Things to Do in Miami Beach: Sunshine, Art Deco, and Oceanfront Fun
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This website contains affiliate links, meaning that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. For more information about my affiliate partnerships, please visit my terms and conditions.
There’s a reason Miami Beach is often called the “American Riviera.” Between the pastel art deco architecture, palm-lined streets, and endless stretches of sand, this little barrier island has a way of pulling you in and convincing you to slow down.
When I spent four days here, I quickly realized that the list of things to do in Miami Beach goes far beyond just laying out on South Beach. From sunset cruises to Cuban bites, colorful lifeguard towers to thought-provoking memorials, there’s truly something for everyone.
As a frequent traveler and budget-conscious explorer, I make it a point to dig deeper than the postcard views. That’s how I ended up sipping guava juice at a Little Havana market, admiring the larger-than-life murals at Wynwood Walls, and getting lost among the neon glow of Ocean Drive at night.
In this guide, I’ll share not just the highlights, but my firsthand tips for how to actually experience Miami Beach (and beyond) — whether you’re visiting as a couple, with family, or on your own.
Main Things to Do in Miami Beach
The beauty of Miami Beach is that you don’t have to go far to find something worth doing. Whether you’re here for a quick weekend or a longer stay, the island itself is packed with experiences that capture the heart of South Florida.
From lazy mornings on the sand to wandering past neon-lit art deco facades, you could easily fill your entire trip without ever leaving the beach. These are the highlights I loved most—the ones that make Miami Beach more than just a pretty shoreline.
1. Walk the Miami Beach Boardwalk
There’s no better way to ease into Miami Beach than with a walk along the Miami Beach Boardwalk. Stretching for miles along the ocean, the boardwalk offers breezy views of turquoise water on one side and swaying palms on the other.
Practical Tip: Go early in the day for cooler weather and quieter vibes, or rent a bike if you want to cover more ground without breaking a sweat.
2. Explore Ocean Drive
If the boardwalk is Miami Beach’s serene side, Ocean Drive is its beating heart. This is where you’ll find the island’s most famous art deco architecture—pastel facades by day, neon-lit gems by night. Walking this strip feels like stepping into another era, with glamorous hotels and sidewalk cafés that never seem to slow down.
Practical Tip: Visit during the day if you want photos of the colorful architecture, but make sure to swing back after sunset to catch the full glow of the neon lights.
3. Photograph the Iconic Lifeguard Towers
Sprinkled all along South Beach are some of the most photogenic lifeguard towers you’ll ever see. Each one is painted in bold colors or playful designs, from rainbow stripes to nautical blues. They’ve become symbols of Miami Beach itself, and you’ll definitely want to stop for a few photos.
When I was there, I couldn’t resist snapping shots of every tower I passed—each one felt like its own piece of public art.
Practical Tip: Sunrise or sunset is the best time to photograph the towers. The light is softer, the beaches are less crowded, and you might even get that golden glow reflecting off the water.
4. Soak Up the Sun at South Beach
You really can’t come to Miami Beach without spending time on South Beach itself. This is the stretch of sand you’ve seen in movies and travel magazines—the turquoise waves, the lively crowds, the endless rows of umbrellas.
When I visited, I loved just throwing down a towel, people-watching, and dipping in the water to cool off. It’s the quintessential Miami experience.
Practical Tip: South Beach gets busy fast, especially on weekends. Arrive early to grab a good spot and don’t forget plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and water—it’s easy to underestimate the Florida sun.
5. Spend the Day at a Beach Club
If you want to elevate your beach day a little, consider booking into one of Miami Beach’s many beach clubs. These spots give you a comfy lounger, umbrellas for shade, food and drink service, and sometimes even a pool—all without you having to lift a finger.
It’s a more luxurious way to enjoy the sand and sea, and honestly, after walking miles along Ocean Drive, you probably won’t mind being pampered a bit.
Practical Tip: Check if your hotel partners with a beach club—sometimes day beds are included in your stay. If not, you can usually book a spot in advance online, especially at popular clubs along Collins Avenue.
6. Explore the Art Deco Historic District
If there’s one thing that sets Miami Beach apart from every other beach town, it’s the Art Deco Historic District. Strolling through these pastel-colored streets feels like stepping back into the glamour of the 1920s and ’30s—think curved corners, porthole windows, and plenty of neon. I spent an afternoon just wandering Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue, snapping photos of mint-green hotels and salmon-pink cafés that looked straight out of an old postcard.
The district is compact and easy to explore on foot, and if you’re a design lover (or just love pretty things), you’ll be in heaven.
Practical Tip: Head out early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting on the buildings. At night, the neon signs flicker to life and the whole district takes on a retro glow that’s perfect for photos.
7. Learn More at the Art Deco Museum
If you fall in love with the pastel facades and neon glow of Ocean Drive (and it’s hard not to), make time for the Art Deco Museum. Tucked inside the Art Deco Welcome Center, this small but fascinating museum dives deeper into the history and design of Miami Beach’s most famous buildings. You’ll learn how the city’s architecture was shaped by the boom of the 1920s and ’30s, and why preserving these colorful gems is so important today.
I popped in after an afternoon wandering the district, and it gave me such a better appreciation for what I was seeing on the streets outside. The exhibits are bite-sized, which makes it easy to explore without eating up too much of your beach time.
Practical Tip: Pair your museum visit with a guided walking tour from the Welcome Center. You’ll spot design details you might have otherwise missed and hear stories that bring the architecture to life.
8. Visit The Bass Museum of Art
When you need a break from the sun but still want to soak up Miami Beach’s creative side, head to The Bass Museum of Art. Housed in a sleek Art Deco building just off Collins Park, this contemporary art museum feels like a hidden gem compared to the buzz of Ocean Drive.
Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions that range from thought-provoking installations to colorful, playful pieces that make you stop and smile.
I loved ducking in here for an hour when the sun was at its highest—it was the perfect way to cool off while also experiencing a different side of Miami Beach. Plus, the museum’s manageable size means you won’t feel overwhelmed.
Practical Tip: Check the website ahead of your visit—exhibits change often, and admission is sometimes free on certain days. Afterward, stroll through Collins Park right outside for a bit of green space before heading back to the beach.
9. Stroll & Shop Along Lincoln Road
If Ocean Drive is where Miami Beach goes to party, Lincoln Road is where it goes to shop, eat, and people-watch. This lively pedestrian street cuts through the heart of South Beach, lined with boutiques, restaurants, and cafés that spill out onto the sidewalks.
Whether you’re after high-end fashion or just an ice cream cone, it’s the perfect spot to slow down and take in the energy of the city.
Practical Tip: Go in the late afternoon or evening when the street really comes alive. It’s also a great place to find outdoor dining—perfect if you want to soak up the warm Miami air while you eat.
10. Visit the Holocaust Memorial & Miami Beach Botanical Garden
Amid all the buzz of Miami Beach, you’ll also find places of quiet reflection. The Holocaust Memorial is one of the most moving sites on the island.
The centerpiece—a giant outstretched arm rising from the ground, covered in sculpted figures—stops you in your tracks. Walking through the memorial, with its haunting sculptures and engraved names, offers a moment to pause and reflect in the middle of a city known more for its nightlife and sunshine.
Right next door, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden provides a softer contrast. This free, compact garden is filled with tropical plants, orchids, and shaded paths where you can take a peaceful breather before heading back to the energy of South Beach.
Practical Tip: Visit both sites together since they’re side by side. The memorial is free and open daily, and the botanical garden is a lovely spot to escape the heat for half an hour.
Things Worth Leaving the Beach For
While Miami Beach has more than enough to fill your days, it’s worth remembering that you’re just across the bay from one of the most vibrant cities in the U.S.
Hop on a quick rideshare or bus, and suddenly you’re sipping Cuban coffee in Little Havana, wandering past larger-than-life murals in Wynwood, or cruising past the Miami skyline at sunset.
These things to do in Miami Beach aren’t technically on the island—but they add so much depth to your trip that I’d be remiss not to mention them.
11. Little Havana
If you only leave Miami Beach once during your trip, make it for Little Havana. Just a quick ride across the bay, this neighborhood is the heart of Miami’s Cuban culture—and it’s best experienced through your taste buds.
When I visited, I spent an afternoon on a self-guided Little Havana food tour, hopping from fresh sugarcane juice at Los Pinareños Frutería to flaky guava pastries at Party Cake Bakery, and finishing with a strong cafecito at La Colada Gourmet (also known as The House of Cuban Coffee).
But it’s not just about the food. Murals splashed across building walls tell stories of migration and resilience, roosters strut down Calle Ocho, and music drifts out of bars like the iconic Ball & Chain, where live salsa is practically a given. It’s colorful, vibrant, and feels like stepping into another world.
Practical Tip: If you’re short on time, focus on Calle Ocho between 13th and 17th Avenue—most of the highlights are here. Arrive hungry, and don’t skip the coffee (trust me, it’ll keep you going for hours).
12. Wynwood Walls
Just a short ride from Little Havana, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Miami’s street art scene at Wynwood Walls. This open-air museum is filled with massive, colorful murals by some of the world’s best graffiti and street artists. Every corner bursts with creativity—from bold political pieces to playful, Instagram-worthy designs.
When I visited, I loved wandering through the curated walls, but honestly, half the fun was exploring the surrounding neighborhood. The side streets are covered in murals too, and there are plenty of cafés and breweries where you can take a break in between photo stops.
If you’re a fan of art, culture, or just discovering unique neighborhoods, Wynwood is a must. You can check out my full guide here: Visiting Wynwood Walls in Miami.
Practical Tip: Go earlier in the day for fewer crowds (and better photos), but if you hang around in the evening you’ll find the neighborhood buzzing with nightlife.
13. Sunset Cruise from Bayside Marketplace
One of the most popular ways to see Miami is from the water, and you’ll find no shortage of options for a sunset cruise from Bayside Marketplace. These 90-minute boat rides promise views of the downtown skyline, celebrity mansions, and palm-dotted islands as the sun dips below the horizon. On a good night, it’s pure magic.
When we went, though, the skies opened up and the rain definitely dulled the experience a bit. To make matters worse, the $18 mojitos we ordered on board tasted like little more than watered-down lime juice. It was still fun to see Miami from a different perspective, but it taught me an important lesson: always read reviews before you book. Some cruises are better than others, and it’s worth picking one with consistently good feedback.
Practical Tip: Expect to pay $30–40 per person for the cruise itself, and skip the overpriced drinks on board—grab a cocktail at Bayside Marketplace before or after instead.
Food & Drinks in Miami Beach
Miami Beach has no shortage of places to eat and drink, whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite, Cuban comfort food, or a night out with a mojito in hand. Here are a few of my favorites from my trip, plus some extra spots worth adding to your list:
14. Start Your Day Right
- Crema Gourmet Espresso Bar – I loved grabbing pastries and a strong coffee here before a long morning walk on the boardwalk. It’s quick, easy, and perfect if you don’t want to waste beach time.
15. Casual Bites
- La Sandwicherie – A Miami Beach institution. Their fresh baguette sandwiches are piled high with toppings and perfect for a beach picnic.
- The Tavern – Tucked away at the Metropole Hotel, this cozy spot was our first dinner in Miami Beach. Great comfort food and cocktails after a day of travel.
16. Cuban Flavors
- Havana 1957 – If you don’t have time to make it to Little Havana, this Miami Beach restaurant brings the Cuban vibes to you.
17. Nightlife & Drinks
- For nightlife, Ocean Drive is the obvious choice—but expect high prices and touristy vibes. If you’d rather avoid the $18 watered-down mojitos (like we found on our sunset cruise), stick to drinks at a sit-down bar or restaurant instead.
Pro Tip: Miami Spice (held every August–September) is a great time to visit if you want to try high-end Miami restaurants at a discount. Many offer prix fixe menus for lunch and dinner that are perfect for foodies on a budget.
Where to Stay in Miami Beach
Finding the right place to stay can make or break your Miami Beach trip. The good news? The island is packed with options for every type of traveler, from charming boutique hotels to sprawling family resorts.
During my visit, I stayed at Hotel Trouvail Miami Beach, a boutique property with plenty of charm, a refreshing pool, and a walkable location just steps from the boardwalk. It was the perfect base for exploring without being right in the middle of South Beach’s non-stop buzz.
If you’re planning your own trip, here are a few other great picks:
- Boutique Hotels (great for couples):
- The Leslie Hotel – Art deco hotel right on Ocean Drive with a rooftop pool.
- Esme Hotel – A colorful, Spanish-style boutique hotel on Española Way that feels tucked away but central.
- Family-Friendly Resorts:
- Fontainebleau Miami Beach – A legendary resort with multiple pools, direct beach access, and kid-friendly amenities.
- Loews Miami Beach Hotel – Known for its family programs, spacious rooms, and unbeatable beachfront location.
- Pet-Friendly Hotels:
- Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel – A laid-back boutique hotel that welcomes pets at no extra charge.
- 1 Hotel South Beach – A sustainable luxury hotel that’s as pet-friendly as it is stylish.
No matter your travel style, there’s a spot in Miami Beach that fits the bill—whether you want all-night energy or a quiet retreat just far enough away from the crowds.
Practical Tips for Visiting Miami Beach
Miami Beach might look like a carefree paradise, but a few insider tips can make your trip smoother (and save you some money). Here’s what I learned from my own visit:
- Getting Around: Miami Beach is more walkable than you might think. The Miami Beach Trolley is completely free and runs several routes around the island, making it easy to get from your hotel to South Beach or Lincoln Road. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are also plentiful, so you don’t need a rental car.
- Parking: If you do bring a car, be prepared for high parking fees—many Miami Beach hotels charge $40-75 per night. Unless you’re planning to drive outside the city often, it’s usually easier (and cheaper) to go car-free.
- When to Visit: Miami Beach is a year-round destination, but summers (especially August and September, when I visited) are hot, humid, and fall during hurricane season. The upside? Fewer crowds and better hotel deals. For the most comfortable weather, aim for late fall through spring.
- Budget Tips: Hotel rates can be steep, but keep an eye out for boutique hotels with promotions or Priceline “mystery deals.” Food and drinks on Ocean Drive can also be overpriced—venture a block or two inland for better value.
- Family & Pets: Traveling with kids or pets? You’ll find plenty of family friendly resorts with pools and activities, as well as pet friendly hotels that welcome furry companions (often at no extra charge).
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami Beach
What are the best things to do in Miami Beach at night?
At night, Ocean Drive comes alive with neon lights, live music, and endless people-watching. You can grab a cocktail at a rooftop bar, stroll Lincoln Road under the string lights, or simply enjoy the glow of the Art Deco District after dark.
Is Miami Beach family friendly?
Yes! While South Beach has a reputation for nightlife, there are plenty of family friendly activities too. Spend the day building sandcastles on the beach, visit the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, or stay at a resort with a kid-friendly pool.
What can couples do in Miami Beach?
Couples will love walking hand-in-hand along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, booking loungers at a beach club, or heading out on a romantic sunset cruise. For a more cultural date, explore the Bass Museum or the Art Deco Historic District together.
Do you need a car in Miami Beach?
Not necessarily. Most of the main attractions are walkable, and the free Miami Beach Trolley makes it easy to get around. For trips to places like Little Havana or Wynwood, rideshares are affordable and save you the hassle (and expense) of hotel parking.
When is the best time to visit Miami Beach?
The most popular time is winter through spring (December to April), when the weather is warm but not too humid. Summer and early fall can be steamy and stormy, but you’ll find smaller crowds and better hotel deals.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Miami Beach
From lazy mornings on the boardwalk to neon-lit nights on Ocean Drive, Miami Beach is the kind of place that balances laid-back beach vibes with a dash of glamour and plenty of culture. Whether you’re here for the sunshine, the art deco architecture, the food, or simply the chance to relax by the ocean, you’ll find no shortage of ways to fill your days.
During my own trip, I loved that I could spend one day lounging under an umbrella and the next diving into museums or tasting Cuban coffee just across the bay. That mix of sun, art, and flavor is what makes Miami Beach so unforgettable.
If you’re planning a trip soon, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time on the island. And if you’ve already been, I’d love to hear your favorite Miami Beach spots in the comments—there’s always more to discover.
Ready to plan your trip? Start with my Little Havana Self-Guided Food Tour or my guide to Wynwood Walls in Miami for even more ideas nearby.
