When I headed to Miami at the end of January, the realization struck that I had only been to the popular destination once before — and it was for a family day trip. All the Miami bachelorette parties and girls’ weekend getaways you hear about must’ve escaped me in my 32 years of life. This time, I was headed to moderate a panel for groundbreaking fiber brand bio.me as part of a High Performance Lifestyle Training (HPLT) all-women’s summit, so I was focused on work, but I had plenty of time to explore on my last day and during several evenings out — Miami is known for its nightlife, after all.
It’s a well-known fact that the best time to visit Miami is from November to April when you’ll likely experience warm but drier weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. Temperatures were in the 70s during my trip, which is typical for this time of year. Of course, it’s very likely you’ll get a hotter 80-degree beach day, so swimwear and other essentials appropriate for the outdoors should be considered staples in your suitcase. Ahead, I share some Miami travel tips, along with a trustworthy packing list that includes everything I brought with me.
Best Packing Tips For Miami
Since Miami is warm year-round, your wardrobe should include lightweight, breathable fabrics such as linen separates you might even repurpose as a beach coverup. Stylish, breezy dresses or jumpsuits are great for going out, and you might want to travel with a lightweight jacket for cooler nights. Since there are plenty of hot spots to venture to — from galleries and restaurants to bars and clubs — a pair of heels or nice flats would be smart to pack, along with comfortable walking shoes and sandals for the beach. The Miami sun is strong, so SPF is an absolute must, along with sunglasses or a hat to protect your face, plus beauty products that combat humidity.
Where to Stay in Miami
There are many different areas to check out in Miami, but South Beach is best for first-time visitors seeking nightlife options. The architecture is also notable to see as you stroll through the area during the day. I stayed at Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, which is mid-beach and a bit quieter, but still has easy access to the ocean. It’s only about a 15-minute drive to South Beach from here, so I was still able to venture to some of the trendiest restaurants including Mila, which has a lounge that turns into a club-like atmosphere with a DJ after-hours, and Byblos, which is a delicious spot for Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. I also enjoyed Cuban food at a casual, authentic spot, which you’ll find a lot more of in the Little Havana area. Other popular areas include Wynwood, the artsy district with local breweries and small boutiques; Brickell, the financial district that’s a go-to for business travelers; and Coconut Grove, which is waterfront with a historic charm.
