Mid Beach Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, experiences, food, and lodging options in Mid Beach, Miami. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide!


Introduction to Mid Beach

Mid Beach is a vibrant neighborhood located in Miami Beach, Miami-Dade County, in Greater Miami, Florida. If you’re looking for a blend of natural beauty, fun activities, and cultural experiences, Mid Beach has it all. With its art deco architecture, gorgeous beaches, and exciting nightlife, it’s a paradise for everyone. This guide is your ultimate resource for planning a memorable trip to Mid Beach.

List of Places to Visit in Mid Beach

There are plenty of things to see and do in Mid Beach. Here’s a list of some of the best attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Wolfsonian-FIU Museum: This art museum showcases decorative and propaganda arts from the 1885 to 1945 period, including collections of modern design, architecture, and art.
  • Miami Beach Botanical Garden: An oasis of natural beauty, botanical gardens displays a wide variety of exotic plants. Visitors can explore multiple gardens, sculptures, and displays.
  • The Holocaust Memorial: A tribute to the memory of the Holocaust victims, this striking monument holds the iconic hand sculpture in tribute to the Jewish victims of the WWII.

Natural Attractions of Mid Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Miami Beach Boardwalk: This boardwalk stretches along the beach and offers a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • South Pointe Park: A perfect place for a picnic or a day out, this park features a kids’ playground, a fishing pier, and plenty of greenery. From here, you can see many marine animals and flocks of migratory birds.
  • Julie Tuttle Causeway: This causeway provides excellent views of Miami Beach’s coastline and a great spot for jogging or sunbathing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mid Beach

Mid Beach is a great destination for adventure lovers. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • The Miami Beach Boardwalk trail: This trail extends over 40 blocks and is perfect for jogging, cycling, or walking.
  • Wolfsonian-Florida International University Museum trail: Visitors can explore the outdoor gardens of the museum, which has exotic gardens and sculptures.
  • South Pointe Park trail: This route features a pleasant view of the city skyline and plenty of entertainment options, including the park and beach.

Best Things to Do in Mid Beach: Activities and Tours

  • Jet Ski Tour of Star Island: Experience the Miami skyline from a unique perspective with a jet ski tour of Star Island.
  • Rent a Bicycle: There are many bike rental spots, so renting a bike is a great way to explore Mid Beach and its environs.
  • Visit Lincoln Road: This pedestrian-only shopping area features gorgeous Spanish architecture and a variety of shops and restaurants, especially at night.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mid Beach

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Mid Beach:

Day Activities
1 Check-in and relax at your hotel
2 Visit the beach and walk along the Miami Beach Boardwalk
3 Tour the Wolfsonian-FIU Museum and Miami Beach Botanical Garden
4 Take a Jet Ski Tour of Star Island
5 Explore South Pointe Park and the Julie Tuttle Causeway.
6 Shop and dine at Lincoln Road Mall
7 Spend your final morning enjoying the sunrise on the beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Mid Beach

Mid Beach is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene reflects that. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Empanadas: These savory stuffed pastries are a popular snack and found globally, including in Miami.
  • Cuban Sandwich: a Miami favorite, this sandwich is packed with layers of pork and cheese.
  • Key Lime Pie: A tart dessert pie with vanilla ice cream that is available at many locations on the beach

Local Beverages

  • Mojito: This classic Cuban cocktail is made with rum, sugar, lime juice, mint, and soda water.
  • Rum Runner: A fruity cocktail with a combination of banana, blackberry, and rum that originated in the Caribbean

Where to Stay in Mid Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Mid Beach, so here are some recommendations:

  • The Confidante Miami Beach: This luxury hotel features mid-century style, a restaurant, spa, pools and private cabanas, and a private beach area.
  • The Freehand Miami Beach: a trendy, budget-friendly hostel featuring a mix of private and shared rooms, a pool, and a great bar.
  • Casa Boutique Hotel: A charming guesthouse with a tranquil space, perfect for those looking for a peaceful stay.

What to Buy in Mid Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the most popular souvenirs available in Mid Beach include postcards, Cuban cigars, sunscreen, and beachwear. For visitors who want a taste of Miami, Cuban coffee, and chocolate are great options.

Local Culture and Customs of Mid Beach

In general, Mid Beach has a diverse and accepting culture. The atmosphere is laid-back, and locals are welcoming to visitors.

Best Time to Visit Mid Beach

Mid Beach is an excellent destination for year-round visitors, but the optimal time to visit is from November to May. During this time, the weather is mild, and the risk of tropical storm and hurricane decreases.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mid Beach

Here are some important tips for visitors:

Do:

  • Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated
  • Be respectful of the cultural diversity of the area
  • Try out outdoor activities such as paddleboarding or kayaking

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach
  • Damage local flora
  • Wear thong-style swimsuits at public beaches

Safety and Health

When visiting Mid Beach, some general safety tips to keep in mind include being aware of your surroundings, locking your car, and storing valuables safely. In terms of health, stay hydrated during hot weather and act promptly if you experience any heat-related issues. If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to apply sunscreen regularly, as the sun can be intense.

Getting to Mid Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mid Beach is accessible by multiple modes of transportation, so here are some options:

Airports Near Mid Beach

  • Miami International Airport (MIA): This airport is located nearly 12 miles from Mid Beach.

Bus Stations Near Mid Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located around 6 miles from Mid Beach, it takes a 15-minute drive to reach the beach.

Other Options

  • Car rentals: There are many car rental services nearby the Miami Beach area.
  • Ride sharing services: Uber and Lyft are available in Miami/Beach area and are the most affordable way of getting around.

How to Get Around in Mid Beach

Mid Beach is bike and pedestrian-friendly, so renting a bike is one of the best ways to explore. Additionally, rental services for golf carts and bicycles are also available. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also great options for visitors.

Where to Go Next from Mid Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mid Beach is close to several famous tourist cities, so here are some recommendations:

  • Miami Beach: The beautiful neighborhood is full of art deco architecture, top-rated restaurants, and sun-kissed beaches and is only a few miles away.
  • South Beach: The quintessential Miami experience, South Beach has colorful Art Deco buildings, fantastic hotels, and stunning beaches.
  • Key West: This stunning island destination is around three hours away and is known for its tranquil atmosphere, watersports, and vibrant nightlife.

Conclusion

Mid Beach in Miami Beach, Miami-Dade County, in Greater Miami, in Florida, in United States of America is the perfect destination for visitors of all ages. With its fascinating culture, outdoor adventures, delicious cuisines, and stunning views, Mid Beach is a must-visit. Using this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip and have a fantastic adventure.