If you want to enjoy Miami’s vibrant scene while feeling a bit secluded, skip the tourist trap of staying in famous South Beach. Instead, book an oceanside stay in the upscale area of Mid-Beach, where you can achieve ultimate relaxation in style. In 2022, over 26 million people vacationed south to Miami and Miami Beach. So, it shouldn’t be surprising that the white, sandy beaches here quickly become packed.
Miami Beach is a 9-mile-long barrier island that borders the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This coastal destination is divided into three neighborhoods: North Beach, Mid-Beach, and South Beach. The three main beaches in Miami Beach each have a unique vibe that will appeal to different travelers.
Considered the ideal combination of the touristy South Beach and family-friendly North Beach, Mid-Beach — between 24th and 60th streets of Miami Beach — is a quiet yet posh seaside location. Not only will you be met with a beautiful beachfront, but you’ll be able to check out top-tier art, delicious restaurant cuisines, and a nightlife scene rich with Miami’s culture.
Things to do at Mid-Beach
The neighborhood of Mid-Beach is filled with activities to do and endless ocean views. Unlike in South Beach or North Beach, you’re less likely to have to elbow your way to claim a treasured spot on the pristine sand at Mid-Beach. In addition to lounging on this quiet stretch of sand, you can mosey down the Miami Beach Boardwalk for a casual stroll along Florida’s Atlantic Coast. The boardwalk extends the entire Miami Beach coastline, but the Mid-Beach stretch is around 2 miles long. There are a number of high-end and local storefronts that line the Mid-Beach path.
Beyond the beach, the neighborhood is a hub for art, entertainment, and culturally rich attractions. The Faena District is a defining destination in Mid-Beach, showcasing everything from cutting-edge design and art to live performances at the Faena Theater. Located within the Atlantic Beach Hotel, the Curio at Faena Bazaar is a curated retail center that not only has one-of-a-kind boutiques but also hosts fashion and art exhibits. Speaking of art, The Bass, a world-famous contemporary art museum, is a must-visit.
Foodies can appreciate the neighborhood’s fine dining scene that highlights cuisine from around the globe. Nobu Miami is an iconic restaurant popular among celebrities, offering Japanese and Peruvian fare. For a MICHELIN-recommended meal, make a reservation at the Cantonese-inspired eatery Hakkasan Miami or Hoja Taqueria, which boasts affordable farm-to-table meals.
Staying at Mid-Beach
True to the lavish spirit of Mid-Beach, the neighborhood has numerous swanky hotels that have earned recognition from globe-trotting travelers and architects. Fontainebleau Miami Beach is a dreamy hotel that features bold mid-century architecture that will transport you back to the 1950s. The resort covers 22 acres of Miami Beach and is home to three restaurants, private beachfront pools, a beautiful spa, and even a nightclub.
The Miami Beach EDITION boutique hotel has sleek, modern suites and bungalows that will make you swoon. The 3.5-acre resort offers eccentric amenities, including a bowling alley and ice-skating rink. For a more wallet-friendly accommodation, check out Freehand Miami. The hostel and hotel within an Art Deco-era building have shared and private rooms for booking.
Long before you book a flight to Miami International Airport, planning out your entire Mid-Beach itinerary ahead of time is invaluable. Given its popularity among celebs and top-tier jet setters, restaurant reservations aren’t always available on a whim, and sought-after lodging can quickly be booked for months. Moreover, Mid-Beach is undeniably more expensive than other areas in Miami Beach, requiring visitors to have a healthy vacation budget. If you’re a solo traveler or couple seeking a luxurious beach destination in the Sunshine State, Mid-Beach may just become your new go-to spot.
