South Beach in Miami is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Art Deco architecture. With so much to see and do, planning a one-week itinerary can be overwhelming. However, with careful planning, visitors can experience the best of South Beach in just seven days.
A typical one-week itinerary for South Beach might include exploring the trendy Miami Design District, taking a walking tour of the Art Deco hotels on Ocean Drive, and spending a day at the famous South Beach. Visitors can also take a day trip to the Everglades, where they can see alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat. In the evenings, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to choose from, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Getting There
By Plane
South Beach is easily accessible by plane, with Miami International Airport (MIA) being the closest airport. MIA is a major hub for international and domestic flights, making it easy to find a flight that fits your schedule and budget. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to reach South Beach.
There are also other airports in the area, including Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), which are both about an hour’s drive from South Beach. While these airports may offer cheaper flights, keep in mind that the additional travel time and transportation costs may offset any savings.
By Car
Driving to South Beach can be a convenient option for those who live within driving distance or want the flexibility of having a car during their stay. South Beach is located on the southern tip of Miami Beach and is easily accessible from major highways such as I-95 and the Florida Turnpike.
If you plan to drive to South Beach, keep in mind that parking can be a challenge, especially during peak season. Many hotels offer valet parking, but it can be expensive. There are also public parking garages and lots available, but they can fill up quickly. It’s best to research parking options ahead of time and plan accordingly.
Once you arrive in South Beach, you may find that walking or biking is the easiest way to get around. The area is relatively compact, and many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. There are also bike rental shops throughout the area, making it easy to explore the beach and boardwalk on two wheels.
Accommodations
When planning a trip to South Beach, finding the perfect accommodations is essential. Luckily, there are many options to choose from, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options.
Luxury Hotels
For those seeking a luxurious stay, South Beach has no shortage of high-end hotels. The Faena Hotel Miami Beach is a top choice for visitors looking for a lavish experience. This hotel boasts stunning ocean views, a private beach, and a world-class spa. Another popular option is The Setai, which offers spacious suites, three oceanfront pools, and a serene spa.
For a more boutique experience, The Betsy Hotel is a charming option located on Ocean Drive. This hotel features Art Deco architecture, a rooftop pool, and a renowned restaurant.
Budget-Friendly Options
Travelers on a budget can still find comfortable and affordable accommodations in South Beach. The Freehand Miami is a trendy hostel that offers both private and shared rooms. This hostel also features a pool, a bar, and a restaurant.
Another budget-friendly option is the Catalina Hotel & Beach Club, which offers stylish rooms at an affordable price. This hotel also features two pools, a rooftop terrace, and a complimentary happy hour.
No matter what your budget or preferences may be, South Beach has a variety of accommodations to choose from.
Beach Activities
South Beach is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and warm sunshine. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beach activities during their one-week itinerary.
Swimming
The most popular beach activity is swimming. The Atlantic Ocean’s warm waters provide the perfect place to cool off and enjoy the sun. Visitors can swim in the designated swimming areas or take a dip in the ocean right off the beach.
Sunbathing
Sunbathing is a great way to relax and soak up the sun. There are plenty of areas to lay out a towel or rent a beach chair and umbrella. Visitors can also take advantage of the many beachside bars and restaurants that offer food and drinks right on the sand.
Water Sports
For those looking for a bit more adventure, South Beach offers a variety of water sports. Visitors can rent jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, and more. There are also several companies that offer parasailing and banana boat rides.
Beach Volleyball
Beach volleyball is a popular activity on South Beach. There are several beach volleyball courts available for public use, and many hotels offer their own courts for guests. Visitors can also join pickup games or watch professional players compete in tournaments.
Yoga
Yoga on the beach is a great way to start the day. Several companies offer beach yoga classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunrise while practicing yoga on the sand.
Overall, South Beach offers a variety of beach activities for visitors to enjoy during their one-week itinerary. Whether it’s swimming, sunbathing, water sports, beach volleyball, or yoga, there’s something for everyone.
Nightlife
South Beach is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene, which features a diverse range of entertainment options, from high-energy nightclubs to laid-back bars and live music venues. Whether you’re looking for a wild night out or a more relaxed evening, South Beach has something to offer.
Clubs and Bars
South Beach boasts some of the best nightclubs and bars in the country, with many of them located on or near Ocean Drive. LIV at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is a popular nightclub that attracts world-renowned DJs and A-list celebrities. Another popular spot is Twist, an iconic gay club that has been around for over 25 years. For those looking for a more upscale experience, the rooftop lounge at the Juvia Miami Beach offers stunning views of the city skyline.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, there are plenty of bars and lounges to choose from. The Broken Shaker at the Freehand Miami is a popular spot for craft cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere. The Regent Cocktail Club at the Gale South Beach is another popular spot that offers classic cocktails and live music.
Live Music Venues
For those who enjoy live music, South Beach has several venues that offer a variety of genres. The Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater is a historic venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music. The North Beach Bandshell is another popular spot that features a variety of live music events throughout the year.
In addition to these venues, there are also several bars and restaurants that offer live music on a regular basis. The Betsy Hotel is a popular spot that features live jazz performances in their lobby lounge. The Lagniappe House is another popular spot that offers live music and a laid-back atmosphere.
Overall, South Beach is a great destination for those looking for a vibrant nightlife scene. With a variety of clubs, bars, and live music venues to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
Dining
South Beach is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide variety of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. From fine dining restaurants to casual eateries, there’s something for everyone.
Fine Dining
For those looking for a fine dining experience, South Beach has plenty of options. One of the most popular is Prime 112, a steakhouse that offers high-quality cuts of meat, seafood, and other dishes. Another great option is Joe’s Stone Crab, which has been serving up fresh seafood since 1913.
Other notable fine dining restaurants in South Beach include:
- The Bazaar by Jose Andres, which offers a unique blend of Spanish and American cuisine
- Nobu Miami, which serves up Japanese fusion cuisine
- Hakkasan, which offers contemporary Cantonese dishes
Casual Eateries
If you’re looking for something more casual, South Beach has plenty of options as well. One popular spot is Time Out Market, a food hall that features over 20 vendors serving up everything from fresh oysters to mouth-watering burgers. Another great option is Big Pink, which offers classic American comfort food.
Other notable casual eateries in South Beach include:
- La Sandwicherie, which serves up delicious sandwiches and salads
- Taquiza, which offers authentic Mexican street food
- Yardbird Southern Table & Bar, which specializes in Southern comfort food
No matter what your dining preferences are, South Beach has something to offer. Whether you’re looking for a fancy night out or a quick bite to eat, there’s a restaurant that will suit your needs.
Shopping
South Beach is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of stores, boutiques, and markets to explore. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, unique souvenirs, or local artisanal goods, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
One of the most popular shopping destinations in South Beach is Lincoln Road Mall, a pedestrian-friendly street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Here, you can find everything from designer clothing and jewelry to handmade crafts and vintage finds. The mall also hosts regular events, such as outdoor concerts and art shows, making it a lively and engaging place to spend an afternoon.
Another must-visit shopping spot in South Beach is the Miami Design District, a neighborhood that combines art, architecture, and fashion. Here, you can browse the latest collections from top designers, explore cutting-edge galleries and installations, and enjoy some of the city’s best cuisine. The district is also home to a number of public art installations, making it a great place to take in some culture while you shop.
For those looking for a more local shopping experience, the Bayside Marketplace is a popular choice. This open-air market features dozens of vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to fresh produce and seafood. Visitors can also take a sightseeing cruise or hop on a water taxi to explore the city from a different perspective.
Overall, South Beach offers a diverse and exciting shopping scene that is sure to satisfy any taste or budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands or unique, one-of-a-kind finds, you’re sure to find something that speaks to you in this vibrant and dynamic neighborhood.
Day Trips
South Beach is a great base for exploring some of the nearby attractions. There are several options for day trips, including Everglades National Park and Key West.
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is a unique and vast wilderness area that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park’s wetlands by taking an airboat tour or hiking one of the many trails. The park is also home to several endangered species, including the Florida panther and the American crocodile.
One of the most popular ways to experience the Everglades is by taking an airboat tour. These tours take visitors on a high-speed ride through the park’s waterways, providing an up-close look at the park’s wildlife. Visitors can also hike one of the many trails in the park, including the Anhinga Trail, which is known for its abundance of wildlife.
Key West
Key West is a popular destination for day trips from South Beach. Located just 160 miles south of Miami, Key West is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the island’s historic Old Town, which is home to many historic buildings and museums.
One of the most popular attractions in Key West is the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. This historic home was once the residence of the famous author, and visitors can tour the house and learn about Hemingway’s life and work. Other popular attractions in Key West include the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum.
Overall, South Beach is a great base for exploring some of the nearby attractions. Whether visitors are interested in exploring the wilderness of the Everglades or soaking up the sun in Key West, there is something for everyone to enjoy on a day trip from South Beach.
