If you only have 24 hours to spend in South Beach, it can be challenging to decide how to make the most of your time. We've crafted an itinerary with the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, culture and nightlife to make your choices easy.

Pastel Art Deco hotels on Ocean Drive — Take a walking tour & see the Art Deco hotels on Ocean Drive

Morning: Art Deco Architecture & the Beach

There's no better place to get acquainted with South Beach culture than at the Art Deco Welcome Center, situated on famous Ocean Drive. The center offers a wealth of local information and also presents the chance to embark on a guided walking tour. You'll see Miami Beach's Art Deco and MiMo architectural styles and learn more about the area's storied past.

Citi Bikes ready for renting — Explore South Beach on a Citi Bike

Nearby the Welcome Center is popular Lummus Park, a winding, 10-block path that slices between Ocean Drive and the beach. It's where South Beach truly comes alive in the mornings with runners and joggers, locals playing volleyball or working out at the outdoor gym, and kids running free on the park's playgrounds. If you'd rather explore the area by bike, rent a Citi Bike for a scenic ride down Ocean Drive.

Big Pink's Kobe donut burger — Check out Big Pink for breakfast

Since you've worked up an appetite, breakfast at a South Beach staple, Big Pink, is in order. This retro diner is literally awash in pink, and the menu is huge, with literally hundreds of items to choose from. Get to this South Beach staple early to avoid long lines at this longtime favorite.

South Beach aerial view — Discover South Beach's turquoise waters

Once you're properly satiated, it's time to hit the beach. Rent loungers, umbrellas, cabanas and even water-sports equipment through Boucher Brothers for a relaxing day in the water and on the sand. Charge through the turquoise waters on a Jet Ski, coast on a kayak or paddleboard, or fly in the sky on a parasailing adventure.

People enjoying the view at South Pointe Park — A perfect day of outside fun at South Pointe Park

If you'd prefer to unfurl a towel on the beach, head to the southern tip of South Beach to mingle with the locals at South Pointe Park. Known for its sprawling waterfront green spaces, bountiful palm trees (perfect for relaxing under with a good book) and kid-friendly water playground, there's a place for everyone here. Stroll the South Pointe Pier for unmatched views of South Beach's stunning shoreline, or check out what the anglers are catching. You'll even see the 55-foot-tall “obstinate lighthouse,” a public art piece illuminated by LED lights.

Exterior of Jewish Museum of Florida — Explore the collection at the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU

Afternoon: South Beach Culture & Lunch

Carve out an hour of your day to visit the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU in the South of Fifth (SoFi) neighborhood. This unique museum is packed with an ever-growing collection of items that showcase more than 250 years of Florida Jewish history, arts and culture.

Sushi & ceviche boat presentation at Nikki Beach — Lunch, lounge & people-watch at Nikki Beach

Then it's off to lunch at Nikki Beach. At this toes-in-the-sand landmark, you can hang in dreamy daybeds and toast to the sun with bottles of bubbly and light fare.

Stone crab display at Joe's Stone Crab — Savor the stone crabs at Joe's Stone Crab

Evening: Boat Tour & a Legendary Stone Crab Spot

In South Beach, you can never get enough of our beautiful blue waters. Take off on Water Taxi Miami as you boat back and forth between the Miami Beach Marina and Bayside Marketplace. Along the way, your captain will narrate the tour, pointing out landmarks, mega-mansions and, hopefully, even dolphins.

Reigning in South Beach for more than a century, Joe's Stone Crab delivers an incredible experience. Put on the famous plastic bib and crack stone crabs of all sizes, then top it off with a slice of tangy Key lime pie. (Stone crab season runs from October to May.)

Highball cocktail drink with mint leaves & cucumber slices — Explore South of Fifth's cocktail bars

After Dark: Cocktails & Late-Night Bites

For chill vibes, tuck away at South Pointe Tavern in the quiet South of Fifth neighborhood for spot-on cocktails, a dimly lit bar and a full menu. Or head to The Scape Goat, where bartenders concoct some of the best cocktails in town. This hidden gem stays open until 3 a.m.

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