Miami Beach
Miami Beach, FL
With its warm, clear waters and white sands, Miami Beach has some of the best urban beaches in the United States. Located just over the bridge from the city of Miami, it is also known for its vibrant neighborhoods, fine dining, pulsing nightlife, and an architectural claim to fame: The area boasts the largest concentration of art deco buildings in the world.
The basics
Though the beaches themselves draw huge crowds of sun worshippers, there is so much more to appreciate about Miami Beach. If you're seeking pastel buildings, vintage neon signs, and a bustling scene, head to South Beach—particularly the Art Deco Historic District and Ocean Drive. Away from the beach, you'll find a mix of restaurants, parks, botanical gardens, and shopping spots, as well as the quieter, historic Espanola Way.
See the sights on a Miami Beach tour; there are endless options for private and group walking tours, hop-on-hop-off open-top double-decker bus tours, or boat tours for a view of the city from the water. Pedicabs also take visitors on leisurely sightseeing tours around the area.
Things to know before you go
Much of this area is pedestrian-friendly, but you can cover more ground by car, or by taking a city sightseeing bus tour or boat tour.
The most crowded beaches run from about 5th Street to 21st Street in the South Beach area.
Families with kids should head north of 21st Street, especially to the beaches at 53rd Street or 73rd Street, or to Matheson Hammock Park or South Pointe Park.
How to get there
Miami Beach is located on a barrier island between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The bay separates the beach area from the city of Miami, but it is accessible by road for those who want to rent a car. Miami tours often include pickup and drop-off in downtown Miami or Miami Beach.
When to get there
South Florida has a warm climate—and lots of visitors—year-round. Miami Beach is most popular from January to May, so expect the heaviest crowds then. Hurricane season, which often sees tropical rains, is from June to November.
Exploring beyond Miami Beach
After sunning and reveling in Miami Beach, take some time to explore the surrounding area. Just a jaunt away are the iconic parts and eclectic areas of Miami—Little Havana, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, and downtown Miami—all of which you can check out on a Miami city tour by neighborhood. Other popular excursions from Miami Beach include day trips to the wild Everglades National Park and beautiful Key West.
Ways to explore
Though its beaches draw huge crowds of sun worshippers, there is so much more to appreciate about Miami Beach. If you're seeking pastel buildings, vintage neon signs, and a bustling scene, head to South Beach—particularly the Art Deco Historic District and Ocean Drive. Away from the beach, find a mix of restaurants, parks, botanical gardens, and shopping spots.
See the sights on a Miami Beach tour, including private and group walking tours, hop-on-hop-off open-top double-decker bus tours, or boat tours. Pedicabs are a good option for a leisurely sightseeing tour.
Accessibility
Some Miami Beach tours are accessible to people who use wheelchairs.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Bathing suit, towel, sun protection, insect repellent
What to wear
Wear breezy, lightweight clothing—bonus points for bold colors
Not allowed
Smoking or drinking alcohol on the beaches or in the parks
Amenities
Restaurants, shops, public transit
Address
Miami Beach is located on a barrier island, directly across Biscayne Bay from Miami proper. It’s accessible by car, public transportation, and boat, while guided tours with included transportation offer another easy way to get there.
Driving
Miami Beach is typically less than 30 minutes from downtown Miami by car. To get there, take the MacArthur Causeway.
Public transportation
Select bus routes, including the 15, 20, and 36, connect Miami with Miami Beach, as do local water taxi services. A citywide free trolley serves Miami Beach.
Best times to visit
It’s worth getting an early start to take in the famous Florida sunrise from Miami Beach, and to stake out a good spot on the beach before the crowds arrive.
Best days to visit
There’s rarely a bad time to explore, but as a general rule, weekends and holidays are busier than weekdays.
Best months to visit
The best time to visit Miami Beach is in spring—the weather won’t yet be too hot, and you’ll miss hurricane season.
Special events
Miami Beach hosts a wealth of festivals throughout the year, including the Art Deco Weekend in January, the South Beach Food and Wine Festival in February, and Miami Beach Pride in April.
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