This 56-kilometre stretch of the ocean front is one of the most attractive and famous beach resorts in the United States. Known as the “Billion Dollar Sandbar”, Miami Beach is home to countless nightclubs and restaurants as well as luxurious hotels and high-end boutiques. This is definitely the place to see and be seen!
The pristine sands of Miami Beach lie between South Point Park Beach and John U. Lloyd Beach Park, and is actually separated from the mainland by Biscayne Bay. The development of this area dates back to 1913 when a wooden bridge was constructed to connect to the island for the first time. With improved access, the influx of visitors prompted the building of the first hotel in Miami Beach, Brown’s Hotel, in 1915. This hotel is still standing today, and you can find it at 112 Ocean Drive.
Now cleared of its mangrove jungles and swamps, Miami Beach is a modern-day man-made paradise. Nothing sums up the image of this area better than the glamorous Ocean Drive, the boulevard along the Atlantic Ocean chosen as the back-drop to the 1980s TV series Miami Vice.
However, there is much more to Miami Beach than just the nightclubs and restaurants. You’ll be able to explore a thriving cultural scene with open-air art exhibitions and music festivals throughout the year. The highlight of the year is Art Basel, held annually in December. As part of a world-wide network of events, the Miami Beach venue brings together thousands of artists and collectors, and galleries throw open their doors with specially curated shows alongside outdoor sculptures and performances.
Heading South, a short drive will take you to South Beach, often referred to as SoBe. This is the place to really get to grips with the ocean. You can try snorkelling, diving or even swimming with dolphins. Parasailing is particularly popular with thrill seekers. Otherwise you can lie back, relax, top up your tan and watch the beautiful people parade past.
Miami Beach is accessible by car. Both North Miami Beach and South Beach are served by bus routes, and once in the area, it’s easy to explore on foot.
