South Beach’s high season is officially upon us, with the annual Art Basel Miami Beach extravaganza bringing hordes of fabulous people to this thin barrier island off the Florida coast. This South Beach travel guide is here to help you cut through the chaos. And while your Instagram feed is likely flooded with the young, fashionable, and childless frolicking in the sun, the real beauty of Miami Beach is that there’s room for everyone to have a damn good time.
As a Chicagoan, I’m practically required to head down there at least once a year. They make it awfully easy, with plenty of flights, great deals on hotels, and no need for a rental car. Art Basel is giving me serious FOMO, especially with friends posting wish-you-were-here photos from the Hotel Gaythering, a hotel built for gay men, featuring a clothing-optional, men-only sauna (wink, wink).
Maybe it’s time to plan that long weekend. If you’re doing the same, here are some tips to make the most of it.
How to Spend a Perfect Day in South Beach
Whether you’re an art lover, a beach bum, a museum hopper, or a night owl chasing the next fabulous party, this South Beach travel guide has your perfect 24 hours covered. Art Deco architecture, stretches of white sand, quirky museums, irresistible restaurants, and nightlife that puts your hometown to shame—it’s all here and all worth your time.
If the beach is your thing, try the area around 12th and Ocean Drive. It’s a popular gay spot, but you’ll find a mix of people enjoying the scene. For some reason, though, I often find myself posted up by the hotel pool, cocktail in hand, instead. To each their own.
When you’re ready for some culture, the World Erotic Art Museum is a must-see. The collection is huge and deliciously raunchy (insert joke here). Check their site for current exhibits—you won’t be disappointed.
South Beach in a nutshell: Spend your day wandering through pastel Art Deco facades, basking on the sand, museum hopping, and eating your heart out before you dance the night away. Whether you’re poolside, toes in the Atlantic, or making friends at the bar, South Beach is your playground—just don’t forget the SPF and your sense of adventure.
Explore Lincoln Road Like a Local
If you’re looking to buy your beaux a special something, head to the open-air Lincoln Road Mall. Yes, it’s trendy, and yes, you could go to many of those shops at home. But Lincoln Road isn’t just for tourists—locals come here to eat, drink, and shop, too. You’ll find sidewalk cafés buzzing with energy, independent boutiques tucked between familiar brands, and enough people-watching to keep you entertained for hours. Plus, there are plenty of unique stores offering only-find-‘em-here gifts.
You’ll find sidewalk cafés buzzing with energy, independent boutiques tucked between familiar brands, and enough people-watching to last you all afternoon — exactly the kind of insider moment this South Beach travel guide highlights.
A walk along Lincoln Road also gives you a good excuse to check out Herzog & de Meuron’s famed 1111 Lincoln Road building. Part parking garage, part shopping complex, and part residential building, this architectural masterpiece is spectacularly modern.
Where to Eat (and How to Eat Smart)
When hunger strikes, I have two suggestions. One is expected, but with a twist: Nobu! It can be expensive and hard to get a reservation.
Tip #1: Sit at the bar. No reservation necessary.
Tip #2: Use Nobu as your starting point for the evening to save some cash. Go in the late afternoon and order lychee martinis, shishito peppers with miso (I dream about these peppers), and the must-try creamy rock shrimp tempura. Then, take a stroll down Collins Avenue before your late dinner.
Another great option is Bella Cuba, which serves delicious food without the pretentiousness you might find elsewhere.
SoBe Nightlife: From Circuit Scene to Chic Lounges
The exotic, circuit-driven scene is practically a rite of passage, so hit it at least once. Twist sets the standard for gay nightlife here. Twist has seven different bars under one roof and claims to be the largest gay club in SoBe.
If you’re steering clear of the typical scene, step into something a bit more sophisticated like the Hyde Lounge at the SLS, which is quickly establishing itself as an “it” spot.
More Miami Beach Neighborhoods to Explore
Of course, South Beach tends to steal the show, but if you’ve got time (and a bit of curiosity), don’t miss the chance to wander into Miami Beach’s other distinct neighborhoods.
Mid-Beach: The Stylish Sweet Spot
Want to venture beyond South Beach’s familiar sparkle? Mid-Beach is calling your name. Think of it as South Beach’s slightly older, equally fabulous cousin—less chaotic but just as chic. This stretch boasts gorgeous five-star hotels where you can pretend you’re in a Slim Aarons photo shoot. The art scene is a bit more “if you know, you know,” with exhibits tucked into hotel lobbies. You’ll find buzz-worthy restaurants, rooftop bars, and a mix of indie boutiques and resort-wear pop-ups. And the beach itself? A little quieter, perfect for people-watching or zoning out with a pulpy paperback.
North Beach: A Little Tranquility with a Side of Style
If the crowds of South Beach start to wear thin, North Beach delivers a more laid-back alternative. Here, you’ll find a breezy boardwalk perfect for a sunrise stroll. Architecture buffs will love the mid-century MiMo (Miami Modern) gems—quirky lines, pastel colors, and a retro vibe that goes perfectly with a spicy mojito. The dining scene is a hidden gem, with cozy Cuban cafes and chic bistros. No need to dress like you’re on a runway—just roll in, order something delicious, and soak up the neighborhood’s chill spirit.
In short: South Beach may be the headline act, but Mid-Beach and North Beach offer a satisfying encore for anyone willing to explore — rounding out a South Beach travel guide that goes beyond the basics.
Any other tips for Miami Beach? Please email them to holla@fagabond.com. In the meantime, I’m going to check a few airfares and hotel rates. Baby, it’s cold outside.