An insider’s travel guide to Miami: best hotels, spas, dining, things to do and day trips.
Last updated: September 2024
Feature image courtesy of Faena Miami Beach
Miami’s come a long way from it’s 80s-era Vice City moniker. Though you can still sip a rum cocktail well into the wee hours, and no one would fault you for spending your entire getaway basking along a swath of sun-bleached shoreline, today’s Miami beckons with so much more. Think: oceanfront hotels just as luxurious as they are historic, world-class spas redefining self-care, a thriving culinary scene and abundant arts and culture offerings. All, brimming with a distinctive identity reflecting the city’s Art Deco origins, contemporary influences and vibrant global flair alike.
In this Miami travel guide, I have your insider’s edit on where to eat, stay and play in the 305 right now – because we all deserve a little vice in our life.
Related: 5 Places to Find Tropical, Turquoise Water Beaches – Without Leaving the United States
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Related: Here’s How to Get a Free Room Upgrade & Perks on Your Upcoming Hotel Stay.
Miami Travel Guide: Best Luxury Hotels & Resorts
Best Luxury Hotels in Miami: The Miami Beach EDITION
Renowned worldwide for its effortless blend of laid back luxury, the Miami Beach outpost of Ian Schrager’s EDITION does not disappoint. Upon arriving to the stylish Mid-Beach enclave you’ll emerge into the verdant, palm-immersed lobby: a gorgeous refuge for coming, going or relaxing with a cocktail from the glamorous lobby bar. Bed down in beach-hued guest rooms, oceanfront suites or private bungalows (some bi-level). Soak in the sun on a daybed amidst 70,000 square feet of powder-soft beachfront, or take a dip in one of two cabana-ringed swimming pools. One of which is the fully restored landmark pool – originally known as the Sundial Pool from the property’s historic Seville Hotel days – including a preserved, two-tiered diving board.
Looking for a little more action? You can roll into the fun at Basement Bowl, a neon-lit four-lane bowling alley, or hit the ice at the property’s own 2,000 square foot indoor ice skating rink. Don’t miss Tropicale for all day al fresco dining (choose from pool or beachside), Market at EDITION for dine-in or grab & go gourmet eats, or the Matador Room: a 1940s-era supper club experience helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.
Best Luxury Hotels in Miami: 1 Hotel South Beach
This SoBe sanctuary isn’t just located along a 600-foot stretch of pristine shoreline, it further boasts a beachside cabana pool, adults-only rooftop pool, al fresco eateries and sprawling oceanfront suites to soak in the views. 1 Hotel South Beach is just as hip as it is zen, underscored by a passionate commitment to mindful hospitality. Think: low energy LED lighting, sustainable bed linens and organic Bamford bath amenities, not to mention a theme of locally sourced and repurposed décor brimming throughout the property. You can even test drive their emission-free house car, a fully electric Audi Q8 e-tron.
Self-care at Bamford Wellness Spa (the holistic English brand’s first U.S. outpost) is all but required, and you won’t want to miss Watr at the Rooftop for Japanese fare with a view. The gorgeous lobby – a veritable gathering place for guests and locals alike – is home to living green walls, complimentary grab & go goods from the organic Farmstand, and Drift Lobby Bar (choose from sustainable, signature or zero-proof cocktails). Plus: a Seedlings Kids Camp for little ones and a pet-friendly policy for furry ones.
Best Luxury Hotels in Miami: Carillon Miami Wellness Resort
At this luxury wellness enclave in North Beach, all-suite rooms equipped with floor-to-ceiling ocean views, innovative mind and body treatments in the cutting-edge spa and clean, organic cuisine all equate to a restorative and rewarding beachfront stay. Renovated one and two-bedroom suites start at 720 square feet, all featuring separate living areas and full kitchens, spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs and customizable Bryte Balance Smart Beds for optimal sleep. When you’re ready for a dip, head to the idyllic Cabana Pool or adults-only saltwater Atlantic Pool. The latter resides on the rooftop with spectacular ocean views (especially at sunset).
Spa goals here hit like no other, starting with the resort’s sublime Thermal Hydrotherapy Circuit. It’s one of the most expansive hydro circuits in the country, counting everything from a purifying Herbal Laconium and Crystal Steam Room to a bubbling jacuzzi flanked by Thermal Loungers. Don’t miss hitting the sprawling fitness center – treadmill with an ocean view, anyone? – or perusing the resort’s weekly menu of included wellness classes.
Best Luxury Hotels in Miami: Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Anchoring Faena District – a vibrant, culture-driven neighborhood spanning 32nd to 36th Streets along Collins Ave in Mid-Beach – oceanfront Faena Hotel is the epitome of glitz, glamour and artful luxury in The Magic City. From the moment you step foot into the striking red and gold lobby – with Damien Hirst’s iconic Golden Mammoth display within eyesight – you know you’re in for an incomparable stay.
179 rooms and suites exude bespoke Art Deco flair. Think: opulent appointments like Carrara marble bathrooms and Ann Sachs tilework, imaginative animal-print accents and a signature color palette of gold, ocean teal and ruby red. Worries wash away at Faena Pool and Beach, both of which offer VIP amenities and service under the cool shade of signature candy-striped umbrellas. Don’t miss live fire brunch at Los Fuegos (by Argentine grillmaster Francis Mallmann), The Living Room for post-dinner drinks paired with nightly live entertainment, or El Secreto, an exclusive 6-seat Omakase experience from James Beard Award winning chef, Paul Qui.
Best Luxury Hotels in Miami: Loews Miami Beach Hotel
There’s a lot to love about this fabulous family-friendly stay in the heart of South Beach, including its steps-from-everything location, sprawling beachfront (with a bevy of included watersports), gorgeous, cabana-fringed swimming pool and coastal-inspired rooms and suites with a view. 790 guestrooms, including 69 suites, are spread between two towers: oceanfront or the historic St. Moritz tower – beautifully preserved from its 1939 Art Deco origins.
When you’re ready to unwind, book a signature treatment at Sea Spa (try the Lavender & Seaweed Sugar Glow Body Treatment) or relax poolside at SOAK. This adults-only cabana deck is equipped with VIP amenities, plush seating and even private rooftop sundecks. Traveling with little ones? They’ll love the property’s SoBe Kids Club, featuring curated activities in partnership with Miami Children’s Museum and Frost Museum of Science. Don’t miss daily happy hour at Bar Collins or snagging a reservation at Rao’s Miami Beach: polished tropical outpost of legendary Rao’s New York and crown jewel of Loews MB’s dining scene.
Best Luxury Hotels in Miami: There’s More!
See my complete edit of the 14 Best Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Miami Beach.
Miami Travel Guide: Best Restaurants & Bars
Best Restaurants in Miami: Jaya at The Setai
Arrive at The Setai – one of my favorite luxury hotels in South Beach – and you’ll emerge into the gorgeous courtyard setting of Jaya (“victory” in Sanskrit). It’s lush, it’s zen-inspired, it’s a veritable SoBe hot spot. Expect fabulous Pan-Asian cuisine ranging from Truffle Dumplings to wok-crafted Salmon Panang Curry to Jaya’s signature Peking Duck, all paired with exotic nighttime performances (think: fire dancers, contortionists and aerial artists).
Don’t miss weekend brunch, a legendary ritual boasting free-flowing champagne from the Louis Roederer collection, or Jaya’s new Sunset Hours, pairing a 3-course chef’s selection menu with a gratis welcome libation.
Best Restaurants in Miami: Zaytinya
From Michelin-starred Chef José Andrés, the South Beach outpost of Zaytinya lays claim to inspired Mediterranean fare in the fashionable setting of The Ritz-Carlton South Beach. Choose from elegant indoor or buzzy outdoor seating (the latter, complete with a poolside view), where all-day mezze-style eats see influences from Turkish, Greek and Lebanese cuisines.
Think: Htipiti and Taramosalata spreads, Imam Bayildi (stuffed eggplant), Salmon Durum, Chicken Youvetski and Adana Kebab. The Turkish-Style Pastirma all but transported me back to Istanbul. Pair with traditional Turkish coffee, wine or sparkling by the glass (try the Xinomavro Brut Rose from Macedonia) or sip a specialty cocktail like the Sidecar to Tangier or Ankara Rye Club.
Best Restaurants in Miami: Makoto
Head to the glamorous designer haven of Bal Harbour Shops to not just peruse a who’s who of luxury wares amidst lush, landscaped gardens, but fuel up pre or post-haul at any of the locale’s posh eateries. My #1 pick? Makoto. Here, fine Japanese fare from Edomae-style sushi Chef Makoto Okuwa is presented in a retro-elegant setting giving Japanese eatery, French brasserie and American diner all-in-one.
The sushi is exceptional (fish flown in from Tokyo three times a week), Robata-grilled bites savory and unexpected (try the Avocado and Japanese Eggplant) and comfort food sublime (I’m still dreaming about the Braised Beef Yaki Noodle). Ask for the sake list – it’s extensive – or an Asian-inspired cocktail like the lychee-infused Hitsuji or lemongrass shiso shrub-enhanced Saru.
Best Restaurants in Miami: The Wagyu Bar by Meat N’ Bone
Carnivores finding themselves anywhere in the vicinity of Coral Gables should run, not walk, to The Wagyu Bar. Cutting through the smoke and mirrors of hyped up steakhouses without the substance, this casual take is anything but when it comes to the quality, authenticity and passion behind their largely Wagyu menu. One created and supplied by the same masterful team as fine online butcher shop and gourmet food purveyor Meat N’ Bone – which happens to have its flagship storefront right next door.
Steak is the obvious star here. Available to be enjoyed at every transparent grade and price-point, options range from a Wagyu BMS7+ Burger for $24.00 to a Bone-In 32 oz Wagyu Tomahawk BMS7+ Steak for $250.00. The Katsu Sando is one of the best things I’ve eaten ever (think: crisp-fried Wagyu Filet Mignon wedged between two slices of fluffy Japanese milk bread complete with arugula and tonkatsu sauce) and don’t sleep on the apps. The Miyazaki-Gyu A5 Nigiri (torched tableside) is outstanding, as are exceptional non-beef options like AAA Bluefin Tuna Tataki and Ora King Salmon Nigiri.
Best Restaurants in Miami: Chotte Matte
A stroll down Lincoln Road will bring you to Chotto Matte: a multi-sensory SoBe hot spot where beautifully presented Nikkei cuisine (Japanese and Peruvian fusion) shines just as bright as the art-splashed walls encircling lush, Amazon-inspired interiors. Indulge in one of several Nikkei Tasting Menus (one’s vegetarian) or order a la carte. The Spicy Edamame, Corn Ribs (in Peruvian huancaina sauce), Spicy Tuna Crispy Sushi, Yellowtail Nikkei Sashimi and Asado de Tira are all standouts.
Cocktails are just as tantalizing, ranging from the classic Pisco Sour to the sake-based Story of Jade to creative NA concoctions made with Seedlip zero-proof spirits. Don’t miss Chotto Hour for bar bite and cocktail specials Tuesday – Friday from 5pm – 8pm, or Buena Vibra Wednesdays, when live Latin music pairs with 2×1 cocktails from 5pm – 10pm.
Best Bars in Miami: Café La Trova
A trip to Little Havana is all but required when visiting Miami, and here, you can head straight to Café La Trova. This lively Calle Ocho drinking den ranks as #13 in North America’s 50 Best Bars for 2024 list – and lives up to the hype. It’s the creation of famed Maestro Cantinero Julio Cabrera in collaboration with James Beard Award-Winning Chef Michelle Bernstein, where a retro-Cuba atmosphere springs to life with rum-forward cocktails, zesty Cuban fare and the hum of live Trova musicians.
Go for a classic Daiquiri or Mojito, or opt for a signature Cubano Viejo or La Trova Old Fashioned. All, thrown in theatrical style by jacket-uniformed, cantinero-style bartenders. A menu of savory bar bites and mains is hard to resist, particularly the Sweet Corn & Chicken Empanadas, Lechon (braised and mojo-marinated) and Skirt Steak Ropa Vieja. Stop in between 4 & 7pm daily to enjoy their special Happy Hour menu.
Best Restaurants & Bars in Miami: There’s More!
See my complete edit of Where to Eat, Drink & Savor in Miami: Hot Spots to Hidden Gems.
Miami Travel Guide: Best Spas
Best Spas in Miami: The Spa at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort
Open to hotel guests and non-guests alike, the spa at Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is, in a word, sublime. A world-class Thermal Hydrotherapy Circuit is one of the most expansive in the country, counting such highlights as a purifying Herbal Laconium, Crystal Steam Room and bubbling jacuzzi flanked by Thermal Loungers. Don’t miss the multi-sensory storm showers simulating the likes of a Caribbean monsoon, or the menthol-infused Igloo. I haven’t even mentioned my favorite part – the eucalyptus-scented sauna – perfect for a long, post-workout roast (or next-day detox).
Beyond hydro, a full service spa awaits to truly pamper. Think: signature massages, skincare and body treatments, plus innovative touchless wellness experiences. Try the Wellsystem Wave Massage, Himalayan Salt Room or Somadome Meditation Pod. As if all that weren’t enough, you can float into an even greater state of zen by reserving the spa’s weightless, Salt Float Bath Therapy Chamber.
Best Spas in Miami: Tierra Santa Healing House at Faena Hotel Miami Beach
At this 22,000-square foot sanctuary set within Faena Hotel, ancient healing rituals from around the world converge with modern wellness techniques – including one of the largest hammams on the East Coast. Book a Verbena Detox Massage or Triple Lift Advanced Facial (the latter, utilizing Biologique Recherche skincare products) or try the signature Pranic Healing, Palo Santo & Sound Bowl experience.
This three-part purification ritual taps into a system of energy medicine used to harmonize and restore physical, mental and emotional health. Think: chakra cleansing and balancing, purification of the body with palo santo (a sacred tree from the east coast of South American known for its mystical healing properties) and vibrational sound harmonics. Whichever you choose, be sure to arrive well ahead of your treatment to enjoy the Wet Spa: home to an Herbal Steam Room, Ice Parlor and heated stone beds.
Best Spas in Miami: Casa Privée
In Brickell, advanced concierge medical center Casa Privée offers everything from Hyberbaric Oxygen Therapy to Ketamine Infusions to Red Light Therapy – plus private transport to and from your appointment in a luxury ride (read: Bentley or Rolls-Royce). Founded by neuroscientist and physician Dr. Bankole Johnson, Privée’s high tech treatments cater to overall wellness, neuropsychiatry, addiction and anti-aging alike.
Try the ThetaChamber: one of the center’s most popular (and hard to find) treatments. A 30-minute session equates to three days of sleep, where NASA-backed neuro balancing technology helps treat everything from anxiety and depression to insomnia and addiction (also, jet lag). Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is another of Privée’s more unique offerings, utilizing non-invasive brain stimulation to treat major depressive disorders. You’ll find rejuvenative spa treatments here too, like advanced facials and customized IV therapy.
Best Spas in Miami: The Standard Spa
Along the string of islets dotting Venetian Causeway (steps from the action of South Beach) you’ll find Belle Isle and here, The Standard Spa. This adults-only enclave presents as spa first, hotel second, inspired by global bathing cultures amidst a setting of Scandinavian modernism. The concept further reflects Belle Isle’s own origins as a destination for sun and water-based wellness. Communal hydrotherapy is the star here, seeing such immersive amenities as a Roman Waterfall Hot Tub, Arctic Plunge, Aroma Steam Room, Cedar Sauna, Mud Lounge and gorgeous Turkish Hammam. All, paying homage to the shared rituals of traditional bathhouses.
Hydro playground aside, those seeking personalized attention will further find a restorative menu of one-on-one massages, facials and exfoliating body treatments. Plus: an expansive outdoor infinity pool where cocktails and global-inspired bites pair with sparkling bay views (and stunning sunsets).
Related: These Are the Best Spa Resorts for Hydrotherapy & More Water-Based Wellness in the United States
Miami Travel Guide: Best Things to Do
Best Things to Do in Miami: Miami Beachwalk
Originally dubbed (and still fondly known as) the Miami Beach Boardwalk, this now fully paved beachside promenade runs the entire length of sun-soaked Miami Beach. Read: a good eight miles running from 1st Street in spirited South Beach through 87th Street in quiet Surfside. Whether hitting the popular pedestrian artery on foot, blades or bike (grab a beach cruiser from your hotel or hit the nearest Citibike station), expect a scenic route boasting views of the sea and city skyline, several shaded parks and seating areas, water fountains, outdoor fitness hubs, public beach entrances and a smattering of eateries with Beachwalk access.
Notable stops include Lummus Park (and the nearby action of Ocean Drive) plus South Pointe Park, home to a scenic pier yielding fabulous ocean views. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the many Art Deco-inspired lifeguard stands you’ll see dotting the beachfront.
Best Things to Do in Miami: Historical Art Deco Walking Tour
This 90-minute crash course into Miami’s storied Art Deco origins is designed for architecture buffs and novices alike. It’s brought to life by the Miami Design Preservation League – a nonprofit advocacy group protecting and promoting the city’s architectural legacy – departing daily at 10:30am from the Art Deco Welcome Center (located smack in the middle of Ocean Drive).
Further touching on the city’s Mediterranean Revival and Miami Modern (MiMo) styles, the expert-led walking tour explores the iconic facades, as well as glamorous interiors, of several notable hotels, restaurants and commercial structures. Plus, the luminaries who built them. Pro Tip: Tours are popular and known to book up well in advance. Reserve your spot ahead of time here.
Best Things to Do in Miami: The Versace Mansion
Are you even in Miami if you haven’t visited the Versace Mansion? Originally built in 1930 as Casa Casuarina by Alden Freeman (heir to the Standard Oil fortune), this elaborate Spanish-style villa was later purchased by legendary Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace in 1992. Just five years later on July 15, 1997, Versace would meet his end on the front steps of the now-iconic residence. Fast forward to today and the former Versace Mansion is now The Villa Casa Casuarina: part luxury boutique hotel, part glamorous eatery.
If you can’t snag a suite during your stay in Miami (from $600/night, though Gianni’s Master Suite will set you back a tad more), you can book a table at Gianni’s Restaurant at The Villa. Choose from prix-fixe lunch or atmospheric dinner. Either way, expect refined Italian-Mediterranean fare in a buzzy, see and be-seen setting. Pro Tip: Request a table by the Mosaic Pool for arguably the most fabulous seat in the house.
Best Things to Do in Miami: Bal Harbour Shops
Speaking of Versace. After paying homage at the former mansion, head up to Bal Harbour to immerse yourself in the legendary designer’s luxury wares at Bal Harbour Shops. This glamorous open-air shopping oasis is just as luxurious as it is storied, opening it’s breezy doors in 1965 on the site of a World World II army barracks. The visionary project quickly rose to prominence as Florida’s first luxury shopping destination and the rest, is history.
A visit to the well-heeled enclave today yields a who’s who of luxury wares ranging from fashion to art to design, fabulous eateries (don’t miss legendary Carpaccio or my fave, Makoto) and rotating art installations like the recent Fleurs de Villes in honor of Women’s History Month. All, woven throughout a transportive setting of luxuriant tropical gardens.
Best Things to Do in Miami: Get on a Boat
Hitting the water may as well be mandatory when in Miami, and in this town, options for getting on a boat (or otherwise) abound. You can cruise Biscayne Bay to peep mansions of the rich and famous (think: Lionel Messi, Jennifer Lopez, and David Beckham), enjoy a scenic sunset catamaran sail with champagne toast, or up the adrenaline on this thrilling speedboat tour. To really feel the wind in your hair, this guided jet ski adventure zips by celeb homes, the Venetian Islands, Port of Miami, Miami Beach and more. Keep your eyes peeled – you may also spot wild dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and manatees.
Looking to stretch your sea legs in style? Step aboard this posh, private speedboat with customizable routes, this private ride complete with champagne or go all out by renting this 52 foot thirst-trap yacht.
Best Things to Do in Miami: Española Way
Pedestrian strolls in South Beach may be most frequented along Lincoln Road, but those in-the-know are skipping the commercialized thoroughfare for another foot-friendly destination: Española Way. Rooted in old-word charm, the verdant tree-lined stretch is bohemian, picturesque and transportive. It was originally built in the 1920s as an artists’ colony, modeled after the romantic Mediterranean villages of France and Spain.
Today, Española Way is a beloved gathering place for both locals and visitors, fringed with beautifully preserved architecture (right down to the peach-colored paint), lively sidewalk eateries, quaint shops and delightful boutique hotels. Plus, live music and fabulous people-watching. Don’t miss happy hour on the chic rooftop of Esmé Hotel, or tapas and paellas (washed down with pitchers of sangria, naturally) well into the night at Españolita.
Best Things to Do in Miami: Rooftop Cinema Club
Movie night, elevated. Set atop a skyscraping high rise at the tip of Lincoln Road in South Beach, a colorful and kitschy setting of Adirondack chairs, string lights, lawn games and photo ops (not to mention stunning skyline views) sets the scene at Rooftop Cinema Club. I don’t know who curates the playbill here but it’s done so masterfully. A daily rotating lineup counts such cinematic greats as Pulp Fiction and Dirty Dancing, plus nouveau cult classics like Coyote Ugly, Scream (the original, obviously) and Drive.
Don’t miss the full bar for cinema-themed cocktails and mocktails (think: a “Casablanca” Margarita, Titos “Ferris Bueller” and NA “Sandlot”) or apropos movie bites like gourmet hot dogs, stone-fired pizza and of course, popcorn.
Best Things to Do in Miami: Museum & Gallery Hop
Synonymous with Art Basel since 2002, it should come as no surprise that Miami is a veritable wonderland for art aficionados and enthusiasts alike. World-class museums, galleries and installations all abound. A stop at Wynwood Walls – home to globally-renowned street art in an open-air setting – is obligatory, especially if you can snag tickets to their limited-run Street Art After Dark series.
Nearby, the Rubell Museum houses the largest private contemporary art collection in North America (in a repurposed DEA warehouse no less). Don’t miss experiential Superblue Miami across the street. Or Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM), boasting fabulous contemporary art, a sculpture garden and interactive outdoor installations along a breezy bayfront setting. In South Beach, a stroll through Ross+Kramer Gallery yields rotating exhibitions by fresh, internationally renowned artists (think: Erik Parker, Larry Poons and En Iwamura).
Best Things to Do in Miami: Little Havana
This vibrant neighborhood is the beating heart of Miami’s storied Cuban diaspora and a must on any Magic City itinerary. The cultural hotbed is centered around Calle Ocho (SW 8th street), home to lively restaurants churning out savory Cuban fare, the sounds of salsa music spilling out of rum bars and the wafting scent of cigar shops. Colorful street murals pay homage to the likes of singer Celia Cruz and revolutionary poet José Martí, while ventanitas (little windows) sell Cuban coffee, sandwiches and pastries to-go. In Domino Park, you’ll find locals playing heated games of dominoes over equally heated political discussions.
A few must-stops include La Colada Gourmet for Cuban coffee, Sanguich Little Havana for the obligatory Cuban sandwich and Café La Trova for happy hour. Make the pilgrimage to Versailles for authentic Cuban cuisine in a legendary setting and wrap the night at Ball & Chain: 1930s-era nightclub turned bustling rum den and live-music venue. Elevate your experience further with a guided dose of cultural insight on this popular Little Havana Walking & Food Tour.
Miami Travel Guide: Best Day Trips
Best Day Trips From Miami: The Everglades
Vice City may be known for its wild side, but Everglades National Park is decidedly wilder. This lush outdoor refuge is located just an hour’s drive southwest of Miami while residing a literal world away. It’s the largest subtropical wilderness in the nation (covering a cool 1.5 million acres of protected wetlands) teeming with mangrove forests, tropical hardwood hammocks, freshwater prairies and hundreds of bird, animal and plant species. The likes of alligators, manatees, cranes, otters and turtles, even American crocodiles and elusive Florida panthers, all roam freely here.
There’s no place in the world like it, offering visitors three park entrances and several ways to explore. You can traverse any number of winding trails on foot or bike, hit the waterways via canoe or kayak, or opt for a guided tram or airboat tour. Those seeking a truly immersive experience can check into the only hotel inside Everglades National Park: Flamingo Lodge, home to 24 exclusive suites, indoor/outdoor dining and mesmerizing Everglades sunrises.
Best Day Trips From Miami: Take a Ferry to the Bahamas
It’s never been easier to escape the hustle & bustle of Miami for the cool Caribbean breeze of the Bahamas. Simply head up to Fort Lauderdale (drive, Uber or take the high-speed Brightline) and board the Balearia Caribbean. This fast ferry connects the South Florida mainland with your choice of two postcard-perfect Bahamian destinations: Grand Bahama or Bimini (beloved seaside haunt of Ernest Hemingway). A scenic 2 hour crossing brings you to the latter, making this fabled island paradise an obvious choice for a day trip or longer from Miami. Here, day visitors and overnight hotel guests alike can enjoy the sun-drenched setting of Resorts World Bimini.
This luxurious Hilton resort, casino and beach club boasts 4.5 acres of palm-fringed shoreline, where a bohemian Mykonos-meets-Tulum vibe counts oceanfront cabanas, shaded hammocks and direct access to the glowing turquoise sea. Imagine sipping on a cool drink while soaking up the rays at either of two pools – the ground-floor lagoon pool or adults-only rooftop infinity pool (with panoramic ocean views I might add) – each with bars dishing out specialty cocktails and local beach bites. Those looking to explore Bimini further can even grab a golf cart and roll into town for an authentic Bahamian bar and bites crawl. Fuel up with the iconic conch salad at Stuart’s or Joe’s Conch Shack; cap off the day at Edith’s for legendary Bimini bread pizza.
Best Day Trips From Miami: Florida Keys
Paradise found would be an understatement. Hardly an introduction needed, this string of tropical islands – namely, Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, The Lower Keys and Key West – stretches about 120 miles off the southern tip of Florida. Here, sparkling water in swirling shades of turquoise, emerald and seafoam, an endless balmy breeze and as much relaxation (or action) as you desire surround hundreds of islets dotting the tail end of the USA.
From Miami, expect a roughly 2-4 hour drive depending on how far into the Keys you’re going. Technically doable on a day trip, you’d be hard-pressed not to extend to an overnight (or longer). The Florida Keys is a veritable treasure trove of dreamy tropical hideaways and adventures, and I’ve got your Under the Palm edit of the best hotels, restaurants and things to do here.
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