11 Best Things to Do in Miami Beach

Lummus Park, on Ocean Drive, is a Copacabana-inspired promenade that’s lined with swaying palms and sea grape trees. A meandering path meets a series of grassy lawns that cast their gaze over the blue Atlantic. They're the perfect place to enjoy a picnic and snooze in the sun. Just don't forget the sunscreen.

Lummus Park, and most of Ocean Drive, are frequently depicted in Hollywood films and television shows, such as the 80’s classic Miami Vice. There are also multiple playgrounds, several water fountains, beachfront access and volleyball courts.

Although many locals consider Miami Beach and South Beach separate neighbourhoods, they’re so closely-knitted that their borders are hard to define. South Beach’s South Pointe is known for its glamorous oceanfront and recreational activities, with an off-lead dog area and picnicking space. 

After you’ve splashed about in the aquamarine water and worked on a tan, cast a line off South Point’s panoramic fishing pier, or enjoy an ice cream on its manicured lawns. A mini water playground and jungle gym is always a hit with kids, while an on-site café serves a range of snacks and beverages.

Miami Beach Botanical Garden might be only 4 acres in size but this compact park offers excellent respite from the hot Florida sun. Its impressive plant collection includes more than 100 palm species, several rare orchids, flowering trees and an edible garden. 

Serpentine pathways lead to stunning Japanese landscapes marked with bamboo clusters, tinkling stone fountains and a colourful koi carp pond. Well-behaved dogs are welcomed in the garden, be sure to leave your skateboards and bikes behind.

Overseen by the Miami Design Preservation League, the Art Deco District is an eye-catching square-mile where you can enjoy one of the city’s most popular walks. Stroll along Ocean Drive and down its many adjacent backstreets to see hundreds of pastel-coloured buildings which date back 100 years. 

Most of the architecture here, including old hotels, restaurants and bars, are circa 1915 to 1940, and have been impressively restored to their former glory. Be sure to snap pictures of notable buildings, including the Majestic Hotel, the Breakwater Hotel, the Jackie Gleason Theater and Waldorf Towers.

Ocean Drive is a world-famous thoroughfare in Miami that’s home to striking Art Deco buildings, emerald-hued palm trees and jet-setting clientele. Many of the hotels and restaurants on Ocean Drive have been featured in Hollywood films and television shows, including Scarface, The Birdcage and There’s Something About Mary.

Take Instagram selfies outside the Carlyle Hotel or the Sunray Apartments before hitting the local bars. Enjoy an Irish beer at Finnegan’s Way, a bourbon and cola at Locust or a luminous cocktail at Voodoo Lounge.

Flamingo Park is a sports and recreation hub in the heart of South Beach which features a tennis centre, an 8-lane running track and a football field with artificial turf. Some tracks allow for bike riding and rollerblading, and there’s a water zone to splash about in.

Baseball players from the big-league train at Flamingo Park during off season, so keep your eyes open if you want to try to get an autograph. Just be respectful, as it may be their holiday time too There’s also an onsite playground, a softball field, a racquetball court and a stadium, but be sure to arrive early to secure time at any of these attractions.

For the ultimate Miami Beach retail experience, hit fabulous Lincoln Road. This 8-block stretch is home to major American department stores like Macy’s, as well as brands like Urban Outfitters, Adidas, Lacoste and Oakley. 

For those looking for the latest designer bargain, peruse the rails at Guess, Armani Exchange and Ted Baker, before grabbing a bite in the air-conditioned food hall. Enjoy signature maki at Ai Sushi, homemade pasta at Pesto Italian and healthy organic salads at Fresh Garden Bowls. Don't forget to check Lincoln Road's website for special events like art installations, workshops and free yoga sessions. You can't miss the farmers' market and antiques fair either.

The Bass is a contemporary Miami Beach art museum that houses an impressive permanent collection. Here, you’ll find European paintings and sculptures dating back to the 15th century, old-world textiles and tapestries, indigenous works from Latin America and religious iconography.

The museum also shines a spotlight on the pre- and post-war design history of Miami Beach by exhibiting artists such as Nam June Paik, a Korean-American visual artist whose roots run deep through Southern Florida. Check the website’s calendar too for all the latest events including cocktail socials and artistic workshops.

SoundScape Park is a landscaped 2.5-acre greenspace that’s peppered with sculptural pipes that drip with bright pink bougainvillea flowers. The major highlight, however, is the venue’s outdoor events area, which regularly hosts concerts and film nights that are elevated with high-tech audio. 

The park serves as the front garden of the New World Center, which is home to the New World Symphony. You can sit on the lawn here and enjoy sold-out performances from the comfort of a picnic rug. Don’t forget to bring a cool box.

Nikki Beach is a landmark Miami venue that hosts chic waterfront parties. This sprawling oceanfront complex boasts an onsite restaurant that serves succulent seafood, and is well equipped with private cabanas. 

During the day, you can lounge by the pool and soak up the sun, before dancing the night away to resident DJs. As the Atlantic Ocean swells, enjoy top-shelf champagne and creative cocktails like Jalapeno Margaritas with fresh agave. The dress code is 'beach chic', so be sure to don your finest outfit. 

Book a tour with Ocean Force Adventures and enjoy a high-powered boat ride across Biscayne Bay. Take in the breath-taking skyline of Downtown Miami before heading into the wild Atlantic where you’ll spot dolphins, seabirds and manatees.

Whether you’re seeking an unforgettable family fun day, a champagne cruise at sunset or the wildlife adventure of a lifetime, Ocean Force caters to all. Along the way, you’ll discover Miami’s hidden gems including the iconic Scarface mansion and historical landmarks like Stiltsville.