How To Experience The Best Of Miami Beach Through Food, Activities & The Ocean

Lift off! Adrenaline rushed in as we were hoisted into the sky by a massive parachute. Beneath us, we could see through the turquoise blue waters right to the sea bed. To our left was the ocean as far as the eye could see and to our right were pristine views of South Beach.

Parasailing is a thrilling and exhilarating experience that allows you to soar over the ocean like a bird. It is a popular activity in Miami Beach and for good reason. The beautiful beaches, clear waters, and stunning skyline make for a perfect backdrop for parasailing.

With Fly Sobe, you can fly solo or with up to two of your daredevil friends and you will float through the sky for about 8-10 minutes before gently returning back to the boat.

Parasailing has never been on our bucket list, but our first tour with Fly Sobe definitely changed our minds. This was the first time parasailing, but it won’t be our last.

You can’t come to Miami Beach and not take a jet ski out for a spin. Race across the warm waters of Biscayne Bay, zoom past the iconic Art Deco buildings, cruise along the sparkling coastline, and even explore some of the city’s hidden gems.

Jetski tours are a great way to see the city from a different perspective and because you’re on a jetski, you’ll have the freedom to go at your own pace and explore the city however you want.

There are a number of different jetski tour companies to choose from in Miami Beach, but we recommend Bouyah Water Sports. Wyatt, our guide, was so amazing! He took us on a big loop starting in Miami Beach, passing by Flager Memorial Island & the Venitian Islands, around downtown Miami & Brickell, and then ending at the iconic South Pointe.

This was my first time weaving through the waters with a jetski and it definitely won’t be my last. So what are you waiting for? Book your jet ski tour of Miami Beach today and experience the city in a whole new way.

QUICK TIP: You must have a Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card to ride a JetSki. If you don’t have one click here to take the test.

Looking for a unique way to see Miami Beach? Climb aboard the three-seater prop plane and take to the skies with Sky Tours Miami. From sunrise to sunset and even into the night, they bring you the best views of Miami 1000ft above the ground.

This company offers a variety of aerial tours of the city, giving you a bird’s-eye view of all its most famous landmarks. We booked the Experience South Beach tour, to get a glimpse of Miami’s most famous beach from the air. Along the way, we also got the chance to get spectacular aerial views of Miami Downtown, Miami Seaquarium, Miami Seaport, Star Island, and more.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Miami or a longtime resident, a flight with Sky Tours Miami is a great way to see the city in a whole new way.

Come escape the hustle and bustle of the city amidst the tranquility of the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. The Miami Beach Botanical Garden is an intimate 3-acre subtropical oasis of serenity and grace right in the heart of Miami Beach.

Monarch butterflies glide through the flowering trees, colorful orchids pop out from amidst 100 different species of palm trees and koi fish swim effortlessly through the small onsite pond. And the best part is that admission is free to enter the garden!

But don’t underestimate the offerings that can be found here. The garden has so much more to do than just beautiful flora & fauna. Join the weekly Sunday meditation and yoga classes or sign up for Tai Chi on Wednesdays.

You can find a list of their updated offerings by clicking the Find Out More button below.

All the restaurants. All in one place. Alton Food Hall is an upscale food court located in the heart of Miami Beach. It is home to a variety of different food vendors, offering something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal, Alton Food Hall has you covered.

With 20+ partner restaurants, the best part is you don’t have to decide on just one type of cuisine. Grab a spicy tuna roll from Pesqueria Sushi & Ceviche, a grilled veggie panini from a Sandwich Affair, and Mandocas (a Venezuelan donut) from La Empanaderia.

Ordering food is easy. There are a few onsite restaurants to choose from, but if they don’t have what you are looking for, check out the kiosks for even more choices! In the mood for a drink, there is even a full bar called Airmail, so you to order your favorite cocktail or mocktail to enjoy along with your tasty meal.

INSIDER TIP: If you time your experience right, you can even have dinner and a show. Every other Friday Alton Food Hall has Comedy Night from 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm. Fill up on your favorite food & drinks and laugh late into the night. Grab your tickets here. 

Stroll through Española Way and get a little taste of Spain. This hidden gem is a small pedestrian street in Miami Beach inspired by a Spanish village. The road isn’t very long but once the sun sets all of the outdoor restaurants are buzzing and the twinkling string lights strewn throughout really add to its magic.

Choosing where you want to eat is probably the hardest decision you will have to make all night. There is such a diverse collection of restaurants, from Mercato Della Pescheria serving handmade pasta and fresh fish to Paperfish Sushi with its unique interior and tasty rolls.

If you still have room for dessert, grab a cone of gelato to go from Konos and continue your walk down the vibrant street.

Looking for a nightcap? Tropezón is an amazing Andalusian-style gin and tapas bar near the end of Española Way. The interior is such a vibe and the drinks are delicious.

If you are looking for a unique and authentic experience in Miami Beach, then Española Way is the place for you. It is a great place to eat, shop, people-watch, and enjoy the nightlife.

QUICK TIP: There are also two stunning boutique hotels along Española Way that are worth booking: Esme Miami Beach (my personal favorite) as well as Kasa El Paseo. However, since the location is right above the lively Española Way, it can be a bit on the louder side, but that doesn’t matter if you intend on going out and exploring the Miami nightlife yourself. A new EDM club called M2 Miami opened up just around the corner, but make sure to bring ear protection, while the light system and space are incredible the music can be quite loud. 

The Baia Beach Club is a luxurious waterfront oasis and offers more than just a sunchair and a pool for the day. Come for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and enjoy one of the dreamiest waterfront dining experiences in Miami Beach. Located at the Mondrian Hotel, the boho chic design of the whole space is impeccable.

Indulge in authentic Mediterranean cuisine while getting lost in the distant sunset vistas of Downtown Miami. With Greek zucchini fritters, portobello mushroom tacos, and harissa roasted salmon, the menu focuses on healthy ingredients sourced locally for a fresh and quality taste.

We came here for lunch during the week but I would highly recommend making a reservation for Sunday Brunch or for their special wind-down Wednesdays, with $10 wine specials & artisan cheese plates.

QUICK TIP: Be sure to combine your meal with a day at the pool or onsite spa (or both!). Click below to get started.

South Pointe is at the southern tip of Miami Beach and boasts incredible views & beaches. Walk all the way out to the end of the pier and turn around to see the Miami Beach Skyline framed by the white sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean on the right and Biscayne Bay on the left with the skyscrapers of Miami in the distance.

Be sure to bring your beach gear to enjoy some quality time with your toes in the sand. South Pointe Beach is probably the most beautiful stretch of white sandy beach in all of Miami.

After admiring the view and getting some sun, I would recommend grabbing a bite at Smith & Wollensky. They have this amazing outdoor dining area where you can dine right next to the water!

QUICK TIP: Walk down the beach to one of the Art Deco lifeguard stands for an awesome photo opportunity. Each lifeguard stand is painted and designed differently.