WHERE TO STAY

Room rates in Miami tend to swing wildly. In high season, which is January through May, expect to pay at least $250 per night, even at value-oriented hotels. In fact, it’s common nowadays for rates to begin around $500 at Miami’s top hotels. In summer, however, prices can be as much as 50% lower than the dizzying winter rates. You can also find great deals between Easter and Memorial Day, which is actually a delightful time in Miami. Business travelers tend to stay in downtown Miami, and most vacationers stay on Miami Beach, as close as possible to the water. South Beach is no longer the only “in” place to stay. Mid-Beach and Downtown have taken the hotel scene by storm in the past few years and become home to some of the region’s most avant-garde and luxurious properties to date. If money is no object, stay in one of the glamorous hotels lining Collins Avenue between 15th and 23rd streets or between 29th and 44th streets. Otherwise, stay on the quiet beaches farther north, or in one of the small boutique hotels on Ocean Drive, Collins, or Washington avenues between 10th and 15th streets. Two important considerations that affect price are balcony and view. If you’re willing to have a room without an ocean view, you can sometimes get a much lower price than the standard rate, even at an oceanfront hotel.

Hotel reviews have been shortened. For full information, visit Fodors.com . Use the coordinate ( C2) at the end of each review to locate a property on the Where to Eat and Stay in the Miami Area map.

DOWNTOWN

Miami’s skyline continues to grow by leaps and bounds. With Downtown experiencing a renaissance of sorts, the hotel scene here isn’t just for business anymore. In fact, hotels that once relied solely on their Monday–Thursday traffic are now bustling on weekends, with a larger focus on cocktails around the rooftop pool and less on the business center. These hotels offer proximate access to Downtown’s burgeoning food and cocktail scene, and historic sights, and are a short Uber ride away from Miami’s beaches.

Conrad Miami. $$$ HOTEL Occupying floors 16 to 26 of a 36-story skyscraper in Miami’s burgeoning city center, this hotel mixes business with pleasure, offering easy access to the best of Downtown. Pros: central Downtown location; excellent service; good spa. Cons: poor views from some rooms; expensive parking. Rooms from: $319 Espirito Santo Plaza, 1395 Brickell Ave., Downtown 305/503–6500 www.conradmiami.com 201 rooms No meals D5 .

DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay. $$ HOTEL Just 1 mile from PortMiami at the north end of Downtown, this waterfront hotel offers relatively basic, spacious rooms and convenient access to and from the cruise ships, making it a good crash pad for budget-conscious cruise passengers. Pros: marina; proximity to cruise port; spacious rooms. Cons: still need a cab to get around; dark lobby and neighboring arcade of shops; worn rooms. Rooms from: $279 1717 N. Bayshore Dr., Downtown 305/372–0313 www.doubletree.com 202 rooms No meals D4 .

Fodor’s Choice Four Seasons Hotel Miami. $$$$ HOTEL A favorite of business travelers visiting Downtown’s busy, business-centric Brickell Avenue, this plush sanctuary offers a respite from the nine-to-five mayhem—a soothing water wall greets you, the understated rooms impress you, and the seventh-floor, 2-acre-pool terrace relaxes you. Pros: sensational service; window-side daybeds; amazing gym and pool deck. Cons: no balconies; not near the beach. Rooms from: $519 1435 Brickell Ave., Downtown 305/358–3535 www.fourseasons.com/​miami 221 rooms No meals D5 .

JW Marriott Marquis Miami. $$$$ HOTEL The marriage of Marriott’s JW and Marquis brands created a truly high-tech, contemporary, and stylish business-minded hotel—you may never have seen another Marriott quite like this one. Pros: entertainment center; amazing technology; pristine rooms. Cons: swimming pool receives limited sunshine; lots of conventioneers on weekdays; congestion at street entrance. Rooms from: $499 255 Biscayne Blvd. Way, Downtown 305/421–8600 www.jwmarriottmar­quismiami.com 313 rooms No meals D4 .

Kimpton EPIC Hotel. $$$ HOTEL In the heart of Downtown, Kimpton’s pet-friendly, artful EPIC Hotel offers rooms with spacious balconies (many of them overlook Biscayne Bay) and fabulous modern amenities—Frette linens, iPod docks, spa-inspired luxury bath products—that match the modern grandeur of the trendy common areas, which include a supersexy rooftop pool. Pros: sprawling rooftop pool deck; balcony in every room; complimentary wine hour, coffee, and Wi-Fi. Cons: some rooms have inferior views; congested valet area. Rooms from: $319 270 Biscayne Blvd. Way, Downtown 305/424–5226 www.epichotel.com 411 rooms No meals D4 .

Fodor’s Choice Mandarin Oriental, Miami. $$$$ HOTEL At the tip of prestigious Brickell Key in Biscayne Bay, the Mandarin Oriental feels as exclusive as it does glamorous, with luxurious rooms, exalted restaurants, and the city’s top spa, all of which marry the brand’s signature Asian style with Miami’s bold tropical elegance. Pros: impressive lobby; intimate vibe; ultraluxurious. Cons: man-made beach; small infinity pool; few beach cabanas. Rooms from: $599 500 Brickell Key Dr., Downtown 305/913–8288 , 866/888–6780 www.mandarinoriental.com/​miami 357 rooms No meals D5 .

W Miami. $$$$ HOTEL Formerly the Viceroy, Miami’s second W hotel cultivates a brash, supersophisticated Miami attitude, likely stemming from its guest rooms decked out with dramatic Kelly Wearstler, Asian-inspired interiors and larger-than-life common areas designed by Philippe Starck. Pros: amazing design elements; exceptional pool deck and spa; sleek rooms. Cons: serious traffic getting in and out of hotel entrance; tiny lobby; some amenities shared with ICON Miami residents. Rooms from: $528 485 Brickell Ave., Downtown 305/503–4400 www.wmiamihotel.com 168 rooms No meals D4 .

COCONUT GROVE

Although this area certainly can’t replace the draw of Miami Beach or the business convenience of Downtown, about 20 minutes away, it’s an exciting bohemian-chic neighborhood with a gorgeous waterfront.

Mayfair Hotel & Spa. $$ HOTEL Some 30 years strong, the five-story Mayfair Hotel & Spa still reflects Coconut Grove’s bohemian roots, best exemplified by its eclectic exteriors: handcrafted wooden doors, one-of-a-kind decorative moldings, mosaic tiles inspired by Spain’s Alhambra, and Gaudi-like ornaments adorning the rooftop pool deck. Pros: in the heart of walkable Coconut Grove; details in exterior design; in-house spa. Cons: limited lighting within rooms; interiors not as exciting as exteriors; car needed to get to the beach. Rooms from: $258 3000 Florida Ave., Coconut Grove 800/433–4555 reservations , 305/441–0000 www.mayfairhotelandspa.com 179 rooms No meals C5 .

The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami. $$$$ HOTEL This business-centric Ritz-Carlton hotel in the heart of Coconut Grove has a lively lobby and lounge that complements its sophisticated guest rooms—all with marble baths and private balconies. Pros: elevated pool deck; near Coconut Grove and Coral Gables shopping; excellent service. Cons: near residential area; more business than leisure oriented. Rooms from: $499 3300 S.W. 27th Ave., Coconut Grove 305/644–4680 , 800/241–3333 www.ritzcarlton.com/​coconutgrove 115 rooms No meals C5 .

CORAL GABLES

Beautiful Coral Gables is set around its beacon, the national landmark Biltmore Hotel. It also has a couple of big business hotels and one smaller boutique property. The University of Miami is nearby.

Biltmore Hotel. $$$$ HOTEL Built in 1926, this landmark hotel has had several incarnations over the years—including a stint as a hospital during World War II—but through it all, this grande dame has remained an opulent reminder of yesteryear, with its palatial lobby and grounds, enormous pool (largest in the Lower 48), and distinctive 315-foot tower, which rises above the canopy of trees shading Coral Gables. Pros: historic property; gorgeous pool; great tennis and golf. Cons: in the suburbs; a car is necessary to get around. Rooms from: $469 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables 855/311–6903 www.biltmorehotel.com 312 rooms No meals B5 .

Hyatt Regency Coral Gables. $$$ HOTEL Within walking distance to the shops and businesses of Miami’s most prestigious suburb and just 4 miles from Miami International Airport, the 250-room, Moorish-inspired Hyatt Regency Coral Gables mingles European charm with functionality. Pros: easy access to MIA; meets rigorous “green” standards; walking distance to several local restaurants. Cons: small bathrooms; in suburbs; no spa. Rooms from: $310 50 Alhambra Plaza, Coral Gables 305/441–1234 www.coralgables.regency.hyatt.com 253 rooms No meals B5 .

KEY BISCAYNE

There’s probably no other place in Miami where slowness is lifted to a fine art. On Key Biscayne there are no pressures, there’s no nightlife outside of the Ritz-Carlton’s great live Latin music weekends, and the dining choices are essentially limited to the hotel (which has four dining options, including the languorous, Havana-style RUMBAR).

Fodor’s Choice The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami. $$$$ RESORT FAMILY In this ultra-laid-back setting, it’s natural to appreciate the Ritz brand of pampering with luxurious rooms, attentive service, five on-property dining options, and ample recreational activities for the whole family. Pros: on the beach; quiet; luxurious family retreat. Cons: far from South Beach; beach sometimes seaweed strewn; rental car almost a necessity. Rooms from: $499 455 Grand Bay Dr., Key Biscayne 305/365–4500 , 800/241–3333 www.ritzcarlton.com/​keybiscayne 402 rooms No meals D6 .

SOUTH BEACH

If you are looking to experience the postcard image of Miami, look no further than South Beach. Most of the hotels along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, and Washington Avenue are housed in history-steeped art deco buildings, each one cooler than the next. From boutique hotels to high-rise structures, all South Beach hotels are in close proximity to the beach and never far from the action. Most hotels here cost a pretty penny, and for good reason. They are more of an experience than a place to crash (think designer lobbies, some of the world’s best pool scenes, and unparalleled people-watching).

The Angler’s South Beach. $$$ HOTEL This boutique hotel, one of several in Miami under the Kimpton brand, has an air of serenity and privacy that pervades this discreet little oasis of personality-driven villas (built in 1930 by architect Henry Maloney) and modern tower units, together capturing the feel of a sophisticated private Mediterranean villa community. Pros: gardened private retreat; excellent service; daily complimentary wine hour. Cons: on busy Washington Avenue; not directly on beach. Rooms from: $379 660 Washington Ave., South Beach 305/534–9600 www.anglershotelmiami.com 44 rooms No meals G4 .

Fodor’s Choice The Betsy—South Beach. $$$ HOTEL After a two-year expansion, the original Betsy Ross Hotel (now christened the “Colonial” wing) has been joined with what was the neighboring, historic Carlton Hotel to create a retro-chic, art deco treasure that delivers the full-throttle South Beach experience with style, pizzazz, and cultural twist. Pros: unbeatable location; superfashionable; great beach club. Cons: some small rooms; service can be hit or miss. Rooms from: $315 1440 Ocean Dr., South Beach 305/531–6100 www.thebetsyhotel.com 130 rooms No meals G2 .

Fodor’s Choice Cadet Hotel. $ HOTEL A former home to World War II air force cadets, this gem has been reimagined as an oasis in South Beach, offering the antithesis of the sometimes maddening jet-set scene, with 34 distinctive rooms exuding understated luxury. Pros: excellent service; lovely garden and spa pool; originality. Cons: tiny swimming pool; limited appeal for the party crowd. Rooms from: $189 1701 James Ave., South Beach 305/672–6688 www.cadethotel.com 34 rooms No meals G2 .

Catalina Hotel & Beach Club. $ HOTEL The Catalina is the budget party spot in the heart of South Beach’s hottest block and attracts plenty of twentysomethings with its free nightly drink hour, airport shuttles, fitness classes, two fun pools, and beach chairs. Pros: free drinks; free airport shuttle; good people-watching. Cons: service not a high priority; loud; not all rooms well maintained. Rooms from: $183 1720–1756 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/674–1160 www.catalinahotel.com 190 rooms No meals G2 .

Crowne Plaza South Beach – Z Ocean Hotel. $$ HOTEL This is definitely not your grandmother’s Crowne Plaza: the lauded firm of Arquitectonica designed this glossy and bold all-suites hideaway, including 27 rooftop suites endowed with terraces, each complete with Jacuzzi, plush chaise lounges, and a view of the South Beach skyline. Pros: incredible balconies; huge rooms; space-maximizing closets. Cons: gym is tiny and basic; not much privacy on rooftop suite decks. Rooms from: $263 1437 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/672–4554 www.ihg.com 79 suites No meals G2 .

Delano South Beach. $$$$ HOTEL The hotel that single-handedly made South Beach cool again in the 1990s is still making major waves across the beach as this Philippe Starck powerhouse continues to define the paradigm of South Beach decor and glamour. Pros: electrifying design; lounging among the beautiful and famous. Cons: crowded; scene-y; entry-level rooms are on small side. Rooms from: $409 1685 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/672–2000 , 800/555–5001 www.morganshotelgroup.com/​delano/​delano-south-beach 208 rooms No meals H2 .

Dream South Beach Miami. $$$ HOTEL This trendy boutique hotel, which is right in the center of the South Beach action, merges two refurbished, archetypal, 1939 art deco buildings into a single project of eclectic modernism, with whimsically decorated interiors—and the result is at once trippy and cool. Pros: awesome interior design; easy-on-the-eyes crowd; amazing location. Cons: limited natural light in some rooms; lack of bathroom privacy; small pool. Rooms from: $309 1111 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/673–4747 www.dreamhotels.com/​southbeach 108 rooms No meals G3 .

Essex: House by Clevelander. $$ HOTEL This restored art deco gem is a favorite with Europeans desiring good location and a relatively no-frills, practical base—expect average-size rooms with mid-century-style red furniture and marble tubs. Pros: a social, heated pool; access to amenities at neighboring Clevelander hotel; in-house sushi restaurant Zen Sai. Cons: small pool; not on the beach. Rooms from: $254 1001 Collins Ave., South Beach 877/532–4006 www.clevelander.com/​essex-house.htm 70 rooms No meals G3 .

Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach. $$$$ HOTEL FAMILY Not to be confused with the budget-oriented Bentley Hotel down the street, the Hilton Bentley Miami is a contemporary, design-driven, and artsy boutique hotel in the emerging and trendy SoFi (South of Fifth) district, offering families just the right mix of South Beach flavor and wholesome fun while still providing couples a romantic base without any party madness. Pros: quiet location; style and grace; family-friendly. Cons: small pool; small lobby; daily resort charge. Rooms from: $429 101 Ocean Dr., South Beach 305/938–4600 www.hilton.com 109 rooms No meals G5 .

Hotel Victor. $$ HOTEL After a Yabu Pushelberg face-lift in late 2013, the sleek Hotel Victor, originally influenced by Parisian designer Jacques Garcia, has replaced the dated jellyfish motif with a newer incarnation of bold modernism. Pros: views from pool deck; high hip factor; good service. Cons: small rooms; street noise from some rooms. Rooms from: $269 1144 Ocean Dr., South Beach 305/908–1462 , 844/319–3854 www.hotelvictors­outhbeach.com 91 rooms No meals G3 .

Kaskades South Beach. $$ HOTEL Though it’s not directly on the beach—it’s across the street—this boutique hotel offers fabulous, style- and value-conscious accommodations in the heart of South Beach. Pros: awesome bathrooms; central location; complimentary wine hour. Cons: rooftop deck often quiet; most amenities in sister hotel. Rooms from: $240 300 17th St., South Beach 305/673–0199 www.kaskadeshotel.com 24 rooms Breakfast G2 .

Loews Miami Beach Hotel. $$$$ HOTEL FAMILY Loews Miami Beach, a two-tower megahotel with top-tier amenities, a massive spa, a great pool, and direct beachfront access, is a good choice for families, businesspeople, groups, and pet lovers. Pros: excellent on-site seafood restaurant; immense spa; pets welcome. Cons: insanely large size; constantly crowded; pets desperate to go will need to wait several minutes to make it to the grass. Rooms from: $449 1601 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/604–1601 , 800/235–6397 www.loewshotels.com/​miami-beach 790 rooms No meals H2 .

Metropolitan by COMO, Miami Beach. $$$ RESORT The luxury COMO brand brings its Zen-glam swagger to South Beach, reinventing the art deco Traymore hotel into a 74-room, Paola Navone–designed boutique hotel that commingles brand signatures (excellent, health-driven cuisine, and myriad spa elements) with Miami panache. Pros: easy access to both South Beach and Mid-Beach; Como Shambhala toiletries; stylish “P” and “C” door magnets signal “Clean” or “Privacy”. Cons: two people per room max; limited number of rooms with good views; small bathrooms. Rooms from: $383 2445 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/695–3600 www.comohotels.com/​metropolitan­miamibeach 74 rooms No meals H1 .

Mondrian South Beach. $$ HOTEL The Mondrian South Beach infuses life into the beach’s lesser-known western perimeter and rises as a poster child of SoBe design glam—head to toe, the hotel is a living and functioning work of art, an ingenious vision of provocateur Marcel Wanders. Pros: great pool scene; perfect sunsets; party vibe. Cons: could still use a bit more refreshing; a short walk from most of the action; no direct beach access. Rooms from: $229 1100 West Ave., South Beach 305/514–1500 www.meninhospitality.com 335 rooms No meals F3 .

National Hotel. $$ HOTEL Fully renovated in 2014, the National Hotel maintains its distinct art deco heritage (the chocolate- and ebony-hued pieces in the lobby date back to the 1930s, and the baby grand piano headlines the throwback Blues Bar) while trying to keep up with SoBe’s glossy newcomers. Pros: stunning pool; perfect location; Blues Bar. Cons: street noise on the weekends; smaller rooms in art deco tower; $19/day resort fee. Rooms from: $295 1677 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/532–2311 , 800/327–8370 reservations www.nationalhotel.com 152 rooms No meals H2 .

Fodor’s Choice 1 Hotel South Beach. $$$$ RESORT This snazzy eco-minded hotel is one of Miami’s all-around best. Pros: even basic level rooms are great; vibrant crowd; sustainability mantra. Cons: many rooms face street; constantly busy. Rooms from: $416 2341 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/604–1000 www.1hotels.com/​south-beach 426 rooms No meals E4 .

Raleigh Hotel. $$$ HOTEL This classy art deco gem, part of the sbe hotel group, balances the perfect amount of style, comfort, and South Beach sultriness, highlighted by the beach’s sexiest pool, which was created for champion swimmer Esther Williams. Pros: amazing historic swimming pool; art deco design; beautiful courtyard. Cons: lobby is a bit dark; not as social as other South Beach hotels; in need of soft renovation. Rooms from: $385 1775 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/534–6300 , 800/848–1775 reservations www.raleighhotel.com 105 rooms No meals H2 .

The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach. $$$ HOTEL FAMILY The Ritz-Carlton is a surprisingly trendy beachfront bombshell, with a dynamite staff, a snazzy Club Lounge, and a long pool deck that leads right out to the beach. Pros: great service; pool with VIP cabanas; great location. Cons: larger property; in-house restaurant Bistro ONE LR often quiet; $28/night resort fee. Rooms from: $391 1 Lincoln Rd., South Beach 786/276–4000 , 800/542–8680 reservations www.ritzcarlton.com/​southbeach 375 rooms No meals H2 .

Room Mate Lord Balfour. $$ HOTEL Quickly making a name for itself in South Beach’s emerging SoFi (South of Fifth) neighborhood, the luxurious, boutique, and retro-chic Lord Balfour hotel—part of the Spain’s RoomMate brand—exudes style, sophistication, and the full-throttle, present-day Miami Beach experience. Pros: great European crowd; whimsical interior design; excellent service. Cons: rooms on smaller side; occasional street noise from some rooms; small resort fee. Rooms from: $219 350 Ocean Dr., South Beach 855/471–2739 , 305/673–0401 www.lordbalfour.room-matehotels.com 64 rooms No meals G4 .

Fodor’s Choice Royal Palm South Beach Miami. $$$ RESORT The Royal Palm South Beach Miami, now part of Starwood’s Tribute Portfolio, is a daily celebration of art deco, Art Basel, modernity, and design detail. Pros: design blending contemporary style with South Beach identity; impressive spa; multiple pools; unbeatable location. Cons: small driveway for entering; older elevators. Rooms from: $338 1545 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/604–5700 , 866/716–8147 reservations www.royalpalmsouthbeach.com 393 rooms No meals G2 .

Sagamore, the Art Hotel. $$$$ HOTEL This supersleek, all-white, all-suites hotel in the middle of the action looks and feels like an edgy art gallery, filled with brilliant contemporary works, the perfect complement to the posh, gargantuan, 500-square-foot crash pads. Pros: sensational pool; great location; good rate specials. Cons: can be quiet on weekdays; rooms could use some refreshing. Rooms from: $429 1671 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/535–8088 www.sagamorehotel.com 93 suites No meals H2 .

Fodor’s Choice The Setai Miami Beach. $$$$ RESORT This opulent, all-suites hotel feels like an Asian museum: serene and beautiful, with heavy granite furniture lifted by orange accents, warm candlelight, and the soft bubble of seemingly endless ponds complemented by three oceanfront infinity pools (heated to different temperatures) that further spill onto the beach’s velvety sands. Pros: quiet and classy; beautiful grounds; great celeb spotting. Cons: TVs are far from the beds; extremely high price point; many rooms lack ocean views. Rooms from: $875 2001 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/520–6111 , 888/625–7500 reservations www.thesetaihotel.com 130 suites No meals H1 .

Shelborne Wyndham Grand South Beach. $$$ RESORT After a major cash infusion from Wyndham hotels, the iconic Morris Lapidus–designed Shelborne hotel has reemerged as the retro-chic 200-room Shelborne Wyndham Grand South Beach, ushering in a new era of glory for both the brand and the hotel. Pros: location; prolific common spaces; Frette linens. Cons: entry-level rooms small; lack of balconies. Rooms from: $389 1801 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/531–1271 www.shelbornewyn­dhamgrand.com 200 rooms No meals H1 .

Fodor’s Choice SLS Hotel South Beach. $$$ RESORT Smack in the center of South Beach, the SLS Hotel marks designer Philippe Starck’s triumphant, large-scale return to South Beach; but this time he’s teamed up with Sam Nazarian and chefs José Andrés and Katsuya Uech for the whimsical trip down the rabbit hole, creating the latest and greatest in the evolution of Miami’s happening hotel-food-pool-beach scene. Pros: great in-house restaurants; masterful design; fun pool scene. Cons: some small rooms; no lobby per se; $30 per night resort fee. Rooms from: $395 1701 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/674–1701 www.slshotels.com/​southbeach 140 rooms No meals H2 .

Surfcomber Miami, South Beach. $$ HOTEL As part of the hip Kimpton Hotel group, South Beach’s legendary Surfcomber hotel reflects a vintage luxe aesthetic and an ocean-side freshness as well as a reasonable price point that packs the place with a young, sophisticated, yet unpretentious crowd. Pros: stylish but not pretentious; pet-friendly; on the beach. Cons: small bathrooms; front desk often busy. Rooms from: $279 1717 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/532–7715 www.surfcomber.com 186 rooms No meals H2 .

The Tides South Beach. $$$$ HOTEL The Tides South Beach, which celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2016, is an exclusive Ocean Drive art deco hotel of all ocean-facing suites adorned with soft pinks and corals, gilded accents, and marine-inspired decor. Pros: superior service; great beach location; ocean views from all suites plus the terrace restaurant (where we recommend cocktails only). Cons: tiny elevators; on touristy Ocean Drive; taxidermy in rooms and common areas. Rooms from: $445 1220 Ocean Dr., South Beach 305/604–5070 www.tidessouthbeach.com 45 suites No meals G3 .

Townhouse. $ HOTEL Though sandwiched between the glitzy high-rises of Collins Avenue, Townhouse doesn’t try to act all dolled up: it’s comfortable being the shabby-chic, lighthearted, relaxed, fun hotel on South Beach. Pros: a great budget buy for the style hungry; easy beach access; hot rooftop lounge. Cons: no pool; small rooms not designed for long stays; resort fee. Rooms from: $195 150 20th St., east of Collins Ave., South Beach 305/534–3800 www.townhousehotel.com 70 rooms No meals H1 .

Villa Paradiso. $ B&B/INN This hotel is one of South Beach’s best deals for budget travelers (and for those who don’t plan on lingering in their rooms all day), with huge (but basic) rooms with kitchens and a charming tropical courtyard with benches for hanging out at all hours. Pros: great hangout spot in courtyard; good value; great location. Cons: no pool; no restaurant; not trendy. Rooms from: $139 1415 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/532–0616 www.villaparadisohotel.com 17 rooms No meals G2 .

Fodor’s Choice W South Beach. $$$$ HOTEL Fun, fresh, and funky, the W South Beach represents the brand’s evolution towards young sophistication, which means less club music in the lobby, more lighting, and more attention to the multimillion-dollar art collection lining the lobby’s expansive walls. Pros: pool scene; masterful design; ocean-view balconies in each room. Cons: not a classic art deco building; hit-or-miss service; room rates for top-level suites can be $1,000 per night in high season. Rooms from: $429 2201 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/938–3000 www.wsouthbeach.com 248 rooms No meals H1 .

MID-BEACH

The stretch of Miami Beach called Mid-Beach is undergoing a renaissance, as formerly run-down hotels are renovated and new hotels and condos are built.

Circa 39 Hotel. $ HOTEL Located in the heart of Mid-Beach, this stylish yet affordable boutique hotel pays attention to every detail and gets them all right, with amenities that include a swimming pool and sundeck complete with cabanas and umbrella-shaded chaises that invite all-day lounging. Pros: affordable; beach chairs provided; art deco fireplace. Cons: not on the beach side of Collins Avenue. Rooms from: $170 3900 Collins Ave., Mid-Beach 305/538–4900 www.circa39.com 96 rooms No meals E4 .

The Confidante. $$$ RESORT Formerly the Thompson, this hotel in Miami’s burgeoning Mid-Beach district is a beachfront classic art deco building reinvented by Martin Brudnizki to channel a colorful, modern incarnation of 1950s Florida glamour. Pros: valet only $15 for visitors dining on-property; rooftop spa; USB ports built into wall. Cons: small driveway; entry-level rooms are on the small side. Rooms from: $379 4041 Collins Ave., Mid-Beach 786/605–4041 www.theconfidante.unbound.hyatt.com 363 rooms No meals E3 .

Fodor’s Choice Faena Hotel Miami Beach. $$$$ RESORT Hotelier Alan Faena delivers on the high expectations of his Miami debut with the jaw-dropping, larger-than-life principal hotel within his in-progress, billion-dollar Faena Arts District in Miami Beach. Pros: incredible design; excellent service; spectacular beach club. Cons: pricey; construction in neighborhood. Rooms from: $609 3201 Collins Ave., Mid-Beach 305/535–4697 www.faena.com/​miami-beach 169 rooms No meals E4 .

Fodor’s Choice Fontainebleau Miami Beach. $$$$ RESORT FAMILY Vegas meets art deco at this colossal classic hotel, Miami’s largest, which has undergone a $1 billion reinvention. Pros: excellent restaurants; historic design mixed with all-new facilities; fabulous pools. Cons: away from the South Beach pedestrian scene; massive size; wide mix of guests. Rooms from: $449 4441 Collins Ave., Mid-Beach 305/535–3283 , 800/548–8886 www.fontainebleau.com 1504 rooms No meals E3 .

Fodor’s Choice The Miami Beach EDITION. $$$$ RESORT At this reinvention of the 1955 landmark Seville Hotel by unlikely hospitality duo Ian Schrager and Marriott, historic glamour parallels modern relaxation from the palm-fringed marble lobby to the beachy guest rooms. Pros: hotel’s got incredible swagger; hanging gardens in the alfresco area; great beachfront service. Cons: a bit pretentious; open bathroom setup in select rooms offers little privacy; near a particularly rocky part of Miami Beach. Rooms from: $459 2901 Collins Ave., Mid-Beach 786/257–4500 www.editionhotels.com/​miami-beach 294 rooms No meals E4 .

The Palms Hotel & Spa. $$ HOTEL If you’re seeking an elegant, relaxed property away from the noise but close to both Mid-Beach and South Beach nightlife, you’ll find an exceptional beach, an easy pace, and beautiful gardens with soaring palm trees and inviting hammocks here, with rooms as fabulous as the grounds. Pros: tropical garden; relaxed and quiet. Cons: standard rooms do not have balconies (but suites do); need a taxi or Uber to get most places. Rooms from: $238 3025 Collins Ave., Mid-Beach 305/534–0505 , 800/550–0505 www.thepalmshotel.com 242 rooms No meals E4 .

Soho Beach House. $$$$ HOTEL The Soho Beach House is a throwback to swanky vibes of bygone decades, bedazzled in faded color palates, maritime ambience, and circa-1930s avant-garde furnishings, luring both somebodies and wannabes to indulge in the amenity-rich, retro-chic rooms as long as they follow stringent “house rules” (no photos, no mobile phones, no suits, and one guest only). Pros: two pools; fabulous restaurant; full spa. Cons: members have priority for rooms; lots of pretentious patrons; house rules are a bit much. Rooms from: $545 4385 Collins Ave., Mid-Beach 786/507–7900 www.sohobeachhouse.com 55 rooms No meals E3 .

FISHER AND BELLE ISLANDS

Fisher Island Club. $$$$ RESORT An exclusive private island, just south of Miami Beach but accessible only by ferry, Fisher Island houses an upscale residential community that includes a small inventory of overnight accommodations, including opulent cottages, villas, and junior suites, which surround the island’s original 1920s-era Vanderbilt mansion. Pros: great private beaches; never crowded; varied on-island dining choices. Cons: not the warmest fellow guests; ferry ride to get on and off island; limited cell service. Rooms from: $1375 1 Fisher Island Dr., Fisher Island 305/535–6000 , 800/537–3708 www.fisherislandclub.com 60 rooms No meals E5 .

The Standard Spa Miami Beach. $$ RESORT An extension of André Balazs’s trendy and hip—yet budget-conscious—brand, this shabby-chic boutique spa hotel is a mile from South Beach on an island just over the Venetian Causeway and boasts one of South Florida’s most renowned spas, trendiest bars, and hottest pool scenes. Pros: free bike and kayak rentals; swank pool scene; great spa. Cons: slight trek to South Beach; small rooms with no views. Rooms from: $263 40 Island Ave., Belle Isle 305/673–1717 www.standardhotels.com 105 rooms No meals E4 .

NORTH BEACH

BAL HARBOUR

The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami. $$$$ RESORT FAMILY In one of South Florida’s poshest neighborhoods, the former ONE Bal Harbour exudes contemporary beachfront luxury design with decadent mahogany-floor guest rooms featuring large terraces with panoramic views of the water and city, over-the-top bathrooms with 10-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, and LCD TVs built into the bathroom mirrors. Pros: proximity to Bal Harbour Shops; beachfront; great contemporary-art collection. Cons: narrow beach is a bit disappointing; far from nightlife; $25 daily resort fee. Rooms from: $518 10295 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour 305/455–5400 www.ritzcarlton.com/​en/​hotels/​miami/​bal-harbour 187 rooms No meals E2 .

Fodor’s Choice The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort. $$$$ RESORT When this $1 billion–plus resort opened in 2012, Miami’s North Beach entered a new era of glamour and haute living, with A-list big spenders rushing to stay in this 27-story, triple-glass-tower masterpiece. Pros: beachfront setting; beyond glamorous; large rooms. Cons: limited lounge space around main pool; limited privacy on balconies. Rooms from: $929 9703 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour 305/993–3300 , 866/716–8116 www.stregisbalharbour.com 280 rooms No meals E2 .

SUNNY ISLES BEACH

Fodor’s Choice Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach. $$$$ RESORT FAMILY Following a complete room redesign in late 2014, Acqualina continues to raise the bar for Miami beachfront luxury, delivering a fantasy of modern Mediterranean opulence, with sumptuously appointed, striking gray- and silver-accented interiors, and expansive facilities. Pros: excellent beach; in-room check-in; huge spa. Cons: no nightlife near hotel; hotel’s towering height shades the beach by early afternoon. Rooms from: $846 17875 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach 305/918–8000 www.acqualinaresort.com 97 rooms No meals E1 .

AVENTURA

Turnberry Isle Miami. $$$$ RESORT FAMILY Golfers and families favor this 300-acre tropical resort with jumbo-size rooms and world-class amenities, including a majestic lagoon pool (winding waterslide and lazy river included), an acclaimed three-story spa and fitness center, and two celeb-chef restaurants—Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak and Scott Conant’s Corsair restaurant. Pros: great golf, pools, and restaurants; free shuttle to Aventura Mall; situated between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Cons: not on the beach; no nightlife. Rooms from: $548 19999 W. Country Club Dr., Aventura 305/932–6200 , 866/612–7739 www.turnberryislemiami.com 437 rooms No meals E1 .

NIGHTLIFE

One of Greater Miami’s most popular pursuits is barhopping. Bars range from intimate enclaves to showy see-and-be-seen lounges to loud, raucous frat parties. There’s a New York–style flair to some of the newer lounges, which are increasingly catering to the Manhattan party crowd who escape to Miami and Miami Beach for long weekends. No doubt, Miami’s pulse pounds with nonstop nightlife that reflects the area’s potent cultural mix. On sultry, humid nights with the huge full moon rising out of the ocean and fragrant night-blooming jasmine intoxicating the senses, who can resist Cuban salsa with some disco and hip-hop thrown in for good measure? When this place throws a party, hips shake, fingers snap, bodies touch. It’s no wonder many clubs are still rocking at 5 am. If you’re looking for a relatively nonfrenetic evening, your best bet is one of the chic hotel bars on Collins Avenue, or a lounge away from Miami Beach in Wynwood, the Design District, or Downtown.

THE VELVET ROPES

How to get past the velvet ropes at the hottest South Beach night spots? First, if you’re staying at a hotel, use the concierge. Decide which clubs you want to check out (consult Ocean Drive magazine celebrity pages if you want to be among the glitterati), and the concierge will email, fax, or call in your names to the clubs so you’ll be on the guest list when you arrive. This means much easier access and usually no cover charge (which can be upward of $20) if you arrive before midnight. Guest list or no guest list, follow these pointers: Make sure there are more women than men in your group. Dress up: casual chic is the dress code. For men this means no sneakers, no shorts, no sleeveless vests, and no shirts unbuttoned past the top button. For women, provocative and seductive is fine; overly revealing is not. Black is always right. At the door: don’t name-drop—no one takes it seriously. Don’t be pushy while trying to get the doorman’s attention. Wait until you make eye contact, then be cool and easygoing. If you decide to tip him (which most bouncers don’t expect), be discreet and pleasant, not big-bucks obnoxious—a $10 or $20 bill quietly passed will be appreciated, however. With the right dress and the right attitude, you’ll be on the dance floor rubbing shoulders with South Beach’s finest clubbers in no time.

The Miami Herald ( www.miamiherald.com ) is a good source for information on what to do in town. The Weekend section of the newspaper, included in the Friday edition, has an annotated guide to everything from plays and galleries to concerts and nightclubs. The “Ticket” column details the week’s entertainment highlights. Or you can pick up the Miami New Times ( www.miaminewtimes.com ), the city’s largest free alternative newspaper, published each Thursday. It lists nightclubs, concerts, and special events; reviews plays and movies; and provides in-depth coverage of the local music scene. MIAMI ( www.modernluxury.com/​miami ) and Ocean Drive ( www.oceandrive.com ), Miami’s model-strewn, upscale fashion and lifestyle magazines, squeeze club, bar, restaurant, and events listings in with fashion spreads, reviews, and personality profiles. Paparazzi photos of local party people and celebrities give you a taste of Greater Miami nightlife before you even dress up to paint the town.

The Spanish-language El Nuevo Herald ( www.elnuevoherald.com ), published by the Miami Herald, has extensive information on Spanish-language arts and entertainment, including dining reviews, concert previews, and nightclub highlights.

DOWNTOWN

BARS AND LOUNGES

Bin No.18. Pop into this bistro and wine bar before or after a show at the nearby Adrienne Arsht Center, or simply while the evening away here. The setting masterfully fuses style with charm: wine barrels double as table bases, intimate and communal seating blend, a bar reveals an open kitchen, and chandeliers add a hint of luxe. The menu provides a good mix of seafood and meat, to share or not, but the real highlight is the wine list. Owner-chef Alfredo Patino handpicks from boutique wineries, finding gems from the most famed regions to remote locations around the globe. ■ TIP → The best time to explore new varietals is Tuesday, when all bottles under $50 are half price. 1800 Biscayne Blvd., Downtown 786/235–7575 www.bin18miami.com .

Fodor’s Choice Blackbird Ordinary. This local watering hole has been around since 2011, but it became supertrendy in 2015 and hasn’t looked back since. With a vibe that’s a bit speakeasy, a bit dive bar, a bit hipster hangout, and a bit Miami sophisticate, it’s hands down one of the coolest places in the city and clearly appeals to a wide range of demographics. Mixology is a huge part of the Blackbird experience—be prepared for some awesome artisanal cocktails. There’s something going on every night of the week, and the stylish outdoor space is great for cocktails under the stars, movie screenings, and live music. 729 S.W. 1st Ave., Downtown 305/671–3307 www.blackbirdordinary.com .

Fodor’s Choice Sugar. This skyscraping rooftop bar is the essence of the new downtown Miami: futuristic, worldly, and beyond sleek. It crowns the 40th floor of East, Miami, the luxury hotel tucked inside one of Miami’s most ambitious multiuse endeavors: the billion-dollar-plus Brickell City Centre complex. The sunsets here are spectacular, as are the Southeast Asian bites and the exotic cocktails. East, Miami, 788 Brickell Plaza, Downtown 305/712–7000 www.east-miami.com .

DANCE CLUBS

Club Space. Want 24-hour partying? Here’s the place, which revolutionized the Miami party scene back in 2000 and still gets accolades as one of the country’s best dance clubs. But depending on the month, Space wavers between trendy and empty, depending on the DJ or the special event, so make sure you get the up-to-date scoop from your hotel concierge. Created from four Downtown warehouses, it has two levels, an outdoor patio, a New York–style industrial look, and a 24-hour liquor license. It’s open on weekends only, and you’ll need to look good to be allowed past the velvet ropes. Note that the crowd can sometimes be sketchy, and take caution walking around the surrounding neighborhood. 34 N.E. 11th St., Downtown 305/375–0001 www.clubspace.com .

Fodor’s Choice E11EVEN Miami. The former Gold Rush building has been transformed into an ultraclub with LED video walls, intelligent lighting, and a powerful sound system that pulses sports by day and beats by night, providing partygoers the 24/7 action they crave. Hospitality and VIP experiences are ample throughout the private lounges and second-level Champagne room; however, the real action is in “The Pit,” featuring burlesque performances and intermittent Cirque du Soleil–style shows from a hydraulic-elevating stage. The fusion of theatrics and technology attracts an A-list clientele, and it’s not unusual to catch a celebrity or two sporadically jumping on the decks. On the roof, the intimate 50-seat Touché restaurant serves a tapas menu. Live music on the adjacent rooftop lounge warms you up for the long evening—or morning—ahead. 29 N.E. 11th St., Downtown 305/829–2911 www.11miami.com .

COCONUT GROVE

BARS AND LOUNGES

Vinos in the Grove. There’s no swirling, sniffing, or pondering (unless you want to, of course); most are here to simply lean back and recoup from the day. Indeed this is a place to enjoy good wine without any airs. Socialization is easy via the staff, who are genuinely conversational with their wine knowledge; you can meet the locals in the casual outdoor seating area, which is front and center for the Grove activity. Inside, punched-out brick walls, chandeliers fastened from wineglasses, and chalkboard menus highlighting cheese plates add a quirky charm. 3409 Main Hwy., Coconut Grove 305/442–8840 www.vinosinthegrove.com .

CORAL GABLES

BARS AND LOUNGES

The Bar. One of the oldest bars in South Florida (est. 1946), the old Hofbrau has been reincarnated a few times and now goes by the name “The Bar.” The no-frills joint has become an institution in the South Florida bar scene, though it remains totally nontouristy. A massive American flag hangs on the wall of this locals’ hangout, arguably the only “cool” nightlife in suburban Coral Gables. Owned by the same folks as Blackbird Ordinary in Downtown, The Bar delivers DJ-led tunes Wednesday through Saturday night and karaoke on Tuesday night. Oh, and they have pretty awesome, farm-fresh bar food, too, for both lunch and dinner. 172 Giralda Ave., at Ponce de León Blvd., Coral Gables 305/442–2730 www.thebargables.com .

Fodor’s Choice El Carajo. The back of a Mobil gas station is perhaps the most unexpected location for a wine bar, yet for nearly 25 years a passion for good food and drink has kept this family-run business among Miami’s best-kept secrets. Tables are in the Old World–style wine cellar, stocked with bottles representing all parts of the globe (and at excellent prices). A waiter takes your order from the menu of exquisite cheeses and charcuterie, hot and cold tapas, paellas, and, of course, wine. Note that though this is an elusive spot, oenophiles are hardly deterred. Reservations are a must, as the place fills up quickly, especially since it closes by 10 pm weekdays, 11 pm weekends. 2465 S.W. 17th Ave, Coral Gables 305/856–2424 www.el-carajo.com .

WYNWOOD

BARS AND LOUNGES

Cafeina Wynwood Lounge. This awesome Wynwood watering hole takes center stage during the highly social Gallery Night and Artwalk through the Wynwood Art District ( www.wynwoodartwalk.com ), the second Saturday of every month, which showcases the cool and hip art galleries between Northwest 20th and Northwest 36 streets west of North Miami Avenue. For those in the know, on any given Miami weekend, the evening either begins or ends this seductive, design-driven lounge with a gorgeous patio and plenty of art on display. It’s simply a great place to hang out and get a true feel for Miami’s cultural revolution. It’s open only Thursday–Saturday (5 pm to midnight Thursday, 5 pm to 3 am Friday, 9 pm to 3 am Saturday). 297 N.W. 23rd St., Wynwood 305/438–0792 www.cafeinamiami.com .

Wood Tavern. This is a neighborhood hangout where anything—and anyone—goes: suits mix with hoodies, fashionistas mingle with hipsters, but everyone in the crowd gives off a warm, welcoming vibe. The outdoor terrace is a block party scene with Latin bites served from grafitti-covered car countertops and bleacher-style stairs from which to people-watch or bob to the beats as the DJ jumps from Cypress Hill to Led Zepplin. The scene is a bit of a departure from the sultry nightlife typically associated with the Magic City (wine and cocktails are served in red plastic cups), but all in all it’s an experience definitely worth checking out. 2531 N.W. 2nd Ave., Wynwood 305/748–2828 www.woodtavern.com .

Wynwood Brewing Company. This family-owned craft brewery is hidden among the towering graffiti arts walls of Wynwood. Communal tables and ever-changing pop-up galleries by neighborhood artists make the taproom cozy; however, a peek through the window behind the bar reveals there is much more to the establishment: 15 pristine silver vats are constantly brewing variations of blond ale, IPA, barrel-aged strong ales, seasonal offerings, and national Gold Medalist the Robust Porter. All staff members are designated “Beer Servers” under the Cicerone Certification Program, ensuring knowledgeable descriptions and recommendations to your liking. 565 N.W. 24 St., Wynwood 305/982–8732 www.wynwoodbrewing.com .

MIDTOWN

BARS AND LOUNGES

Fodor’s Choice Lagniappe. You may stumble upon this unassuming yet intriguing den across from the Midtown railroad tracks. Shelves house a selection of boutique-label wines with no corkage fee. Artisanal cheeses and meats are also available for the plucking and can be arranged into tapas-board displays. Once your selection is complete, take it back into the “living room” of worn sofas, antique lamps, and old-fashioned wall photos. Live musicians croon from the corner, with different bands each evening. Additional socializing can be found out in the “backyard” of mismatched seating and strung lighting, where as the evening wears on, you’re apt to mingle and table-hop among the international crowd. 3425 N.E. 2nd Ave., Midtown 305/576–0108 www.lagniappehouse.com .

LITTLE HAVANA

LIVE MUSIC

Fodor’s Choice Ball & Chain. Established in 1935 and steeped in legends of gambling, Prohibition protests, the rise of budding entertainers Billie Holiday, Count Basie, and Chet Baker, and the development of Cuban-centric Calle Ocho, this storied nightlife spot has now been renovated and reestablished under its original name. The high-vaulted ceilings, floral wallpaper, black-and-white photos, and palm-fringed outdoor lounge nod to its torrid history and the glamour of Old Havana. Live music flows freely, as do the Latin-inspired libations and tapas of traditional Cuban favorites for an experience equally cultural as it is enjoyable. Reserved seating is available for a reasonable minimum. 1513 S.W. 8th St., Little Havana 305/643–7820 www.ballandchainmiami.com .

SOUTH BEACH

BARS AND LOUNGES

Fodor’s Choice Blues Bar. Dedicate at least one night of your Miami vacation to an art deco pub crawl, patronizing the hotel bars and lounges of South Beach’s most iconic buildings, including the National Hotel. Though it’s a low-key affair, the nifty wooden Blues Bar here is well worth a stop. The bar is one of many elements original to the 1939 building that give it such a sense of its era that you’d expect to see Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire hoofing it along the polished terrazzo floor. Live music begins nightly at 8 pm. The adjoining Martini Room has a great collection of cigars, old airline stickers, and vintage Bacardi ads on the walls, but it’s only available for private events (but if you ask for a peek, your request might be granted). National Hotel, 1677 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/532–2311 www.nationalhotel.com/​food/​blues .

FDR at Delano. Top DJs are on tap at this überexclusive subterranean lounge that caters to a stylish see-and-be-seen crowd. Seductive lighting illuminates the two-room, 200-person watering hole, decked out in dark and sexy decor. Bottle service is available for those with deep pockets. 1685 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/924–4071 www.morganshotelgroup.com/​delano/​delano-south-beach .

Haven. This hipster-frequented gastrolounge may be cozy by South Beach standards, but it’s just as flashy under the glow of backlit architecture, main bar, and lounge tables in ever-changing hues. Wall-to-wall TVs that double as light installations provide additional hypnotic entertainment. Clever mixology matches the innovative ambience with smoky craft cocktails fusing fresh-fruit flavors with herbs. Hungry? Your palate will be further appeased with the all-night menu of sushi and Asian-inspired bites, interspersed with fresh interpretations of American classics (including duck burgers and Maytag blue tater tots). 1237 Lincoln Rd., South Beach 305/987–8885 .

Lost Weekend. Slumming celebs and locals often patronize this pool hall–resto–dive bar on quaint Española Way. The hard-core locals are serious about their pastime, so it can be challenging to get a table on weekends. However, everyone can enjoy the pinball machines, the air hockey table, the bar grub, and the full bar, which has 150 kinds of beer (a dozen of which are on tap). Each night, Lost Weekend draws an eclectic crowd, from yuppies to drag queens to celebs on the down-low (and everyone gets equally bad service). So South Beach! 218 Española Way, South Beach 305/672–1707 .

Mac’s Club Deuce Bar. Smoky, dark, and delightfully unpolished, this complete dive bar is anything but what you’d expect from glitzy South Beach. The circa-1964 pool hall attracts a colorful crowd of clubbers, locals, celebs, and just about anyone else. Locals consider it a top spot for an inexpensive drink and cheap thrills. Visitors love it as a true locals’ hangout. 222 14th St., at Collins Ave., South Beach 305/531–6200 www.macsclubdeuce.com .

Onyx Bar. Fanny-packed tourists are sure to stop and pose outside the Villa Casa Casuarina, the 1930s-era oceanfront mansion that once belong to late fashion designer Gianni Versace. But travelers know the true way to explore Versace’s eccentric and bold Mediterranean mansion: by grabbing a drink at this six-seat bar, a conversion of Versace’s former kitchen. The drinks are as opulent as you’d expect from the locale, with gold-leafed accessories and over-the-top taste sensations (think: Berissace Collins—a vodka-and-blackberry-based libation, topped with gold flakes). 1116 Ocean Dr., South Beach 786/485–2200 www.vmmiamibeach.com .

Palace Bar. South Beach’s gay heyday continues at this fierce oceanfront bar where folks both gay and straight come to revel in good times, cheap cocktails, and great drag performances. Everyone’s welcome, and there’s no formal dress code. So for many, Speedos, tank tops, and two-pieces will do. The bar gets busiest in the afternoon and early evening; it’s not really a late-night place. For out-of-towners, the Sunday Funday drag brunch is a must. It’s a true showstopper—or car-stopper, shall we say: using Ocean Drive as a stage, drag queens direct oncoming traffic with street-side splits and acrobatic tricks in heels. 1200 Ocean Dr., South Beach 305/531–7234 www.palacesouthbeach.com .

Fodor’s Choice Radio Bar. What began as a pop-up bar in South Beach’s emerging SoFi district in 2013 has evolved into a permanent local favorite, offering a basement-style party where the cool kids love to party, drink, and play. Radio Bar draws a diverse crowd of dressed-down locals, stylish yuppies, and consignment-shop junkies. You’ll quickly recognize the bar by the 600-foot radio tower that marks the back-door entrance. Inside, the bar serves awesome craft cocktails, local brews, and small bites. 814 1st St., South Beach 305/397–8382 www.radiosouthbeach.com .

Fodor’s Choice The Regent Cocktail Club. This classic cocktail bar recalls an intimate gentleman’s club (and not the stripper kind) with strong masculine cocktails, dark furnishings, bartenders dressed to the nines, and the sounds of jazz legends in the background. The intimate space exudes elegance and timelessness. It’s a welcome respite from South Beach’s predictable nightlife scene. Cocktails—each with bespoke ice cubes—change daily and are posted on the house blackboard. Gale South Beach, 1690 Collins Ave., South Beach 786/975–2555 www.galehotel.com/​nightlife .

Rose Bar. Tucked away inside the chic Delano South Beach, Rose Bar is a Miami mainstay and an essential stop on any South Beach crawl, mixing classic art deco architecture with the best in mixology (and a bit of Vegas bling). Embodying Philippe Starck’s original, iconic vision and design for the Delano South Beach, the bar features a rose quartz bar top, velvet wall curtains, and striking chandeliers. Delano Hotel, 1685 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/674–5752 www.morganshotelgroup.com/​delano/​delano-south-beach .

Sweet Liberty. Miami’s bartender of-the-moment, John Lermayer, proves that he’s in it for the long haul at this neighborhood hot spot, which took home the prize for Best New American Cocktail Bar 2016 in the Spirited Awards (the ultimate accolade in American bar scene). The bar is a tropical-chic, come-as-you-are joint with incredible spirit-forward cocktails. For something extra special, reserve the “Bartender’s Table,” which operates like a chef’s table, but here you’re in the thick of the bar action, tasting libations. 237-B 20th St., South Beach 305/763–8217 www.mysweetliberty.com .

Tom on Collins. This lobby bar at the supersexy 1 Hotel South Beach is the brainchild of celebrity-chef Tom Colicchio. Don’t expect a wild scene here. It has more of a sultry, laid-back vibe, a young-professional crowd, and plenty of conversation-worthy libations with cute names to match (like “Shiso-Pretty”). 1 Hotel South Beach, 2341 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/604–1000 www.beachcraftsobe.com/​spaces/​tom-on-collins/ .

DANCE CLUBS

Nikki Beach Miami Beach. Smack-dab on the beach, the full-service Nikki Beach Club was once upon a time a favorite of SoBe’s pretty people and celebrities. Nowadays, it’s filled with more suburbanites than the “in” crowd. Nikki’s late-night parties are reserved for Sunday only. On Friday and Saturday, the Beach Club is open from noon to 11 pm, and closes at 6 pm on weekdays. Visitors can eat at the Nikki Beach Restaurant and get their food and drink on in the tepees, hammocks, and beach beds (expect rental fees). Sunday brunch at the club’s restaurant is pretty spectacular. 1 Ocean Dr., South Beach 305/538–1111 www.nikkibeach.com .

Fodor’s Choice Rec Room. Entering Rec Room is like stumbling upon an awesome basement party that just happens to be packed with the hottest people ever. Amy Sacco’s subterranean space at the Gale pays homage to everything 1977 (memorabilia included) and features a collection of more than 3,000 vinyl records at the disposal of resident DJs. The vibe is totally speakeasy meets modern day—the easy-on-the-eyes crowd lets loose, free of inhibitions, jamming out to old-school hip-hop and ‘80s and ‘90s throwbacks. Gale South Beach, 1690 Collins Ave., South Beach 786/975–2555 www.recroomies.com .

Score. Since the 1990s, Score has been the see-and-be-seen HQ of Miami’s gay community, with plenty of global hotties coming from near and far to show off their designer threads and six-pack abs. After moving in 2013 to Washington Avenue from its longtime Lincoln Road location, this South Beach powerhouse shows no signs of slowing down. DJs spin five nights a week, but Planeta Macho Latin Tuesday is exceptionally popular, as are the weekend dance-offs, especially circuit-party-style “Bigger Saturdays.” Dress to impress (and then be ready to go shirtless and show off your abs). 1437 Washington Ave., South Beach 305/535–1111 www.scorebar.net Closed Mon. and Wed.

Twist. Twist is a gay institution in South Beach, having been the late-night go-to place for decades, filling to capacity around 2 am after the beach’s fly-by-night bars and more established lounges begin to die down (though it’s in fact open daily from 1 pm to 5 am). There’s never a cover here—not even on holidays or during gay-pride events. The dark club has several rooms spread over two levels and patios, pumping out different tunes and attracting completely disparate groups. It’s not uncommon to have college boys partying to Top 40 in one room and strippers showing off their stuff to the straight girls in another area, while an electronic dance throwdown is taking place upstairs. 1057 Washington Ave., South Beach 305/538–9478 www.twistsobe.com .

MID-BEACH

BARS AND LOUNGES

Fodor’s Choice The Broken Shakerbooks. Popular with Miami’s cool crowd, this indoor-outdoor craft cocktail joint lures in droves to the adult-chic Freehand hostel to revel in the art of mixology and people-watching. The vibe is Brooklyn meets Miami: everyone’s Instagraming everything in faded filters, and there’s lots of man buns, facial hair, and girls that look like Lana del Rey (though they may claim they don’t like her music). The drinks are pretty daring and definitely awesome with ingredients like green bean juice and kale juice complementing the top-shelf liquors. It’s no wonder the venue has been awarded national titles such as America’s Best Bar. Freehand Miami, 2727 Indian Creek Dr., Mid-Beach 786/476–7011 www.thefreehand.com .

DANCE CLUBS

Fodor’s Choice LIV. Since its 2009 opening, this snazzy nightclub located at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach has garnered tons of global attention, and it shows no signs of stopping. It’s not hard to see why LIV often makes lists of the world’s best clubs—if you can get in, that is (LIV is notorious for lengthy lines, so don’t arrive fashionably late). Past the velvet ropes, the dance palladium impresses with its lavish decor, well-dressed international crowd, sensational light-and-sound system, and seductive bi-level club experience. Sometimes the lobby bar, filled with LIV’s overflow (and rejects), is just as fun as the club itself. ■ TIP → Men beware: groups of guys entering LIV are often coerced into insanely priced bottle service. Fontainebleau Miami Beach, 4441 Collins Ave., Mid-Beach 305/674–4680 for table reservations www.livnightclub.com .

FISHER AND BELLE ISLANDS

BARS AND LOUNGES

Fodor’s Choice The Lido Bayside Grill. With all due respect to wonderful food by executive-chef Mark Zeitouni, many locals come to this eatery with drinking as their top priority. By day, the colorful and chic waterfront alfresco restaurant is idyllic for watching the bay-side boats and poolside hotties go by. In the evening, lights braided into the surrounding trees illuminate the terrace, sparking a seductive ambience. On weekdays from 4 to 7, the bar offers a SunDown’er Happy Hour menu. ■ TIP → The indoor, lobby-side Lido Bar and Lounge is great for a craft cocktail and a round of Ping-Pong, but the real scene is outdoors, on the opposite side of the hotel, at The Lido Bayside Grill. The Standard Spa, Miami Beach, 40 Island Ave., Belle Isle 786/245–0880 www.standardhotels.com .

SHOPPING

Beyond its fun-in-the-sun offerings, Miami has evolved into a world-class shopping destination. People fly to Miami from all over the world just to shop. The city teems with sophisticated malls—from multistory, indoor climate-controlled temples of consumerism to sun-kissed, open-air retail enclaves—and bustling avenues and streets, lined at once with affordable chain stores, haute couture boutiques, and one-off, “only in Miami”–type shops.

Following the incredible success of the Bal Harbour Shops in the highest of the high-end market (Chanel, Alexander McQueen, ETRO), the Design District has followed suit. Beyond fabulous designer furniture showrooms, the district’s tenants now include Hermès, Dior Homme, Rolex, and Prada.

If you’re from a region ripe with the climate-controlled slickness of shopping malls and food-court “meals,” you’ll love the choices in Miami. Head out into the sunshine and shop the city streets, where you’ll find big-name retailers and local boutiques alike. Take a break at a sidewalk café to power up on some Cuban coffee or fresh-squeezed OJ and enjoy the tropical breezes.

Beyond clothiers and big-name retailers, Greater Miami has all manner of merchandise to tempt even the casual browser. For consumers on a mission to find certain items—art deco antiques or cigars, for instance—the city streets burst with a rewarding collection of specialty shops.

Stroll through Spanish-speaking neighborhoods where shops sell clothing, cigars, and other goods from all over Latin America or even head to Little Haiti for rare vinyl records.

COCONUT GROVE

CLOTHING

The Griffin. This small boutique packs a big punch with the most coveted shoe styles, from Aquazarra to Chloe to Valentino and Loeffler Randall. Walk around once, then do it again, and you’re sure to find another style urging you to try it on. Need help pulling the trigger? The boutique’s stocked bar eases the pain of pricey purchases. 3112 Commodore Plaza, Coconut Grove 786/631–3522 .

Maui Nix. Anchoring the corner of CocoWalk plaza, this Florida-based store sells anything and everything you might need for a trip to the beach. More beach storehouse than shack, the bleached blond-wood walls and racks display 100 surf and skate brands of apparel, shoes, accessories, and gear. Pair a Billabong sundress with a pooka bead necklace, Hurley hoodie with skateboard, Vans slip-ons with Oakely sunglasses or Beats headphones—the possibilities are endless for looking like a true “Grovite.” CocoWalk, 3015 Grand Ave., No. 145, Coconut Grove 305/444–6919 www.mauinix.com .

Unika. A longtime fashion resident of Coconut Grove (circa 1989), Unika takes shoppers from day to night, and all affairs in between, with a wide range of inventory for men and women. The contemporary boutique has an it-girl vibe, but the cool, relaxed one you’d actually want to be friends with. High–low pricing appeases all budgets; expect to uncover up-and-coming designer gems tucked within the racks of well-known brands. Bonus: the staff is great with styling for a head-to-toe look. 3444 Main Hwy., Suite 2, Coconut Grove 305/445–4752 .

MALLS

CocoWalk. Though this three-story, indoor-outdoor mall anchors the Grove’s shopping scene, but it’s long passed its 1990s heydey. Some chain stores like Victoria’s Secret and Gap remain alongside a few specialty shops like Maui Nix. Touristy kiosks with cigars, beads, incense, herbs, and other small items are scattered around the ground level, and commercial restaurants and nightlife (Cheesecake Factory, Fat Tuesday, and Cinépolis Coconut Grove—a multiscreen, state-of-the-art movie theater with a wine bar and lounge and in-seat food service) line the upstairs perimeter. Overall, the space mixes the bustle of a mall with the breathability of an open-air market. Note that hanging out and people-watching is something of a pastime here for Miami suburbanites. 3015 Grand Ave., Coconut Grove 305/444–0777 www.cocowalk.net .

CORAL GABLES

BOOKS

Fodor’s Choice Books & Books, Inc. FAMILY Long live the classic bookstore! Greater Miami’s only independent English-language bookshop, Books & Books, specializes in contemporary and classical literature as well as in books on the arts, architecture, Florida, and Cuba. The Coral Gables store is the largest of its four South Florida locations. Here, you can sip ’n’ read in the courtyard lounge or dine at the old-fashioned in-store café while browsing the photography gallery. Multiple rooms are filled with myriad genres, making for a fabulous afternoon of book shopping; plus there’s an entire area dedicated to kids. There are book signings, literary events, poetry, and other readings, too. Two smaller locations on Lincoln Road in South Beach and at the Bal Harbour Shops also carry great reads as does a petite outpost at the Miami International Airport. 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables 305/442–4408 www.booksandbooks.com .

CLOTHING

Koko & Palenki. Shoe shopaholics come here for the well-edited selection of trendy footwear by Giuseppe Zanotti, Lola Cruz, Rachel Zoe, Rebecca Minkoff, and others. Handbags and belts add to the selection. Clothing hails from designers like Diane von Furstenberg, Misa, and J Brand. Koko & Palenki also has a store in Aventura Mall and a great online selection (they ship anywhere in the world). Village of Merrick Park, 342 San Lorenzo Ave., Suite 1090, Coral Gables 305/444–0626 www.kokopalenki.com .

Fodor’s Choice Nic Del Mar. FAMILY Attending one of Miami’s famed pool parties practically requires a trip to this upscale swimwear boutique. From the teeny weeny to innovative one-pieces to sporty cuts, the varied suit selection includes Mara Hoffman, Tori Praver, Acacia, and Zimmerman, many of which include matching children’s styles for mini beach babes. Flowy cover-ups by the same labels and more can easily double as dinner dresses, while hats, totes, lotions, and even metallic temporary tattoos add a sun-kissed touch. Men’s styles are also available. 475 Biltmore Way, Suite 105, Coral Gables 305/442–8080 www.nicdelmar.com .

Silvia Tcherassi. The famed, Miami-based Colombian designer’s signature boutique in the Village of Merrick Park features ready-to-wear, feminine, and frilly dresses and separates accented with chiffon, toile, and sequins. You’ll see plenty of Tcherassi’s designs on Miami’s Latin power players at events and A-list parties. A neighboring atelier at 270 San Lorenzo Avenue showcases the designer’s bridal collection. Village of Merrick Park, 350 San Lorenzo Ave., No. 2140, Coral Gables 305/461–0009 www.silviatcherassi.com .

MALLS

Village of Merrick Park. At this open-air Mediterranean-style, tri-level, shopping-and-dining venue, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom anchor 115 specialty shops. Outposts by Michael Kors, Jimmy Choo, Tiffany &Co., Burberry, CH Carolina Herrera, and Gucci fulfill most high-fashion needs, and haute-decor shopping options include Brazilian contemporary-furniture designer Artefacto. International food favorite C’est Bon offers further indulgences. 358 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables 305/529–1215 www.villageofme­rrickpark.com .

ONLY IN MIAMI

Ramon Puig Guayaberas. This clothing shop sells custom-made Ramon Puig guayaberas, the natty four-pocket dress shirts favored by older Cuban men and hipsters alike. Ramon Puig is known as “the King of Guayaberas,” and his shirts are top of the line as far as guayaberas go. Hundreds are available off the rack. There are styles for women, too. 5840 S.W. 8th St., Coral Gables 305/ 266–9680 www.ramonpuig.com .

SHOPPING DISTRICTS

Miracle Mile. The centerpiece of the downtown Coral Gables shopping district, lined with trees and busy with strolling shoppers, is home to a host of exclusive couturiers and bridal shops as well as some men’s and women’s boutiques, jewelry, and home-furnishings stores. The half-mile “mile” runs from Douglas Road to LeJeune Road and Aragon Avenue to Andalusia Avenue, but many of the Gables’ best non-bridal shops are found on side streets, off the actual mile. In addition, the street itself teems with first-rate restaurants—more than two dozen—facilitating a fabulous afternoon of shopping and eating. ■ TIP → If debating Miracle Mile versus Bal Harbour or the Design District, check out the others first. Miracle Mile (Coral Way), Douglas Rd. to LeJeune Rd., and Aragon Ave. to Andalusia Ave., Coral Gables www.shopcoralgables.com .

WYNWOOD

ONLY IN MIAMI

Genius Jones. FAMILY This is a modern design store for kids and parents. It’s the best—and one of the few—places to buy unique children’s gifts in Miami. Pick up furniture, strollers, clothing, home accessories, and playthings, including classic wooden toys, vintage-rock T-shirts by Claude and Trunk, and toys designed by Takashi Murakami and Keith Haring. 2800 N.E. 2nd Ave., Wynwood 305/571–2000 www.geniusjones.com .

DESIGN DISTRICT

Fodor’s Choice Miami is synonymous with good design, and this ever-expanding visitor-friendly shopping district—officially from Northeast 38th to Northeast 42nd streets, between North Miami Avenue and Northeast 2nd Avenue (though unofficially beyond)—is an unprecedented melding of public space and the exclusive world of design. High-design buildings don the creativity of architects like Aranda & Lasch, Sou Fujimoto, and the Leong Leong firm. Throughout the district, there are more than 100 showrooms and galleries, including Baltus, Animadomus, Kartell, Ann Sacks, Poliform USA, and Luminaire Lab. Upscale retail outlets also grace the district. Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Valentino, Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Rolex, and Scotch & Soda sit next to design showrooms. Meanwhile, restaurants like Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink and Mandolin Aegean Bistro also make this trendy neighborhood a hip place to dine. Unlike most showrooms, which are typically the beat of decorators alone, the Miami Design District’s showrooms are open to the public and occupy windowed, street-level spaces. The area also has its own website: www.miamidesigndistrict.net .

CLOTHING

En Avance. This boutique offers a feminine compilation of on-the-cusp designers like Alexis, MSGM, Protagonist, Anjuna, and other young brands. Style and beauty enthusiasts will also enjoy the roving table displays of bespoke baubles, handbags, Assouline lifestyle books, and delicate lotions and potions. The owner’s close connection with decorative artist Fornasetti brings to the store an extensive and exclusive selection of fashion-inspired furniture and accessories for the home. 53 N.E. 40th St., Design District 305/576–0056 www.enavance.com .

ONLY IN MIAMI

The Bazaar Project. Those looking for the rare and special need look no further than this boutique, curated by owner and Turkey-native Yeliz Titiz via her travels around the globe. Fashions, beauty, decor, and the wonderfully unusual exude the culture and craft akin to their respective regions. Highlights include whimsical housewares and candles by Seletti, linens and Turkish rugs by Haremlique, French wallpapers by Koziel, and intriguing jewelry by Titiz’s own line, Sura. 4308 N.E. 2nd Ave., Design District 786/703–6153 www.thebazaarproj­ectshop.com .

Vº73. Though high rents in Miami’s Design District have translated to more big-name tenants like Fendi and Giorgio Armani, a number of more singular offerings still thrive. One case in point is the exquisite boutique by Italian handbag designer Elisabetta Armellin. It’s the artist’s only U.S. store and offers a wealth of colorful and understated leather totes and accessories at a number of different price points, catering to a broader demographic than the Design District’s typical black-card holders. 4218 N.E. 2nd Ave., Design District 786/536–4140 www.v73.it/​en .

LITTLE HAITI

VINTAGE CLOTHING

Fly Boutique. After 13 years on South Beach, Fly Boutique found its new home in Miami’s up-and-coming MIMO district, north of the Design District and bordering Little Haiti. This resale boutique is where Miami hipsters flock for the latest arrival of used clothing. 1980s glam designer pieces fly out at a premium price, but vintage camisoles and Levi’s corduroys are still a resale deal. You’ll find supercool art, furniture, luggage, and collectibles throughout the boutique. And be sure to look up—the eclectic lanterns are also for sale. 7235 Biscayne Blvd., Little Haiti 305/604–8508 www.flyboutiquevintage.com .

Rebel. Rebel might be a little off the beaten path, though the trip here is well worth it. Half new, half vintage consignment, the goods offered here make you feel as if you are raiding your stylish friend’s closet. Racks are packed with all different types of styles and designers—Flying Monkey, Ark & Co., Indah, Karina Grimaldi—requiring a little patience when sifting though. The store has a particularly strong collection of jeans, funky tees, and maxi dresses. ■ TIP → Be thorough, as cute finds are within every nook and corner. 6621 Biscayne Blvd., Upper East Side, Little Haiti 305/793–4104 .

LITTLE HAVANA

ONLY IN MIAMI

La Casa de los Trucos. FAMILY This popular costume store first opened in Cuba in the 1920s; the exiled owners reopened it here in the 1970s. You’ll find cartoon costumes, rock star costumes, pet costumes, couples costumes, you name it. If you come any time near Halloween, expect to stand in line just to enter the tiny store. Wooden, life-sized costume cut-outs in the parking lot make for great photo ops. 1343 S.W. 8th St., Little Havana 305/858–5029 www.crazyforcostumes.com .

SOUTH BEACH

ART GALLERIES

Fodor’s Choice Romero Britto Gallery. Though exhibited throughout galleries and museums in more than 100 countries, the vibrant, pop art creations by Brazilian artist Romero Britto have become most synonymous with Miami’s playful spirit. His flagship gallery and store are now split between two locations on Lincoln Road. Together they carry the full range of his portfolio, but you’ll find original paintings and limited-edition sculptures at the gallery location at 1102 Lincoln Road. Collectibles, fine art prints, and his signature interpretations in collaboration with some of America’s most iconic characters and brands, including Disney and Coco-Cola, can be found at the Britto store at 532 Lincoln Road. Home-decor accessories and tech gadgets with Britto’s artistic touch are also available. 1102 Lincoln Rd., South Beach 305/531–8821 , www.britto.com .

CLOTHING

Fodor’s Choice Alchemist. Synonymous with the pinnacle of design and fashion in the Magic City, this boutique has so much personality that it requires not one but two cutting-edge spaces in the retail section of Lincoln Road’s trendy Herzog and de Meuron–designed parking garage. There’s an anchor store on street level as well as a glass-encased studio for men’s clothing and jewelry on the fifth floor. The price tags skew high, yet represent brands known for innovation and edge. Selections span statement pieces and accessories by Alaia, Givenchy, Moschino; jewelry on an artistry level including Cristina Ortiz, Lydia Courteille, and Stephen Webster; and fashions for the home by Tom Dixon. In 2015, Alchemist opened a fine jewelry-focused outpost in the Design District at 140 Northeast 39th Street. 1111 Lincoln Rd., Carpark Level 5, South Beach 305/531–4643 www.alchemist.miami .

Base Superstore. This is the quintessential South Beach fun-and-funky boutique experience. Stop here for men’s eclectic clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories that mix Japanese design with Caribbean-inspired materials. Constantly evolving, this shop features an intriguing magazine section, a record section, groovy home accessories, and the latest in men’s swimwear and sunglasses. The often-present house-label designer may help select your wardrobe’s newest addition. 927 Lincoln Rd., South Beach 305/531–4982 www.baseworld.com .

frankie. miami. Expect high style at moderate prices at this boutique. The studio-like ambience matches the highly edited collection of fashionista favorites Beck & Bridge, Sam & Lavi, Iro, For Love & Lemons, and Loeffers. Co-owner Cheryl Herger also designs her own private-label line especially for frankie. miami. Skirts and dresses with interesting silhouettes, uniquely cut tops, and swimwear almost too good for just the pool are interspersed with easy-chic basics and the boutique’s renowned selection of denim shorts (it is a Miami Beach fashion staple, after all). Delicate jewelry and statement clutches provide that polished edge to your final look. 1891 Purdy Ave., South Beach 786/479–4898 www.frankiemiami.com .

Intermix. This modern New York–based boutique has the variety of a department store. You’ll find fancy dresses, stylish shoes, slinky accessories, and trendy looks by sassy and somewhat pricey designers like Chloé, Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs, Moschino, and Diane von Furstenberg. Its popularity on Collins Avenue has translated into a second outpost down the beach at Lincoln Road Mall, which opened in late 2014. There is yet another branch at the Bal Harbour Shops at 9700 Collins Avenue. 634 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/531–5950 www.intermixonline.com .

ONLY IN MIAMI

Dog Bar. Just north of Lincoln Road’s main drag, this over-the-top pet boutique caters to enthusiastic animal owners with a variety of unique items for the superpampered pet. From luxurious, vegan “leather” designer dog purse/carriers to bling-bling-studded collars to chic poopy bag holders, Miami’s “original pet boutique” carries pretty much every pet accessory imaginable. You’ll also find plenty of gourmet food and treats as well as a wide variety of fancy toys for dogs, large and small. 1684 Jefferson Ave., South Beach 305/532–5654 www.dogbar.com .

Fodor’s Choice The Webster Miami. Occupying an entire circa-1939 art deco building, The Webster is a tri-level, 20,000-square-foot, one-stop shop for fashionistas. This retail sanctuary carries ready-to-wear fashions by more than 100 top designers, plus in-store exclusive shirts, candles, books, and random trendy items you might need for your South Beach experience—a kind of haute Urban Outfitters for grown-ups. Too many choices? Sit down for a café au lait and pastry inside the store to mull over your future purchases. 1220 Collins Ave., South Beach 305/674–7899 www.thewebstermiami.com .

SHOPPING DISTRICTS

Collins Avenue. Give your plastic a workout in South Beach shopping at the many high-profile tenants on this densely packed stretch of Collins between 5th and 10th streets, with stores like Steve Madden, Club Monaco, The Webster, MAC Cosmetics, Ralph Lauren, and Intermix. Sprinkled among the upscale vendors are hair salons, spas, cafés, and such familiar stores as the Gap and Sephora. Be sure to head over one street east to Ocean Drive or west to Washington Avenue for a drink or a light bite, or go for more retail therapy on Lincoln Road. Collins Ave. between 5th and 10th Sts., South Beach www.lincolnroadmall.com/​shopping/​collins-avenue .

Fodor’s Choice Lincoln Road Mall. The eight-block-long pedestrian mall between Alton Road and Washington Avenue is the trendiest place on Miami Beach. Home to more than 200 shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafés, and the renovated Colony Theatre, Lincoln Road is like the larger, more sophisticated cousin of Ocean Drive. The see-and-be-seen theme is furthered by outdoor seating at every restaurant, where tourists and locals lounge and discuss the people (and pet) parade passing by. An 18-screen movie theater anchors the west end of the street, which is where most of the worthwhile shops are; the far east end is mostly discount and electronics shops. Due to higher rents, you are more likely to see big corporate stores like Armani, H&M, and Victoria’s Secret than original boutiques. However, a few emporiums and stores with unique personalities, like Alchemist, Base, and Books & Books, remain. Lincoln Rd. between Alton Rd. and Washington Ave., South Beach www.lincolnroadmall.com .

NORTH BEACH

BAL HARBOUR

CLOTHING

Le Beau Maroc. Shoppers can snag a piece of Moroccan exoticism and regality via pieces introduced to the United States for the very first time and available only within the boutique. Lavishly embellished couture kaftans by Souad Chraïbi and Siham Tazi, two of Morocco’s most famed designers commissioned by a royal and celebrity clientele, can work for beach, day, and evening wear. Special orders created from the finest fabrics sourced from fashion houses Dior, Valentino, Hermès, Pucci, La Croix, Yves St. Laurent, Jakob Schlaepfer, and Ungaro are also available. Additional exclusive treasures are found at the “beauty bar,” where you can adorn yourself with 18-carat-gold Moroccan jewelry and the “liquid gold” of Marokissime, an elixir of 100% pure Moroccan argan and prickly-pear oils coveted by Moroccan women for centuries for their beauty regimens. 9507 Harding Ave., Bal Harbour 305/763–8847 www.lebeaumaroc.com .

100% Capri. This shop is one of only two stores by this Italian brand in the United States (the other is in Los Angeles). The collection is all pure linen (including the shopping bags). Designer Antonio Aiello sources and produces all pieces in Capri for an exciting interpretation that takes its wearers to exotic beach locales style-wise—and quite literally, given its clientele. You’ll find clothing for women, men, and children, and even home goods with curated glass accessories brought over from Italy. Displays of gray, wood-slatted wall panels and pools of water build up the ambience, prompting you to linger longer. Now if only there was rosé. Bal Harbour Shops, 9700 Collins Ave., No. 236, Bal Harbour 305/866–4117 www.100capri.com/​en .

Fodor’s Choice The Webster Bal Harbour. Though smaller than its sister store in South Beach, The Webster Bal Harbour is still sizable with 2,600 square feet to house high-level fashions for both men and women. Nearly every great contemporary luxury designer is represented (Chanel, Céline, Alaia, Valentino, Givenchy, Proenza Schouler, Stella McCartney, etc.), as well as emerging runway darlings. Fashionably impatient? The store can snag ready-to-wear pieces from the latest shows. It also carries exclusive pieces, a real feat considering its influential mall neighbors, including a continuous flow of capsule collections in collaboration with the likes of Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, and Anthony Vaccarello, to name a few. Bal Habour Shops, 9700 Collins Ave., No. 204, Bal Harbour 305/868–6544 www.thewebstermiami.com .

SHOPPING CENTERS AND MALLS

Fodor’s Choice Bal Harbour Shops. Beverly Hills meets the South Florida sun at this swank collection of 100 high-end shops, boutiques, and department stores, which currently holds the title as the country’s greatest revenue-earner per square foot. Many European designers open their first North American signature store at this outdoor, pedestrian-friendly mall, and many American designers open their first boutique outside of New York here. The open-air enclave includes Florida’s largest Saks Fifth Avenue; an 8,100-square-foot, two-story flagship Salvatore Ferragamo store; and stores by Alexander McQueen, Gucci, Valentino, and local juggernaut The Webster. Restaurants and cafés, in tropical garden settings, overflow with style-conscious diners; in fact, people-watching on the terrace of the Japanese restaurant Makoto and Italian restaurant Carpaccio might be the best in Miami (even trumping South Beach). 9700 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour 305/866–0311 www.balharbourshops.com .

AVENTURA

JEWELRY

MIA Jewels. This jewelry and accessories boutique is known for its colorful gem- and bead-laden, gold and silver earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and brooches by lines such as Cousin Claudine, Amrita, and Alexis Bittar. This is a shoo-in store for everyone: you’ll find things for trend lovers (gold-studded chunky Lucite bangles), classicists (long, colorful, wraparound beaded necklaces), and ice lovers (long Swarovski crystal cabin necklaces) alike. Aventura Mall, 19575 Biscayne Blvd., No. 1061, Aventura 305/931–2000 .

SHOPPING CENTERS AND MALLS

Fodor’s Choice Aventura Mall. This three-story megamall offers the ultimate in South Florida retail therapy and welcomes more than 29 million visitors annually. Aventura houses many global top performers including the most lucrative outposts of several U.S. chain stores, a supersize Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, and 300 other shops like a two-story flagship Louis Vuitton, Façonnable, Fendi, and MIA Jewels, which together create the third-largest mall in the United States. This is the one-stop, shop-’til-you-drop retail mecca for locals, out-of-towners, and—frequently—celebrities. 19501 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura 305/935–1110 www.aventuramall.com .

SPORTS AND THE OUTDOORS

Sun, sand, and crystal-clear water mixed with an almost nonexistent winter and a cosmopolitan clientele make Miami and Miami Beach ideal for year-round sunbathing and outdoor activities. Whether the priority is showing off a toned body, jumping on a Jet Ski, or relaxing in a tranquil natural environment, there’s a beach tailor-made to please. But tanning and water sports are only part of this sun-drenched picture. Greater Miami has championship golf courses and tennis courts, miles of bike trails along placid canals and through subtropical forests, and skater-friendly concrete paths amidst the urban jungle. For those who like their sports of the spectator variety, the city offers up a bonanza of pro teams for every season. There’s even a crazy ball-flinging game called jai alai that’s billed as the fastest sport on Earth.

BASEBALL

Marlins. FAMILY Miami’s baseball team, formerly known as the Florida Marlins, then the Miami Marlins, and now simply the Marlins, plays at the state-of-the-art Marlins Park—a 37,442-seat retractable-roof, air-conditioned baseball stadium on the grounds of Miami’s famous Orange Bowl. Go see the team that came out of nowhere to beat the New York Yankees and win the 2003 World Series. Home games are April through early October. Marlins Park, 501 Marlins Way, Little Havana 305/480–1300 , 877/627–5467 for tickets miami.marlins.mlb.com $10–$395; parking from $20 and should be prepurchased online .

BIKING

Perfect weather and flat terrain make Miami–Dade County a popular place for cyclists; however, biking here can also be quite dangerous. Be very vigilant when biking on Miami Beach, or better yet, steer clear and bike the beautiful paths of Key Biscayne instead.

Key Cycling. On an island where biking is a way of life, this Key Biscayne bike shop carries a wide range of amazing bikes in its showroom, as well as any kind of bike accessory imaginable. Out-of-towners can rent mountain or hybrid bikes for $20 for two hours, $25 for the day, and $100 for the week. Galleria Shopping Center, 328 Crandon Blvd., Suite 121, Key Biscayne 305/361–0061 www.keycycling.com .

Miami Beach Bicycle Center. If you don’t want to opt for the hassle of CitiBike or if you want wheels with some style, the easiest and most economical place for a bike rental on South Beach is this shop near Ocean Drive. Rent a bike starting at $5 per hour, $18 per day, or $80 for the week. All bike rentals include locks, helmets, and baskets. 601 5th St., South Beach 305/674–0150 www.bikemiamibeach.com .

BOATING AND SAILING

Boating, whether on sailboats, powerboats, luxury yachts, WaveRunners, or windsurfers, is a passion in Greater Miami. The Intracoastal Waterway, wide and sheltered Biscayne Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean provide ample opportunities for fun aboard all types of watercraft.

The best windsurfing spots are on the north side of the Rickenbacker Causeway at Virginia Key Beach or to the south at, go figure, Windsurfer Beach.

GOLF

Greater Miami has more than 30 private and public courses. Costs at most courses are higher on weekends and in season, but you can save by playing on weekdays and after 1 or 3 pm, depending on the course. Call ahead to find out when afternoon-twilight rates go into effect. For information on most courses in Miami and throughout Florida, you can visit www.floridagolferguide.com .

Biltmore Golf Course. On the grounds of the historic circa 1926 Biltmore hotel, the Biltmore Golf Course provides a golf experience primarily for in-house guests, local residents, and those visiting the Coral Gables area. The 6,800-yard, 18-hole, par-71, championship golf course was designed in 1925 by Scotsman Donald Ross, the “it” golf designer of the Roaring ‘20s. Today, the lush, well-maintained course is easily accessible thanks to its advanced online booking system, where you can easily reserve your tee time and decide between pricing, depending on the time of day and year (weekdays are cheaper; and the later, the cheaper it gets). There’s a pro shop on-site, and golf instruction is available through the Biltmore Golf Academy or the more extensive on-site Golf Channel Academy. The Biltmore Hotel, 1210 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables 305/460–5364 www.biltmorehotel.com/​golf $122 for 9 holes, $200 for 18 holes 18 holes, 6800 yards, par 71 .

Fodor’s Choice Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne. On the serene island of Key Biscayne, overlooking Biscayne Bay, this top-rated, championship municipal golf course is considered one of the state’s most challenging par-72 courses. Enveloped by tropical foliage, mangroves, saltwater lakes, and bay-side waters, the course also happens to be the only one in North America with a subtropical lagoon. The Devlin/Von Hagge–designed course has a USGA rating of 75.4 and a slope rating of 129 and has received national awards from both Golfweek and Golf Digest . The course is located on the south side of Crandon Park. Nonresidents should expect to pay $200 for a round during peak hours in peak season (mid-December–mid-April) and roughly half that off-season. Deeply discounted twilight rates of $65 apply after 2 pm. Tee times can be booked online. Crandon Park, 6700 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne 305/361–9129 , 855/465–3305 for tee times www.golfcrandon.com $200 18 holes, 7400 yards, par 72 .

The Senator Course at Shula’s Golf Club. Deep in the suburbs of west Miami, the Senator Course at Shula’s Golf Club boasts the longest championship course in the area (7,055 yards, par 72), a lighted par-3 course, and a golf school. The championship, classic-style Senator Course was originally designed in 1962 by Bill Watts, updated by Kipp Schulties in 1998, and completely refreshed in late 2013, with improvements that included sparkling new Champion Bermuda greens and new Celebration Bermuda tees. The club hosts dozens of tournaments yearly. Because of its remote location, greens fees tend to be on the lower side, varying by season and time. You’ll pay in the lower range on weekdays, more on weekends, and a third of prime-time rates after 2 pm. Golf carts are included. For true golf enthusiasts, there’s the on-site Don Shula hotel—a comfortable base to eat, live, and breathe golf. 7601 Miami Lakes Dr., 154th St. exit off Rte. 826, Miami Lakes 305/820–8088 www.shulasgolfclub.com $130 18 holes, 7055 yards, par 70 .

GUIDED TOURS

BOAT TOURS

Island Queen Cruises. FAMILY Working with nine boats, experiences on the very touristy Island Queen Cruises run the gamut—sunset cruises, dance cruises, fishing cruises, speedboat rides, and their signature, tours of Millionaire’s Row, Miami’s waterfront homes of the rich and famous. The Island Queen, Island Lady, and Miami Lady are three double-decker, 140-passenger tour boats docked at Bayside Marketplace that set sail daily for 90-minute narrated tours of the Port of Miami and Millionaires’ Row. 401 Biscayne Blvd., Downtown 800/910–5119 www.islandqueencruises.com From $19 .

WALKING TOURS

Art Deco District Walking Tour. FAMILY Operated by the Miami Design Preservation League, this is a 90-minute guided walking tour that departs from the league’s welcome center at Ocean Drive and 10th Street. It starts at 10:30 am daily, with an extra tour at 6:30 pm Thursday. Alternatively, you can go at your own pace with the league’s self-guided iPod audio tour, which also takes roughly an hour and a half. 1001 Ocean Dr., South Beach 305/763–8026 www.mdpl.org $25 guided tour, $20 self-guided audio tour .

Little Havana Arts & Culture Walk. Cultural institution HistoryMiami (formerly the Historical Museum of Southern Florida) runs some fabulous art and cultural tours of Little Havana (spiked with plenty of Cuban coffees and cigars, of course). Enjoy the unique architecture of this ethnic enclave and community history by visiting art galleries, botanicas, cigar factories, and the Cuba Ocho Art and Research Center, featuring rare Cuban art from early 19th and 20th century. The two-hour tour is offered monthly and leaves from the juice stand and market Los Pinareños Fruteria at 6 pm. Tours aren’t available every month, so check the HistoryMiami calendar on the website ahead of time to book. 1334 S.W. 8 St., Little Havana 305/375–1492 www.historymiami.org $30 .

SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING

Diving and snorkeling on the offshore coral wrecks and reefs on a calm day can be very rewarding. Chances are excellent that you’ll come face-to-face with a flood of tropical fish. One option is to find Fowey, Triumph, Long, and Emerald reefs in 10- to 15-foot dives that are perfect for snorkelers and beginning divers. On the edge of the continental shelf a little more than 3 miles out, these reefs are just a quarter-mile away from depths greater than 100 feet. Another option is to paddle around the tangled prop roots of the mangrove trees that line the coast, peering at the fish, crabs, and other creatures hiding there.

Perhaps the area’s most unusual diving options are its artificial reefs. Since 1981, Miami-Dade County’s Department of Environmental Resources Management has sunk tons of limestone boulders and a water tower, army tanks, and almost 200 boats of all descriptions to create a “wreckreational” habitat where divers can swim with yellow tang, barracudas, nurse sharks, snapper, eels, and grouper. The website offers an interactive map of wreck locations. For the best snorkeling in Miami–Dade, head to Biscayne National Park. See the Everglades, Chapter 3 , for more information.

Divers Paradise of Key Biscayne. This complete dive shop and diving-charter service, next to the Crandon Park Marina, includes equipment rental and scuba instruction with PADI and NAUI affiliation. Four-hour dive trips are offered on weekends at 8:30 and 1:30. Night dives are offered Thursday at 5:30; the company is generally closed on Mondays. Crandon Park Marina, 4000 Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne 305/361–3483 www.keydivers.com $60 .

Fodor’s Choice South Beach Dive and Surf. Dedicated to all things ocean, this PADI five-star dive shop offers multiple diving and snorkeling trips weekly as well as surfboard, paddleboard, and skateboard sales, rentals, and lessons. The Discover Scuba course (for noncertified divers) trains newcomers every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 10 am, which includes two dives in Key Largo’s John Pennekamp Marine Sanctuary that same day. In some months of the year, night dives take place on Wednesday at 5. Wreck and reef dives take place on weekend mornings. The center also runs dives in Key Largo’s Spiegel Grove, the second-largest wreck ever to be sunk for the intention of recreational diving, and in the Neptune Memorial Reef, inspired by the city of Atlantis and created in part using the ashes of cremated bodies. The dive shop itself is located in the heart of South Beach, but boats depart from marinas in Miami Beach and Key Largo, in the Florida Keys. 850 Washington Ave., South Beach 305/531–6110 www.southbeachdivers.com .

CUBAN FOOD

If the tropical vibe has you hankering for Cuban food, you’ve come to the right place. Miami is the top spot in the country to enjoy authentic Cuban cooking.

The flavors and preparations of Cuban cuisine are influenced by the island nation’s natural bounty (yuca, sugarcane, guava), as well as its rich immigrant history, from near (Caribbean countries) and far (Spanish and African traditions). Chefs in Miami tend to stick with the classic versions of beloved dishes, though you’ll find some variation from restaurant to restaurant, as recipes have often been passed down through generations of home cooks. For a true Cuban experience, try either the popular Versailles ( 3555 S.W. 8th St. 305/444–0240 www.versaillesre­staurant.com ) or classic La Carreta ( 3632 S.W. 8th St. 305/444–7501 ) in Little Havana, appealing to families seeking a home-cooked, Cuban-style meal. For a modern interpretation of Cuban eats, head to Coral Gable’s Havana Harry’s ( 4612 S. Le Jeune Rd. 305/661–2622 ). South Beach eatery Puerto Sagua Restaurant ( 700 Collins Ave. 305/673–1115 ) is the beach’s favorite Cuban hole-in-the-wall, open daily from 7 am to 2 am.

THE CUBAN SANDWICH

A great cubano (Cuban sandwich) requires pillowy Cuban bread layered with ham, garlic-citrus-marinated slow-roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles (plus salami in Tampa, lettuce and tomatoes in Key West), with butter and/or mustard. The sandwich is grilled in a sandwich press until the cheese melts and all the elements are fused together. Try one at Enriqueta’s Sandwich Shop ( 186 N.E. 29 St. 305/573–4681 Weekdays 6 am–4 pm, Sat. 6 am–2 pm) in Wynwood, or Exquisito Restaurant ( 1510 S.W. 8th St. 305/643–0227 Daily 7 am–11 pm) in Little Havana.

KEY CUBAN DISHES

ARROZ CON POLLO

This chicken-and-rice dish is Cuban comfort food. Found throughout Latin America, the Cuban version is typically seasoned with garlic, paprika, and onions, then colored golden or reddish with saffron or achiote (a seed paste), and enlivened with a sizable splash of beer near the end of cooking. Green peas and sliced, roasted red peppers are standard toppings.

BISTEC DE PALOMILLA

This thinly sliced sirloin steak is marinated in lime juice and garlic and fried with onions. The steak is often served with chimichurri sauce, an olive oil, garlic, and cilantro sauce that sometimes comes with bread (slather bread with butter and dab on the chimichurri). Also try ropa vieja, a slow-cooked, shredded flank steak in a garlic-tomato sauce.

DESSERTS

Treat yourself to a slice of tres leches cake. The “three milks” come from the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream that are poured over the cake until it’s an utterly irresistible gooey mess. Also, don’t miss the pastelitos, Cuban fruit-filled turnovers. Traditional flavors include plain guava, guava with cream cheese, and cream cheese with coconut.

DRINKS

Sip guarapo (gwa-RA-poh), a fresh sugarcane juice that isn’t really as sweet as you might think, or grab a straw and enjoy a frothy batido (bah-TEE-doe), a Cuban-style milk shake made with tropical fruits like mango, piña (pineapple), or mamey (mah-MAY, a tropical fruit with a melon-cherry taste). For a real twist, try the batido de trigo —a wheat shake that will remind you of sugar-glazed breakfast cereal.

FRITAS

If you’re in the mood for an inexpensive, casual Cuban meal, have a frita —a hamburger with distinctive Cuban flair. It’s made with ground beef that’s mixed with ground or finely chopped chorizo, spiced with pepper, paprika, and salt, topped with sautéed onions and shoestring potato fries, and then served on a bun slathered with a special tomato-based ketchup-like sauce.

LECHON ASADO

Fresh ham or an entire suckling pig marinated in mojo criollo (parsley, garlic, sour orange, and olive oil) is roasted until fork tender and served with white rice, black beans, and tostones (fried plantains) or yuca (pronounced YU-kah), a starchy tuber with a mild nut taste that’s often sliced into fat sticks and deep-fried like fries.