Communities

This coastal magnet for hedonists around the world has been hopping for years. Fashion shoots, TV and movie filmings, big-time parties and a general atmosphere of buoyant, beach time fun have characterized South Beach for decades - ever since the birth of t-shirt/blazer combos and rollerblading. Things have modernized a bit, of course, but there's still an otherworldly feel to this destination; it's as if there are cameras constantly rolling and everyone is ready to attract attention and impress their fellow revelers.

In other words, bring your chicest duds as well as a readiness to indulge in frivolity. Lounge on the beach for a bit, taking in the quintessentially relaxing sight of top-notch surf and sand. After you've whetted your appetite for swimming and sunning, revive your creative side by taking an Art Deco District Tour. Local historians and architects happily show visitors around the town, pointing out all the noteworthy details of the city's appearance. Even inanimate objects are well-dressed here, as you'll see.

After this, get your fill of the region's wildlife by visiting the Seaquarium or the Monkey Jungle. The zoo and the planetarium are also educational opportunities, and will balance out the pure mindless lollygagging that you've been doing on the oh-so-attractive beaches. Once you get hungry there are hundreds of restaurants to choose from, many of them world-famous and impressive by anyone's standards. Let the flavors of South Beach mingle on your palate and feel free to indulge a bit – go ahead, you're on vacation.

Speaking of wildlife and indulging, South Beach comes alive each night after the sun goes down. Dancing, partying, music and laughter fill the streets, where every storefront seems to become a club of some sort. Make new friends or celebrate alongside your old ones, you're sure to be tempted to keep it going until the sun comes up.

A little recovery might be in order, but upon rising you'll be faced with more fun choices that have yet to be exhausted. Shopping is huge in South Beach, offering up all the latest fashions, unique boutiques and the biggest labels. Even if you can only afford to window shop, take a whirl around the avenues and drives known for their treasures.

All of this is probably enough to keep a person busy for a while, and there is still more to see and do. You'll discover these things for yourself during the visit, but one more thing must be accounted for before you leave. Your lodging situation will serve as the foundation for all the amusements to come, so be sure to book the right place. Consider a South Beach Vacation Rental to complement this getaway, as the amenities, location, and personality of a unique condo or beach house will fit the mood of this trip like a glove. Freedom, one-of-a-kind details, and a sense of fun are what make vacation rentals perfect for a getaway of this nature.

Start planning your escape from reality today, and be sure to prepare yourself for a bright and vibrant experience that will ultimately leave you calmer and more refreshed than when you arrived in South Beach.