When to go:
MARCH
I try to avoid traveling during Spring Break but go for Winter Music Conference which also coincides with ULTRA Music Festival . There are tons of concerts and special appearances throughout the city so plan to rage with the best DJ’s around.
AUGUST
I decided to splurge last year and attend the final performance of JT & Jay Z’s Legends of Summer Tour and was pleasantly surprised that Miami Spa Month was going on. I took advantage and booked a few treatments at Canyon Ranch which I highly recommend for anyone who loves to get pampered. Spa Month also overlaps with Miami Spice or their restaurant week which again I took full advantage of the great Prix Fixe Menus. *Weather wise you will run into a few storms but they quickly pass….maybe.
DECEMBER
Art Basel showcases some of the best Modern and Contemporary artists in the world and occurs in the beginning of the month. Hit Miami during this time for the best weather, some great celebrity sightings and to take in pop up galleries around the city.
This is also peak time for cruise ships headed to the Caribbean. I got the chance to experience Celebrity Reflection for a quick two night sailing and it immediately became my favorite line. They redefine modern luxury with great suites, a real grass lawn and fun specialty restaurants: order off an iPad at Qsine or (with the supervision of a chef) grill your own dinner at the Lawn Club Grill.
Where to stay:
Located in Mid-Beach is one of the most historically and architecturally significant hotels on Miami Beach (according to them) but you kinda have to agree. From the bow-tie marble floor, the ultra exclusive nightclub LIV and many amazing restaurants to choose from this is the place to see and be seen.
The Betsy South Beach
This boutique hotel sits at the end of Ocean Drive and gives you access to the excitement that is South Beach but a with a more relaxed atmosphere. With only 61 rooms the staff learns your names the first day which would make anyone feel special.
This boutique hotel sits at the end of Ocean Drive and gives you access to the excitement that is South Beach but a with a more relaxed atmosphere. With only 61 rooms the staff learns your names the first day which would make anyone feel special.
The James Royal Palm
Newly Renovated and only a block from Ocean Drive you are within walking distance to the Art Deco area along with Lincoln Road. Their standard rooms are fantastic but also offer Apartment style accommodations. I love this property as it gives back and goes green- triple distilled water refreshed daily in the rooms along with large shampoo/conditioner dispensers. Don’t forget to check out their gift shop as all products give back in some way.
Newly Renovated and only a block from Ocean Drive you are within walking distance to the Art Deco area along with Lincoln Road. Their standard rooms are fantastic but also offer Apartment style accommodations. I love this property as it gives back and goes green- triple distilled water refreshed daily in the rooms along with large shampoo/conditioner dispensers. Don’t forget to check out their gift shop as all products give back in some way.
W South Beach
I am a HUGE W Hotels fan and this property is one of the best. The Suites are wonderfully designed and have some of the best views of the ocean. Chill out and let the “Beach Ambassadors” take great care of you or post up at WET (the pool) for some fun in the sun. You really can not go wrong with the W.
I am a HUGE W Hotels fan and this property is one of the best. The Suites are wonderfully designed and have some of the best views of the ocean. Chill out and let the “Beach Ambassadors” take great care of you or post up at WET (the pool) for some fun in the sun. You really can not go wrong with the W.
Where to grub:
Cecconis
Inside the Soho Beach House is one of my favorite Brunch spots. The buffet is to die and if you happen to be staying there or know a member (I am lucky that way) you can have one of their amazing pizzas delivered ocean side.
Inside the Soho Beach House is one of my favorite Brunch spots. The buffet is to die and if you happen to be staying there or know a member (I am lucky that way) you can have one of their amazing pizzas delivered ocean side.
Lido Restaurant and Bayside Grill at the Standard
A great place to watch sunset on Biscayne Bay and choose from an organic and fresh Mediterranean menu.
A great place to watch sunset on Biscayne Bay and choose from an organic and fresh Mediterranean menu.
Take a break from all your shopping on Lincoln Road for some sushi with a Brazilian kick. I could eat a dozen of their Crispy Taquitos with Yellowtail!
Where to drink:
Miami cocktails are more expensive than Vegas and those 2 for 1 specials on Ocean Drive are kinda a joke but if you plan on getting a bit tipsy there are my go to spots…
Miami cocktails are more expensive than Vegas and those 2 for 1 specials on Ocean Drive are kinda a joke but if you plan on getting a bit tipsy there are my go to spots…
FDR at the Delano Hotel
Know the doorman or be prepared to purchase bottle service for this underground spot. A smaller space but tons of fun once you get in!
The Broken Shaker
A cool vibe with a great garden and some of the most inventive cocktails by the beach.
THE BEACH…duh
Hit the corner store then hit the sand!
