Miami Beach is well known for it’s party scene but with stretches of white sand, crystal blue water, and one of the best culinary scenes in the US Miami is a great destination for a weekend getaway. Whether you want to take in the scene and people watching on Ocean Avenue or relax at a world class spa Miami has a little something for everyone. A weekend is just long enough to fall for the charms of this south Florida hotspot, and I’m partnering with Hotels.com to share my recommendations for what to do on a weekend trip to Miami Beach.
This post was sponsored by Hotels.com but all opinions remain my own.This post may contain affiliate links, when you make a purchase or book a hotel through these links the Casual Travelist receives a small commission that helps support this site at no additional cost to you.
Where to Stay in Miami Beach
Whether you want to live it up or want a more relaxed getaway there are a lot of great places to stay in Miami Beach. If you want to stay in middle of the party then South Beach is the place to be. For a rock star experience check out the SLS Hotel, where you’ll find modern Phillip Starck designed interiors and one of the hottest pool parties in Miami. For a more elegant side of South Beach take a look at The Betsy Hotel, an art deco confection that provides a sanctuary from the crowds of Ocean Drive.
If you want a more relaxed vibe that is still all Miami then make your way to Mid Beach. Steps from the beach Circa 39 is a great budget option that’s high on style. The Fountainbleu is a Miami classic that offers understated luxury and restaurants from celebrity chefs Scott Conant and Michael Mina.
Things to Do in Miami Beach
Check out the Beach
The obvious allure of Miami Beach is well, the beach! Whether you want to enjoy lazing in the sun with a good book, splash around in the gentle blue waves or play a round of beach volleyball you can’t beat the powder white sands of Miami Beach. Even if your hotel isn’t on the beach they may have a dedicated area of beach chairs and umbrellas for you to use.
Miami Beach Boardwalk
A 4 mile long boardwalk hugs Miami Beach and offers up great views of the ocean as well as some of Miami’s most iconic hotels and resorts. Whether you stroll, jog or bike the Miami Beach boardwalk is popular with locals and visitors alike.
Beautiful Art Deco Architecture
Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District is home to over 800 art deco buildings built between 1923 and 1943. Geometric shapes, pastel colors and glamorous details are the hallmark of art deco and make Miami Beach one of the most architecturally unique neighborhoods in the United States.
Brunch in Miami
Miami is a town where brunch is both a religion and a spectator sport. Jaya at the Setai offers up a luxe jazz brunch every Sunday with an expansive buffet and endless champagne served up in a beautiful outdoor courtyard. If you want a bit of glamorous camp with your french toast and bottomless mimosas the drag brunch at The Palace is the most fun brunch on Ocean Avenue.
Spa
If you need a bit more relaxation than lazing on the beach can provide then it’s time to book an appointment at one of Miami’s many amazing spas. The Tierra Santa Healing House at The Faena is a 22,000 sq. foot South American inspired retreat featuring one of the largest hammams in the United States. The Spa at Carillon Miami is the largest in south Florida at 70,000 sq. feet and includes an on-site anti-aging doctor and a nine circuit hyrdotherapy circuit.
Where to Eat in Miami Beach
Havana 1957
Miami’s Cuban influence can be felt everywhere and you can’t visit without indulging in some delicious Cuban food. If you’re in South Beach be sure to check out Havana 1957 on Espanola Way, a lively street in a historic Spanish neighborhood. Havana 1957 is famous for it’s mojitos, and a classic mojito with Don Q anejo rum finished with a slice thick sugarcane is as good as they come (also be sure to take a look at my passionfruit mojito recipe!). The menu features Cuban favorites but do yourself a favor and order the ropa vieja, braised shredded beef best served in friend plantain cups known as tostones rellenos.
Civ.che 105
I can’t visit Miami without a stopl at Civ.che 105 and a meal here will have you contemplating a trip to Lima. The passionfruit pisco sour is a great start to any night and a trio of ceviche featuring lobster, octopus and locally caught fish is addictively good.
Bazaar by Jose Andres
Jose Andres is a culinary superstar and takes his inspiration from Miami’s art deco heritage at his restaurant Bazaar. The diverse menu at Bazaar features global flavors from Singapore, Cuba and Spain resulting in dishes that are playfully elevated.
Chrissy K says
I live in Miami and you mentioned some great spots. I live close to Bazaar and still haven’t made it yet. Great post!
Aga says
I love Miami, it’s such a great getaway even if just for 2-3 days. I wouldn’t mind being on that beach right now, especially with the low temperatures where I am right now.
Vanessa Shields says
Great post and info on visiting Miami! I’ve only had the chance to visit for one day so I’d love to go back and really experience it properly! 😁
Hannah says
Miami looks like a beautiful destination with something for everyone to enjoy! Thanks for the great guide!
Hannah | https://getlost.blog/
Sherry says
OMG! Your photos of the ceviche has me drooling! I’ve been on the boardwalk and now I need to go back to check out Havana 1957! Sounds awesome!