Your guideline to the perfect spring break weekend in Miami without getting broken up with (again).
By now, we’ve all seen the PSA that the city of Miami Beach posted in the first week of March, laying down stricter regulations for any spring breakers heading their way. While the video certainly tries to make a point (and oh, how it tries with its dire warnings this year), Miami Beach isn’t the be-all and end-all. As a visitor, your experience won’t be diminished without it. Breakups are tough, but what comes next is the real game-changer: leveling up and becoming better. It’s time for you to evolve and assimilate like a local. To beach, eat, and hang just as we do.
The key points are as followed:
By federal law, you MUST grab a pub sub at Publix, snacks, and plenty of hydration on your way to the beach—the beach being the beautiful isles of Key Biscayne and Virginia Key. Across both islands, you’ll find a variety of beaches to explore. I personally recommend Virginia Key Beach for those seeking a more secluded, nature-filled experience. Then there’s Crandon Park, which offers plenty of restrooms, grill setups, places to play beach volleyball, and a more classic “beach” setup. It’s the perfect way to enjoy what Miami has to offer.
The beach is made for the weekdays, that’s when you get them to yourself.
The hordes of families and excessive tourists are plotting for the weekend instead, leaving the weekdays—Monday through Friday—as your prime time to shine. However, choose your arrival and departure times wisely; if not chosen carefully, you’ll find yourself stuck in what is famously known as Miami’s Daily Traffic. The journey to the beach, time spent there, and the trek back is an entire day’s affair, so it’s wise not to plan anything else until later in the evening, past 8 p.m. This way, you’ll have ample time to soak in the sun and the scene without rushing through your day.
Finding daytime activities in Miami, aside from beach bumming, often requires a readiness for some half-planned spontaneity. Forget the usual suspects like Wynwood Walls or Brickell City Center. Instead, stay updated by following Miami-based activity and event social media pages that post frequently. This will help you discover what’s most suitable for your and your group’s needs. Platforms like Eventbrite are goldmines for a plethora of free activities posted daily by individuals or local businesses looking to build community and brand awareness.
What follows are pairings that can only be described as perfect: a daily recommendation of an eatery coupled with a nightlife spot worth checking out. Let’s leave Lincoln Road and LIV behind and explore these options instead.
Friday
Cafe Versailles | 3555 SW 8th St, Miami
If you’ve seen the film “Chef,” directed by and starring Jon Favreau, then you probably remember this famous Cuban establishment as the restaurant that reinvigorated the main character’s passion for cooking. Versailles has been serving authentic Cuban cuisine since 1971 and boasts a rich history, serving as a cultural hub for Cubans to gather and protest events happening on the island. The food is exceptional, and the atmosphere transports you to a different era, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart of Cuban culture in Miami.
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To Dance Or Not To Dance
Coyo Taco – Wynwood | 2320 NW 2nd Ave, Miami
The perfect spot, whether you want a bite or want to catch a wine, pop through for some tacos and stick around for the speakeasy that you can access through the “Employees Only” door. Equipped with a full bar and a different DJ every night, usually mixing every type of sound imaginable, with a little something for everyone.
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Lost Boy Dry Goods | 157 E Flagler St, Miami
With the most perfect location in Downtown Miami, if you’re looking to have a more casual night (that’ll last till 3 a.m.) with a group, check out Lost Boy. With a pool table and other bars to hop around to, all within a short walking distance, it’s an easy night out without the planning.
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Saturday
Ohho Noodles Market | 1100 S Dixie Hwy, Miami
This shop is a little more south, but I promise it’s worth it to get the boba with covers that always seem to match every individual’s personality perfectly. This small, welcoming restaurant across Ponce De Leon Middle is one of the best Noodle Spots in Miami, with a wide selection of other dishes if soups and noodles just aren’t for you (including vegetarian options). With the large portions I’m sure you’ll forget you had to drive to Coral Gables.
To Dance Or Not To Dance
ZeyZey Miami | 353 NE 61st St, Miami, FL
ZeyZey’s two-section venue is a refreshing experience in Little River, with an outside stage usually featuring live performances and a DJ inside. With any kind of music imaginable`, they’ve had and will have. Most days are ticketed, usually for $10-$20, so make sure to scout them out ahead of time before coming. But it’s all worth it once you’re inside.
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The Shrine at Red Rooster’s Pool Hall | 920 NW 2nd Ave, Miami
We love Benito, but… tired of hearing Bad Bunny when you’re out? Red Rooster’s vibrant vibe will make you feel like you’re anywhere but Miami. From afrobeats, kompa, soca, to dancehall, they’ve got it all; you’ll be entertained all night. It gets pretty packed quickly, so arrive early if you can to avoid the line and cover.
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Sunday
Farinelli 1937 | 3197 Commodore Plaza, Miami
Italian done right. Reopened in the Grove back in 2018, Farinelli’s provides comforting Italian meals in one of Miami’s most loved neighborhoods. They’re famous for their pizza but be sure to make a pass at their house lasagna that’ll make you fall head over heels in love. Making it a Miami staple for those who know.
To Dance Or Not To Dance
Dante’s Hifi+ | 519 NW 26th St, Miami instagram
My personal favorite spot: a small, cozy HiFi soundbar in the back of Wynwood. No words and no windows, just music and good times. If an all-vinyl bar with no cover seems like your fit, then this is for you. You do what you want: you dance, you enjoy, and you can watch people. For me, it changes every time I’m there. The only heads-up I’ve got is that the drinks are on the pricier side, so make sure you remember you’re paying—and that apple isn’t— when you tap your phone to pay for those drinks.
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Lagniappe | 3425 NE 2nd Ave, Miami
The most laid-back place where groups of friends and charcuterie boards meet, Lagniappe’s backyard, with its mismatched furniture, is usually always packed to the brim. So, make sure to have a little patience and just wing it. There is usually live music inside, and they feature a wide selection of wines, IPAs, cheeses, meats, and jams—with everything in between. It’s the perfect spot to end your spring break on a good note.
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Hope your best weekend is just around the corner! Be sure to check out the PeoplePlacesThingsMiami Instagram for our daily curated selection of events. If my Miami picks haven’t quite gotten your attention, you could always consider heading to Fort Lauderdale. Although, it’s unlikely you’ll find it better than our lovely Miami. Sorry other parts of South Florida, just because Miami Beach is breaking up with the spring breakers, doesn’t meant they can’t stop seeing Miami on the low.
