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June 4, 2013 48 Comments

Sightseeing in South Beach | Miami Beach, Florida

South Beach is one place in the United States where I literally feel as though I’m in another country, in other words, there is such a major Latin influence here that you may almost forget that you are still in the United States.  Being a lover of all things Latin, I absolutely love the vibe in Miami.  Beautiful palm trees, inviting beaches, gorgeous Latin men, shopping & strolling on Lincoln Road, kickass nightlife, and authentic Cuban food are among some of the highlights of my trip to South Beach. 

Contrary to popular belief, South Beach is NOT all about skinny women parading around in skimpy bikinis, in fact I happened to see a significant amount of locals who were full-figured while walking on Ocean Drive and Collins Ave, and these women walk around with the utmost confidence which I love.  Having said that, if you are staying in a non-family friendly hotel, you will see those skinny women parading around in skimpy bikinis, quite a few of them are part of the hotel staff while the rest of them are tourists.  In comparison to life in and around New York City, the pace in Miami is much slower.  While walking along Lincoln Road, I observed quite a few people walking painfully slow.  It certainly is refreshing to see the locals/tourists taking a leisurely stroll, but this was like OMG SLOW as I found myself overtaking small crowds.  In terms of cost, South Beach is very expensive!  Drinks at any major hotel bar will run you about $16 to $20, and they will include an additional 18% to 20% in tip.  In South Beach, you don’t just tip “whatever you want” at the bar… nope!  The prices here are very comparable to New York City, however I have yet to pay $20 bucks for a drink in NYC! 

While visiting South Beach, if you are looking for a overall fun experience that includes nightlife and easy beach access, I highly recommend staying on Ocean Drive or Collins Ave which are right along the beach.  Additionally, definitely check out the famous Delano for a drink at sunset, and look your best because a strict dress code is highly enforced.  For a quieter experience however, head over to the west side and find a hotel along the bay or in Miami Downtown.  Overall, I had a really fun time hanging with friends, clubbing, and enjoying some fabulous meals.  Just like New York City, Miami is one US city that will have me coming back for their mouthwatering food and vibrant nightlife, and the best part is, it is only a short 2 hour flight.
sights
Recommended Days:
at least 3 nights.

Main Streets:
Ocean Drive – dining & near the ocean
Collins Ave – dining & clubbing
Lincoln Road – shopping
Espanola Way – historic Spanish Village
Washington Ave – shopping & clubbing



Here is a 4 day recap of our South Beach getaway…
Morning city view from our room!  Although there were rain predictions, I got super lucky with the weather.

A delicious Continental Breakfast at our hotel, simple and elegant.  Yes, I actually ate fruit in the morning. 

Our first day, succulent afternoon drinks by the pool, delicious, but pricy… a once in a while thang. 

Gorgeous private cabanas that appeared to me as very Moroccan inspired at the Mondrian where we stayed (details coming soon).

The pool scene… I’m glad there was eye candy for the women too and not just the men, haha!6968_10151454001146186_544185207_n

And since I just came back from a vacation, I’ll share a few pictures of myself since I usually never do.  This is me hanging by the pool… I’m always so happy being around water and on vacation.

Strolling on Ocean Drive.ocean drive

The Beach makes me happy, however I found the Miami Beach waters to be rough, not very shallow, and it contained a lot of seaweed.  As someone who can’t swim I didn’t go in, for now I’ll just have to stick to the calm Caribbean waters. 

My feet in the sand, classic me.

First Cuban meal at Puerto Sagua… Camarones de Enchilados… I love shrimp in Creole sauce!miami 125

Lovely city view from our room during twilight.

First night out!  I love pairing a white linen blazer with short shorts, so chic, and Miami! 

Strolling on the immaculately clean Lincoln Road… so relaxing and pretty.

I absolutely loved this Van Dyke Café building on Lincoln Road, it reminded of the architecture in Barcelona.

Lunching near the lovely Espanola Way, I fell in love with this street which looks like a Spanish Village, just lovely and somewhat European.

Lounging & Clubbing at the romantic Delano.  Love the sheer curtains.  If you ever visit Miami, you have to stop at the Delano for a drink, or at the very least just to scope it out, it is gorgeous! 

The night we had the most amazing drinks at the Delano also marked my late brother-in-law’s 8 month death anniversary, we all partied it up and celebrated his life because that is what he would have wanted us to do.  We also requested the Punjabi MC song “Beware of the Boys” featuring Jay-Z in his memory.  Being that he was such a crazy party animal, he would have loved it!

After a night of “too much fun” and a hangover later, all I wanted was coffee, bread, and an Advil.  It’s pretty sad that I ordered “bread” for Room Service, but the simplest things in life bring so much pleasure once you sober up.  At this point I can’t even look at alcohol. 

I think this may just be the BEST Mac & Cheese I’ve ever had, insanely delicious at Yardbird.

Meeting up with my blogger friend, Parita (myInnerShakti), at her favorite Gelato place, 4D.  As I was talking to Parita, I totally felt as though I’ve known her for a while, and this is probably due to the fact that I’ve been reading her blog for a couple years now.  It was so fun and nice to finally meet you, Parita, and I hope you visit the New York area soon.

Watching a gorgeous sunset while we talked and hung out by the pool.

The swanky Fontainebleau Hotel, I have my eye on this hotel for my next visit. 

Dinner at Hakkasan in the Fontainebleau Hotel, gorgeous restaurant, but so overrated.

Our last meal in Miami at Havana 1957, a restaurant with so much charm, character, and amazing Cuban food, absolutely adore places like that. 

Flying over Miami Beach.  This was such a horrible flight and a bumpy journey due to the storms in the Midwest.  When we landed, I started clapping {I SWEAR}, and everyone else followed.  Every pilot deserves an applaud for getting us home safe and sound regardless of weather conditions.  These guys are our true heroes, along with all those who risk their lives every single day to keep all of us safe.  Thank You!

More coming on South Beach… meals, drinks, and lodging!  Stay tuned!

TELL ME: Have you been to Miami?  What are some of your favorite sights or things to do?



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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Akila says

    June 4, 2013 at 6:01 AM

    Hope u enjoyed gr8ly…. Nice to see ur pictures

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:08 PM

      Akila – I did..thanks.

      Reply
  2. Parita says

    June 4, 2013 at 1:16 PM

    So glad y'all had an awesome time…and that the weather cooperated! I'm also so happy that we finally got to meet! It really was like meeting an old friend. 🙂

    And I can't wait to try some of the restaurants you mentioned, esp. the Delano!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:09 PM

      Thanks Parita.. we got so lucky with the weather. It really was like meeting an old friend.. it was nice to meet you too. Def visit the Delano for a drink, but OMG I LOVE the Cuban food in Miami, you're so lucky, I'd be there every single day!

      Reply
  3. Bianca @ Confessions of a Chocoholic says

    June 4, 2013 at 3:33 PM

    I love that white blazer! I've never been to Miami but definitely want to go someday!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:09 PM

      Thanks Bianca.. you would love Miami, it is your kinda place. Just so fun!

      Reply
  4. Ashley says

    June 4, 2013 at 7:27 PM

    You look stunning in those shorts and white blazer, you really need to be able to pull that off nicely and you do. Classy, chic, and sexy at the same time. You are very pretty!!!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:10 PM

      Awww.. thanks Ashley. That's really sweet of you, I was a bit hesitant to wear the short shorts, but whatever, it's now or never, right?

      Reply
  5. Karen (Back Road Journal) says

    June 4, 2013 at 7:59 PM

    I lived in the Miami area (Coral Gables) for years and you did a good job of capturing the feel in your post.

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:10 PM

      Thanks Karen.. coming from a fellow Miamian, I really appreciate that!

      Reply
  6. Mr. & Mrs. P says

    June 4, 2013 at 8:49 PM

    Glad you enjoyed our hometown!!!! We actually have been wanting to go to Hakkasan for dim sum… =(

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:11 PM

      Thanks Mr & Mrs P.. I thought Hakkasan was a bit overrated, but it's good for drinks and apps, definitely NOT dinner. Will do a post early next week.

      Reply
  7. Anonymous says

    June 4, 2013 at 9:59 PM

    Wow, it's amazing how you were able to do so much and do great venues in such a short period of time in South Beach. I would love to go to Miami and be able to capture the same experience you had. The food and drinks look amazing. I'm glad that you were able to celebrate your brother in law's vibrant memory in Miami. JC

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:12 PM

      Thanks JC!!! I would love to do Miami again with you, I think it's my spot in the USA…lol. I wanna go there every winter to getaway from the cold. Yup, we celebrated Atul's life.

      Reply
  8. Ameena says

    June 5, 2013 at 3:44 AM

    I haven't been to Miami in ages…looks beautiful. $20 for a drink! That's insane. I can't even imagine how much you enjoyed those drinks. 🙂

    I've been wanting to try Hakkasan…so it's overrated?

    Great pictures of you…love the white shorts.

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:14 PM

      You would love it, aside from the humidity. 🙂 I know, $20 for a drink is so high, I'm glad I'm a cheap drunk, all it takes is 2 drinks. 🙂
      Hakkasan is overrated, but good for dinner and drinks.. will do a post. It's gorgeous though.
      THANKS!

      Reply
  9. Ameena says

    June 5, 2013 at 3:45 AM

    Obviously I mean white blazer…sorry. I need to focus!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:14 PM

      Are you sure you didn't drink? Just kidding.
      I know what you mean. Thanks!

      Reply
  10. Khushboo says

    June 5, 2013 at 4:06 AM

    Loved visiting Miami vicariously through you- your trip looks like such a blast and you are look uber chic, especially in the Zara dress! I didn't realise Hakkasan is in Miami- it really is all over the world! The one in Mumbai is super overrated, and overpriced..in my ever so humble opinion ;)!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:15 PM

      Aww.. thanks K! Don't live vicariously, come visit.. forget London. 🙂 Hakkasan just opened up in Vegas too, it closed in NYC, not sure if the one in Mumbai is part of the same chain. It's in London too.

      Reply
  11. B Dav says

    June 5, 2013 at 1:43 AM

    South Beach is my FAVORITE spot in the US! I try to go as often as I can, and I have been to many of the places you have listed.
    When I went the first time, I stayed at Fountainbleu but it was undergoing construction – but that was in 2006. I definitely agree with your recommendation to stay on Ocean. Fountainbleu was so far out!
    The last time I went I rented a condo on Ocean and it was to die for!
    Your pictures are amazing and really do give off the vibe I get when I go visit.

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:13 PM

      B Dav – South Beach is a lot of fun. The Fountainbleau looks so hot, but I'm not sure I'd stay there given that it's so far from the action, agreed! What condo did you stay at? Will check out your site.

      Reply
  12. Pam says

    June 5, 2013 at 3:24 PM

    Looks like fun! I've never been to Florida before.

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:16 PM

      Florida is like vacationland in the US… definitely worth a visit.

      Reply
  13. Georgia | The Comfort of Cooking says

    June 5, 2013 at 6:01 PM

    So gorgeous! I wish I was there now!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:16 PM

      I know.. me too. 🙁

      Reply
  14. Natalie G says

    June 6, 2013 at 1:13 AM

    Great pictures and eats! I have been to South Beach once and loved it!!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:17 PM

      This was my second time, and I love it even more. Such a fun place.

      Reply
  15. Kiran @ KiranTarun.com says

    June 6, 2013 at 3:17 AM

    Pretty ladies! So nice to meet blog friends in real life. And I can't wait to try Delano's — you made it tempting!

    ps: totally relate to your sigh of relief upon touch-down. A moment of appreciation is always great 🙂

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:18 PM

      Thanks Kiran. You're only 3 hours from Miami, you should definitely drop by the Delano for a drink, but don't drive back. 🙂
      It was such a rough flight, I was scared, and there was a woman not too far from me crying. The only thing that kept me going was it was daytime, I don't know, I think less drama happens during the day.

      Reply
  16. Joanne says

    June 6, 2013 at 12:05 PM

    Have to admit, I do love the confidence that girls seem to have in South Beach to just walk around, proud of who they are, no matter their shape!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:19 PM

      Right! Some of these girls walk around like they own it, and they are overweight too, I love that! I wish everyone, every size could be that way, just OWN IT!

      Reply
  17. blueskydaze says

    June 6, 2013 at 12:11 PM

    Gorgeous pictures, the view from your room is amazing!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:19 PM

      Thanks.. appreciate it, I wanted a bay view, but I got stuck with a city. Oh well.

      Reply
  18. Anne ~ Uni Homemaker says

    June 6, 2013 at 7:04 PM

    I passed through Miami when I was taking a Carribean cruise out of there. Stayed in South Beach for a couple of days. It's quite the vibrant night life! Sounds like you had a fantastic time Honey! 🙂

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 6, 2013 at 8:19 PM

      Anne – isn't it? I love it.. thanks.. I did have a fantastic time. 🙂

      Reply
  19. Ashley says

    June 7, 2013 at 2:06 AM

    Miami is such a fun city! Heading there next weekend for a bachelorette bash and I'm ready for the sun and sand!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 7, 2013 at 2:27 AM

      Ashley, it is a fun city. Bach Parties are the best… hope you check out the rest of the posts on where to eat/drink. 🙂

      Reply
  20. Real College Student of Atlanta says

    June 7, 2013 at 3:04 AM

    This is such a fun city to party in and explore – great review!!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 7, 2013 at 3:19 AM

      Thanks. Appreciate it.. yes indeed, very fun city!

      Reply
  21. Eva @ Eva Bakes says

    June 7, 2013 at 12:30 PM

    Puerto Sagua is one of my favorite restaurants in Miami! We went last fall and had a blast. We also enjoyed a hole-in-the-wall place called Cafe Charlotte. Can't wait to go back someday!

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 7, 2013 at 10:59 PM

      OMG Eva… Puerto Sagua was my favorite restaurant there… weren't the tostones awesome? I read up about Cafe Charlotte, but didn't venture out since we were staying on West Ave. Great picks. 🙂

      Reply
  22. Peter Wilson says

    June 8, 2013 at 5:39 PM

    Hi! I'm glad you had a great time down in Miami. As one of SoBe's advocates, I love hearing about other people's experiences in the city I call home whether they be first timers or regular visitors (am not sure as to which one you are but no matter). Eye candy for men and women and everything in between, great scenery, awesome nightlife, and semi-pricey-ness indeed encapsulate what is Miami but from what I hear time and time again, it is all worth it. =D

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 10, 2013 at 2:36 AM

      Thanks Peter.. this was my 3rd time in Miami.. and I loved it even more than the first two times. It is all worth it… it's a vacationland, and it's become one of my favorite US cities. Thanks!

      Reply
  23. Amelia Grace Kumar says

    June 9, 2013 at 4:37 AM

    South Beach Florida looks very inviting. Its actually somewhere my husband want to move to one day (not visit, move to!)You look smokin in that pic!!
    Happy holidays 🙂

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 10, 2013 at 2:38 AM

      Amelia – It's definitely a great place to move to, I think, the humidity is something else though. Thanks girl… you're so sweet, I love dressing up when on vaca! 🙂

      Reply
  24. Ellien Doven says

    June 18, 2013 at 5:44 AM

    Hello,

    Wow!! lovely items are there. In Miami food items are very attractive & tasty. The way its garnishing it just Wow! That's Why Miami is best evergreen tourist place. So Attractions in Miami means to attracted for Miami. Thanks..

    Reply
    • honeywhatscooking says

      June 19, 2013 at 4:03 AM

      Thanks Ellien. The food was amazing in Miami.

      Reply

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Heaven in a bowl. I can’t tell you how easy it i Heaven in a bowl. I can’t tell you how easy it is to make TOFU THAI RED CURRY - even if you can’t find kaffir lime leaves. There is no ginger and garlic in this recipe, and there is no need to sauté the veggies. Simply add raw veggies to a simmering coconut gravy and cook the veggies for a few minutes. Flavor the sauce and garnish. Tofu Thai Red Curry is a classic and is the perfect combo of sweet, spicy, and salty flavors. ⁠
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