Miami Beach Vibes: Ocean Views, Art Deco & Mojitos

Ever since Will Smith rapped about Miami in the late ‘90s, I knew I wanted to go there. But somehow, life kept getting in the way. Fast forward two decades – I finally made it. My first time in Miami! Cue the excitement… and the realization that Miami and Miami Beach are actually two separate cities. Who knew? Definitely not me!

☀️ Welcome to Paradise – The Palms Hotel

For our stay, we chose The Palms Hotel & Spa – and honestly, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s not exactly a budget option, but it’s absolutely worth the splurge. Located directly on the beach, the hotel combines tropical tranquility with artful luxury.

One of my favorite moments each morning? Enjoying breakfast in the lush tropical garden, surrounded by palm trees and birdsong. From there, it was only a few steps to our private beach access. Waking up to the sound of waves and stepping out onto the sand? A dream come true.

🏖️ Beach Life: Private vs Public

Miami Beach is famous for its beaches – but not all beach experiences are created equal. The private beach at The Palms was peaceful and beautifully maintained. In contrast, the public beaches felt overcrowded, loud, and somewhat chaotic – not quite the serene paradise I had imagined. If you’re after relaxation, I’d definitely opt for a hotel with its own beachfront area.

Ocean Walk & Ocean Drive

One of our favorite routines was strolling along Ocean Walk, a scenic promenade that runs along the beach. It’s a perfect 2-mile stretch for people-watching, morning jogs or late-night wanderings under the palm trees. Eventually, Ocean Walk connects to Ocean Drive, Miami Beach’s most iconic boulevard.

Ocean Drive is pure Art Deco glamour. Lined with pastel-colored buildings, neon lights and vintage charm, it feels like stepping onto a movie set from the 1930s. If you love architecture or retro aesthetics, this street will have your camera working overtime. Many of the buildings are protected landmarks today, including the Colony Hotel, the Park Central, and the Cardozo Hotel (once owned by Gloria Estefan!).

Just one block inland, you’ll find Casa Casuarina, better known as the Versace Mansion. This opulent former home of fashion designer Gianni Versace has now been turned into a luxury hotel and restaurant. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth stopping for a photo – and maybe for a quick daydream about what life must have been like behind those gates.

Of course, Ocean Drive is also all about people-watching. It’s a constant parade of beachgoers, models, influencers, tourists, and locals – all doing their thing. Sit down at one of the many bars or sidewalk cafés and just take it all in. One of our favorite spots was Finnegan’s Way – casual vibes, cold drinks, and great views of the action.

If you’re up for something a little fancier, try The Clevelander for cocktails and live music, or Mango’s Tropical Café for Latin flair, dance shows, and the best mojito I’ve had in a while. For dinner, there’s everything from overpriced tourist menus to hidden gems.

Ocean Drive may be a bit much at times – loud, crowded, a little chaotic. But that’s part of its charm. It’s a place where everyone shows up to be seen, to celebrate life, and to soak in that very specific “only in Miami” feeling.

Tourist Trap Alert

Let’s be honest – Miami Beach has its share of traps. “Happy hour specials” that aren’t so happy, 18–22% service charges sneakily added to your bill, and some serious upcharges on cocktails. My advice:

• ⚠️ Always check your bill before tipping – the service charge is often already included.
• ⚠️ Be cautious with too-good-to-be-true drink deals.
• ⚠️ Ask your hotel or a local for trustworthy spots.

That being said, there’s something magical about sitting on Ocean Drive on a warm evening, cocktail in hand, soaking up the vibrant chaos around you.

It’s not all about South Beach…

While South Beach is undoubtedly the star of the show, there’s more to Miami Beach than neon lights and party vibes. One evening, we decided to escape the crowds and took an Uber to Monty’s Sunset – a laid-back waterfront restaurant located in the charming Miami Beach Marina.

And let me tell you: best decision ever.
The food was delicious (go for the fresh seafood!), the cocktails strong and tasty, and the whole atmosphere incredibly relaxed. We sat at a table with a perfect view of the marina and spent the evening watching the boats and massive cruise ships glide in and out as the sun dipped below the horizon.

It was one of those unexpected highlights – no rushing, no dress code, just great vibes and golden hour magic.

Final Thoughts

Miami Beach isn’t just a destination – it’s a feeling. A place where the ocean breeze blends with the beat of Latin music, where sunrises over the Atlantic feel like magic, and where you’ll catch yourself smiling for no reason at all.

Yes, it can be flashy and a little over-the-top. And yes, it’s not the most budget-friendly getaway. But if you embrace the atmosphere, slow down a little, and find your own rhythm between beach strolls, café stops and mojito moments – Miami Beach becomes one of those places you won’t forget.

Would I go again? Absolutely. For the views, the vibes, and that first sip of iced coffee with sandy feet and salt in the air.