A short break in Miami
How to make the most of a few days in this iconic Florida city
I spent a few days in Miami on either side of a Caribbean trip in May and have put together a quick guide, based on my own experience, on how to make the most of your time there.
Where to stay in Miami?
If you picture Miami, you are probably imagining South Beach: palm-lined streets, white sand, pastel Art Deco buildings and that unmistakable buzz. At least that was me and why I chose to stay in this part of town. Staying in South Beach is ideal if you:
- Want easy beach access plus a lively atmosphere
- Enjoy walking along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue
- Like having bars, restaurants and nightlife on your doorstep
- Want those classic “Miami Beach” views in your photos
Hotel Highlight: Delano Miami Beach
Recently refurbished, it offers:
- Beautiful rooms with a fresh, contemporary finish
- Incredible sea views, especially from higher floors
- A luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere that feels very “Miami”
Pools & Beach Club
The hotel has two pools, each with its own personality:
- A lower pool at the rear of the property that leads you directly towards the beach
- An elevated pool with sweeping views over South Beach and the ocean,
One of the biggest perks is exclusive access to a private section of the beach, complete with:
- Comfortable sun loungers reserved for hotel guests
- Bar service directly to your lounger
- The option to while away an afternoon simply relaxing, listening to the waves and sipping a drink without lifting a finger
Dining Highlight
One of the pleasant surprises for me in Miami was just how consistently good the food was. All our meals were great in our couple of days there but there was one standout meal I thought worth mentioning:
Mila
We had dinner at Mila and it was the absolute highlight of the trip. While very "trendy" the food was incredible and every dish we had was memorable.
If you are planning a city break and want at least one “wow” dinner, Mila is a fantastic choice and well worth reserving in advance.
Must-See Neighbourhoods in Miami
Even on a short break, there are a few areas that really give you a sense of the city’s character.
Wynwood Walls
- A colourful district famous for its street art and murals
- Great for wandering, taking photos and soaking up the artistic energy
- A nice contrast to the beach scene, showing a more urban, edgy side of Miami
Little Havana
- The heart of Miami’s Cuban heritage, full of atmosphere
- Expect Latin music, cigar shops, cafés and strong coffee
- A must for those who enjoy culture, history and food with a story
Downtown & Brickell
- The city’s modern/business core, full of gleaming towers, rooftop bars and upscale dining
- Offers a different feel from laid-back South Beach: more urban, more corporate, but with a great nightlife and restaurant scene
- Worth visiting for one evening even if you are staying on the beach
If you would like a tailored Miami city break designed around your dates, budget and travel style, I can hand-pick the right hotel, arrange private transfers, recommend restaurants and create a day-by-day plan that maximises your time in the city.
Contact me today to start planning your Miami escape.
