Miami Girls Trip: A Perfect Weekend Getaway Guide
Are you ready to embark on the most fabulous girl’s weekend getaway ever? This Miami girl’s trip guide will leave you sun-kissed and starry-eyed! Known for its dazzling beaches, pulsating nightlife, and a melting pot of cultures, Miami is the perfect destination for a memorable escape with your best friends!
Whether you're looking for some relaxing beach time, a fun shopping spree, a chill art scene, or just want to dance in the clubs until dawn, Miami has it all. From cute cafes and chic boutiques to hidden art gems and electric nightlife, I’m sharing the best things to eat, do, and see for an unforgettable time with the ladies. So pack your favorite swimsuit, gather your besties, and let’s dive into the perfect girl’s weekend in Miami — including where to stay, things to do, best food/drink spots, and more!
When is the best time to visit Miami?
With a year-round warm climate, choosing the perfect time to visit Miami can be hard to figure out. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in to help you choose the best time to visit for your Miami girl’s trip!
November to March - This is the golden age of Miami! The sun shines endlessly, temperatures are perfect for basking on the beach (think 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit), and the crowds are manageable. Imagine sipping mojitos on Ocean Drive with the turquoise ocean as your backdrop. This is also the prime time for diving into the city's cultural scene, from Art Deco tours to Wynwood Walls street art exploration.
March to May - Spring in Miami is synonymous with perfect beach weather. Think sun-kissed skin, crystal-clear waters, and the gentle caress of the ocean breeze. This is the time to unleash your inner mermaid and soak up the sun while building sandcastles or conquering those waves. Just be prepared for the crowds to start picking up pace, as this is a popular time for families and spring breakers.
June to September - Looking for a bargain? Brace yourself for the heat and humidity! June to September is Miami's off-season, which means deals galore on flights and hotels. While the weather might be a bit fiery, the beaches are less crowded, leaving you ample space to spread your towel and build an empire of sand. This is also a great time to explore the Everglades or take a day trip to Key West without breaking the bank.
The best places to stay in Miami for a girl’s trip
Miami's hotel scene offers something for every traveler, ranging from budget-friendly options that provide comfort without breaking the bank to luxurious resorts that offer the ultimate indulgence. Here's a list of Miami's best hotels, categorized from affordable to luxury, to help you find the perfect stay for a weekend girl’s trip!
Affordable hotels in Miami:
The Marseilles Hotel - The Marseilles Hotel is a beachfront art deco establishment that offers a blend of historic charm and contemporary amenities with a unique outdoor pool area. My girlfriends and I stayed here a few years back, honestly, the customer service could have been better, but the grounds are beautiful and we loved that it’s only a few steps from the beach!
Hotel Trouvail - Hotel Trouvail is a contemporary boutique hotel that evokes a Euro-Miami atmosphere. The hotel offers generously sized rooms, a secluded outdoor pool, and a quaint ambiance, enhanced by its proximity to the beach and Miami's vibrant culture and nightlife.
YOTELPAD Miami - YOTELPAD Miami offers a unique blend of modern luxury and efficient design. This innovative hotel boasts high-tech rooms, a state-of-the-art gym, a rooftop pool, and easy access to Miami's famous beaches and nightlife.
The Greystone Hotel - The Greystone Hotel is a boutique adult-only retreat offering a luxurious and sophisticated experience. Its prime location near the beach and the Art Deco Historic District, along with amenities like a rooftop pool, an on-site restaurant, and elegant, eco-friendly rooms, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking both relaxation and vibrant city life.
Luxury hotels in Miami:
The Confidante - The Confidante seamlessly combines the glamour of its historic 1940s art deco architecture with the luxury and comfort of modern amenities. This oceanfront hotel offers guests a relaxing retreat with vibrant mid-century-inspired rooms, direct beach access, a rooftop spa, and two pools, making it an ideal choice for a girl’s weekend getaway!
Loews Miami Beach Hotel - Loews Miami Beach Hotel offers an elegant and sophisticated experience with its stunning oceanfront location. The hotel features luxurious accommodations, a world-class spa, an oceanfront pool, and a variety of dining options, all while being steps away from Miami's renowned nightlife and cultural attractions.
1 Hotel South Beach - 1 Hotel South Beach stands as an epitome of modern luxury on the Miami Beach waterfront, blending eco-conscious design with unparalleled elegance. This hotel offers guests a serene and sophisticated experience, featuring spacious, nature-inspired rooms, a rooftop pool with stunning ocean views, and a selection of fine dining options, all while emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Kimpton EPIC Hotel - This upscale hotel boasts stunning views of the Miami skyline and Biscayne Bay, offering guests a refined experience with its rooftop pool, contemporary rooms, and renowned dining options, all wrapped in a vibrant, art-infused atmosphere.
Fontainebleau Miami Beach - Fontainebleau Miami Beach is an iconic luxury hotel that epitomizes the glamour and sophistication of Miami's golden era. Renowned for its striking architecture, this historic oceanfront resort offers lavish accommodations, a renowned spa, world-class dining, and the famous LIV nightclub, all set against the backdrop of stunning Atlantic Ocean views.
The best things to do and see for a Miami girl’s trip
Miami is an excellent destination for a girl’s trip, offering a wide range of activities and experiences to suit different interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Miami for a weekend getaway with the besties!
Relax at the beach or hit the pool
I think this one goes without saying as it’s the most obvious recommendation for a guide to the best things to do in Miami, but one of the best things to do in Miami is to hit the beach for a day! South Beach is by far the best, but if the beach isn’t your thing, lounge at your hotel pool for some R&R! Staying at a hotel that doesn’t have a pool? Book a day pass at a hotel pool using Resort Pass! Find hotel day passes in Miami here.
Go shopping
Miami offers lots of shops catering to different styles and budgets from high-end fashion, to local boutiques and vibrant markets. Here are some of the best places to go shopping with the girls:
Miami Design District - This is an upscale hub of boutiques, designer stores, galleries, and showrooms covering over 18 blocks. You'll find luxury brands like Dior, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Alexander McQueen, and Alice + Olivia. It's the perfect spot for those ready to splurge on high-end shopping.
Espanola Way - For a more charming and unique shopping experience, Espanola Way offers a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. This area is ideal for finding one-of-a-kind items and enjoying the artistic ambiance of Miami.
Bayside Marketplace - This is a good place to spend a day with a variety of different shops and nice restaurants. It's a great spot to enjoy the atmosphere and find a good mix of branded goods.
Dolphin Mall - Known for its variety, the Dolphin Mall offers a range of shopping options. It's a great place to spend the day browsing through various stores.
Brickell City Center - This magnificent open-air shopping center features upscale stores and restaurants. It's a great place for dining, walking, or just people-watching.
Enjoy a girl’s spa day
Nothing says “girl’s time” like a spa day! Whether you're looking for holistic wellness, luxurious pampering, or a blend of modern and traditional spa therapies, these spas cater to a wide range of preferences:
Eména Spa – Located in Miami's edgy Design District, Eména Spa is a luxury lifestyle wellness spa that offers a blend of modern beauty treatments, time-tested spa therapies, and even non-invasive medical procedures. The spa's interior design reflects the upscale atmosphere of the neighborhood, and it offers a range of services, including organic facials, hot stone massages, body wraps, deep tissue massages, and facial treatments. They also have an innovative membership program offering unlimited access to a wide array of treatments and exclusive privileges.
The Standard Spa - Located in Miami Beach, this spa is known for its holistic approach to wellness, combining mental and physical well-being. It features a minimalist aesthetic and offers a range of traditional and modern spa treatments, yoga and meditation classes, and unique features like a Mud Lounge and hydrotherapy offerings. The serene environment and focus on holistic health make it a standout choice for those seeking a comprehensive wellness experience.
Agua Spa - Situated in the Delano South Beach hotel, Agua Spa is known for its holistic therapies that focus on nourishing the body, mind, and soul. The spa offers a luxurious and relaxing experience with a variety of therapeutic treatments, including facials, massages, body wraps, and acupuncture. Guests can also enjoy signature treatments like the Delano Surrender massage and access to the rooftop infinity pool.
Hit the clubs
Miami's nightlife is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, boasting some of the most exhilarating nightclubs in the world. From luxurious venues with world-class DJs to high-energy dance floors that keep the party going all night, here are the top 5 nightclubs in Miami to get down with your girl crew:
LIV Miami - Located at the Fontainebleau Hotel, LIV is a world-famous nightclub known for its large dance floor, state-of-the-art lighting, and regular appearances by top DJs and celebrities. It's celebrated for its luxurious and high-energy parties.
E11even - Situated in Downtown Miami, E11even is a 24-hour club offering a blend of cabaret and nightclub with dancers, DJs, and performers. It's known for its immersive and extravagant entertainment, including a rooftop restaurant.
Club Space - This iconic club in Miami is known for its rooftop terrace and 24-hour party environment. It's a hotspot for big-name DJs and international acts, making it a go-to destination for serious partygoers.
Story - A larger counterpart to LIV, Story is known for its focus on electronic underground music. It's a trendy venue with a massive space and state-of-the-art sound system, hosting both subversive and mainstream DJs.
Mr. Jones - Located in South Beach, Mr. Jones offers a stylish and trendy nightclub experience with a diverse music policy including hip-hop, R&B, house, and techno. It's a favorite among celebrities and the fashion-forward crowd, providing a glamorous party atmosphere.
Take a food tour
Miami is known for its diverse culinary scene. Join a food tour to explore local flavors, from Cuban to seafood, in neighborhoods like Little Havana or South Beach.
Get on a boat
Grab the girls and get on a boat! See Miami from the water by taking a boat tour or renting a yacht. Cruise around Biscayne Bay, Star Island, and the Miami skyline. I recommend either heading out to sea for a fun day on the water or finding a nice sunset cruise so you and your besties can toast to your friendship while the sun goes down.
Explore the Wynwood Art District
The Wynwood Art District in Miami is a vibrant, dynamic hub that epitomizes the city's thriving creative spirit. Renowned for its colorful street art and graffiti, Wynwood is home to the famous Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum showcasing large-scale works by some of the world's most renowned street artists. This neighborhood, once a collection of warehouses, has been transformed into a canvas for artistic expression, attracting artists, photographers, and visitors from around the globe. The district also boasts an eclectic mix of art galleries, trendy boutiques, quirky cafes, and hip bars, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami is a stunning glimpse into early 20th-century luxury and design. Originally the winter home of industrialist James Deering, it now stands as a national historic landmark, showcasing elaborate Italian Renaissance gardens, a historic village outbuildings complex, and a main house filled with an impressive collection of European furnishings and art. This beautiful estate offers a serene and culturally rich experience, making it a must-visit destination in Miami.
The best places to eat and drink in Miami
Miami's restaurant and bar scene are as diverse and vibrant as the city itself! Here are some of the best places to eat and drink in Miami on your girls trip.
Best restaurants in Miami
I’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants in Miami to eat at from casual to fine dining!
Maxines Bistro & Bar - Maxine's offers a combination of indoor lounge and outdoor sidewalk café seating. This bistro is known for its extensive American menu, live music, and a full bar, making it a popular spot for both dining and people-watching in Miami Beach.
Taco Taco (LOVE ) - Taco Taco is a vibrant restaurant that offers a range of Mexican dishes, including signature tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, and burritos. They serve breakfast all day and feature a menu with a variety of domestic and imported Mexican beers, margaritas, and sangria pitchers.
Cecconi’s Miami - Cecconi's, located in the courtyard of Soho Beach House, is a classic Italian restaurant that is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, with a brunch buffet on weekends. Known for its Venetian-inspired cuisine, Cecconi's offers an elegant and relaxed dining atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a range of expertly prepared Italian dishes.
BÂOLI Miami - This unique venue offers a dining experience that merges South East Asian influences with the elegance of the South of France, creating a sophisticated and modern atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its elevated culinary offerings and vibrant nightlife, featuring innovative cocktails, late-night bites, and lively beats from resident and guest DJs.
Amara at Paraiso - Amara at Paraiso is a quintessential Miami waterfront restaurant that brings together bold Latin American flavors, coastal ingredients, and South Florida’s diverse food culture. Set in an idyllic bayside location, the restaurant offers a vibrant and dynamic dining experience, emphasizing local ingredients and the natural beauty of Biscayne Bay.
Matador Room - Matador Room offers a modern interpretation of Latin cuisine, influenced by Spanish, Caribbean, and South American flavors, combining local, seasonal ingredients in an innovative and distinctive menu. The restaurant, with its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, provides a unique dining experience in Miami Beach.
Best bars in Miami
I’ve rounded up some of the best bars in Miami to grab drinks with the girls. Each of these bars provides a different vibe, from relaxed and cozy to lively and vibrant.
The Tipsy Flamingo (Downtown) - A trendy cocktail bar that's great for music and happy hour. It offers a lively yet comfortable setting, ideal for a night out.
The Wharf Miami (Downtown) - This riverside bar provides great views, a variety of drinks, and numerous food vendors to choose from. It has a dive bar feel with excellent service, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening.
Mama Tried (Downtown) - A cozy, vintage-style bar known for its laid-back vibe, creative cocktails, and live music. This is an ideal place for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
Lost Boy (Downtown) - A trendy bar and lounge offering a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. They have a variety of craft beers and cocktails, making it a great neighborhood hangout spot.
1-800-Lucky (Wynwood) - This is a lively Asian-inspired food hall with indoor/outdoor seating, plenty of food options, and two bars. It's perfect for a more upbeat and dynamic experience.
Miami Sound Bar (Downtown) - This bar is a must-visit for those seeking a great listening experience with excellent cocktails. The intimate interior and talented DJs playing vinyl on high-quality speakers create a fantastic ambiance.
Over Under (Downtown) - Over Under is a unique blend of a dive bar, upscale cocktail bar, and a very good restaurant. It's perfect for a fun night out, offering an excellent food menu, including one of Miami's best burgers.
Gramps (Wynwood) - Gramps is known for its versatility, offering everything from karaoke to live music, killer DJs, and the best drag show in town. It also boasts some of the best cocktails in Wynwood and a fantastic Happy Hour.
Sweet Liberty Drink & Supply Co. (Miami Beach) - Sweet Liberty is renowned for its happy hour, late-night scene, and Sunday brunch. It's a vibrant place that captures the essence of South Beach with its colorful and lively atmosphere.
Best cute cafes & coffee shops in Miami
Miami boasts a variety of aesthetically pleasing, “Instagram-worthy” coffee shops and cafes, perfect for those seeking a visually delightful experience. Here are some of the best cute cafes and coffee shops in Miami to check out for a girls brunch:
Cafe Dior - This cafe epitomizes stylish sophistication with its blend of beachy and vibrant tones, creating a chic atmosphere. It's a popular spot for influencers to capture Instagram-worthy shots, thanks to its stunning design elements, architecture, and perfect natural lighting.
Dreamer (MY FAVE) - Dreamer in Miami is a vibrant and whimsical cafe that offers a tropical oasis in the heart of the city. Known for its Instagram-worthy decor and refreshing smoothie bowls, it's the perfect spot for a health-conscious, visually pleasing dining experience.
Pura Vida - Known as a wellness café, Pura Vida serves tasty and healthy options in an inviting, Instagram-worthy atmosphere. The outdoor patio is adorned with greenery, colorful murals, and twinkling fairy lights, making it ideal for a brunch photoshoot. It also has an upstairs yoga studio for those interested in wellness.
Vice City Bean - This coffee shop is known for its bright and colorful murals, creating a vibrant atmosphere. It offers in-house bakes, a selection of lattes and Americanos, and also provides gluten-free and vegan options.
Under The Mango Tree - Under The Mango Tree in Miami is a charming, nature-inspired cafe that offers a serene escape with its rustic decor and lush greenery. Known for its organic smoothies, acai bowls, and wellness-focused menu, it's a haven for health enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful, rejuvenating dining experience.
I Think She Is (aka ITSI) - I Think She Is is a unique and eclectic cafe that captures the essence of artistic expression through its vibrant, mural-adorned walls and creative ambiance. This spot not only offers a feast for the eyes but also delights its patrons with an array of delicious, thoughtfully crafted coffee and pastries, making it a favorite among both art lovers and coffee aficionados.
The Salty Donut - This unique donut shop offers a playful and lighthearted atmosphere. Known for its fruit-topped donuts and extravagant milkshakes, The Salty Donut provides numerous sweet options for your Instagram feed. The cafe's festive neon sign adds to its charm.
Miami girls weekend trip tips:
Book your reservations in advance - This is especially important for popular hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and spa treatments.
Consider purchasing a Miami CityPASS - This discount pass grants you entry to several top attractions, including Bayside Marketplace, Zoo Miami, and the Pérez Art Museum Miami.
Get a hop-on hop-off bus pass - This is a convenient way to explore the different neighborhoods of Miami and see the city at your own pace.
Rent bikes or scooters - This is a fun and active way to get around the city and explore hidden gems.
Pack light and comfortable clothing - Miami is hot and humid year-round, so pack light and breathable clothes.
Don't forget your sunscreen - You'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun.