Miami Itinerary
Sun, Style, and the Magic of Miami: A Weekend Getaway to Remember
If you're looking for the perfect mix of sun-soaked relaxation, vibrant culture, and buzzing nightlife, Miami should be at the top of your list. With its iconic Art Deco architecture, turquoise beaches, Latin-influenced cuisine, and electric energy, this coastal city offers something for every traveler. I recently spent a long weekend exploring the best Miami has to offer—and yes, that included an unforgettable day at the legendary Nikki Beach.
See my Miami adventures here: The Honest Passport
Day 1: Welcome to the Magic City
Touching down in Miami, the air already felt warmer—both literally and in spirit. I checked into a boutique hotel in South Beach, where the pastel-colored buildings and vintage vibes made it feel like stepping into a postcard. A stroll along Ocean Drive gave me a taste of the city’s personality: palm-lined sidewalks, classic convertibles, and the aroma of Cuban coffee floating from open cafés.
Dinner that night was at Versailles in Little Havana, an institution serving hearty Cuban fare for over 50 years. I recommend the ropa vieja and a cortadito to round things off. Afterward, we wandered through Calle Ocho, where live music spills out of every doorway and locals dance salsa in the streets.
Day 2: Beach Bliss at Nikki Beach
No visit to Miami is complete without a beach day—and no beach day compares to one at Nikki Beach. Nestled at the southern tip of Ocean Drive, Nikki Beach is more than just a stretch of sand; it’s an experience.
From the moment we arrived, the vibe was effortlessly chic. Think white teepees, plush daybeds, tropical cocktails, and international DJs spinning feel-good tracks. We reserved a beachside cabana (pro tip: book ahead, especially on weekends), and spent the morning lounging, sipping mojitos, and nibbling on sushi rolls and fresh ceviche. The crowd was a fun mix of locals, tourists, and globe-trotting regulars, all soaking up the sun and the scene.
By early afternoon, the music had picked up and the energy shifted into full-on celebration mode. Nikki Beach is known for its Sunday Brunch Party, where gourmet food meets beachside glamour. Whether you’re there to dance, relax, or simply people-watch, it’s a must for any Miami itinerary.
Day 3: Culture and Cool Vibes
After the indulgence of Nikki Beach, I opted for a more laid-back final day. First stop: Wynwood Walls, the open-air art gallery that has transformed a former warehouse district into a canvas for world-renowned street artists. It’s colorful, edgy, and very Instagram-worthy.
Next up: the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) for a dose of contemporary art and a beautiful view of Biscayne Bay. I wrapped up the trip with dinner at Mandolin Aegean Bistro in the Design District—Mediterranean cuisine served in a charming 1940s house turned restaurant.
Final Thoughts
Miami is a city that pulses with life. Whether you're sipping craft cocktails in a rooftop bar, dancing under the stars at Nikki Beach, or exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the energy. If you’re planning your own escape, pack your sunscreen, bring your best beachwear, and get ready for a trip you won’t forget.
Until next time, Miami. 🌴
