Ocean Drive
South Beach is Art Deco, drag queens, salsa music and, lest we forget, the beach. You can opt for a bustling stay on Ocean Drive or a quiet day on the sand overlooking the Atlantic. Depending on what you’re looking for, SoBe’s versatility ensures that there’s something for everyone, starting with its glowing main street, Ocean Drive.
South Beach is notorious for its parking issues, so rideshares are your best bet. You can make a day of it and get to SoBe via Miami Water Taxi. Taxis depart from Bayside Marketplace every 1.5 hours and arrive at the Miami Beach Marina. Bayside Marketplace is located across the street from YVE Hotel. Simply cross Biscayne Boulevard using the sidewalk toward the marina. Walk along the park a block, then take a right at the Torch of Friendship statue. You’ll find Miami Water Taxis at the Miamarina.
Art Deco Splendor
Tour SoBe’s Famed Architecture
You find plenty of Art Deco on Ocean Drive, but for fans of this particular style of architecture, opt for the 90-minute walking tour provided by the Miami Design Preservation League. Take a crash course on architectural styles from Art Deco to Miami Modern all within the confines of the Miami Beach, particularly Ocean Drive. The tour is informative with background on hotels, restaurants, and a glimpse of some iconic building interiors. Tours begin at 10:30 am daily. Buy tickets in advance or arrive 15 minutes ahead of time at the Art Deco Welcome Center located at 1001 Ocean Drive in Lummus Park. For more information, check out the Miami Design Preservation League website.
Miami Beach
Miles of Sand and Sea
Ocean Drive is such a site for activity, sometimes it’s easy to forget the wide-spanning beach located on its eastern side. If you’re looking to slow down and enjoy stunning views, the Miami Boardwalk begins at the Ocean Drive Promenade and runs the length of North Beach, roughly 4 miles. Bikes are available to rent through Citi Bike Miami, which is a fun option to explore the boardwalk. Lummus Park is a good option if you’re traveling with little ones, complete with playgrounds and access to sandy beaches.
Nightlife in SoBe
Something for Everyone
Ocean Drive has a vibrant nightlife with music clubs of all varieties. You can dress up or dress down: there’s really something for adults of all ages and interests. If you’re looking to enjoy a bikini-clad oceanfront SoBe club scene, try Nikki Beach at 1 Ocean Drive. In the mood for something of the Latino variety ‘til say, 5 am? Mango’s Tropical Café at 900 Ocean Drive knows how to throw a party. Nightly drag show? Look no further than Palace South Beach at 1052 Ocean Drive. There is a credit card minimum at most clubs in SoBe, so we suggest you bring along cash if you’re looking to move around.