Even after you know everything, these unique things to do in South Beach will always surprise you. The neighborhood decided to change its reputation for spring break in 2024.
South Beach is known for its vibrant party scene, beautiful beaches, world-class shopping, and Art Deco architecture. It has many hidden gems, such as speakeasy bars, top-rated restaurants, and even iconic Art Deco buildings. Our guide to the best things to do in South Beach will help you discover new things, whether you want to enjoy Cuban croqueta or explore contemporary art.
Lincoln Road Mall
Lincoln Road, the first pedestrian mall in the United States, is always crowded with tourists searching for the best South Beach shopping experience. Locals love to people watch.
Many sidewalk cafes, restaurants, public art displays, and famous brand stores exist. A Sunday market offers fresh produce and vintage furniture.
South Pointe Park
A stunning waterfront park is located at the southernmost point of South Beach. It has plenty of greenery and is perfect for picnics or relaxing as you watch cruise ships go by.
There is easy access to the beach, a pier that can be walked along and ample parking. Joe’s Take Away is also a short distance away, where you can get Miami’s best crabs for a perfect beach picnic.
Miami Beach Botanical Garden
The 50-year-old, 2.6-acre urban garden was revamped in 2011. It is now a popular getaway for locals and visitors looking to escape the city’s hustle and find some exploring things to do in South Beach. It offers yoga and meditation classes, orchid exchanges, and horticultural workshops.
Musical performances are available on weekends. The garden features native Florida plants like bromeliads, palms, and cycads, a Japanese garden and a wetland area with mangroves and pond apple trees.
The Goodtime Hotel
Music mogul Pharrell Williams and nightlife entrepreneur David Grutman, known for LIV, teamed up to create the Goodtime Hotel. This pastel-colored spot feels like a fun, real-life version of a quirky Wes Anderson movie, with Instagram-worthy corners and plenty of chances to spot celebrities.
At the heart of the action is Strawberry Moon, a lively Mediterranean restaurant and club. It’s the go-to place for summer pool parties and daily happy hours, where locals and visitors alike show off their best fashion.
Española Way
This charming pedestrian boulevard hosts one of our favorite South Beach cafes, A La Folie. A cozy, bohemian spot for almost 20 years, it offers French comfort food that’s hard to find locally, like tartiflette—a cheesy potato and onion gratin with crispy bacon and spicy Reblochon cheese. Eating at Española Way is one of the most enjoyable things to do in South Beach.
Newer places have breathed new life into the promenade. Tropezón, an Andalusian favorite, and the lively Roof at the Esmé Hotel are must-visit spots. For a late-night hangout, the long-standing dive bar Kill Your Idol is a great choice, especially on Thursdays for karaoke.
Sunset Harbour
This quieter part of South Beach, overlooking the sailboat-filled Intracoastal Waterway, is home to locals living in high-rise condos and savvy visitors enjoying the scenic views. You’ll find excellent restaurants, bars, and outdoor activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and scooter rentals.
For a laid-back seafood brunch, check out Stiltsville Fish Bar. Grab a coffee from the local favorite Panther Coffee or enjoy a meal at the popular Pura Vida cafe.
The Standard Spa: One Of The Best Things To Do In South Beach
The Standard is an upscale boutique hotel chain that’s a favorite hangout of South Beach residents.
The Standard’s monthly membership costs a few hundred bucks; to access the pool, you must book a spa treatment. But that doesn’t deter the crowd from relaxing by the pool or drinking roses. On Sundays, the hotel hosts lively pop-up events and barbecues at the dockside.
Lido is the Standard’s waterfront dining restaurant. Here, you can dine comfortably and enjoy the stunning sunset view over the bay. This is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
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Art Deco District Welcome Center
Explore the rich history of South Beach, especially in the vibrant Art Deco district. Start your day by visiting this colorful neighborhood and making the most of your trip.
The center provides maps and tips for self-guided walking tours. Not sure about going solo? Book a guided tour with one of the Miami Design Preservation League’s certified historians. They’ll lead you through a two-hour journey of iconic hotels, restaurants, and buildings, including a few interior stops.
Rooftop Cinema Club
Miami is now home to this globally famous club’s ninth location, joining its cinemas in cities like London, New York, Los Angeles, and San Diego. This rooftop theater offers more than just movies—it’s a “social to cinema” experience.
Guests (adults only) can relax in comfortable Adirondack chairs or loungers while enjoying Miami’s stunning candy-colored sunsets. A giant LED screen lights up the night, and everyone gets wireless headphones for perfect sound and volume. Watching at Rooftop Cinema Club Miami is among my favorite things to do in South Beach.
Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive is a blast, even though it often gets a bad reputation for pricey drinks (like that $65 margarita). We wouldn’t recommend dining or drinking at the sidewalk cafes—unless you’re heading to the Palace Bar for its legendary drag brunch. But Ocean Drive is perfect for watching the quirky side of Miami.
While you’re there, visit the Versace Mansion, now called the Villa Casa Casuarina. This luxury hotel has a public restaurant where you can admire the opulent, time-capsule charm of Gianni Versace’s former home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is South Beach worth visiting?
South Beach is consistently ranked among the top beaches in the world. The beach stretches for over two miles along the southeastern end of Miami Beach and offers a large expanse of turquoise waters. Rent chairs and umbrellas from local vendors, or set them up yourself. There are also a lot of fun things to do in South Beach, that’s why it’s totally worth visiting.
Why is South Beach so famous?
South Beach is known for its beautiful Art Deco architecture, vibrant nightlife and pristine beaches. This famous Miami Beach area has attracted tourists and locals for decades.
Is South Beach OK for kids?
South Beach has something fun for everyone. Kids can play sports or splash around in water playgrounds at family-friendly parks. Museums let them touch the art and take great Instagram photos. They can also explore clear waterways in kayaks or go deep-sea fishing.
