24 Hours in South Beach

If you only have 24 hours to spend in South Beach, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Here’s an itinerary, featuring the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, culture and nightlife.

Morning: Art Deco Beauty And Classic Landmarks

Dive into South Beach’s history at the Art Deco Welcome Center on famous Ocean Drive, where there are more than 800 preserved Art Deco buildings.

One of the best activities in South Beach is the Miami Design Preservation League’s daily Art Deco Walking Tour, where the knowledgeable guide will point out all the pastel buildings you’ve seen in TV shows and movies and give you the scoop on South Beach’s storied past.

If you want to skip a scheduled tour, another option is to rent a Citi Bike and cruise down Ocean Drive and the Miami Beach Boardwalk to see the attractions in South Beach.

Enjoy an authentic Cuban lunch at Havana 1957 accompanied by music (and maybe even salsa dancing).

Afternoon: Beach Time And Snorkeling The Reefline

Even if you’re short on time, you can’t visit South Beach without enjoying time in the soft sand and clear-blue water that make the destination famous around the world.

Bring your own towel or rent a daybed at the scenic Nikki Beach restaurant, which has been an institution for more than 25 years. It’s the go-to spot for al fresco lunch and drinks, where you’ll groove to lively music and hear the sounds of the ocean.

Unique to South Beach is The Reefline, an underwater sculpture park and hybrid reef that sits about 600 feet off the shore and begins at 4th Street. While you’re there, snorkel above the sculptures that dot the ocean’s bottom.

Evening: Sunset Strolls And Legendary Stone Crabs

When golden hour approaches, head to South Pointe Park. Stroll the South Pointe Pier for unmatched views of South Beach's stunning shoreline and maybe even catch cruise ships heading out to sea.

The park is also near the iconic Joe’s Stone Crab restaurant, where you can slip on a plastic bib and crack stone crabs of all sizes, then top your meal off with a slice of tangy Key lime pie. (Stone crab season runs from October to May.)

After Dark: Cocktails And Late-Night Partying

A night in South Beach isn’t complete without a stop at Mango’s Tropical Café. Open late on Ocean Drive, this lively spot is known for live Latin music, colorful dance performances, and crowd-pleasing cocktails. It’s a fun, high-energy way to enjoy South Beach nightlife at any hour.

Prefer something more chill? Sip on cocktails where the locals hang at Medium Cool or award-winning Sweet Liberty.