Miami’s best beaches

Miami Beach’s central stretch of shoreline has a long, elevated boardwalk, which runs from 5th Street to 46th Street - and it’s a Miami must-do. Not only does it offer fabulous views of the rolling Atlantic on one side and the opulent hotels and condos on the other, but it’s the go-to spot for those wishing to jog, skate, bike or simply stroll (plus there are workout stations if you’re really looking to exert yourself). Thanks to the ocean breeze and plenty of beach shacks selling cool drinks, you won’t get too hot either. If you’re more into exercising your credit card, hit the open-air boutiques on nearby Lincoln Road.

When you think of the quintessential Miami Beach resort checklist - pastel-coloured buildings, swaying palm trees, white sand - South Beach has it all. SoBe is also the place for fun – by day, bag a hammock at the effortlessly cool Nikki Beach, order a cocktail and settle back for some serious people watching. By night, the neon-hued resort is a haven for those looking to let their hair down. From world-famous dance clubs (check out LIV at Fontainebleau Miami Beach), to cocktail lounges and dive bars, you’ll be partying from dusk till dawn.

Until a few years ago, Sunny Isles Beach was lined with quaint waterfront motels. While these have since been replaced by luxury high-rises and hotels, the vibe along this two-mile stretch remains peaceful and a lot calmer than some of the neighbouring beaches. As well as the requisite flawless sand and warm waters, the charming Newport Fishing Pier is a great spot for an al fresco drink. But if you only do one thing, set your alarm clock and join a free early morning yoga session. What could be better than soaking up the sunrise while doing your downward dog?

The palm-fringed Lummus Park - with its candy-coloured buildings and funky lifeguard stations - is an Instagrammer’s dream, while the 74-acre meticulously kept public park, situated on the doorstep of South Beach near Ocean Drive, it’s the perfect spot for a shady picnic. But the biggest pull of all is its movie and TV credentials, which include being the backdrop for a number of scenes in hit American show Miami Vice. Take time out from your sunbathing schedule to stroll around the nearby Historic District, for enchanting views of the whimsical art deco architecture.

Plan your Miami beach break

Bal Harbour is a tranquil enclave along the Atlantic Ocean, boasting one of the cleanest, most peaceful beaches in Miami. The warm, turquoise ocean is ideal for swimming and families will want to unfurl their beach towels on the powder-soft stretch of shoreline. There’s a pretty path that runs along the length of the beach and a seawall jetty at the northern end, which is the perfect spot for watching the pelicans and the fishing boats bobbing on the sea. If you can drag yourself out of bed, the sunrise here is worth the wake-up call.

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