Miami Luxury Travel Guide
Miami was the second leg of our Southern Florida road trip. We set up camp at a beautiful hotel in nearby Coral Gables, explored Miami and the surrounding area on foot, by bike, and by car, ate fantastic food, and reveled in a delightful spa day. We even made time to visit not one, not two, but three National Parks! If you’re planning a trip to Miami, let this Miami Luxury Travel Guide help you plan a wonderful, accessible
How to Reach Miami
We flew directly from our closest airport to Palm Beach International Airport, then drove to Miami. Flying to Miami is as simple as booking a flight to Miami International Airport (MIA). If you feel like road tripping from another region or state, there is plenty to see along the way in sunny Florida!
Explore my Florida archives for more great things to do in the Sunshine State.
How to Get Around Miami
Miami is quite walkable. Public transportation, though not widely available, is safe and reliable. Much of the city is bikeable. We mainly walked and drove, because some of what we wanted to see was across town. It was a pleasant surprise to find that much of the parking in town was free or only a couple of dollars per hour. Compared to other major cities, it was very inexpensive!
Best Time of Year to Visit Miami
Miami has a beautiful climate, making it a wonderful place to visit any time of year. That said, as a major US travel destination, it will be busier during major holidays and events such as spring break and graduation weekends.
June through November is hurricane season, but that’s true of most of the East Coast and should not stand in your way of visiting. I would, however, recommend getting travel insurance if you intend to visit during this time. That way, if a hurricane hits before or during your visit, you can reschedule without overwhelming the area if evacuations or sheltering in place become necessary.
Where to Stay in Miami
We stayed at Loews Coral Gables and loved every moment of our stay. The staff were amazing, the hotel was quiet, upscale, and pristine, plus there was plenty to do in the immediate area. Shopping, gardens, fine dining, museums, nature trails, and more were only a short walk or drive away.
Read the full review here.
Where to Eat in Miami
Americana Kitchen
This was our favorite spot to get brunch in the area. If you like great food, a creative menu, and feel like trying somewhere new, Americana Kitchen is the spot to go.
Ava MediterrAegean
The best Greek food in Miami truly lived up to its name. Plus, the entire restaurant is stunning!
Flora Plant Kitchen
Vegan. Locally grown. Beautifully plated. Fantastic flavours. What else do you need to know?
Gianni’s at the Versace Mansion
Dine at the former Versace Mansion and enjoy a bright, seasonal menu of local classics. When booking a table, ask to dine near the tile fountain for the best experience.
Mother Wolf
A gorgeous, intimate restaurant with a fresh, Miami take on classic Italian cooking.
Pura Vida Miami
We dined at their Palm Beach location and were immediately hooked. Fresh, vegan, and pescatarian options made for the perfect light lunch or early dinner.
Sexy Fish
We ate at several Japanese-inspired restaurants in Miami. This was the best. The interior alone is worth a visit!
Stephanie’s Crêpes
Amazing, gluten-free crêpes with toppings from sweet, savory, fruity, and everything in between. Their entire kitchen is gluten-free, and much of their menu is organic.
What to Do In & Around Miami
Big Cypress National Preserve
One of the nearby parks run by the US National Parks Dept., Big Cypress National Preserve, is a fantastic place to bird watch, hike, and admire unusual environs. You’ll need to drive roughly an hour, but it’s worth it, especially if you want to see alligators (and maybe a few crocodiles). This place was so gorgeous– keep an eye on my Outdoors vertical for a dedicated post.
Biscayne National Park
This National Park, located off the shore of Miami, is 95% water! I’m working on a dedicated post for this one, too.
Everglades National Park
Another amazing National Park within 2 hours of Miami. We saw SO many birds, alligators, fish, and other wonderful wildlife. Expect another post about this, too.
Explore Coconut Grove
This was my favorite neighborhood in Miami. It’s perfect for nature lovers, those seeking fine dining experiences, and it’s home to some of the best hotels in the county.
Explore Coral Gables
Another great neighborhood in Miami County, Coral Gables, is perfect for discerning travelers seeking excellent service, excellent fine dining, and excellent shopping.
Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden
I’ve visited more than 100 botanical gardens around the world, and this one is tied as my favorite with the Gardens of Versailles, Moksa’s Moss Garden, and Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden. I’d never seen anything like their recreation of a tropical rainforest!
Paddle Board
Renting a paddleboard is quick and easy at Padl!
Go Shopping
Miami has fantastic shopping! No matter what you want, you can find it in Miami.
Sail Biscayne Bay
The sailing around Miami is world-class (literally!)
Sample Local Food (Cuban, Latin American, Seafood, Tropical Fruits, etc.)
Miami is an international foodie destination for a reason. Find food from around the world, and some things that are only made in Miami. Plus, savor rare tropical fruits in one of the world’s rare fruit capitals.
Spa Day at Loews Coral Gables Spa
Book a couple’s massage, facial, manicure & pedicure, and drift away on a day of pure renewal and relaxation.
Stroll The Barnacle State Park
Located in Coconut Grove, this state park is a great stroll that winds through the forest and ends at the bay.
Visit the Beach
Miami is famous for its beaches. Pick one and enjoy the perfect day on the water.
Visit Little Havana
Cuban culture has left an indelible mark on Miami. Visit Little Havana to experience a taste of the gorgeous, storied country only 90 miles off the southern coast of Florida.
Visit South Beach’s Art Deco District
If you love art, this is a can’t-miss spot in Miami!
Vizcaya Botanical Garden
Vizcaya Museum & Garden was an incredible botanical garden and estate located along Bay Biscayne. If you like nature, architecture, visiting great houses, or simply want an incomparable view of Miami’s skyline, you can’t skip Vizcaya.
Safety
We never once felt unsafe in Miami, even at night. That said, practice common sense. Don’t flash valuables or leave them unattended. Wear sunscreen and check the condition of the water before swimming, while keeping in mind that the ocean is home to sharks, jellyfish, and stingrays.
You’ll have a great time in Miami, I’m sure of it!
Explore my adventures in Miami, Florida, and the United States.
