How to Do a Weekend in Miami Beach

Miami Beach is the perfect winter or spring getaway from many Eastern Seaboard and Midwest departure points, and best of all, it can easily be done in a weekend. From its underrated museum district to prestigious golf clubs, there’s plenty to do for everyone on a weekend in Miami Beach. So take a stroll down Ocean Drive, and dive into Miami Beach for an upcoming weekend.

How to Do a Weekend in Miami Beach

Hotel

As you near the corner of 21st Street and Collins Park, you come across a fabulous Art Deco gem. The newly opened Plymouth Miami is immaculately decorated, with friendly staff and hidden pool and patio area. With your booking, you get free breakfast, two beach chairs at the beach (just two blocks away), and access to the outdoor pool. On-site you’ll find Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill, from sushi master Toshi Ueki; and Plymouth Cafe for breakfast and poolside drinks. The hotel is opposite Collins Park and close to many of Miami Beach’s museums, beaches, shops, and restaurants. You’re blocks away from nightlife, but you won’t feel overwhelmed by Ocean Drive’s strip since the hotel is tucked away.

Friday

After arrival, check out the area surrounding the hotel and relax either at the beach or poolside. You can also rent bikes or walk/run along the path that runs down South Beach. This is a great way to get to know the area. For dinner, check out the renovated garage space, aptly named Sushi Garage, near Purdy Ave. Make sure to get the fried rice stone pot, which finishes cooking tableside.

Saturday

Enjoy your complimentary breakfast at the hotel and then head to the Art Deco Museum on Ocean Drive for a 90-minute walking tour; daily departures are at 10:30 a.m. You’ll learn all about Miami Beach’s history, from Al Capone’s days to the “Miami Vice” era. Grab some lunch at The Nautilus and dine poolside at this exclusive South Beach hotel. After lunch, continue exploring Miami Beach’s art scene and visit either the Art Deco Museum, The Bass, or The Wolfsonian-FIU.

For dinner, head to Lolo’s Surf Cantina—don’t leave without trying the corn cake—for Mexican food on the strip, and then head out for a night on the town. If clubs aren’t your scene and you’re looking for something more low key but still busy, check out The Broken Shaker in the courtyard of Freehand Hostel.

Sunday

Wake up for Sunday brunch at Icebox Cafe; favorites here include lemon ricotta pancakes and avocado toast as well as the bloody Mary bar. Shop along Lincoln Road Mall and enjoy the last few hours of your weekend in Miami Beach soaking up the sun at the beach or pool before you head to the airport.

More from SmarterTravel:

• Miami Travel Guide
• 7 Best Hotels in Miami
• 8 Best Cheap Hotels in Miami
• 9 Best Miami Beachfront Hotels
• 9 Fun Things to Do in Miami
• 8 Must-See Miami Attractions
• 9 Best Beaches in Miami
• 10 Best Restaurants in Miami
• The Best Cheap Eats in Miami
• Where to Find the Best Cuban Food in Miami
• What to Pack for Miami
• What to Wear in Miami

Ashley traveled to Miami Beach courtesy of Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority. Follow all of her travels on Instagram and Twitter.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.