THE TOP 8 THINGS TO DO IN MIAMI SOUTH BEACH

If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’ve spent the Easter break relaxing on the sandy beaches of Miami. With its sparkling Atlantic ocean, lively nightclub scene and outdoors sports events, South Beach is truly one of the most vibrant corners of the planet. With so much going on in Miami, figuring out what to pursue first can be quite the challenge! To help you out, I’ve put together this short guide on the must-see, top 4 things anyone must absolutely see, do and try while on holiday in South Beach:

1 The Delano Hotel

The lobby at The Delano Hotel

When the Delano Hotel opened its doors in the early ‘90s, it changed the face of South Beach forever. Designed by world-famous French designer Philippe Starck, the luxury boutique hotel balances the theatricality of its grand public spaces with a clean and minimalistic decor – it’s the height of modern luxury. The hotel boasts an agua Spa, a wellness center on the rooftop where guests can enjoy an afternoon of pampering; a rustic Argentinian Grill restaurant where dishes are cooked on an open flame; a Umi Sushi and Sake bar for a more casual dining experience; and a cocktail bar where revellers can sip and hang out till the wee hours of the morning. In short, it provides all the comforts for a relaxing stay in South Beach.

2. The Rose Bar

Me at the Rose Bar, the Delano Hotel

Located inside the Delano Hotel, the Rose Bar is the perfect spot for a night out on the town in Miami – and a bit of celeb-spotting. Perched high on upholstered wooden stools, you can sip your favourite cocktail, catch up with some old friends and catch a glimpse of the A-list VIPs who have made the bar their enclave. If you fancy a bite to eat with your margarita, the bar provides a light food menu with dishes prepared directly in the hotel’s signature Argentinian restaurant, Leynia. The atmosphere is sophisticated and glamorous – the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night.

3. Baoli

Me at the Baoli

Baoli is an unique hotspot that combines the delicacies of a restaurant, the vibe of a nightclub and the relaxing feel of a lounge. Comfortably nestled in red leather chairs, guests can order from a menu of seamlessly endless options that cater to every taste and craving. The menu features original dishes that blend the best of Spanish, Italian and French cuisines with just a hint of the Orient, washed down with world-class wines, champagnes and signature cocktails. After the dinner, guests can move onto the lounge, a beautiful relax area that turns into a nightclub as the night progresses. The most famous DJs in the world, from David Guetta to Bob Sinclair, have taken to the spinning booth, making A-list celebrities and ordinary partygoers dance the night away in style.

4. Longines Global Champions Tour

Alberto Zorzi at the Longines Global Champions
Courtesy of Alberto Zorzi

The world’s premier five-star show jumping show, the Longines Global Champions brings together the top 30 ranked show jumpers on the planet to compete in the most beautiful settings on earth. With its impeccable weather, sandy beaches and jovial atmosphere, Miami Beach is the perfect backdrop from which to cheer on your favourite competitor. The event also boasts a shopping village and an entertainment and refreshment area that are just a stone’s away from the glimmering Atlantic ocean. It’s the ideal event where to spend a few hours of fun with the entire family.

5. STK Miami Beach

STK Miami Beach, 1 Hotel & Homes
Courtesy of Miami New Times

Nestled inside the 1 Hotel & Homes, STK is a modern steakhouse and chic lounge rolled into one. The large central lounge is decorated with textured crocodile tiles and creamy leather sofas for a casual meal with friends while the surrounding area provides a formal dining room for a more sophisticated dining experience. Here, diners can enjoy healthy and tasty treats, such as quinoa and crispy kale salad and tuna tartare as well as dishes more typical of a steakhouse, including fried chicken, rib-eye steaks and a slice of good old apple pie. The theatrical lights that illuminate each table and a DJ playing music all evening long all contribute to the dynamic atmosphere.

6. Miami Beach

Miami Beach

No trip to Miami is complete without a day or two at the iconic Miami Beach. Connected by bridges to mainland Miami, the south Florida island features sandy, palm-lined beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. Here, children collect shells and build sandcastles while adults sunbathe on the shores or go for a swim in the clear, shimmering ocean. If you’re the adventurous kind, you can also dive, snorkel, kayak, windsurf or canoe. The possibilities are endless!

7. Cruising Intercoastal

Cruising intercoastal at Fort Lauderdale, the boating capital of the world, is a real treat for any boat lover like me. During the trip, you’ll see luxuriant palm trees, sumptuous villas with private yachts docked in their front water gardens and a wide variety of wild animals, including iguanas, birds and, if you’re in luck, even some manatees. It’s a serene and relaxing experience that reconnects you with nature – once you’re off the boat, you want to do it all again.

 8. Driving In Style

Porsche