Things to do in Miami

Author: Eloise Barker

Is there more to life than being ridiculously good looking? Yes, despite appearances, Miami has a lot going on beneath the suntanned surface. Read our list of the top things to do in the city and beyond, from Everglades to beaches, street art to shopping – and don’t miss the Cuban sandwiches.

Plan a holiday in Miami

Hit up South Beach

What is it about South Beach that makes it so legendary? There are beautiful art deco buildings in candy colours. The expanse of powdery sand is dotted with bronzing bodies and neon lifeguard stations. Crowds come to wet their whistles at Wet Willie's or pootle along the promenade by Segway. The tingle of glamour is palpable at Ocean Drive – you’ll see tourists photographing Versace Mansion through the shrubbery.

Where to stay: Boulan Suites South Beach is a great place for holidaymakers seeking a little independence: these relaxed apartments each have their own kitchens and share a chic rooftop pool and Jacuzzi.

Head to LIV nightclub

In Miami, you're here for the nights as well as the days. The definitive destination in Miami is LIV, an expensive two-storey monster club comprising 18,000 square feet of stunning architecture and plush furnishings all illuminated like a kind of colourful spaceship-grotto. LIV has lit up the lives of many visitors – but it also lightens the wallet.

Where to stay: LIV nightclub is within the massive Fontainebleau Miami Beach resort, comprising 22 acres of magnificent indulgence. Beyonce has performed here. Enough said.

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Drive to the outlets

This glamorous city has to keep its residents well dressed. That’s why you’ll find beautiful beachwear and chic espadrilles in boutiques all over Miami. For a full day of shopping, drive to a mall. Bal Harbour Shops is for upmarket offerings and upmarket people – stores include the likes of Ralph Lauren and Tiffany & Co. For discounts, though, most people head out of town, to Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise, Florida, which has everything from Armani to Calvin Klein, Coach and Converse.

Where to stay: Sole Miami, A Noble House Resort is on Sunny Isles Beach, just north of Miami. This hip beach hotel is a great base for hitting the malls: it’s only around four miles from Bal Harbour. Sawgrass Mills is around 26 miles away.

Hire a car

How to make an entrance

The Grand Hall of the St Regis is a stunning sight to behold.

Stay on the beach

When you stay at The Miami Beach EDITION you can soak up the sun in the day and then visit the hotel’s own nightclub in the evening.

Off putting

JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa boasts not one but two championship golf courses.

Watch a sports match

Inter-city team rivalry is real down south – see the Miami Marlins battle their way to baseball victory or cheer on American football stars, the Miami Dolphins. Head to Little Havana for even fiercer competition. Watch residents slam down domino tiles in games at Maximo Gomez Park. For something a little different swing by the Wynwood Walls – graffiti artists have made them a glorious outdoor gallery. Spot work by the famous Os Gemeos from Sao Paulo.

Where to stay: The Miami Beach EDITION is right on the shore and, as well as its glamorous bars and spa, it has an unusual perk: its buzzing basement has an ice-skating rink and a bowling alley.

Discover Miami holidays

Play golf

Florida is made for golf holidays – it’s easy to find a fair fairway thanks to the state’s glorious weather, laid-back lifestyle and vast amount of space. Originally designed by architect Robert Trent Jones and then reimagined by Raymond Floyd, the two 18-hole championship courses at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa are a dream to play on.

Where to stay: JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa has more than just good golf. Enjoy the seclusion of a resort set in an oasis of gardens. Then seek out the sanctuary of Ame Spa, which covers three floors.

Admire art

Miami’s dynamic art scene embraces vibrant street graffiti and experimental galleries. Hop between exhibits in fashionable and artistic areas like the Miami Design District and Wynwood. In December, follow the hoards of artists and collectors heading to Art Basel Miami Beach art fair. See works from emerging talent, wander around curated exhibitions and gaze at out-of-the-box projects.

Where to stay: St Regis Bal Harbour is a beachfront hotel bursting with luxury – from the glass-enclosed balconies overlooking the ocean to the butler service for guests staying in suites. If you’re planning on going to Art Basel Miami Beach, this hotel is only around seven miles from the action.

Book a stay at St Regis Bal Harbour

Head to the Everglades

Florida’s Everglades cover an immense expanse of subtropical wilderness – home to alligators, manatees and even Florida panthers. Drive south west from Miami to reach the Everglades National and take in awe-inspiring vistas of this seemingly never-ending stretch of marshland and mangroves. Then drive down the Florida Keys, absorbing unique island vibes and admiring stunning beach scenery along the way.

Where to stay: Key Largo is the closest of the Keys to the Everglades National Park. For a relaxing break surrounded by turquoise water and luscious greenery, book a stay at Baker's Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton. Sitting on the edge of Florida Bay, this resort boasts a private beach, two waterfall pools and a selection of swaying hammocks – so you can really lean into that laid-back island lifestyle.

Visit the Florida Keys

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