'''Miami Beach''' is a city in Florida. This small barrier island near Miami was originally cleared of mangroves in the late 1800's to make way for a coconut farm, and was later incorporated as a city by real estate developers in 1915.

Understand

Miami Beach is a barrier island connected to the mainland city of Miami by a series of bridges.

Miami Beach, like Miami, has a huge Latin American population, and Spanish is a language often used for day-to-day discourse in many places. However, English is the language of preference, particularly when dealing with businesses and government. Spanglish, a mixture of English and Spanish, is a somewhat common occurrence, with bilingual locals switching between English and Spanish mid-sentence. The local Latin population is mostly Cuban exiles (which have now become second and third generation locals,) with South Americans from various countries gaining ground. There is also a large Haitian community and many signs and public announcements are in English, Spanish and Creole.

Miami Beach has been one of America's pre-eminent beach resorts for almost a century. The city of Miami Beach is a barrier island connected to the mainland city of Miami by a series of bridges. The city is often referred to under the umbrella term of "Miami_h, with a population of 87,925. The vibrant area, with its pastel-hued buildings, hip nightclubs, trendy shops and see-and-be-seen Miami restaurants, attracts socialites and their satellites year-round. As a world-class destination, Miami Beach offers several kinds of lodging options. The visitor can stay in a normal hotel or choose from a variety of Miami Beach vacation rentals. The Beach can be affordable, depending on where you stay, eat and play. Visitors can plan to stay in a Miami Beach condo rental. Plan to spend some time in South Beach's cool bars; things start heating up when the sun goes down. Miami Beach has a rich history as a trend setting arts center from the world famous nightclubs of the 1950s, to the rich cultural life of today's modern South Beach. The City of Miami Beach has an identity that is intrinsically linked to the arts, and today the entertainment, production and arts communities are stronger than ever. Miami Beach is truly a major international entertainment and cultural destination.

If you come to Miami to shop, then Miami Beach can give you the best shopping experience ever. With the famous Lincoln Road Mall and glamorous shopping centers located in South Beach and all over the island, you_fll have great options to spend your time and money in the trendy retails stores that carry garments from international designers. Art museums, ballet performances, cultural events and entertainment are a part of this great city. You will have the chance to choose from a wide variety of Miami attractions. Art Center at Lincoln Road has performance art exhibitions. Classes and courses are available as well and they include photography, jewelry-making and painting.

Beyond the radiant sun, surf and sand, discover Miami Beach_fs rich history as an entertainment and cultural destination, from world-famous Art Deco architecture to renowned nightclubs to designer fashions on Collins Ave and Lincoln Rd. There_fs so much going on in Miami Beach, you will need an extra day to enjoy everything that makes this city so vibrant. Plan to lodge in an affordable Miami vacation home and completely enjoy the world_fs elite playground. Miami Beach promises a 25-hour day, and whether you're an arts enthusiast, a socialite or a sun worshipper, there are plenty of options for where to spend that extra hour.

Get In

By plane

'''Miami International Airport''' ''(MIA)'' is closest, but '''Fort Lauderdale International Airport''' ''(FLL)'' is only around 40 minutes away (depending on traffic) by shuttle and the rates are often better.

By car

Get around

'''Taxis''' are generally expensive, but available at almost any time and place. '''Car rentals''' are the most convenient for of transportation for visitors, with local companies offering better prices but national chains offering more convenience vis-a-vis return policies and shop times.

Public Transportation

When traveling within Miami Beach, a good choice is the South Beach Local [http://www.miamibeachfl.gov/newcity/sobe_local.asp], a shuttle bus that operates in a loop from 19th St to the southern end of Miami Beach (buses travel in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions). Fare is only 25 cents. Regional transit buses throughout the greater Miami area are available, but may be slow and inconvenient. Schedules and routes are available from the '''Miami-Dade Transit''' [http://www.co.miami-dade.fl.us/transit/] website or by calling +1 305 770 3131.

On bike and foot

Miami Beach is bicycle and pedestrian friendly, although the streets can get congested close to the beach so going '''on foot''' is sometimes easier.

  • '''Miami Beach Bicycle Center''', 601 5th St, Miami Beach, +1 305 674 0150.
  • '''Two Wheel Drive''', 1260 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, +1 305 534 2177.
  • '''Bike and Roll''', 760 Washington, Miami Beach, +1 305 538 2121 [http://www.bikerental.com].
  • See

  • '''The Wolfsonian''', 1001 Washington Ave, +1 305' 531 1001 [http://www.wolfsonian.org]. Part of Florida International University, the Wolfsonian is a museum with a collection specializing in decorative art and design covering the period 1885-1945.
  • '''Bass Museum of Art''', +1 305 673 7530 [http://www.bassmuseum.org]. This musuem displays contemporary exhibits and has a fine permanent collection of over 3000 pieces from Old Masters and modernist works.
  • '''Miami Seaquarium''', +1 305 361 5705 [http://www.miamiseaquarium.com]. This 38 acre tropical island paradise features marine shows and marine life exhibits. Just ten minutes from downtown Miami.
  • '''Matheson Hammock Marina''' [http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/Parks/matheson_marina.asp]. Grassy park with a man-made atoll pool, which is flushed naturally with the tidal action of nearby Biscayne Bay. The park has a full-service marina, snack bar and restaurant built into an historic coral rock building, picnic pavilions and nature trails.
  • Do

  • '''GoCar GPS Tours''', 1661 James Ave [http://www.gocartours.com/miami.html]. See Miami Beach in the world's first Storytelling Car. The GoCar will guide you to see what most visitors never see, while telling stories and history along the way that bring the city to life. It's like having your own private tour guide with you. Tours take place at your own pace in a fun to drive, open-air, two-person scooter car. Rates begin at $29 per hour. Discounted daily rates are also available.
  • '''Miami Design Preservation League''', 1001 Ocean Dr, +1 305 672 2014 [http://www.mdpl.org]. The MDPL conducts walking tours showcasing the architecture of the Art Deco district. They also hold lectures, show films, and other special events at the Art Deco Welcome Center.
  • '''Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition''' [http://www.fairexpo.com]. This fair is ranked one of the largest and most successful fairs in the nation and attracts nearly 700,000 visitors each year. Typically held in late March and early April, the 18-day event offers close to 100 rides, nearly 170 food vendors, 50 games, souvenir and gift shops and the World Agriculture competition. Not to be missed ? a daily Mardi Gras parade.
  • '''Eco-AdventureTours''', 1+305 365 3018 [http://http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/fun-eco_adventures.asp]. Miami-Dade Park's Eco-Adventures offers a line up of naturalist-guided nature adventures. Activities include kayaking and snorkeling in the clear water, canoe trips through scenic mangrove creeks and biking along paths in Key Biscayne.
  • '''Canoe Trips''' [http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/fun-activity-eco_canoe.asp].
  • '''Kayaking and Snorkeling''' [http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/fun-activity-eco_kayak.asp].
  • '''Bike Tours''' [http://www.miamidade.gov/parks/fun-eco_bike.asp].
  • '''South Beach''' (Ocean Drive from 5th to 15th). One of the best known beaches in the US and one of the few in the US where topless sunbathing is common.
  • '''Haulover Beach''', Collins from 155th to 160th [http://www.hauloverbeach.org]. If you're a little more daring, this is one of the few and also one of the better nude beaches in the U.S. Reasonable facilities and a welcoming mixed crowd enjoy nature au naturel at the northern half of Haulover Beach. Approximately ten miles north of South Beach.
  • Learn

  • '''Miami-Dade Community College''' [http://www.mdcc.edu/college_wide/]
  • '''Barry University''' [http://www.barry.edu]
  • '''Florida International University''' [http://www.fiu.edu]
  • '''University of Miami''' [http://www.miami.edu/UMH/CDA/UMH_Main/]
  • Work

    Buy

    Miami Beach is a fashionista's paradise, with strips dedicated to designer, from Versarce to Missioni, from Vivienne Westwood to Chloe. Don your most comfortablest shoes and indulge!

  • '''Collins Avenue/Washington Avenue'''— Heralded as the designer district, all your favorite designers labels are within walking distance from each other, which means that more time can be spent in the changerooms. Start at Collins and Fifth Avenues and walk north, toward 10th Street. Peek down the side streets and you will find smaller, one-of-a-kind boutiques.
  • '''Lincoln Road'''— This seven block strip is closed to traffic but open to diehard shoppers. There's the standard stores such as Bebe alongside unique boutiques such as Brownes & Co, an upscale spa/body and bath products store.
  • '''Espanola Way'''— A pedestrian mall off Washington Avenue near 14th Street. Its charming architecture is reminiscent of a Spanish village, complete with red roofs. On Sundays, the street turns into something of a farmers_f market, with locals selling everything from freshly cut flowers to souveniers in stalls.
  • Those without a budget head to '''Bal Harbour''' (9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour) where the locals shop at the Versace boutique.

    Eat

    Many international cuisines are to be found, with a heavy leaning towards Latin foods, particularly Cuban cuisine. Some Cuban cuisine to try includes a ''sandwich cubano'' (Cuban sandwich) and a ''cafecito'' (literally it means little coffee, but compares to a strong, sweet espresso).

    Budget

  • '''11th Street Diner''', 1065 Washington Ave, (305)534-6373. Really cool and is located on the corner of Washington and 11th St in South Beach. They serve breakfast all day. $8-$15.
  • '''Van Dyke''', 846 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, tel (305) 534-3600. Serving a good range of salads, sandwiches and pastas at a reasonable price. Entrees start from $7.
  • '''A Fish called Avalon''' 700 Ocean Dr, Miami Bech, tel 305) 532-1727. Fresh seafood restaurant that has locals and visitors raving. While the service can be better, the food is impeccable. Be sure to try the Lobster Cavatelli or the Cilantro Cured Swordfish.
  • Mid-range

  • '''Pascha's''', 900 Lincoln Rd, +1 305 673-3919 [http://www.pashas.com/]. Healthy Mediterranean fare that is as tasty as it looks. Good location on Lincoln Road and the staff are attentive.
  • '''Rice House of Kabob''', 1318 Alton Rd, (305) 531-0332 [http://www.ricehouseofkabob.com]. Clean lined decor inside serves plentiful and filling Indian cuisine. Great for a lunch time bite.
  • '''Nexxt Cafe''', 700 Lincoln Rd, +1 305-532-6643, [http://www.thenexxtcafe.com]. European sidewalk cafe offering a choice of excellent value international cuisine. Save room for one of the delectable fresh French pastries Nexxt concocts daily.
  • '''660 Mediterranean Kitchen at The Angler's''', 660 Washington Avenue, +1 786-594-5811 [http://www.theanglersresort.com/] Cozy and magical indoor and outdoor spaces provide for a romantic and intimate dining experience, full liquor bar, breakfast, lunch and dinner.
  • Splurge

  • '''Casa Tua''', 4700 James Ave, +1 305 673 1010[http://www.casatualifestyle.com/restaurant.htm]. If it's good enough for Sting then it might be good enough for you. If you want to go up-market for dinner, it's hard to beat--but be prepared to pay for the experience.
  • '''Barton G''', 1427 West Avenue, Miami Beach, tel 305-672-8881. Its a dining experience you'll never forget, with plates and drinks outrageously designed by Chef Barton G, Miami_fs most famous event planner. Dine with socialities and celebrities, and don't forget your credit card, it's quite expensive.
  • Drink

    Most of the drinking nightlife is centered around South Beach or Coconut Grove. "Cuba Libre" is a popular drink, known to the rest of the world as plain old "Rum and Coke". Also popular is the "Mojito", a sugar/mint/soda-water and rum drink.

  • '''Caffe Tramonto''', 235 Washington Ave (Between 2nd and 3rd), +1 305 672-2137. Opens at 6PM daily. A bar with a fun international atmosphere in South Beach.
  • '''Purdy Lounge''', 1811 Purdy Ave, 305-531-4622 [http://www.purdylounge.com]. Open M-F 3PM-5AM, Sa,Su 6PM-5AM. A funky local dance joint, the world famous Purdy Lounge is open till 5AM every day of the year. Daily drink specials, live reggae on Mon and live local bands on Tuesday. The joint gets packed on the weekends and most of the crowds starts coming in at 11PM. Drinks are inexpensive and pours are generous.
  • Mansion. 235 Washington Ave. 1 305-532-1525. ttp://www.mansionmiami.com/. 0pm-5am. Large popular nightclub set in the heart of Washington Avenue. Set over two floors, the slightly-pretentious yet buzzing club is a display of urban chic and is popular largely with tourists and locals depending on the night. The club boasts big name DJ's that you would find in any Ibiza superclub, such as Roger Sanchez. The club is part of the Opium Group which owns some of the other clubs in South Beach. There are a mixture of nights ranging from techno/commercial house to hip hop and RnB. If you are visiting Miami, your hotel should be able to provide you with concierge passes which will get you to the front of the line, although on big events expect to argue with the doorstaff about the wait. Expect to pay $50 for entry when big names appear, $15-30 midweek, well worth a visit.

  • Nikki Beach Club. Ocean Drive. 305) 538-1111?. ttp://www.nikkibeach.com/miami. Possibly the most exclusive club in Miami Beach, the Nikki Beach club boasts sister clubs in places such as St. Tropez and Hollywood, Ca. It combines a club (Club Nikki) and a seperate beach club with comfortable beach sofas and bars. Sunday nights are the best to hit the nightclub with its overly pretentious and selective doorstaff; who adhere to a strict 70/30 rule on entry women to men. Celebrities are not uncommon, entry is very difficult for groups of men on busy nights - the best way to ensure entry is to buy a table which will cost anywhere between $500 - $1000. The music differs from night to night but is mainly commercial house and RnB. The clientele maybe pretentious but the club has a fun vibe which most patrons adhere. Worth a visit on a Sunday for a fantastic VIP night.

    Sleep

    Miami Beach is a tourist town and has many hotels, located mostly around the beach area. High season (fewer rooms, higher prices,) is during the winter months of November through February, with summer being the low season. There are hostels throughout the city.

    Do your homework when booking a hotel in South Beach. Nearly all of the hotels have a restaurant, at least a small one, out in front of the hotel. That appears to be what gets the hotel a three-star rating. However in many cases, the hotel by itself is far from three-stars. Read reviews from other travelers before booking or you might be very disappointed.

    Budget

  • Albion South Beach. 650 James Ave.. 05-913-1000 . ttp://www.rubellhotels.com. The beautifully restored Art Deco Albion South Beach hotel in the heart of South Beach offers tastefully decorated rooms and suites, meeting space, and a restaurant and bar.

  • ''' Dezer Hotels''' [http://www.dezerhotels.com/]. Three properties located on the ocean.
  • '''Jazz on South Beach Hostel in Miami''', 321 Collins Ave, tel: +1 305 672.2137 [http://www.jazzhostels.com/jazzsouthbeach_new.html]. New hostel in the former Hotel Atlantica, just 1 block from the beach.
  • ''' Wave Hotel''', [http://www.wavehotel.com/]. The Wave Hotel is a boutique Art Deco hotel on Ocean Drive in the SoFi area of Miami_fs South Beach. A hip, relaxed atmosphere, within walking distance to the beach, nightclubs and dining.
  • Mid-range

  • '''Hotel Astor''', 956 Washington Ave, (305) 531-8081 [http://www.hotelastor.com/]. A boutique Art Deco hotel located near restaurants, nightclubs and shopping on South Beach.
  • '''Carlton South Beach Hotel''', 1433 Collins Avenue, Newly renovated in trendy Art Deco district. [http://www.carltonsouthbeach.com]
  • '''The Kent''', 1131 Collins Avenue, 1131 Collins Avenue, 305-604-5068 [http://www.thekenthotel.com]. With 54 stylish rooms, visitors choose the Kent for the convenience and location. While the rooms are small, they are clean and brightly furnished. Great for a short stay.
  • '''The Park Central''', 640 Ocean Drive, [http://www.theparkcentral.com/]. An Art Deco hotel with 115 accommodations and 12 suites, period furniture and modern amenities.
  • '''The Strand Ocean Drive Hotel''', 1052 Ocean Drive, (305) 538-9830 [http://www.thestrandoceandrive.com/]. An all-suite boutique hotel located on Ocean Drive, near nightclubs, restaurants and shopping; across the street from the beach.
  • '''Hotel St. Augustine''', 347 Washington Ave., (305) 532-0570[http://www.hotelstaugustine.com/]. A hip boutique hotel in South Beach_fs SoFi District with Art Deco architecture and 24 loft-style rooms.
  • '''Townhouse Hotel''', 150 20th Street [http://www.townhousehotel.com/]. Cool, fun, & fresh lodging accommodations steps away from the ocean, Collins Avenue, & Art Deco hotspots offering modern design & old-fashioned comfort.
  • Splurge

  • '''Alexander Hotel''', 5225 Collins Avenue, (305) 865-6500 [http://www.alexanderhotel.com/]. Beachfront hotel offering one and two bedroom suites with kitchens. Fine dining available on-site at Shula's Steakhouse.
  • '''The Bentley Hotel''', 501 Ocean Drive [http://www.thebentleyhotel.com/]. The Bentley is a truly luxurious Art Deco Hotel housed in an oceanfront building dating from 1934. The Bentley's meticulously restored art deco architecture provides a luxurious, yet intimate environment. This decidedly upscale hotel is one of the few luxury-class options on Ocean Drive.
  • '''The Bentley Beach Hotel''', 101 Ocean Drive [http://www.thebentleybeachhotel.com/]. All-suite lodging accommodations offering luxury studio, one bedroom, two bedroom and penthouse suites.
  • '''The Betsy Hotel''', 1440 Ocean Drive, (305) 531-3934 [http://www.thebetsyhotel.com/]. The Betsy Hotel is a newly renovated luxury boutique hotel on Ocean Drive.
  • '''Case Grande Suite Hotel''' [http://www.casagrandesuitehotel.com]. All suites have full kitchens and pets are allowed. Room service available. Guests have access to a private beach club.
  • '''Delano Miami Beach''', 1685 Collins Ave., ''+1 305'' 672-2000 [http://www.delano-hotel.com]. Designed by hotelier Ian Schrager and Philippe Stark, this hotel projects the style and extravagance of South Beach, with rack rates to prove it. It is regarded by some to be the height of South Beach chic. At night the glitterati gather in the outdoor lounge and practice the art of elegant nonchalance.
  • Eden Roc, A Renaissance Beach Resort & Spa. 525 Collins Avenue. 05 531 0000. ttp://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/miasr-eden-roc-a-renaissance-beach-resort-and-spa/. Eden Roc is a unique Florida spa resort located in Millionaire's Row. This Renaissance Miami Beach Resort & Spa features four pools, a marina, italian restaurant and so much more.

  • Miami Beach Resort. 833 Collins Avenue. 66-765-9090. ttp://www.miamibeachresortandspa.com/. Situated directly on the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean: oceanfront views and luxurious accommodations. Just 2.5 miles from world-class shopping and nightlife destinations of South Beach.

  • '''National Hotel''', 1677 Collins Avenue [http://thenationalhotel.com]. Located in the heart of Miami's historical Art Deco district: South Beach. The National Hotel is close to the beach, Lincoln Road, Miami Beach Convention Center and Ocean Drive.
  • '''Penguin Hotel''', 1418 Ocean Drive [http://penguinhotel.com]. Right on the beach, at the heart of the trendy Art Deco District South Beach, spanning one block between Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue.
  • '''The Raleigh Hotel''' 1775 Collins Avenue [http://www.raleighhotel.com]. This Art Deco Hotel has been a staple of South Beach since its renovation in the 1980's. The pool at The Raleigh should be on every visitors must see list.
  • Contact

    The main area code for Miami Beach is 305, with an overlay of the 786 area code.

    Stay safe

    Emergency telephone number for fire, police and rescue emergencies is 911.

    Cope

    Get out