Weird, Wild & Wonder of Miami Beach

Amanda Ensinger Freelance Writer

Looking to escape the cold this winter, while enjoying unique adventures in a breathtaking destination? Look no further than Miami Beach, Florida. This tropical wonderland, offers everything from high end hotels to adrenaline racing attractions to mouthwatering cusine sure to leave you wanting more.

Once you visit this Latin infused city, you will be looking for reasons to come back again and again.

Where to Stay

If you want to be in a heart of all the action, while enjoying all the amenities of a resort, look no further than the National Hotel Miami Beach. This luxury boutique hotel is located right on Miami’s South Beach. The art deco beachfront hotel was built by architect Roy France in 1939 and recently refreshed under new ownership. The hotel seamlessly combines the nostalgic spirit of its iconic heritage and culture with modern comfort for a true sanctuary away from home.

The only adult-only hotel in Miami Beach, each of the spacious 137 individual guest rooms and suites feature refreshed interiors with clever nods to the golden age of travel. Cabana rooms offer the addition of private balconies overlooking the hotel’s signature 205-foot infinity-edge swimming pool.

Other than being directly on the ocean, The National Hotel Miami Beach is one block east of Lincoln Road with tons of shopping and dining options, two blocks north of the famed Ocean Drive and respectively 10 and 15 minutes away from bustling downtown Miami and Miami International Airport.

Amenities of the hotel include high speed internet access, onsite fitness facility, pool access, towel service at pools and beach, sunrise to sunset beach access, complimentary beach chairs and yoga classes.

Attractions

Miami Beach has a variety of attractions for all interests. From enjoying a day on breathtaking South Beach to doing some retail therapy, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular attractions in the area are:

• South Beach: Renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and iconic Art Deco architecture. Take a stroll along Ocean Drive, enjoy the beach or visit the Art Deco Historic District.

• Lincoln Road Mall: This pedestrian-friendly street is filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and galleries. It’s a great place to indulge in shopping, people-watching or dining at outdoor patios.

• Collins Avenue: Known for its luxury shops, high-end boutiques and upscale dining options, Collins Avenue is a must-visit destination for shopping enthusiasts and food lovers.

• Miami Beach Boardwalk: Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike along the Miami Beach Boardwalk, which spans several miles along the coastline.

• Miami Design District: Known for its upscale fashion boutiques, art galleries, and design showrooms, explore cutting-edge fashion, discover unique art pieces and indulge in culinary delights.

• Wynwood Walls: If you’re interested in street art and murals, head to the Wynwood Walls neighborhood. It’s a vibrant area filled with colorful murals, art galleries and trendy cafes. Take a stroll through the streets and admire the impressive street art scene

What to Eat and Drink

There is no shortage of culinary delights in Miami Beach. Most of the food and drinks are Spanish-inspired and offer a variety of vibrant flavors sure to please your pallet.

We recommend visiting:

• Mareva 1939: Offering dynamic Spanish cuisine by Chef Sergio Chamizo, featuring a sharing menu selection based on traditional Spanish dishes with a unique twist. Mareva 1939 also brings to your table a diverse selection of organic natural wines along handcrafted cocktails, the perfect pairing to highlight the culinary journey. It was named “2022 Best Spanish Restaurant in Miami” by Miami New Times and awarded the “2023 Diner’s Choice” by OpenTable.

• Rishtedar: The hottest new Indian restaurant in Miami, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indian culture surrounded by colors and lights honoring the traditional aesthetic with an elevated modern twist.

• Martini Bar: This new bar and lounge showcases specialty martini cocktails and the full dinner menu from Mareva 1939. Travel back in time at the Martini Bar with original 1939 decor elements and a unique cocktail selection. The chic and intimate Martini Bar boasts lush booths and low lighting tucked away from the the hotel lobby, allowing guests to indulge in any of the variety of specialty cocktails such as the infamous Pear With Me (Pear vodka, amaretto, lemon, pear syrup, foam bitters) or Hibiscus Beauty (Hibiscus infused vodka, st germain, lemon, ginger syrup, sage). The full cocktail list can be found here.

• Mac’s Club Deuce: Hailed as the best bar in Miami Beach by Anthony Bourdain, this hole in the wall bar is cash only and offers the perfect escape from the Florida heat. Sit with some regulars and hear stories of the history of Miami Beach.

• Aqua Bar & Grill: Enjoy your food and drink by the pool at this pool side grill. Serving up the delectable poolside lunch and cocktails in Miami Beach, its menu features ceviche, tacos, salads, burgers, delicious drinks and more.