Tips on visiting south beach, miami

It's interesting:
"And for those of you who don't know, this special day in the lives of Dave and Sarah also happens to be Chinese New Year! Or, as they call it in China."

Bask in the sunny shores of South Beach, located at the southern tip of Miami Beach, Florida. South Beach encompasses the southernmost section of the main barrier island dividing Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Aside from getting a sun-kissed glow from the beach, get the most out of your vacation by visiting worthwhile spots and soaking in some SoBe culture.

1. Beach

   • Soak up the sun by visiting the famous South Beach from Ocean Drive and Fifth Street to Collins Avenue and 21st. The entrance through the park is located at 1 Washington Avenue, at the southern tip of the area. Lounge and watch cruise ships sail along or rent gear to enjoy water sports like stand-up paddle boarding, boogie boarding and snorkeling. Other park amenities include walking trails and beach volleyball courts.

     Walk straight from your room to the beach by staying in one of the oceanfront accommodations like Miami Beach Resort (miamibeachresortandspa.com), South Beach Marriott (marriott.com) and Royal Palm Hotel (royalpalmmiamibeach.com).

   Peak and Budget Seasons

   • Save money on airfare and hotel fees by visiting South Beach during off-peak seasons. Miami experiences a surge in tourism during winter and fall when visitors want to escape the cold, during which prices also rise. The summer months are the ideal time to go for the best budget deals, but make sure you're well prepared for hot, humid temperatures. Wear sufficient sunscreen and arrive at the beach early to avoid the scorching heat.

   Attractions

   • South Beach has more to offer than white sand beaches- cultural and historical attractions like Jungle Island, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and the Venetian Swimming Pool are also in the area. Jungle Island (jungleisland.com) has animal exhibits, interactive programs, an aviary and a private beach. Tour the Everglades Habitat and walk through a replica of the Florida Everglades, including alligators and other plant and animal life that thrive in the Everglades. Save your money and take the free Jungle Island Express Shuttle from your hotel.

     Vizcaya Museum and Gardens (miamidade.gov/vizcaya) is a National Historic Landmark built in 1916. Stroll along picturesque formal gardens that span 10 acres or participate in events like Moonlight Garden Tours and film series viewing.

   Food

   • Savor food from a South Beach local favorite and a Cuban-style eatery. The Big Pink (mylesrestaurantgroup.com) at 157 Collins Avenue is a bright pink diner that serves dishes on vintage trays in a cafeteria-style setting. The expansive menu includes offerings made from scratch like thick potato chips, spicy ketchup, burger on a brioche bun, multicultural salads, polenta fries and the well-known daily-changing TV dinners served in stainless steel trays.

     Try the authentic Cuban food at David's Café- II (davidscafe.com) located at 1654 Meridian Avenue. This Cuban restaurant has a 24-hour take-out window and an eat-in dining room. Choose from traditional dishes like fried cassava with cilantro dipping sauce, plantain chips and the restaurant's best-selling dish, grilled skirt steak with chimichurri sauce.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Jungle Island, South Beach, South Beach, beach miami, Collins Avenue