Miami Beach/South Beach

History

In 1870, South Beach was predominantly unsettled farmland. In that year, the Lum brothers decided to purchase the 160 acres of land to grow coconuts. A daughter of one of the Lum brothers named the land "South Beach", though the name did not stick until later on.
In 1912, two Miami businessmen bought 400 acres of land in the area, with the goal of building “modest” single family homes. Around 1914, a bridge from Miami to the island was finished. Miami's South Beach was incorporated in 1915, and a land boom in the location began around 1920. With car-accessible roads including the famous streets like Collins avenue, 5th street, Washington Avenue and Ocean Drive, these areas were built for the rich and possibly the famous.
During World War II, South Beach became the location for many soldiers as a training location. After the war, many soldiers stayed permanently in Miami Beach, doubling its population. Miami Beach became an area filled with new buildings and had a new reputation as the “Art Deco District” and took on the famous name “South Beach” or nickname “SoBe”. Starting in 1964, the TV comedy show "The Jackie Gleason Show" was filmed from South Beach.
Gleason's endorsement of Miami Beach as a sunny, warm, and relaxing location led to a rise in popularity. Many people from northern states planned on retiring in South Beach. Unfortunately, some of them did not take into consideration the upkeep that would have to be put into a property near the ocean. After a decline in the senior citizen population in the area, South Beach took a downturn and was considered rundown for some time.
However, this reputation in turn lead to the famous gangster movie “Scarface” (1983) being filmed in the town, putting South Beach back on the map. Interest began to rise again due to its beautiful location and status as a playground for the rich and famous. Throughout the rest of the 1980s and 1990s, South Beach infused many more investment opportunities that has helped it transform once again into a destination for business, tourists and others. South Beach is advertised more through television and has adapted to the city for nightlife with many dance clubs, bars, restaurants and shopping. With the help from these investments, South Beach today has a new fun and relaxing reputation.

What to do

Give yourself an opportunity to enjoy South Beach while lodging in a condo rental or your own rental villa. Visit sites like Lincoln Road pedestrian mall, considered South Beach's premier shopping area. It is home to many restaurants and several nightclubs, such as Score and Function, as well as many retail outlets. Ocean Drive is the easternmost street in South Beach, and stems from south of First to 15th Street, running in a north-south direction. Ocean Drive is responsible for the South Beach aesthetic that most out-of-town visitors expect. It is a popular Spring Break and tourist area, including the famous, yet predominantly local, Pearl and Nikki Beach night spots. It is also home to several prominent restaurants (including "News Cafe," "Mango's," and the MTV-popularized "Clevelander") and is the site of Gianni Versace's former ocean front mansion. South Beach has a very active club and bar scene. It is host to over 150 clubs and other destinations, most of which close at 5AM.
Dining opens up a great variety for all taste and culinary preferences. With the most known restaurants of South Florida, South Beach has the best reputation in international cuisine. Classic dinners, cafeterias and fast food restaurants give more option to a day by day casual meal. South Beach is also home to all kind of variety of cultural, art and exhibition events. Miami Beach Convention Center hosts most of the events, and conventions that you could find in Miami.

See Miami Beach

Landmarks

• Art Deco District

  phone: +1 305 672-2014
  address: 1001 Ocean Dr
  It only takes a stroll down Ocean Drive and through much of the neighboring blocks to see the world's largest collection of modern Art Deco architecture. The Miami Design Preservation League runs an Art Deco Welcome Center that serves as the base of operations for all things Art Deco: they hold lectures, show films, and other special events here. They also conduct guided walking tours of the district for a fee; call ahead for times and to make reservations.

• Casa Casuarina

  address: 1116 Ocean Dr
  Built in 1930 and remodeled by Gianni Versace in 1993, this famous house is where he was murdered in 1997. It is one of the most photographed landmarks in South Beach, but it is not open to the public. It now houses a boutique hotel.

• Espanola Way

  address: Collins West to Pennsylvania
  Modeled after Mediterranean villages found in France and Spain.

• Star IslandAn artificial island within Miami Beach. The houses are colossal and the architecture is worth taking a look at. Most of the houses are gated. The island looks exclusive because there is a guard house, however, it is a public neighborhood and you are able to go on the island and check out the houses. Celebrities such as Will Smith, Shaquille O’Neal, Lenny Kravitz, Gloria Estefan, Rosie O’Donnell, Madonna, P. Diddy and many others have lived here. If you are planning a trip to Miami this is a good bit of free sightseeing for you.

Culture

The city contains an opera company, two dance companies, several arts galleries and theaters. When it comes to musical culture in South Beach there are the popular New World Symphony Orchestra, Bass Art Museum, Miami Convention Center plus many more art galleries.

• Colony Theater

  phone: +1-305-674-1026
  address: 1040 Lincoln Road
  A state-of-the-art theater, home to local and national artists and institutions from the worlds of theater, dance, music, comedy and film.

• Jackie Gleason Theater

  address: 1700 Washington Ave
  Opened in 1950, the theater grew in popularity during the Golden Era, hosting performances from dancers, musicians, comedians and on occasion boxing matches, and featuring figures like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and Jack Benny. The television boom in the 1960s led to many shows to be filmed in the auditorium, such as The Dick Clark and Ed Sullivan Show, along with the televised Miss USA and Miss Universe pageants. In 1964, the famous comedian Jackie Gleason was given the opportunity to film his weekly comedy hour in the theater, which brought a lot of publicity to Miami. From the 1970s till the late 1980s, the theater became the head theater for many Broadway performances. Today, the Jackie Gleason Theater is known for having the biggest names in the music industry and is now operated by Live Nation.

Museums and Exhibits

• Bass Museum of Art

  phone: +1 305 673-7530
  address: 2121 Park Ave
  This art museum, expanded by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, houses European art from the 15th to the 20th centuries. Baroque and Northern European artworks are the highlights. The Bass Museum also hosts touring exhibitions and the New Information Workshop, a computer laboratory that allows visitors to create their own artwork.

• The Holocaust Memorial

  phone: +1 305 538-1663
  address: 1933-1945 Meridian Ave
  Located adjacent to the Botanical Garden, the memorial was created with the help of Miami Beach Holocaust survivors and sculptor Kenneth Treister in 1984, and was funded by a private, non-profit organization. It was opened to the public in 1990. The most noticeable features of this memorial include a sculpture of a giant outstretched arm covered with climbing Holocaust victims and an Auschwitz tattoo; the Garden of Meditation, with a 200-ft diameter reflecting pool with a dedication to victims; and sculptures of a dying mother and her children surrounded by Anne Frank quotes. In addition, there is a memorial wall etched with the names of victims with candles placed by visitors honoring the memory of the dead.

• Miami Beach Botanical Garden

  address: 2000 Convention Center Dr
  A collection of subtropical palms and plants. Includes a Japanese Garden, orchid collection, exotic plants and varieties of subtropical palms.

• Miami Beach Cultural Campus

  address: The Beach to Park Ave, between 20th and 22nd St
  Known as the museum district which includes the Miami City ballet building, the Bass Museum, Miami Beach Regional Library and Collins Park.

• Jewish Museum of Florida

  phone: +1 305 672-5044
  address: 301 Washington Ave
  This museum, located in a 1936 synagogue that hosted Miami's first Jewish congregation, has a permanent exhibit detailing how Florida's Jews arrived in Florida as well as their history in Florida and their customs. The museum also has videos to view while you’re inside the museum, temporary exhibits in the center of the synagogue and a gift shop. A small and fairly uninteresting museum.

• Red Bull Art of Can Miami Exhibit

  address: Ocean Dr
  An exhibit showing 47 original pieces all made out of Red Bull cans. The pieces range from shoes to birds to face masks all made from the different cans that Red Bull makes. The show is not always there, but when it is, it is for sure a must see.

• Wolfsonian-Florida International University Museum

  phone: +1 305 531-1001
  address: 1001 Washington Ave
  Back in the 1930s and 1940s, this building was the headquarters of the Washington Storage Company, a facility where the rich could stash their valuables whenever they were out of town. Movie theater heir and Miami native Mitchell Wolfson, Jr. stored so much artwork here that he bought the storage company, and later gave the building to Florida International University, hence the museum's odd name. The Wolfsonian hosts a large Modernist-era (around 1885-1945) art collection that includes propaganda posters and postcards, Art Deco household items, and other touring exhibits. There is also a café, bookstore, fountain and a modernist-inspired artwork on the first floor.

Parks

• Flamingo Park

  address: 11th St. and Jefferson Ave
  Lush outdoor park that offers facilities such as tennis, racquetball and basketball courts.

• Lummus Park

  address: Ocean Dr. from 5th to 15th St
  The famous beachfront park of South Beach located along all the party destinations on Ocean Drive. Huge grassy areas and giant palm trees make for a great backdrop for photo shoots, which happen frequently, alongside volleyball courts and pull up bars. A wavy pedestrian walk called the Promenade weaves through the north end of the park and up along the beach to 21st St, where it turns into boardwalk. The bathrooms, located at around 11th Street, are in a stunning Art Deco boat-shaped building but have rusty fixtures and are dirty.

• South Pointe Park

  address: 1 Washington Ave
  Good park to sit and watch the cruise ships as they pass by.

• The beach

  address: Ocean Drive and 5th St. to Collins Ave. and 21st St
  A trip to South Beach would not be complete without going to its beautiful beach. You will be able to find food and drink concession stands; rent beach chairs and umbrellas; find restrooms and shower facilities; walking trails; volleyball; rent watersports; and feel protected with lifeguards and beach patrol. Topless bathing is allowed here, and a mostly-gay crowd sunbathes around 12th Street.

• Rent a bike or scooterSouth Beach has a number of bike rental places. Bikes are a convenient way of traveling around South Beach very quickly, particularly if you want to see a lot in a short amount of time, but it will be hard to ride a bike through large crowds on busy weekends. Lummus Park and Lincoln Road will have bike racks if you want to stop and get around on foot. Scooters can also be rented, but these must stay on the road, and again it will just be frustrating if there is a lot of traffic. Rentals will cost around $8/hour or $30/day (a 24-hour time period from the time you start).

• ArtCenter/South Florida

  phone: +1 305 674-8278
  address: 800 & 810 Lincoln Rd
  A non-profit organization with a public gallery featuring art by some of South Florida's most talented artists. Best known for its artist-in-residence program, which provides 42 studios for professional artists. All studios and the gallery are open to the public free of charge.

• Miami Beach Golf Club

  address: 2301 Alton St
  Home to some of the best golf courses with the best weather around.

• South Beach Food TourA three-hour walking cultural and historical guided journey while tasting Miami Beach's most delicious foods. Given by locals through the historic neighborhood of the Art Deco District. From five-star gourmet to hole-in-the-wall delicious — a scene that's as varied as the communities that make up the area.

• Miami Helicopter Tour

  phone: +1 305 687-0527
  address: 14970 NW 42nd Ave
  Take a helicopter tour of Miami Beach. Miami Helicopter offers 3 different tour options. The tour takes off at the Opa-Locka executive airport and will take you all the way down through South Beach Miami. This is a great way to take in the city and beach sights from the air.

Boating

• Miami City & Boat Tour

  phone: +1 305-894-6409
  Experience the sights, sounds and tropical flavors of Miami and Miami Beach. As you become acquainted with the Magic City you will learn about the culturally diverse and rich history the city embraces.

• Everglades Airboat Tour

  phone: +1 305-894-6409
  Take a once in a lifetime journey across the Everglades National Parks river of grass. Tour passengers will find themselves surrounded by wild animals, in their natural habitat. as they travel into the swamp by airboat. Leaves from Miami Beach.

• Miami Yacht Charters & Rentals

  phone: +1 305 358-0745
  address: 1250 S Miami Ave
  Suite 1408 Miami. Yacht charters and boat rentals in Miami. Large selection of yachts to choose from between 35 and 150 feet. Half-day, full-day and multi-day charters. Great way to experience Miami. Call for yacht availability and charter quotes.

Spas

• The Clinton South Beach Spa

  phone: +1 305-938-4040
  address: 825 Washington Ave

• Ritz-Carlton Spa South Beach

  address: 1 Lincoln Rd

• Sanctuary Salon & Spa by Agnes

  address: 1745 James Ave

• Spa at The Setai

  address: 2001 Collins Ave

• The Standard Spa

  phone: +1 305-704-3945
  address: 40 Island Ave

Events

• South Beach Wine & Food FestivalVarious locations throughout South Beach. Held in late February, this festival is sponsored by Food & Wine magazine and the Food Network. The event raises money for Florida International University’s hospitality program by having celebrity cooks and chefs (many of them who work for or have appeared on Food Network at one time) descend upon South Beach to do cooking demonstrations and throw parties. Florida International University’s hospitality program students volunteer at some of the festival’s events. Wine and food tastings featuring local chefs and cuisine are also held during the annual event. Tickets range from $15–300 depending on the event.

• Winter Party

  phone: +1 305 571-1924 (ask for Michael Bath)
  Various locations throughout South Beach. Held between mid-February and mid-March, this circuit party benefits several gay organizations throughout Dade County as well as the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. Beach parties, pool parties, parties held at local clubs and a dinner are the main features of the Winter Party.

• Winter Music ConferenceVarious locations throughout South Beach, +1 954 563-4444. Held in mid-March, the Winter Music Party attracts queer people for a good cause, the Winter Music Conference attracts electronic musicians (and the labels they belong to) and DJs as well as fans of various electronic music genres for the love of music. In addition to several parties held in clubs, parks and on Lummus Beach (and occasionally in retail stores and hotels), there are seminars for people to learn more about the music business and DJ showcases. Don’t confuse the Winter Music Conference with the Winter Party!

• Miami Fashion WeekMiami Beach Convention Center, South Beach. The week consists of exhibitions, fashion shows and sponsor lounges as the world’s fashion elite flock to Miami. Since 1998

In the Miami area, most clothing shops located away from shopping malls are located in South Beach.

• Lincoln Road MallOne of the hottest shopping streets in the country. A 7 block outdoor pedestrian mall with 400 businesses, including stores and restaurants running the gauntlet from cozy cafe to high class dining. This open-air pedestrian mall was designed in 1957 by legendary Miami architect Morris Lapidus. It includes restaurants and cafes that run the gamut from Starbucks to Miami originals like Pizza Rustica and David’s Café. There is outside seating. It includes nationally known shops such as French Connection, Ann Taylor and Anthropologie, as well as international shops such as Italy’s Miss Sixty. There’s also a multiplex theater located on the corner of Lincoln Road and Alton Drive. The Lincoln Road Market farmer's market is open from 9AM-6PM on Sunday year round. There is also an antiques market on the second and fourth Sundays from 9AM to 5PM (call +1 305 673-4991 for information).

• Collins Avenue Fashion DistrictThis strip plays host to plenty of hip designers from Versace, Armani, and so on, and has stores to satisfy all shopping tastes and budgets. For example:

• Guess, 736 Collins Ave., +1 305 673-8880 – National retailer specializing in clothing and accessories for men and women. Two-story building.

• Nicole Miller, 656 Collins Ave., +1 305 535-2200 – Women's clothing and accessories.

• United Colors of Benetton, 668 Collins Ave., +1 305 538-3777 – Women's shoes, clothing and accessories.

• Kenneth Cole, 190 8th St., +1 305 673-5151 – Open Fri-Sat 10AM-9PM, Thu 10AM-9PM, Sun 12PM-8PM. Men and women's clothing and accessories. Two-story building with a minimalist feel.

• Barney's New York Co-op, 832 Collins Ave., +1 305 421-2010 (email info-coopmiamibeach@barneys.com, fax +1 305 421-2006) – Open Mon-Thu 11AM-9PM, Fri-Sat 11AM-10PM, Sun 12PM-7PM. Men's and women's clothing such as A Bathing Ape. Supposedly more affordable than a regular Barney's New York, but prices can be a bit steep.

• Diesel Jeans, 801 Washington Ave., +1 305 535-9695. Italian retailer that specializes in jeans for men and women. Sometimes hosts special events such as a showcase for electronic labels Ghostly and Spectral Sound at the 2007 Winter Music Conference.

Ocean Drive (Along the entire street of Ocean Drive): You will find a collection of funky, youthful boutiques and unique accessories.

Sephora

phone: +1 305 532-0494

address: 721 Collins Ave

Nationwide chain specializing in makeup. There are also branches of Sephora in the Dadeland Mall.

M

*A*C Small outpost of the worldwide cosmetic line. There is also a branch of M*A*C in Aventura Mall.

South Beach has plenty of places to eat. Restaurants and cafes along Ocean Drive are convenient for beach-goers and popular amongst tourists, but they can be prohibitively expensive. On the other hand, Lincoln Road offers a wide range of quality food at good prices and cater to locals and tourists alike. For a more European flavor, check out Espanola Way which looks and feels just like an Italian street.
If you plan on eating on Ocean Drive, look for specials: some places offer half off of certain items for lunch, for example, or have promoters out on the sidewalks with flyers advertising deals for the evening.

Budget

• 11th Street Diner

  phone: +1 305 534-6373
  address: 1065 Washington Ave
  Really cool and is on the corner of Washington and 11th St in South Beach. They serve breakfast all day.

• Big Pink

  phone: +1 305 532-4700
  address: 157 Collins Ave
  Comfort food. Once you enter this restaurant, head for its large menu near the entrance to see its selection of burgers, breakfasts and other items that have been brought to the present day. Stay if you're interested in what's playing on the televisions. If you’re not in the mood to head to the restaurant, Big Pink offers free takeout in a pink VW bug (and occasionally to bouncers at Privé).

• BLT Steak at The Betsy

  phone: +1 305 673-0044
  address: 1440 Ocean Dr
  BLT Steak, Laurent Tourondel's iconic modern American steakhouse, occupies the Betsy's beautiful lobby. Combining the highest quality ingredients with enticing, exacting French technique, Chef Tourondel and BLT Steak have won an array of awards from experts at Esquire, Travel & Leisure, Saveur, and Wine and Spectator magazines.

• David's Café

  phone: +1 305 534-8736
  address: 1058 Collins Ave
  Cheap, legendary Cuban food. Free delivery on South Beach. There is a second location near the Lincoln Road Mall, at 1654 Meridian Ave.

• The Frieze Ice Cream Factory

  phone: +1 305 538-0207
  address: 1626 Michigan Ave
  This self-designated "world's greatest ice cream company" is something of a local favorite, and though you might not consider it any better than your ice cream shop back home, their selection of homemade flavors are fairly creative and varied. They also have a large selection of "healthier" sorbets, an important component for image-conscious Miami. If you're hankering for something cold, this is a better choice than the chains on Lincoln Road that overcharge.

• ISHQ

  phone: +1 305 532-4747
  address: 530 Ocean Dr
  SHQ serves the best Indian and vegetarian/vegan cuisine in South Beach. They have a great brunch on Sundays, and serve delicious cocktails $5-$23.

• Mi Ami Italian Cafe

  phone: +1 305 532-2441
  address: 444 Ocean Dr
  Friendly atmosphere, beautiful terrace, 100% Authentic Italian food & Pizza

• News Café

  address: 800 Ocean Dr
  Breakfast, pizzas, sandwiches and paninis, burgers, Middle Eastern cuisine, appetizers, entrees and dessert. Because of its location on the corner of 8th St and Ocean Dr, News Café is the perfect place to see anything from models to shoppers to Duck Tour buses. Note: a 15% tip is added to your order automatically. Internet access also available here for a fee.

• Pizza Rustica

  phone: +1 305 674-8244
  address: 863 Washington Ave
  This small chain is also branching out in LA and locations all over South Florida. In Miami, there are locations in Downtown Miami, Cameo and Lincoln Road Mall. It serves Roman-style pizza. Pizza is made by the foot and cut to a desired length and then folded over like a sandwich. Salads are also served. Accepts cash only.

• Van Dyke

  phone: +1 305 534-3600
  address: 846 Lincoln Rd
  Serving a good range of salads, sandwiches and pastas at a reasonable price.

Mid-range

• 660 Mediterranean Kitchen at The Angler's

  phone: +1 786 594-5811
  address: 660 Washington Ave
  Cozy indoor and outdoor spaces provide for a romantic and intimate dining experience, full liquor bar, breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Blue Door Restaurant

  phone: +1 305 697-1791
  address: 1685 Collins Ave
  French/Brazilian fusion. Reservations required for the prix fixe dinner. Reservations can be taken online.

• Blue Sea Restaurant

  phone: +1 305 674-6400
  address: 1685 Collins Ave
  Sushi.

• Larios on the Beach

  phone: +1 305 532-9577
  address: 820 Ocean Dr
  Cuban. One of Gloria Estefan's many restaurants in South Florida, this place is said to have some of the best mojitos in South Beach.

• Nexxt Cafe

  phone: +1 305 532-6643
  address: 700 Lincoln Rd
  European sidewalk cafe offering a choice of excellent value international cuisine. Save room for one of the delectable fresh French pastries Nexxt concocts daily.

• Pascha's

  phone: +1 305 673-3919
  address: 900 Lincoln Rd
  Healthy Mediterranean fare that is as tasty as it looks. Good location on Lincoln Road and the staff are attentive.

• Rice House of Kabob

  phone: +1 305 531-0332
  address: 1318 Alton Rd
  Clean lined decor inside serves plentiful and filling Iranian cuisine. Great for a lunch time bite.

• The Van Dyke Cafe

  phone: +1 305 534-3600
  address: 846 Lincoln Rd
  This alfresco style restaurant serves an eclectic, moderately priced menu of dishes such as grilled fresh tuna and pasta with portobello mushrooms, artichokes, spinach and roasted peppers. The umbrella shaded tables are located right on the sidewalk, which is prime for people watching! Located right on Lincoln Road, you can put your name in for an outside table and go shopping while you wait. Upstairs there is an amazing jazz club, quite possibly the best in town. Every Sunday they start a week of nightly jazz. As the week rolls on, big-name regulars like pianists Brian Murphy and Mike Orta, vocalist Nicole Henry and drummer Don Miller make appearances and rock through the night. The cover charge at the door usually runs from about $5 to $15.

Splurge

• A Fish Called Avalon

  phone: +1 305 532-1727
  address: 700 Ocean Dr
  Fresh seafood restaurant that has locals and visitors raving. While the service can be better, the food is impeccable. Be sure to try the Lobster Cavatelli or the Cilantro Cured Swordfish.

• Barton G. the Restaurant

  phone: +1 305 672-8881
  address: 1427 West Ave
  Experimental American cuisine, with plates and drinks outrageously designed by chef Barton G., South Beach's most famous event planner and caterer. He uses the same showy presentation and food in his restaurant as he does with his catering. Reservations are requested. Dine with socialites and celebrities, and don't forget your credit card, it's quite expensive.

• Casa Tua

  phone: +1 305 673-1010
  address: 1700 James Ave
  If it's good enough for Sting then it might be good enough for you. If you want to go up-market for dinner, it's hard to beatbut be prepared to pay for the experience.

• Joe's Stone Crab

  phone: +1 305 673-0365
  address: 11 Washington Ave
  Opened in 1913, this Miami landmark is famous for three things: stone crabs, which they claim to have discovered, key lime pie and the long lines for its dinner service. Lines should be shorter or non-existent during lunch or at its sister restaurant, Joe's Take-Out. Stone crab claws can cost as much as $60 per serving, depending upon the size and current market prices. If you're looking for something different, there are plenty of other seafood and meat entrees on the menu in the $20-$30 price range.

• Mango's Tropical Café

  phone: +1 305 673-4422
  address: 900 Ocean Dr
  Caribbean and American. Mango's appearance in the cinematic bomb From Justin to Kelly—sparsely populated, well-lit at night and quiet enough to have a conversation about conniving girlfriends—is the exact opposite of how Mango's is on a typical day. This infamous South Beach spot is known for its dancers and bartenders in cat suits gyrating on the center bar to live music. There are also two side bars and plenty of tables if you want to be away from the action in the middle of the restaurant. After 6PM, it is a 21+ only establishment, and there will be a cover charge that ranges from $5-$20 depending on the entertainment.

• Porcao

  phone: +1 305 373-2777
  address: 801 Brickell Bay Dr
  A fixed price ($41) offers a variety of food options, but vegetarians beware, this is a meat lovers mecca. Although you can snack on healthy options at the buffet - Caesar salad, sushi, pasta, and various vegetables and cheeses, the main event is the meat. Roaming waiters present you with various types of meat carved for you at your table (rodizio service). All cuts of meat are exceptional and tastes even better accompanied by Chilean wines offered on the wine list.

• Tantra

  phone: +1 305 672-4765
  address: 1145 Pennsylvania Ave
  Middle Eastern/Mediterranean/Indian. This restaurant/club is heavy on the Middle Eastern vibe—grass land its floors. Booths can be closed in this eatery for privacy and hookah pipes and aphrodisiac cocktails are passed around.

Nightlife in South Beach starts late and ends early in the morning. Getting to a club well after midnight is common. If you're not famous, wealthy, or not with someone famous or wealthy, expect to be charged full price for cover (that includes the ladies!) at some of the swankier clubs. If there's a cover, make sure you find out what the crowd is and what kind of music or DJ is playing on any particular night before you buy in to anything you might not enjoy. No matter how exclusive the location is, drinks anywhere will be plenty expensive, which is why anyone without money to throw around will have had a few drinks already before they show up anywhere else.

• Caffè Tramonto

  phone: +1 305 672-2137
  address: 235 Washington Ave
  A bar with a fun international atmosphere in South Beach.

• Clevelander

  phone: +1 305 532-4006
  address: 1020 Ocean Dr
  Beautiful, Fun, and a great night life spot. The Clevelander Bar is fun for all ages over the age of 21. They usually begin the night with a live band and then as the night goes on the DJ is spinning all the latest tunes. They have a stage that is designated for dancing and right behind the stage is the pool bar. They have fun tropical drinks along with classic drinks that many are used to at home. At night the bars are lit up with beautiful neon lights to set it apart from the other bars that line the Ocean Drive. Drinks range from about $10-$14 dollars, but gratuity is included.

• Laundry Bar

  phone: +1 305 531-7700
  address: 721 Lincoln Ln
  True to its name, this one of a kind bar lets you do your laundry while dancing playing pool and drinking with friends. (Note: alcohol isn't served until after midnight.) Welcomes a mixed crowd of straight and gay people.

• Mac's Club Deuce

  phone: +1 305 673-9537
  address: 222 14th St
  Miami Beach's oldest bar, founded in 1926, is not as pretentious as several other bars around Miami. An affordable, local hangout with a jukebox and a pool table.

• Mansion

  phone: +1 305 532-1525
  address: 1235 Washington Ave
  Large popular nightclub set in the heart of Washington Avenue. Set over two floors, the slightly-pretentious yet buzzing club is a display of urban chic and is popular largely with tourists and locals depending on the night. The club has big name DJ's that you would find in any Ibiza superclub, such as Roger Sanchez. The club is part of the Opium Group which owns some of the other clubs in South Beach. There are a mixture of nights ranging from techno/commercial house to hip hop and RnB. If you are visiting Miami, your hotel should be able to provide you with concierge passes which will get you to the front of the line, although on big events expect to argue with the doorstaff about the wait. Expect to pay $50 for entry when big names appear, $15-30 midweek, well worth a visit.

• Nikki Beach Miami

  phone: +1 305 531-5535
  address: 1 Ocean Dr
  Teepees and beds surround this outdoor space, which feels smaller in person than it does in television shows and movies such as From Justin to Kelly. This club is infamous for welcoming the likes of celebrities such as Brooke Hogan (Hulk Hogan's daughter and a singer in her own right). Part of a small chain of Nikki Beach clubs, others most notably in St. Tropez and Hollywood, Ca. The nightclub has a fun yet pretentious vibe, the doorstaff often operate a strict 70/30 rule on women to men on busy nights, which can often mean male groups having difficulty gaining entry. The only way to ensure entry is to purchase a table costing anywhere between $500-$1000. The clientele is a mix of socialites, models and some tourists. Sundays are the most popular night, definitely worth a visit.

• Opium Garden

  phone: +1 305 531-5535
  address: 136 Collins Ave
  This 32,000 sq. foot Asian inspired nightclub is a well-known hot spot in South Beach. With two levels, this nightclub has a capacity of up to 2000 guests. There is always a line to get in so get there early! If you make it through the doors, there is a $20 cover charge. This beautiful Zen-like nightclub plays dance, hip-hop, and Top 20s music all night long. They feature 16 different specialty drinks and they offer table service with a $200 minimum. Opium is a little pricey, but it is worth the experience!

• Purdy Lounge

  phone: +1 305 531-4622
  address: 1811 Purdy Ave
  A funky local dance joint, the world famous Purdy Lounge is open till 5AM every day of the year. Daily drink specials, live reggae on Mon and live local bands on Tuesday. The joint gets packed on the weekends and most of the crowds starts coming in at 11PM. Drinks are inexpensive and pours are generous.

• Rose Bar at the Delano

  phone: +1 305 672-2000
  address: 1685 Collins Ave
  Created by Ian Schrager, the bar has several rose-colored glasses surrounding it. Drinks are expensive, so be prepared to wear out your wallet.

• Skybar

  phone: +1 305 695-3100
  address: 1901 Collins Ave
  Times vary depending on rooms within the Skybar. Consisting of several places in the space behind the Shore Club with whimsical names like the Redroom, the Sandbar and the Rumbar, the Shore Club is tough to get into for people not on the A-list or guests at the hotel. Another hotel creation by Ian Schrager.

• Tantra

  phone: +1 305 672-4765
  address: 1445 Pennsylvania Ave
  A sensual Middle Eastern atmosphere complete with real grass on the floor, Tantra is the place to feel sleek and sexy. Aphrodisiac martinis add to the ambiance, while the house music playing makes you feel that you've found the 'it' spot in South Beach.

• Wet Willy's

  phone: +1 305 532-5650
  address: 760 Ocean Dr
  40+ different Daiquiri flavors. What is there no to love while/after soaking up the sun in this beautiful city. Wet Willy's is known for their delicious daiquiris and exotic mixed drinks. A great fun atmosphere. They also serve food.

While some of the most famous and well-known hotels and resorts are located in South Beach, the area can be noisy, crowded and expensive. Hotels and resorts are located along the entire length of Miami Beach, so travelers should also consider places further north of 23rd St.
Adjacent to the beach (on Collins and Ocean streets, south of 23rd street), pretty much every building is a hotel, so there are many not listed here.

Budget

• The Clay Hotel

  phone: +1 305 534-2988
  address: 1438 Washington Ave
  120 rooms. Some rooms have balconies, TVs, phones and baths. Kitchen, laundry, TV, refrigerator, air conditioning.

• Jazz on South Beach Hostel

  phone: +1 305 672-2137
  address: 321 Collins Ave
  Backpackers hostel in Miami just 1 block from the beach.

• Miami Beach International Hostel

  phone: +1 305 534-0268
  address: 236 9th St
  This hostel has 100 rooms. Dorm rooms have four beds. Half of the non-dorm rooms are private. Kitchen, internet access (on a dated computer), video rental library.

• SoBe Hostel

  phone: +1 305 534-6669
  address: 235 Washington Ave
  The hostel offers shared or private rooms for 4, 6, and 8 people. Security lockers in-dorm, large kitchen and TV area with pool table and internet access. They also have a large bar that is open until 5AM for the party animals with lots of great drink specials. Free transportation to Miami International Airport offered twice a day. If you are traveling on a tight budget, this is a great opportunity to experience South Beach without going overboard.

• Tropics Hotel & Hostel

  phone: +1 305 531-0361
  address: 1550 Collins Ave
  Dorm rooms have four to eight beds per room. Private rooms have TV and phone. Barbecue, pool.

• Villa Paradiso

  phone: +1 305 532-0616
  address: 1415 Collins Ave
  Rooms have queen sized beds, double beds or couch-beds. Air conditioning, TV, kitchen, refrigerator, coffeemaker.

Mid-range

• Albion Hotel South Beach

  phone: +1 305 913-1000
  address: 1650 James Ave
  Modern Art Deco hotel ideally situated a couple of blocks to Collins Ave, Ocean Drive. The hotel is stylised as an Ocean Liner and is excellent value for money. The hotel has a large mezzanine level pool, hotel bar and rooms with very comfortable beds - you have been warned! The concierge staff are very helpful and will organise most things for you, there is also valet parking available.

• Beacon Hotel

  phone: +1 305 674-8200
  address: 720 Ocean Dr
  Rooms are equipped with flat panel LCD TVs, cable television, IP-phones with voicemail and dataport features, in-room mini-bar, and Wi-Fi.

• Clevelander Hotel

  address: 1020 Ocean Dr
  Known as one of the hottest party places to stay while in South Beach. The pool is surrounded by glass blocks and neon bars, while the dance floors and outdoor stage are often filled with fantastic entertainment. Situated right on Ocean Drive, the sexy outdoor bars are always hopping and they have the highest liquor sales of any bar in Florida. The rooms are well furnished and are all equipped with AC and cable TV (if you have time to watch TV at all). The rooms average at about $120/night, depending on time of travel. If you are ready to party, this hotel won't let you down. Due to the party scene at this hotel, no one under 21 can stay here.

• The Hotel of South Beach

  phone: +1 305 531-2222
  address: 801 Collins Ave
  Formerly the Tiffany Hotel (as implied by its spire on the top of the building), it was renovated by clothing and home decorating designer Todd Oldham. The Hotel has a blank facade on the outside but a multi-colored space on the inside. The 53 rooms are decorated with mirrors rather than artwork and have plenty of storage space around the room to compensate for room size. There is also a gem-cut swimming pool and lounge on the upper decks, room service, air conditioning, TV, stereo, and Wish, The Hotel's French-Brazilian restaurant which also has a bar.

• Hotel St. Augustine

  phone: +1 305 532-0570
  address: 347 Washington Ave
  A "boutique" style hotel in the SoFi District with Art Deco architecture and 24 loft-style rooms.

• The Kent Hotel

  address: 1131 Collins Ave
  A boutique Art Deco hotel offering cool stylish elements of Miami Beach including modern themes, unique colors and furniture.

• Marriott Stanton South Beach

  phone: +1 305-536-7700
  address: 161 Ocean Drive
  Oceanfront hotel that features a full-service spa, Deco Blue Restaurant and is pet friendly.

• Pelican Hotel

  phone: +1 305 673-3373
  address: 826 Ocean Dr
  Pelican Hotel claims it is a “toy-hotel” rather than a hotel because every one of its 30 rooms and suites is designed around a theme rather than the hotel itself being designed around a theme. Magnus Ehrland, a Swedish designer, created rooms like the “Psychedelic(ate) Girl,” “Jesus Christ Megastar” and the “Best Whorehouse” (which is said to be the most popular, and hardest to score, room in the hotel). Ehrland used his imagination and a lot of flea market goodies to design the rooms. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves breakfast well into the day, a bar, a concierge, laundry service, air conditioning, TV, refrigerator, hair dryer, iron, safe, and a stereo.

• The Raleigh

  phone: +1 305 534-6300
  address: 1775 Collins Ave
  The 105-room Raleigh hotel is a masterpiece of Art Deco grandeur, designed by legendary architect L. Murray in 1940, and has been a staple of South Beach since its renovation in the 1980s. The pool is fantastic.

• San Juan Hotel South Beach

  address: 1680 Collins Ave

• Townhouse Hotel

  address: 150 20th St
  Modern design & old-fashioned comfort.

Splurge

• The Bentley Hotel

  address: 501 Ocean Dr
  Yet another Art Deco Hotel in an oceanfront building dating back to from 1934. The Bentley's meticulously restored art deco architecture provides a luxurious, yet intimate environment. One of few upscale options on Ocean Drive.

• Cardozo Hotel

  address: 501 Ocean Dr
  The Cardozo hotel, owned by singer Gloria Estefan and her husband, producer Emilio Estefan Jr., offers a variety of deluxe suites, as well as superior ocean view, and standard accommodations.

• Delano

  phone: +1 305 672-2000
  address: 1685 Collins Ave
  Hotel has poolside bungalows, the Blue Door restaurant, the Blue Sea restaurant, the Rose Bar, the Agua Spa, penthouse suites and meeting facilities. Known in the past for Madonna hanging around the hotel, nowadays you may find the likes of Food Network star Giada De Laurentiis in the hotel whenever she's in town. The famous hotel lobby has become a nightclub destination in its own right, which is great if you want somewhere to party, not so much if you're just trying to get back to your room.

• The Setai

  phone: +1 305 520-6000
  address: 2001 Collins Ave
  Contemporary Asian style hotel in a reconstructed Deco building. Managed by GHM hotels, operator of the high-end Chedi chain. Quite possibly one of the most expensive boutique hotels in Miami (let alone South Beach).

• The Shore Club Hotel

  phone: +1 305 695-3100
  address: 1901 Collins Ave
  Hotel has the Beach House (a private villa), two pools, a spa, the Skybar, Nobu & Ago restaurant, penthouse suites and meeting facilities.

• The Tides South Beach Hotel

  phone: +1 305 604-5070
  address: 1220 Ocean Dr
  An icon of Art Deco architecture. Debuted a provocative new design in the fall of 2007 by trendsetting designer Kelly Wearstler. The glamorous new design re-dresses the hotel's interiors incorporating elements from the sea, rich textures, sunset colors and vintage recreations with a nod to its illustrious past while setting new standards for future hotel design.

• 1 Hotel South Beach

  phone: +1 305 604-1000
  address: 2341 Collins Ave
  A 426-room hotel, each room designed using reclaimed materials. The property has four swimming pools including a beachfront, rooftop, hotel pool. The Lobby has a farm-stand and the restaurant is farm-to-table cuisine with chef Tom Colicchio.

• Versace MansionGianni Versace was an Italian fashion designer, known for creating fashionable clothes influenced by the infamous Andy Warhol and historical Roman and Greek art works. At the age of 50; Gianni Versace was murdered in front of his South Beach property (formerly known as Casa Casuarina) by a serial killer. The Versace mansion is now a hotel and event spot in South Beach.