72 Hours in South Beach: Food & Culture Guide

Arts & entertainment 

Miami Beach has incredible beaches, but when you’re ready to get off the sand you can indulge in a bit of shopping. The Bass is an air-conditioned art deco museum with cool sculptures. Check their event calendar as they often have events, lectures and film series. There’s always something happening at The Bass and it's a nice break to enjoy something more cultural. 

Showfield is another great afternoon spot for taking a break from the sun. It is a conceptual shopping space considered to be the most interesting shopping mall in the world. The space itself is really beautiful with fun interaction exhibition pop-ups and a cool selection of different designers and small goodies.

With all of the entertainment options, it's a great option for a Miami girls trip.

Get out on the water

You can't go to Miami without doing a boat tour on Biscayne Bay or sandbar hopping. Spend the afternoon on a boat taking in the natural beauty of Miami while you get a great tan and swim in the ocean all day.

Coffee

Panther Coffee: If you're looking for a local house roast, the beloved Wynwood coffee shop now has an outpost in Miami Beach located right next to Barry's Boot Camp - so you can get in a workout and then grab Panther's coffee.

Breakfast

Big Pink: For all day breakfast in South Beach, look no further than Big Pink on Collins Avenue. This retro-style diner serves your traditional American breakfast items of pancakes, scrambled eggs and toast all day. And the big pink walls outside make for an iconic Collins Ave., Miami photo-op. 

Front Porch Cafe: This little outdoor restaurant has some of the best breakfast on Ocean Drive. Grab a table on the patio, order some french toast or eggs benedict and enjoy the sunny Miami weather. 

Bacon Bitch: For a fun boozy brunch, this is the best restaurant in South Florida. Bacon Bitch has a delicious breakfast sandwich and a cocktail for everyone. 

Pura Vida: Another all day breakfast in South Beach, Pura Vida is a beautiful place to enjoy an avocado toast or a healthy smoothie.

Lunch

Bebito’s: An all-day cafe that’s a really cute spot with feminine details. While you won’t find a traditional Cuban sandwich, you’ll find that their menu features simple plates and is inspired by the flavors of South America.

Planta: This plant-based restaurant is a local institution. The menu is very satisfying, even for non-vegans. The dumpling with broccoli is a must-order – it’s so fresh and satisfying.

Dinner

Lucali: Brooklyn’s best pizza can be enjoyed in Miami at Lucali. We’re always looking for a New York slice somewhere. They don’t take reservations so skip the pre-dinner happy hour, and arrive early or prepare to wait.

MILA: Dine on a rooftop at this chic minimalistic MiderrAsian restaurant and lounge with indoor-outdoor seating. Order sushi and try some of their signature cocktails. 

Drinks

Broken Shaker: Tucked away in the Freehand Hotel is the Broken Shaker bar with exceptional cocktails you can enjoy in the back garden by the pool. 

Juvia: Go to this rooftop bar for a sundowner and a snack while taking in gorgeous views of the Miami skyline. After dark, the terrace turns into a dance floor.

North, South Miami, and Downtown Miami all have their charm, but if you have an extra day in Miami, head down to Key Largo. While you’re there, go on a boat tour to all the sandbars and islands or do a fishing trip. Eat your catch or go to a seafood restaurant and be sure to order a bucket of beer for a very different vibe than Miami. Snook's Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki is great for lunch and boat watching. It's got that old Florida feel that's fun in an ironic way but with excellent seafood and strong drinks. You must order the grouper, shrimp, potatoes and dealers' choice. Key Largo is much more relaxed and laid back than Miami, making for a perfect day trip.