miami-city-guide-cityscape-snippet

9 images

Miami City Guide: Where To Stay And What To Do

7 September 2020 • Written by Kelly Sullivan

Miami is a city that really does have something for everyone. From late-night party venues to art exhibitions, yacht shows and a fine foodie scene. It's the ideal city break for superyacht owners looking for something close to the port that offers plenty of glamour, shopping and entertainment to impress every hedonist. With ample space for berthing around the city and easy access to the amenities, it's not hard to see why Miami is such a popular bolt hole for superyacht owners. So whether you’re staying for a weekend city break, Art Basel Miami or the Miami Yacht Show, take some time to make the most of this city by visiting our recommended stops below.

Where to Stay in Miami

Luxury hotels are aplenty in The Magic City, with wholesome views overlooking the Atlantic. If you're looking for some R&R, be sure to read our guide to the best hotel spas in Miami

Nobu Hotel Miami Beach

Occupying the former Eden Roc tower, Nobu has that easily identifiable chicly-understated Japanese aesthetic. Channelling a chic beach house vibe, there's a beautiful wellness suite worth exploring and not to mention the in-house dining. Home to the renowned Nobu restaurant, frequented by celebs, it is the place to go for sashimi and miso black cod.

book now
Loews Miami Beach

Just ten minutes’ drive from Miami Beach Marina (moorings up to 76m), Loews is an Art Deco oasis that deftly balances a laid-back atmosphere with top-drawer facilities and effortless luxury. If you’re going to steal away for a few nights on land, opt for its breathtaking penthouse Presidential Ocean View suite, which takes pride of place within the hotel’s glass-laden spire and boasts panoramic views of the shimmering Atlantic.

book now
Mandarin Oriental

Nestled within the bustling cultural hub of Downtown Miami, The Mandarin Oriental hotel occupies a prime position looking out over South Beach. Featuring tastefully designed suites and rooms and a waterfront hotel, The Mandarin Oriental has lots to offer guests. The hotel’s spa offers luxurious and innovative treatments within easy distance of a number of attractions and superyacht marinas, namely Epic Marina, which is just the other side of the Miami River.  

book now
Fontainebleau

Another popular haunt for famous faces, Fontainebleu offer a luxury reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Miami. With the vast amount of marble, statement chandeliers and bright open spaces, Fontainebleu oozes opulence. For the best views and most lavish accommodation, opt for the Trésor penthouse where you'll wake up to sweeping views over the Atlantic and enjoy your own private rooftop whirlpool. 

The hotel also plays host to Hakkasan and another go-to location for fantastic Japanese food. The dimly lit, dramatic atmosphere has a great vibe, we’d recommend you start with the dim sum platter and go all-in on the grilled Honey Chilean sea bass.  


book now

The Best Bars and Restaurants in Miami

A trip to Gianni's is a must if you can get a seat. Set in the late Gianni Versace's beachside house where he was famously shot in 1997, today the Versace Mansion is one of the chicest restaurants in a beautiful setting. 

We’ve rounded up the best places to eat and drink in Miami in our comprehensive guide here, but to give you a taste of what’s good, we’ve rounded up our top four below.

Casa Tua

Book in advance for lunch at the iconic, family-run Casa Tua, which is less than half a mile from the convention centre, and request a table in its lush garden. Try the truffle fettuccine followed by delicious jumbo prawns as you soak in the hotel-come-members club atmosphere.

book now
Zuma

This London import, Zuma, has set up its first US located in Downtown Miami. Located in Miami’s Epic Hotel, Zuma tempts with its modern take on Japanese fare, a specialised Sake bar and a sensuous atmosphere. The chicken sando on the menu here is a must and if you can save room for dessert, the flourless chocolate will make it all worth it.

book now
Cecconi's

Cecconi’s atrium, located on the first floor of the Soho Beach House, is one of the best places for Hollywood celeb sightings, people watching and soaking up the hippest strata of the art social scene – and you don’t have to be a Soho House member to access it. However, expect crowds trying to cut through the hotel to the VIP Soho Beach Tent on the sand and a long wait at the valet. Go for lunch and enjoy the beautiful steak tartare complete with black truffle and quail egg.

Book now

What to do in Miami

Visit the iconic beaches of Miami including Miami Beach and South Beach, famously a backdrop to a number of movies including Moonlight and Marley & Me. 

Explore the vibrant neighbourhood of Little Havana for some Cuban flair, where you can enjoy a taste of the best Cuban food in the city and spot some seriously talented street are. It's colourful, the streets are filled with the beautiful sound of Latin music and the evenings see salsa dancers take to the streets. 

If shopping is your vice, Miami will be your downfall. It's called Vice City for a reason and the go-to for all your high-end shopping needs is typically Aventura, just off Ocean Drive, home to all those high-end household brands. 

The sandy keys and calm waters of Biscayne National Park are a soul-soothing day trip away from Miami. Cruise south past the otherworldly houses on stilts off Key Biscayne, en route to Biscayne National Park, 15nm south of Miami. With kaleidoscopic waters, thriving marine life and stunning sunsets, a trip to these most northerly keys is a must.

Finally, for some quiet time, visit one of our recommended spas to unwind in paradise.

If you're visiting the city by boat, be sure to read our guide on the best berthing spots here

Sponsored listings