Miami Beach

Though the beaches themselves draw huge crowds of sun worshippers, there is so much more to appreciate about Miami Beach. If you're seeking pastel buildings, vintage neon signs, and a bustling scene, head to South Beach—particularly the Art Deco Historic District and Ocean Drive. Away from the beach, you'll find a mix of restaurants, parks, botanical gardens, and shopping spots, as well as the quieter, historic Espanola Way.

See the sights on a Miami Beach tour; there are endless options for private and group walking tours, hop-on-hop-off open-top double-decker bus tours, or boat tours for a view of the city from the water. Pedicabs also take visitors on leisurely sightseeing tours around the area.

• Much of this area is pedestrian-friendly, but you can cover more ground by car, or by taking a city sightseeing bus tour or boat tour.

• The most crowded beaches run from about 5th Street to 21st Street in the South Beach area.

• Families with kids should head north of 21st Street, especially to the beaches at 53rd Street or 73rd Street, or to Matheson Hammock Park or South Pointe Park.

Miami Beach is located on a barrier island between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The bay separates the beach area from the city of Miami, but it is accessible by road for those who want to rent a car. Miami tours often include pickup and drop-off in downtown Miami or Miami Beach.

South Florida has a warm climate—and lots of visitors—year-round. Miami Beach is most popular from January to May, so expect the heaviest crowds then. Hurricane season, which often sees tropical rains, is from June to November.

After sunning and reveling in Miami Beach, take some time to explore the surrounding area. Just a jaunt away are the iconic parts and eclectic areas of Miami—Little Havana, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, and downtown Miami—all of which you can check out on a Miami city tour by neighborhood. Other popular excursions from Miami Beach include day trips to the wild Everglades National Park and beautiful Key West.

The best month to visit is February or March when sunny skies and warm (but not hot) temperatures are a draw. Some travelers prefer to wait until after the winter peak prices and visit in April or May, both of which offer lovely weather.

The most popular way to spend a day in Miami Beach involves sand, sun, and surf. Spend a day relaxing on the shore, swimming in the ocean, and sunbathing. Beyond the beach, popular water sports rentals include Jet Skis and stand-up paddleboards. Art deco tours are another option.

Miami Beach offers a wide range of tours from scenic boat tours to art deco walking tours to culinary tours. Choose tours on land or by sea. Take tours that focus solely on Miami Beach or ones that expand out to include other neighborhoods such as Little Havana and Wynwood.

Miami Beach offers several fun tour options for kids including boat cruises, Jet Ski rentals, and wildlife tours. Older kids may want to try water sports like parasailing or stand-up paddleboard rentals. Other activities for families include deep-sea fishing tours, sailing adventures, snorkeling excursions, and kayaking tours.

There are multiple parking options in Miami Beach including metered parking spaces and parking garages. Some visitors choose to seek out city-run public lots, while others choose private garages with flat daily rates. Most hotels and restaurants in Miami Beach also offer valet parking, though this option can be expensive.

Yes, a trip to Miami Beach is worth it. You don’t need Miami Beach tickets to visit this barrier island known for its gorgeous beaches, art deco architecture, restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping. Fun options for exploring include renting bikes, strolling along the oceanside boardwalk, or joining a tour focused on art or food.