Discover Miami, Florida: Where to Stay, What to Do & Essential Travel Tips

Miami, Florida is a sun-soaked paradise known for its vibrant culture, white-sand beaches, and sizzling nightlife. Whether you’re in town for a weekend escape or an extended stay, this tropical city offers an unforgettable experience filled with art, cuisine, and adventure.

Where to Stay in Miami

The Setai, Miami Beach – A tranquil, ultra-luxurious beachfront retreat. The Setai is known for its Art Deco architecture, Asian-inspired design, and personalized five-star service. Each suite offers plush interiors, ocean or city views, and high-end amenities like rainfall showers and Nespresso machines.
Perfect For: Honeymooners, luxury travelers, and design lovers.

Book The Setai, Miami Beach here!

EAST Miami – This modern, upscale hotel sits atop the Brickell City Centre, offering panoramic views of downtown Miami. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, rainfall showers, and contemporary décor. Sugar, the rooftop bar, is a local hotspot for cocktails with a skyline view.
Perfect For: Business travelers, couples, and nightlife seekers.

Book East Miami here!

Fontainebleau Miami Beach – An iconic Miami hotel that has hosted celebrities since the 1950s. Fontainebleau features glamorous pools, an award-winning spa, and multiple restaurants including Hakkasan and Scarpetta. The on-site LIV nightclub is one of the most famous clubs in the U.S.
Perfect For: Party-goers, large groups, and travelers who love luxury with a social vibe.

Book the Fontainebleau Miami Beach here!

1 Hotel South Beach – This eco-conscious luxury hotel blends sustainability with beachfront indulgence. Guests enjoy nature-inspired rooms with reclaimed wood, four pools including a stunning rooftop pool, and delicious farm-to-table dining at Habitat.
Perfect For: Eco-minded travelers, wellness seekers, and families.

Book 1 Hotel South Beach here!

Top Things to Do in Miami

Wynwood Walls – An Instagram-worthy outdoor museum of colorful murals by some of the world’s most famous street artists. The entire Wynwood neighborhood is an artistic playground filled with galleries, breweries, and pop-up markets.

Explore Wynwood Walls here! 

Little Havana – Cultural immersion at its finest. Walk along Calle Ocho to experience Cuban heritage — try a hand-rolled cigar, sip on a cortadito (Cuban espresso), watch a game of dominoes in Domino Park, and listen to live salsa music.

Explore Little Havana here!

South Beach – The heartbeat of Miami’s beach scene. Sunbathe on soft white sands, people-watch on Ocean Drive, admire pastel Art Deco architecture, and enjoy the bustling beachfront vibe day and night.

Book South Beach Cultural Food and Walking Tour here!

Biscayne Bay Cruise – Take a boat tour of the bay to view the stunning Miami skyline, millionaire mansions on Star Island, and exotic marine life. Sunset cruises are especially breathtaking.

Biscayne Bay Millionaire’s Row Boat Tour Here!

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens – A beautiful Italian-style villa set on Biscayne Bay. The mansion features art, antiques, and lush formal gardens. It’s perfect for a romantic stroll or a scenic break from the beach.

Explore Vizcaya Museum and Gardens here!

Everglades National Park – Just an hour from Miami, the Everglades is a unique ecosystem. Take an airboat ride through the marshlands and spot alligators, herons, and turtles. Tours often include wildlife shows and nature walks.

Explore the Everglade National Park here!

Shopping in the Design District & Lincoln Road – From high fashion to indie boutiques, Miami is a shopping haven. The Design District features luxury brands like Gucci and Prada, while Lincoln Road offers open-air retail therapy with plenty of restaurants and people-watching.

Where to Eat in Miami:

Joe’s Stone Crab – A legendary seafood institution known for their seasonal stone crabs, creamy coleslaw, and homemade key lime pie. Get there early or make a reservation — it’s wildly popular.

Mandolin Aegean Bistro – Set in a restored 1940s house, this charming spot serves Greek and Turkish dishes like grilled octopus, lamb kebabs, and fresh Aegean salads. The blue-and-white décor gives serious island vibes.

Versailles Restaurant – Regarded as the most famous Cuban restaurant in the world. Feast on traditional Cuban dishes like ropa vieja (shredded beef stew), black beans and rice, and guava pastries. The lively ambiance and café window are iconic.

Coyo Taco – This taqueria offers creative and authentic tacos using locally sourced ingredients. Behind the restaurant is a secret speakeasy bar with excellent tequila and mezcal cocktails.

Practical Travel Tips for Miami, Florida

Getting Around

• Public Transit: Miami-Dade Transit includes the Metrorail, Metromover (free in Downtown/Brickell), and Metrobus. These are reliable but can be slow during peak hours.

• Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are widely available and often more convenient than public transit.

• Walking & Biking: South Beach and Wynwood are pedestrian-friendly. Rent bikes or use CitiBike stations.

• Driving: Renting a car is useful for day trips (Everglades, Key Biscayne), but parking is expensive and traffic is heavy in peak seasons.

Currency

• The U.S. Dollar (USD) is the official currency.

• Credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere.

• It’s smart to carry a bit of cash for tipping, food trucks, and local markets.

Packing Essentials

• Light, breathable clothing – Miami is hot and humid most of the year.

• Swimwear & flip-flops – For pool days and beach outings.

• Sunscreen, sunglasses & hat – The sun is intense, especially in summer.

• Evening wear – Dress codes apply at upscale restaurants and clubs.

• Comfortable walking shoes – Ideal for exploring museums, neighborhoods, and the beach walk.

• Portable phone charger – For long days of navigation and Instagramming.

• Umbrella or light rain jacket – Afternoon showers are common during the summer.

Whether you’re sipping mojitos in Little Havana, paddleboarding in Biscayne Bay, or shopping the high-end boutiques of Brickell, Miami is a destination that combines luxury with laid-back tropical charm. With its rich cultural diversity, world-class cuisine, and sunshine year-round, Miami will quickly become one of your favorite escapes.

Be sure to check out my YouTube video and explore more of my travel adventures for tips and inspiration to make the most of your journey!