Planning a bachelorette trip or ladies weekend? South Beach, Miami is the perfect destination. When I visited with a group of college girlfriends who now live in various parts of the country, we were pleasantly surprised by the laid back and welcoming vibe of the city. There were so many things to do, from soaking up the sun on the beach to hitting the clubs downtown. We had a blast exploring the shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Discover all of my recommendations for the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in this travel guide to South Beach, Miami.
Best Hotels in South Beach
Royal Palm South Beach: We stayed here mainly because our friend had enough Starwood points for a free room. The rooms were comfortable with sleek, modern decor, and the location was super convenient. Their beach area was a highlight for us. If you decide to visit, ask for Gustavo. He gave us free drinks and local suggestions, and even helped chase away the seagulls that threatened our lunch!
W Hotel: Even though it’s pricey, I really wanted to stay at this hotel solely because of their adorable pink beach chairs and umbrellas. Apparently you don’t have to be a hotel guest to reserve a chair here. Do it for the Instagram shot alone!
The Freehand: This is actually a hostel, which makes it a super affordable option for a stay in South Beach. While we only had drinks here, we instantly fell in love with the insanely cool vibe of the place. The decor of the common areas is comfortable and welcoming. It feels like a close-knit community, with an activities board in the lobby advertising guided bike rides, kite-boarding, and yoga on the beach. You can choose either a shared or a private room, and unlike most hostels, towels and sheets are provided.
Best Restaurants in South Beach
Yardbird: Out of the many amazing culinary experiences we had in Miami, this was by far my favorite. I loved the rustic decor and the fact that the kitchen was open – watching all the delicious food come out before we had even ordered was enough to make me drool. I ordered the short rib, which literally fell off the bone, and I’d highly recommend pairing it with the mac n’cheese. I’ve also heard that their brunch is amazing and would love to come back for that!
Diez y Seis: Located inside the Shore Club Hotel with plush pillows, lovely lanterns, and lush greenery, this was the perfect poolside outdoor space to “hair of the dog.” We paid for a two hour “ladies who brunch” with unlimited drinks, but ended up staying for four hours – and not once did our waiter let us reach the bottom of our drinks! Perhaps it was a perk of traveling off season, but that kind of hospitality is hard to find. Afterwards, we stayed for the Shore Club’s pool party featuring a live DJ.
Le Sandwicherie: We stumbled upon this little hole in the wall sandwich stand not far from our hotel. With no air conditioning or many places to sit, we took our food to go and brought it to the beach for a little picnic. The sandwiches were absolutely delicious and the owner was such a fun guy. Ask him about the two pet squirrels he has in addition to his cats and dogs (that he claims all get along)!
Best Nightlife in South Beach
Story Nightclub: We went here to have the typical “club” experience in Miami Beach. While sitting on the beach, we were accosted by a number of club promoters offering deals to the “best parties in town.” However, one of the many club promoters who roam the beaches by day hooked us up with a $30 rooftop party with bottle service and limo to Story, where we skipped the line that literally wrapped around the block.
Broken Shaker: Located at The Freehand, this place feels like being at a really cool friend’s house party. The backyard has a pool, herb garden, ping-pong tables, and even a bocce court. Exhausted after two nights of clubbing, this was the perfect, laid back environment for a few glasses of rosé.
The Basement: Where else can you find an ice skating rink and bowling rink inside of a nightclub? This magical place is within the Edition Hotel. From first stepping foot into the lobby, we never wanted to leave! It features gorgeous, all-white decor with accents of fresh greenery. The Basement is located, appropriately so, downstairs. It was worth checking out just for the unique experience.
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It’s getting to cold where I am, a trip to Miami Beach sounds perfect right about now! The view from your hotel suite is incredible!!
Thank you! It’s the perfect winter/spring break destination to escape the cold!
Wait an ice skating rink in a club near a beach!? That sounds really fun (even though I am rubbish at skating)…skating after a drink sounds like a (fun) recipe for disaster lol!
Such a unique concept, right? And you’re right, better to attempt the ice rink earlier in the night than after a few drinks… thanks for reading! 🙂
Never been to Miami or even Florida but it sure looks nice, and especially sounds like a welcome change for a Canadian entering winter
hope you get the chance to visit one day! it’s a very nice escape from the cold 🙂
Yardbird was one of my favourite places to eat in Miami Beach! Gosh this makes me miss my old stomping grounds. I had a great 4 months here while on a work term during school!
Must’ve been amazing to have spent 4 months here! Yardbird was my favorite, comfort food at its finest. Thanks for reading and let me know if you have any other recommendations 🙂