TPG’s definitive guide to Miami and South Florida

Miami has drawn travelers from around the world for many years.

The city’s main attractions include its beautiful beaches and the fantastic weather for which both Miami and Florida are famous. However, beneath the surface, Miami boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a rich culture, a booming food and nightlife scene, numerous art venues, and much more.

As the largest and most economically significant city in the area, Miami is also part of a broader region called South Florida, which unofficially spans from Palm Beach County to the Florida Keys and includes cities such as Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, South Florida quickly became a popular destination for Americans looking to escape colder climates. The state’s more lenient pandemic measures, coupled with its consistently pleasant weather, led to a surge of visitors and even permanent relocations from densely populated cities with stricter restrictions.

It’s clear why this region appeals to many: there’s something for every type of traveler, from the golf courses and colorful waterfront mansions of Palm Beach to the lively sports bars in Fort Lauderdale and the vibrant cafecitos, mojitos, and nightlife of Miami.

Here’s what you should know to plan your trip to South Florida.

Best times to visit South Florida

Generally, the ideal time to visit South Florida is from November to May, after the hurricane season and before the heat and humidity become overwhelming.

The winter months—December, January, and February—are the busiest, meaning you'll likely face higher prices for both accommodations and flights. March, April, and May tend to be slower (though this year, Miami Beach was practically swamped with spring breakers), so you might find better rates on hotels or vacation rentals, with equally pleasant weather.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, and while summer visits are possible, be prepared for high heat and humidity, along with the risk of storms. If you choose to travel during this period and have made significant financial commitments, consider purchasing trip insurance that covers named hurricanes. For more flexibility in case of adverse weather, opt for a policy with a cancel-for-any-reason add-on.

Getting to South Florida

Reaching South Florida is straightforward from many locations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and beyond. The region boasts two of the nation's busiest airports: Miami International (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL). North of Fort Lauderdale is West Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), which, while smaller, remains well-connected to many U.S. carriers' hub airports.

Miami serves as a major hub for American Airlines, offering nonstop flights from numerous cities across the country. If your city doesn't have a direct connection to Miami, there’s a good chance you can fly into Fort Lauderdale, which is a key base for Spirit Airlines.

All three airports can be utilized for travel to South Florida, though the best choice will depend on various factors such as your final destination, cost, timing, and more. When exploring options on Google Flights, you can enter each airport as a potential destination to see all available flights and pricing.

While this is Dinogo, prices for flights to the region are generally affordable enough that purchasing tickets outright is often more sensible than redeeming miles.

Where to stay in South Florida

Given the vastness of the region, there are predictably countless accommodation options. Complicating matters, the area features some of the finest hotels and resorts in the country.

Although there are many beach communities along the southeastern coast of Florida, we will focus on accommodation options that can be booked with points in the three main areas: Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami.

Palm Beach accommodations

• The Ben, Autograph Collection: Starting at 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.
• Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort and Spa: Starting at 70,000 Marriott points.
• Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown: Starting at 70,000 Hilton Honors points.
• Hilton West Palm Beach: Starting at 60,000 Hilton Honors points.

Fort Lauderdale accommodations

• Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton: Starting at 70,000 Hilton Honors points.
• The Dalmar Fort Lauderdale, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: Starting at 30,000 Marriott points.
• W Fort Lauderdale: Starting at 40,000 Marriott points.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale: Starting at 50,000 Marriott points.
• The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort: Starting at 30,000 Marriott points.
• Hollywood Beach Marriott: Starting at 40,000 Marriott points.
• Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale: 15,000 World of Hyatt points.
• Kimpton Goodland Fort Lauderdale Beach: Starting at 25,000 IHG points.

Miami accommodations

• The Gabriel Miami, Curio Collection by Hilton: Starting at 15,000 Hilton Honors points.
• Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach: Starting at 82,000 Hilton Honors points.
• Gale South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton: Starting at 63,000 Hilton Honors points.
• Hilton Cabana Miami Beach: Starting at 62,000 Hilton Honors points.
• Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach: Starting at 29,000 IHG points.
• Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel: Starting at 28,000 IHG points.
• Kimpton Angler's Hotel South Beach: Starting at 25,000 IHG points.
• Kimpton Epic Hotel: Starting at 38,000 IHG points.
• Hotel Indigo Miami Brickell: Starting at 27,000 IHG points.
• Hyatt Centric Brickell Miami: 20,000 World of Hyatt points.
• Hyatt Centric South Beach Miami: 20,000 World of Hyatt points.
• The Confidante Miami Beach: 15,000 World of Hyatt points.
• Lennox Miami Beach: 25,000 World of Hyatt points.
• The Plymouth South Beach: 20,000 World of Hyatt points.
• W Miami: Starting at 40,000 Marriott points.
• JW Marriott Marquis Miami: Starting at 40,000 Marriott points.
• AC Hotel Miami Midtown: Starting at 20,000 Marriott points.
• The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove, Miami: Starting at 40,000 Marriott points.
• Marriott Stanton South Beach: Starting at 50,000 Marriott points.
• Moxy Miami South Beach: Starting at 30,000 Marriott points.
• Royal Palm South Beach Miami, a Tribute Portfolio Resort: Starting at 40,000 Marriott points.
• The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach: Starting at 70,000 Marriott points.
• W South Beach: Starting at 70,000 Marriott points.
• The Miami Beach Edition: Starting at 70,000 Marriott points.
• The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami: Starting at 50,000 Marriott points.
• Cadillac Hotel and Beach Club, Autograph Collection: Starting at 40,000 Marriott points.
• The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort: Starting at 70,000 Marriott points.
• The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami: Starting at 70,000 Marriott points.
• JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort and Spa: Starting at 40,000 Marriott points.

Things to see and do in South Florida

While relaxing on the beach is certainly enjoyable, there's a wealth of activities to explore beyond the shoreline in South Florida. Each region boasts its own unique museums and cultural venues, yet you'll find some recurring themes throughout.

Golfing

Golfing is taken very seriously here, with South Florida featuring countless courses that offer plenty of chances to refine your skills while you visit.

The Everglades

If you're looking to escape the hustle of the city, the beach, or the pool, venture into the Everglades, a vast expanse of tropical wetlands located at Florida's southernmost point. You can explore this natural wonder on foot, by bike, or even on an airboat, and be awed by the rich wildlife that thrives here. Hundreds of animal species inhabit the Everglades, making it a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Museums

When you're back in the city, there's no shortage of activities to engage you, regardless of your location in South Florida. Immerse yourself in culture by visiting one (or several) of the many museums in the region, such as the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or the Perez Art Museum in Miami. Alternatively, you can travel back to the Gilded Age at the Flagler Museum, named after oil magnate Henry Morrison Flagler, who lived in Palm Beach.

Little Havana

If you find yourself in Miami, its suburbs, or Fort Lauderdale, be sure to explore the vibrant Little Havana neighborhood. This area proudly showcases its rich Cuban culture and the incredible culinary traditions that accompany it.

Wynwood Walls

A trip to Miami wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Wynwood Walls, an iconic showcase of public art that emerged as the neighborhood transitioned from a collection of abandoned warehouses to one of the city's most fashionable areas.

Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District

While in downtown Fort Lauderdale, make sure to take a leisurely walk along the Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District. This scenic pathway stretches for 22 blocks and features some of the region's premier venues, including the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and the Florida Grand Opera, alongside the charming shops and eateries of Las Olas Boulevard.

Final thoughts

South Florida stands out as one of the most appealing destinations in the country, offering a delightful blend of vibrant city life and relaxing beach atmospheres. Whether you're eager to play golf in Palm Beach or dance the night away in the clubs of Fort Lauderdale and Miami, this region has something for everyone.

Fortunately, if your dream getaway involves lounging by the pool or beach while being pampered, you'll find some of the finest hotels in the nation here, ensuring you leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the world again.