getting a weird look.

These are the best spots to sip cafecito in Miami

8. Pack sun-protective gear to avoid the burn

It is the Sunshine State, after all. Carefully soaking in a few rays is expected – but a sunburn always ruins the fun. Wherever you head in Florida, ensure you pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat and sun-protective attire. Additionally, an umbrella or rain jacket can’t hurt, as the entire state is prone to quick-moving thunderstorms.

9. Yes, you can drink alcohol legally on select Florida beaches

Contrary to the raucous spring break stories you’ve heard through the years, the bulk of Florida beaches prohibit alcohol. If you’re unsure, check out the government website of the city you are staying in for applicable laws. Yet there are popular spots that do allow alcohol (typically in cans, not bottles), including  Perdido Key on the Florida Panhandle, Panama City Beach , Madeira Beach in the St Petersburg area, and Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota.

10. Hire a captain for a stress-free boating adventure

Whether you want to navigate the St John’s River in Jacksonville , fish for flounder off the coast of New Smyrna Beach near Daytona Beach  or enjoy some other boating pursuit, hire a captain. A licensed captain will know to respect pertinent no-wake zones (or speed limits) on Florida rivers and canals. What’s more, a captained boat will be properly equipped with navigation lights, floatation devices and fire extinguishers, and you can be confident that right-of-way passing norms are followed. This is a very wise choice if you have zero boating experience and/or want to consume booze on board.

11. Know what the flags at the lifeguard stands mean

There are five colored flags you may see flying at a lifeguard stand on Florida beaches. Similar to a stoplight, green means calm conditions, yellow means that the currents and surf are moderate, and red means high surf and strong currents. If you see an additional red flag with a no-swimming emblem, the water is closed to the public. The final color – purple – signifies stinging marine life (eg jellyfish) have been spotted nearby, so be extra cautious.

Planning a trip to Florida? Here’s more of our expert advice:

These places  should be on your itinerary From beaches to theme parks, don’t miss Florida's  top experiences Check out these  budget-friendly tips  before you book These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Florida

This article was first published Oct 20, 2023 and updated Apr 4, 2024.

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This beach is the reader’s choice for ‘best beach in Florida.' What to know before you go

Florida is home to plenty of beaches where you can spend your summer days soaking up sun, surf and sand. 

There are 825 miles of beach in the state and many of those beaches frequently show up on rankings lists for having the best beach experiences , from the beach with the clearest water in the south , to secluded beaches.

And USA TODAY’s “10Best” just released its annual reader-chosen list of Florida’s best beaches.

Here’s which Florida beach landed in first place on USA TODAY’s Reader’s Choice list of the best beaches in the state and what to know before you visit.

What are the best beaches in Florida?

In May, Florida beaches took national rankings on “best beaches” lists, including Dr. Beach’s highly-anticipated 34th annual list of the best public beaches in the U.S.

Two Florida beaches, Caladesi Island State Park and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park , ranked on Dr. Beach’s national top 10 list. Another notable mention for Florida: Southern Living released a list of “20 Florida beaches that could pass for the Caribbean.”  

Also from Southern Living, Palm Beach County’s town of Jupiter took the title of the clearest ocean water in the southern region of the U.S.

And another Palm Beach County beach topped USA TODAY’s Reader’s Choice list of the best Florida beaches. Delray Beach, which is about two miles of coastline on the southern end of Palm Beach County, took first place as the reader-chosen best beach in Florida.

“Our award-winning beach attracts so many visitors, protects us from hurricanes and tropical storms, and is home to an abundance of native plants and animals,” Delray Beach City Manager Terrence Moore said in an announcement on the city’s website.  

“We are privileged to have such a beautiful beach and it is an honor to be voted the number one Best Beach in Florida.”

Here are the top 10 best beaches in Florida, according to USA TODAY’s Reader’s Choice list:

• Delray Beach
• Panama City Beach
• Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
• Clearwater Beach
• Treasure Island Beach
• Stuart Beach
• Cape San Blas
• Jupiter Beach Park
• Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine

Does Delray Beach have free parking?

There is on-street beach parking along Delray Beach on A1A , but it isn’t usually free. It costs $3 per hour, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, and there is a time limit of up to three hours. Parking here is free only before 8 a.m. and after 8 p.m.

Any parking spaces on side streets or in city-owned parking lots near the beach, like at Atlantic Dunes Park, cost around $2 to park and time limits vary.

If you live in Delray Beach, you can get a beach parking permit.

“Parking permits are available for Delray Beach residents, those who live downtown, seniors and beach parking,” the city’s parking guide says.

Is the water clear in Delray Beach?

Yes, the ocean water at all of Palm Beach County’s beaches are some of the clearest in the state, due to the geography of the shore.

“The coast in Palm Beach County gets a further boost due to its shape that juts out a little farther east and the fact that the continental shelf is quite narrow here,” Southern Living’s report on the clearest ocean water in Florida says.

“The result is that Palm Beach County’s beaches are directly in the path of the Gulf Stream’s flow, and the tropical waters actually pass closer to shore here than anywhere else in North America.”

This is why Jupiter, which is only around a 40-minute drive from Delray Beach, was given the title of the beach with the clearest water in the south.

Can dogs go on the beach in Delray Beach?

According to the city’s website, dogs are not allowed on the beach in Delray.

“Dogs and other pets are prohibited in all city parks , including the Municipal Beach and Atlantic Dunes Park,” the website says.

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I've Lived in Florida for 27 Years — and These Are the Best Affordable Beach Vacations in the State

A local weighs in on the best cheap beach vacations in Florida without the high price tags.

Sean Pavone/Getty Images

Hundreds of miles of coastline keep Florida top of mind for a beach vacation year-round. And despite the Sunshine State's perpetual popularity, you might be surprised by how much terrain there is for a cheap beach getaway filled with fun.

After 27 years in Florida, I’ve done my fair share of poking around for the finest sandy stretches the state has to offer.

When friends come to visit from across the country or around the world, I always point them to a few places they’d likely never discover on their own — all the better for having a unique Florida experience while saving some money. With that in mind, here are some of some of my favorite places for a cheap beach vacation in Florida that doesn't skimp on sun and fun.

Apalachicola

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Famous for its oyster bars and seafood shacks like LongBill’s, this friendly community along Florida’s Panhandle is prime for an affordable beach vacation, especially when you stay at a historic property like The Bowery Inn or Taranto House , both of which date to the early 1900s, or the lovely Gibson Inn , another historic hotel with a breezy wraparound porch.

“This community captivates the heart and soul of Old Florida charm with a relaxed vibe, incredible fishing, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and the liveliest locals slurping down fresh oysters and plenty of libations,” says Jason Bogan, general manager of The Gibson Inn. “So, come on down, pull up a stool, and immerse yourself in some genuine Southern hospitality.”

Among the many unspoiled white-sand beaches in Apalachicola and the Forgotten Coast are stretches lining the beautiful barrier island of St. George. Laura Byrne of Tampa Bay Parenting says she first fell in love with the island’s beaches while living in Tallahassee some years ago (Florida’s state capital is about 80 miles northeast of St. George Island).

“I’m from Tampa and was used to the beautiful sugar-sand beaches of Clearwater, and St. George Island State Park did not disappoint,” says Byrne. Grab a kayak or canoe from Island Outfitters and paddle in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Apalachicola River Paddling Trail System , or rent a golf cart to explore Apalachicola’s historic district, home to many interesting buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Cocoa Beach

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Cocoa Beach was always my preferred destination for an affordable beach weekend when I spent a few years after college living in nearby Orlando. Just about a one-hour drive east of Orlando puts you along these dune-backed beaches where pro surfer Kelly Slater grew up shredding waves. You can rent a board at Ron Jon Surf Shop and paddle out near the Cocoa Beach Pier , or sign up for surf lessons at the School of Surf . Budget-minded hotels in the area include Beach Place Guesthouses — one of my favorites in all of Florida for a low-key stay — strung with hammocks and fronting a quiet stretch of sand with loaner surfboards at the ready. Rise early from August to September for a beach walk here, and you might even see baby sea turtles hatching. Also be sure to check the rocket launch calendar for a free show in the sky. "The Wizard of Oz" fans will want to shell out a few bucks to pop into the quirky Wizard of Oz Museum , home to a private collection that spans decades of memorabilia. With all this and more, it's no wonder Cocoa Beach is one of the best beaches near Orlando .

New Smyrna Beach

VisionsbyAtlee/Getty Images

New Smyrna Beach , another popular option not far from Orlando, is a safe and beautiful bet for an affordable beach vacation in Florida. Oceanfront condos for rent line the packed sand, plus you can consider a riverside stay at one of my favorite bed-and-breakfasts in the state — Black Dolphin Inn , which fronts the Intracoastal Waterway. A quintessential Florida feed awaits on the river at JB’s Fish Camp , a local favorite for its fabulous grouper sandwich and fish dip. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards here, too, and paddle out into the surrounding river. Florida’s largest stretch of undeveloped coastline also awaits at Canaveral National Seashore , with 24 miles of pristine sand for sunbathing, shelling, and swimming.

Panama City Beach

Jacqueline Anders/Getty Images

This former party-heavy destination has pivoted in recent years to become a favorite among families seeking an affordable and cheerful beach vacation in Florida. Panama City Beach’s unpretentious vibes pair with gorgeous Gulf of Mexico beaches, making it a top Panhandle destination. Scuba divers like me flock to the area to blow bubbles underwater at five shipwrecks that are part of the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail . And you only need a mask and snorkel to fin out from the beach and explore the rock jetty and artificial reef attracting tropical fish, rays, and more at St. Andrews State Park . Book an affordable room at the beachfront Flamingo Hotel and Tower ; hit Shrimp Basket for a budget feast of oysters, wings, and shrimp; and simply bask in the mellow beach vibes.

Pensacola Beach

mrolands/Getty Images

With accommodation options that range from camping at Fort Pickens to the beachfront Pensacola Beach RV Resort and chain hotels to the gorgeous Pensacola Beach Resort , this is another affordable Panhandle destination in Florida. You can explore the area on a budget aboard the 145-passenger Pensacola Bay City Ferry, which connects downtown Pensacola, Fort Pickens, and Pensacola Beach. But you’ll want to jump in the car to visit other gorgeous area beaches, too, like Johnson Beach at Gulf Islands National Seashore and the dune-backed white strand at Perdido Key State Park . From April through October, free bands play at Pensacola Beach, and people bring lawn chairs and settle in for the evening.The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are at home in Pensacola, so you might even be treated to a free show in the sky. Lastly, don’t miss Atlas Oyster House for a lively brunch in town plus cheap bloody marys and bottles of bubbly.

Bradenton Beach

DIANETTE GARCIA/Getty Images

A vacation in Bradenton Beach along Florida’s Gulf Coast puts visitors within a quick drive of some of the region’s most gorgeous beaches along Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key — all for a fraction of the price. You can still find old-school properties like Beach Dreams and BridgeWalk fronting the white sand and historic district here. You can also explore the area for free aboard the Island Trolley , which makes a loop from Bradenton’s Coquina Beach north to Anna Maria Island’s City Pier. Weekends boom with families descending for all-you-can-eat pancakes served with Gulf of Mexico views at the beloved Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe . And the lively Coquina Beach Market , next to Longboat Pass and with all kinds of crafts and handmade items for sale, always makes for a fun, free outing on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine may be one of Florida’s most touristic (and historic) cities, but you can have a surprisingly affordable beach vacation here, too.

Tour St. Augustine offers free historic walking tours of the downtown attractions every Saturday and Sunday, as well as other options. My kids love riding the free passenger ferry to Rattlesnake Island to play pirates at Fort Matanzas National Monument, which has gorgeous views overlooking the Matanzas River. There’s also a playground that kids love at Lighthouse Park , where you can picnic under the oaks and take in the lighthouse views. When it comes to beach time, there’s no better free activity than bodysurfing and searching the sand for shark teeth at St. Augustine Beach or Vilano Beach, where you'll still find affordable, mom-and-pop properties like Magic Beach Motel .

Lake Worth Beach

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Just south of tony Palm Beach, Lake Worth Beach is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable vacation along this notoriously pricey stretch of South Florida. The City of Lake Worth Beach pier is a favorite spot among surfers and has a buzzing breakfast joint — Benny’s on the Beach , where the kids can fill up on French toast and pancakes, then scoot down to the sand, while the bloody marys and mimosas flow for adults. Between Lake Worth and Lantana, just south, there are plenty of mom-and-pop hotels within a short bike ride of the beaches, including Beachway Inn and Barefoot Mailman Inn & Suites . The Lake Worth Beach Waterside Farmers Market is a lively place to spend a Saturday morning from October through April, with coffee, music, and dancing in the street. Free concerts and festivals with lagoon views often play out at the bandshell at Bryant Park Pavilion, too.

Indian Rocks Beach

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Beloved by locals, but often overlooked where it sits between busier St. Pete Beach to the south and Clearwater Beach to the north, Indian Rocks Beach is one of my go-tos for an affordable beach vacation in the Tampa Bay area, where I live.

Sign the family up for surf lessons with Sister Jo’s Surf School (the waves are almost always ideal for beginners) and stroll the boardwalk through a marshy forest at the small but beautiful Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve. “I love that you can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling here, and the white sand is perfect for building castles and finding unique shells,” says Karimah Henry of Crafting a Fun Life .

When I visit with my own family, I love staying just south of Indian Rocks Beach, in Indian Shores, at the affordable Legacy Vacation Resorts . A certified B Corp property, it fronts the Intracoastal Waterway and has an outdoor grilling area where we cook hot dogs and hamburgers to save on dining out while enjoying some of the best waterfront views around.

Bonita Springs

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Just north of flashy Naples, Bonita Springs offers an affordable Florida beach vacation with access to equally lovely Gulf of Mexico sand. Make the Hyatt Vacation Club at Coconut Cove your base, and enjoy the 1,000-foot lazy river, fire pit, barbecue area, and tiki bar. Nearby, Lovers Key State Park 's two miles of undeveloped sand beckons for shelling and boogie boarding. Dive into more of the area’s singular tropical nature at Audubon's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary , where you can stroll along a boardwalk through the largest old-growth bald cypress forest in North America. When hunger strikes, follow the neon to Mel’s Diner , which serves comfort foods like pot roast melts and pulled pork sandwiches that won’t break the bank.

Related Articles

Scenic & Serene: 12 Prettiest Beaches In Florida

• Florida boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the US, with pristine white sands, clear waters, and bird-watching opportunities.
• Marco Island's Tigertail Beach offers a mix of resorts, wildlife viewing, and boating adventures, making it a must-visit summer destination.
• From Delray Public Beach's clear waters and sandy shores to Clearwater Beach's inviting atmosphere and stunning sunsets, there's a beach in Florida for every vacationer.

With top-rated US tourist destinations like Walt Disney World in Orlando and Everglades National Park , Florida records millions of local and international tourists annually. But there's more to the Sunshine State than just these spots, as this recreational haven is home to some of the best beaches in the US , making it one of the most visited southeastern states in the United States.

Each of Florida's most beautiful beaches has a distinct charm, entrancing tourists who embark on a coastal adventure. But they're not all made equal. Pretty-wise, they offer more in the way of beauty than the Sunshine State's other serene shores. Plus, the absolute best of the state's seaside spots boast pristine white sands, sparkling clear waters, and bird-watching opportunities, which are shared similarities tourists should expect.

In any case, when spending a coastal vacation in the Southeastern United States, here are the prettiest and most scenic beaches in Florida that deserve recognition on every explorer's itinerary.

UPDATE: 2023/09/19 14:14 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Best Beaches In Florida: Expanded

With over 1,300 miles of shoreline, Florida is a beachgoer's dream come true, boasting unrivaled pieces of seaside real estate. There is no shortage of gorgeous beach towns with white powdery shores, and this refreshed article highlights two more of the prettiest beaches in Florida.

Related: 15 Top Beaches In The U.S. To Add To Your Bucket List

Tigertail Beach, Marco Island

This coastal piece of heaven, 20 miles from the charming city of Naples, Florida, lures beachgoers with its eclectic mix of pristine habitats and world-class resorts. Marco Island boasts a vibrant seafood scene, with local eateries serving sumptuous flavors to the delight of tourists. Among its multiple gorgeous beaches, Tigertail Beach stands out for its large cluster of resorts, wildlife viewing opportunities, and boating adventures. Whether looking to lounge on its silky smooth sandy beaches or dip in its clear toasty waters, Marco Island deserves a spot on every vacationer's must-visit summer destinations in Florida .

• Where : 480 Hernando Dr., Marco Island, FL 34145

Delray Public Beach, Delray Beach

Popularly referred to as Florida's "Village by the Sea," Delray Beach perfectly balances a small-town vibe and big-city entertainment. Although it houses respectable attractions like the Morikami Museum and the Wakodahatchee Wetlands, most visitors understandably gravitate towards the Delray Public Beach, which rewards them with azure clear waters, idyllic sandy shores, and fun underwater pursuits like snorkeling. Several quaint eateries and cute little shops along the shores give Delray Beach a vibrant atmosphere that gets even better after the sun sets, thanks to the city's buzzing nightlife.

• Address : 400 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483, United States

Fort Lauderdale Beach, Broward County

Florida boasts many scenic highlights, including the must-visit Fort Lauderdale Beach, a coastal paradise on its southeastern coast.

With thousands of positive reviews , thrill-seekers need no further proof that Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of the best Florida beaches to spend a day out in nature.

The beach offers plenty of exciting recreational activities and is near several other tourist spots. And, once tourists have worked up an appetite, they can go on a Riverwalk food tour , as there are several top-rated restaurants around this enchanting Florida beach destination.

• Where: 1100 A. Seabreeze Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Related: Top 14 Magnificent Beaches To Visit in Fort Lauderdale

Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota County

One of the best beaches in Florida , Siesta Key Beach is known for its turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and luxurious amenities. But that’s not all; this scenic beach boasts other jaw-dropping features that make it one of the nicest beaches in Florida to enjoy the state's serene coastlines.

While at Siesta Key Beach, tourists can explore Point of Rocks, a gorgeous geological formation from which they can spot various bird species, observe marine life, and catch the breathtaking sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

• Where: 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key, FL 34242

Santa Rosa Beach, Walton County

Tourists are always looking for the most beautiful beaches in Florida to spend a memorable vacation along the captivating coastlines. Santa Rosa Beach fits that bill, so it is always populated with nature enthusiasts.

Despite its popularity, Santa Rosa Beach remains surprisingly peaceful, making for the perfect family vacation along the Emerald Coast of Florida .

Besides capturing breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico, tourists can enjoy various outdoor activities, from fishing to hiking. They can even explore the vibrant coastal communities only miles from the beach.

• Where: Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459, USA

St. Augustine Beach, St. Johns County

Even locals can attest to the stunning beauty of St. Augustine Beach — a must-see attraction in St. Augustine .

Featuring a serene stretch of soft, white sands, clear blue waters, and breathtaking natural wonders, it is no surprise that St. Augustine Beach is considered one of the most breathtaking beaches in Florida, even though it is as old as time.

This gorgeous beach also serves up iconic views of the Florida sunset, which tourists can capture when relaxing on its shores or embarking on a scenic drive along the coastline.

• Where: St Augustine Beach, FL 32080, USA

Related: The Ultimate Travel Guide To St. Augustine & What To Do In This Historic City

Destin Beach, Okaloosa County

Destin Beach is renowned for its natural beauty, which explains why both tourists and locals can always be seen exploring the area. This scenic beach is situated in the northwestern corner of Florida on the Gulf of Mexico.

With emerald green waters and dramatic sunsets, Destin gives the other headliners among the best beaches in Florida a tough challenge, as it has just the perfect combination of natural attractions to entice every tourist.

One spectacular thing about Destin is its diverse marine life, hence its title as the world's luckiest fishing village.

• Where: 720 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541, United States

Related: 15 Things To Do In Destin: Complete Guide To This Dreamy Florida Destination

Clearwater Beach, Pinellas County

Reputed as one of the prettiest beaches in Florida, Clearwater Beach (famous for its clear water, boardwalk, and nearby attractions) is an invitation for tourists to relax, unwind, and explore the scenic beauty of nature.

Although it is surrounded by other stunning natural attractions in its namesake town, it still stands out for its irresistible allure, with a Nation's #1 Beach in 2018 award to its name.

Tourists who take a day trip to Clearwater Beach will enjoy splashing into the clear waters, vibing along with talented street performers at dusk, or catching the most picturesque views of the Florida sunset from iconic spots around the beach.

• Where: Clearwater Beach, FL 33767

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Beach Hotels In Clearwater, Florida, You Should Book

Palm Beach, Palm Beach County

Palm Beach is one of the best beach towns in Florida, and it looks so clean that it appears almost surreal. This well-maintained beach town is dotted with world-class tourist attractions, making it well worth a visit.

Tourists can head into any of the shopping districts and museums around this resort town or head to the beach to soak up the sun. Alternatively, tourists can simply enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from iconic spots such as the Palm Beach Lake Trail, a popular trail that offers idyllic views of sparkling waters populated with marine life.

In particular, lovers of the underwater world and its creatures within will be glad to know that they can see sea turtles in Palm Beach, Florida .

• Where : Palm Beach, FL 33480

Related: Beachside Getaway: The Ultimate West Palm Beach Travel Guide & Things To Do There

Pensacola Beach, Escambia County

For decades, Pensacola has remained one of the most affordable beach destinations in Florida . An unincorporated area, Pensacola Beach is situated in the City of Pensacola , where it steadily gains popularity for its beautiful white sand beaches, considered by many as some of the top beaches in Florida.

Here, dolphin cruises take tourists around the beaches on a boat ride; this is one of the best days to explore the scenic beauty of these clear waters, as visitors can spot adorable penguins amid the waves.

• Where: Pensacola Beach Blvd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Related: Panhandle & The Emerald Coast: The Ultimate Guide To Pensacola & Things To Do There

Honeymoon Island State Park, Pinellas County

Judging by the name of this enchanting state park, tourists know to expect a romantic setting. One of Florida's best beach destinations, the beautiful Honeymoon Island State Park boasts four miles of soft, white sand and tranquil waters.

The park is endowed with coastal dunes and lush pine forests, among other natural attractions, but none hypnotize tourists as the beach does.

With crystal-clear waters and diverse wildlife species for wildlife enthusiasts, couples can enjoy a romantic getaway here at one of the most stunning beaches in Florida.

• Where : #1 Causeway Blvd. Dunedin FL 34698

Related: Honeymoon Island: What To Do In Florida's Most-Loved Park

Pass-A-Grille Beach, Pinellas County

Pass-A-Grille Beach in Pinellas County also finds itself among the best beach destinations in Florida for coastal beauty. It gives tourists yet another reason to make a trip to the Southeastern United States.

Reputed as one of Florida's prettiest beaches, Pass-A-Grille Beach is a stunning coastal destination where tourists can catch colorful views of the Florida sunset.

Tourists who love shelling will definitely want to spend a day at Pass-A-Grille Beach, as this coastal gem is a treasure trove of seashells!

Adding to its allure as one of Florida's top beaches in terms of scenery and beauty, Pass-A-Grille Beach has a less touristy feel and is a perfect waterfront vacation for families who want to spend a day away from the crowds.

• Where: 155 Corey Ave, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

What are the best beaches in the US? Destinations for any type of beach vacation 2024.

The quintessential American summer is not complete without a trip to the beach – just make sure you pack some sunscreen .

There is no shortage of beaches in the United States. The nation has 95,471 miles of shoreline , according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Whether you’re looking for a wild beach, a party beach, a beach with a developed boardwalk or an underwater paradise to explore with a snorkel or scuba gear, we’ve got lots of recommendations for you.

What are the best beaches in America?

To answer this question, we’ve broken down U.S. beaches into a few categories — boardwalk beaches, undeveloped beaches, family beaches, party beaches and beaches for snorkeling. Here are the highlights of each category.

Best beaches with a boardwalk

If you’re looking for a beach with more than just a nice view, a beach with a boardwalk might be the best choice for your trip. With food options, souvenir shops and even built-in amusement parks, boardwalks can add great variety to your experience.

Some of the best boardwalks in the United States , according to Attractions of America:

• Atlantic City Boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey
• Coney Island Boardwalk in Brooklyn, New York
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, California
• Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• Ocean City Boardwalk in Ocean City, Maryland
• Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
• Virginia Beach Boardwalk in Virginia Beach, Virginia 
• Kemah Boardwalk in Kemah, Texas
• Mission Beach Boardwalk in San Diego, California

Best uncrowded beaches

If you’re looking for a more tranquil trip, it might be best to find a less-developed beach area to get rest and relaxation while avoiding crowds. According to The Culture Trip, here are some of the best uncrowded beaches in the U.S. :

• Sandbridge Beach in Virginia
• Cumberland Island in Georgia
• Carova Beach in North Carolina
• Enderts Beach in California
• Montaña de Oro State Park in California
• Wildcat Beach in California
• Dry Tortugas in Florida
• St. Joseph Peninsula State Park in Florida
• Awahua Beach in Hawaii
• Kauapea Beach in Hawaii

Best family beaches

According to U.S. News & World Report, some factors to consider when planning a family trip are “kid-friendly attractions, dining options, spacious accommodations and multigenerational appeal.” According to these criteria, they ranked these destinations as the best in the nation for families :

• Outer Banks, North Carolina
• Destin, Florida
• Sanibel Island, Florida
• Maui, Hawaii
• Amelia Island, Florida
• Hilton Head, South Carolina
• Honolulu, Hawaii
• Cape May, New Jersey
• Kennebunkport, Maine
• Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• St. Augustine, Florida
• Laguna Beach, California
• Bald Head Island, North Carolina
• Monterey, California
• Nantucket, Massachusetts

Best party beaches

If you are of drinking age and looking for a good time, here are some beaches for those looking to party , according to Complex:

• Venice Beach in Los Angeles, California
• Santa Catalina Island, California
• South Beach in Miami, Florida
• South Padre Island in Cameron County, Texas
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York
• Seaside Heights in Ocean County, New Jersey
• Panama City Beach in Bay County, Florida
• Daytona Beach in Volusia County, Florida
• Santa Monica Beach in Santa Monica, California

Best beaches for snorkeling

If you’re looking to see beautiful sights and diverse wildlife underwater, here are the beaches Tripadvisor recommends for snorkeling :

• Key West, Florida
• Crystal River, Florida
• Lahaina, Hawaii
• St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
• Big Pine Key, Florida
• Catalina Island, California
• Poipu, Hawaii
• Key Largo, Florida
• Kapolei, Hawaii
• Hatteras Island, North Carolina
• Captain Cook, Hawaii
• La Jolla, California
• Panama City Beach, Florida
• South Padre Island, Texas

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150 episodes

From the Elser Hotel in Downtown Miami, Dan Le Batard, Stugotz and company share their unique perspectives on all-things sports, pop-culture and more. This is the place for original content from Le Batard and Stugotz, including the daily “Local Hour” generally focusing on the South Florida scene, the Big Suey, and a few more surprises along the way.

The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz Lebatard & Friends

• 4.7 • 31.6K Ratings
• JUN 7, 2024

GOOD FOLLOW - What's Happening in the WNBA? Stories from the College Softball World Series, & More

Welcome to Good Follow, your new favorite show dedicated to all things Women's sports! This week, we are joined by award-winning sports broadcaster and New York Liberty analyst Ros Gold-Onwude and WNBA superfan Lucy Rohden to discuss stand out players and storylines, an influx of questionable media coverage and, of course, Ellie the Elephant. Then Christian Polanco from The Cooligans joins us from North Carolina at The Soccer Tournament, where he and a number of soccer legends are competing on men’s and women’s teams for a million dollar prize. In Oklahoma, our Good Follow correspondent Logan Hackett has been covering the Women's College World Series amid crazy weather and even crazier fans and fills us in on the latest from the tournament. The softball conversation continues as professional softball player AJ Andrews joins Megan and co-host Katie Novotny to discuss her career, being coined, “The Beyonce of Softball,” how to build a successful pro league in the US, and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Postgame Show: The Hockey Show From The Stanley Cup Final

The Florida Panthers are in their second straight Stanley Cup Final! Roy and David Dwok of The Hockey News are here to recap the Panthers' series-clinching win over the New York Rangers in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, preview the upcoming Stanley Cup Final with the Oilers and discuss the best playoff beards on the Cats. Then, the boys are joined by legendary Panthers writer, George Richards, from Amerant Bank Arena on Stanley Cup Final Media Day. The crew gets us ready for Saturday night's Game 1 of the Cup Final and George gives us his opinion on Greg Cote setting Canada ablaze with his opinion that Connor McDavid is McOverrated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hour 1: The Meadowlark Hodgepodge

PABLO TORRE FINDS OUT! ODDBALL! NOTHING PERSONAL WITH DAVID SAMSON! ENJOY! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Big Suey: The Arena Drive-By

Thanks to Greg Cote's recent analysis, Billy is ALL IN on the Florida Panthers. Mike and Chris lead us through the lead-up to Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final. Then, Micah Parsons responded to Jeremy's challenge from yesterday's show, Mike introduced the Hardball Roundup, and we discuss what it feels like to drive by an arena ahead of a big game. Plus, Amin Elhassan and Charlotte Wilder join the show to discuss EVERYTHING you need to know from last night's Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Is Charlotte telling the truth about her confidence? Is the DK Boston studio nicer than ours? Does Amin look too good? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Local Hour: The Fuzzy Green Ball

Today's cast: Stugotz, Billy, Chris, Jeremy, Lucy, and Mike. The NBA Finals started last night with a dominant Celtics win, but first...the red clay! Then, the crew was so impressed with Kristaps Porzingis and the Celtics in their win last night that Stugotz called the series over, but did Jayson Tatum do enough to impress Mike? Plus, Stephen A. Strut, Lucy's fury over a lack of door holding, and the smell of a sneeze. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

#BecauseMiami: Top Cop

The office of Miami Dade County's State Attorney Katherine Fernandez-Rundle is in big trouble. Miami Herald investigative journalist Brittany Wallman explains why a deal the office made with a murderer may now set a lot of prisoners free. Friend of the program, Joshua Epstein, can't seem to stay out of trouble. First, he was falsely arrested in Surfside when former vice mayor Jeffery Rose claimed that he pushed him (he didn't). Two months later at New College, Joshua may have his degree withheld due to an incident at his commencement ceremony. Joshua joins us to talk about it. And Billy Corben goes on a rant about Miami Dade County mayor Daniela Levine-Cava. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Customer Reviews

31.6K Ratings

I love the show and have been a follower for years. That said, I have less respect for Greg as a journalist because of the Stephen A Smithness he seems to pine after. If you don’t follow a sport like hockey, probably just sit it out, because it’s cringe and unlistenable. I love Greg as a character, I think he’s amazing, but watch the sport before you form an opinion. It’s okay to just say “I’m not a hockey guy.” Do something to better yourself in your own opinions or just grab a bagel when the hockey talk starts.

Great show. Stu’s good on women’s sports.

His past play, daughters involvement in lacrosse give him a interesting perspective! be He be an expert in this… Good jawing bout the WNBA w Jess .

Tik Tok Doc on Netflix

Interesting nugget: God Bless Football guest Austin Ekeler’s now wife, Melanie Wilking. Her sister was involved in that “alleged” cult the documentary was covering. 👀👀

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