A Weekend in Coral Gables: What to Do, Eat & See

February 27, 2026 No Comments

Welcome to Coral Gables

Known as The City Beautiful, Coral Gables is one of South Florida’s most charming destinations—blending Mediterranean Revival architecture, leafy boulevards, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant food scene. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic weekend, or just craving a change of pace, Coral Gables offers an easygoing yet elevated escape just minutes from other iconic Miami neighborhoods like South Miami, Coconut Grove, and Little Havana.

Even better? Many of the area’s top attractions are just a short drive from SoFLA Vacations properties like The Avenue Hotel, Little Havana Retreat, Hotel Arya, and La Finca, making Coral Gables a perfect weekend hub.

Day One: Live Comedy & Late-Night Fun

Start with Happy Hour in the Gables

Kick off your weekend the right way—with happy hour. Coral Gables is packed with great spots for pre-show bites and drinks, whether you’re easing in after work or just arriving in town.

Some local favorites include:

Motek – Mediterranean comfort food, dips for days, and excellent cocktails
Bulla Gastrobar – Spanish-style tapas and sangria that’s perfect for sharing

These are great places to grab a bite, loosen up, and get in the mood for a night out.

Catch a Show at Just The Funny

If you think arriving later in the day means missing out, think again. Coral Gables nightlife shines after dark—and one of its best-kept secrets is Just The Funny, Miami’s home of improv and sketch comedy.

Located just above Ricky Bakery on Coral Way, Just The Funny hosts live improv shows every Friday and Saturday night at 9 PM, plus a stand-up comedy show every Saturday at 10 PM. The shows are fast-paced, interactive, and consistently hilarious, featuring some of Miami’s most talented comedians.

Expect big laughs, audience participation (the fun kind), and that electric “anything can happen” energy that makes improv so addictive. It’s the perfect way to kick off your weekend—especially if you’re traveling with friends or looking for something different than a typical night out.

Nightcap at Mankind

Cap off the night with a drink at Mankind, one of Coral Gables’ coolest hidden gems. This speakeasy is tucked inside—yes, really—a barber shop. Inside, you’ll find elevated cocktails, a pool table, and a cozy, low-lit vibe that feels effortlessly cool without being pretentious.

It’s the ideal last stop before heading back to your hotel or vacation rental to recharge for a full weekend ahead. IYKYK.

Day Two: Culture, History & Classic Coral Gables

Explore the Iconic Biltmore Hotel

Start your day at one of Coral Gables’ most famous landmarks. The historic Biltmore Hotel is known for its grand architecture, lush grounds, and one of the largest hotel pools in the country. Even if you’re not staying overnight, walking the property feels like stepping into old-world elegance.

Why it’s great:
✔ Family-friendly grounds
✔ Photo-worthy architecture
✔ Nearby shops and cafes

Stroll Through Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Perfect for families and nature lovers, Fairchild is a peaceful escape filled with tropical plants, butterflies, and shaded walking paths. Kids love the open spaces, while adults appreciate the calm and beauty.

Pro tip: Visit in the morning before lunch for cooler temperatures.

Dinner on Miracle Mile

End your first day along Miracle Mile, Coral Gables’ lively dining and shopping strip. You’ll find something for every taste:

Hillstone – upscale American classics
Luca Osteria – cozy Italian comfort food
Sra Martinez – high-end Spanish, French fusion by local celebrity Michelle Bernstein

Day Three: Outdoor Fun, Family Time & Local Flavor

Cool Off at Venetian Pool

Carved from a coral rock quarry, the Venetian Pool is a must-see attraction for families and couples alike. With waterfalls, grottos, and crystal-clear water, it’s one of the most unique pools in the country. Plus, the water is always nice and cool – even during our infamously hot Miami summers.

A Deliciously Casual Lunch

Keep it casual with local favorites that are fast, casual and delicious:

Threefold Café – great for brunch and kids
La Sandwicherie – quick, fresh, and iconic
Skinny Louie’s – Miami’s favorite smash burgers

Explore The Shops at Merrick Park

This open-air shopping center is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Parents can browse luxury stores while kids enjoy the fountains and open spaces. Every Sunday from 11 am till 5 pm they host a farmer’s and artisan’s market that features local produce, artisanal goods, baked items, plants, jewelry, and gourmet, ready-to-eat foods including some of the best cinnamon rolls in the city. Best of all, it’s just steps away from The Avenue Hotel.

Evening: Wine, Views & a Relaxed Night Out

Unwind at Books & Books

Part bookstore, part café, Books & Books is a Coral Gables staple. Enjoy a glass of wine, light bites, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels distinctly local.

Sunset Views at The Avenue Hotel

If you’re staying at The Avenue Hotel just next to Merrick Park, you’ll have access to one of the best rooftop pools in Coral Gables. At sunset, grab a beverage, sink into a lounger, and enjoy Miami’s iconic sunset—perfect for a low-key end to your weekend.

Where to Stay Nearby

Coral Gables is easily accessible from several SoFLA Vacations properties, including:

The Avenue Hotel – close to dining, nightlife, and transit
Little Havana Retreat – perfect for culture lovers
Hotel Arya – ideal for waterfront views and walkability
La Finca – a relaxing home base near Miami’s top neighborhoods

Staying nearby allows you to experience Coral Gables while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of a vacation rental.

Final Thoughts

A weekend in Coral Gables offers the perfect blend of history, nature, dining, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re wandering historic landmarks, relaxing poolside, or enjoying a leisurely meal on Miracle Mile, Coral Gables delivers a refined yet welcoming South Florida experience—just minutes from Miami’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

5 Best FL Keys Restaurants to Eat with a View

January 30, 2026 No Comments

One of the best parts of a Florida Keys vacation is dining with a view. Whether you’re watching boats drift by, catching a golden sunset, or listening to the water lap against the dock, the Keys know how to pair great food with unforgettable scenery.

From Key Largo all the way to Key West, these five waterfront restaurants deliver the full Florida Keys experience—iconic atmosphere, fresh flavors, and views worth lingering over. Even better? Each stop pairs perfectly with a nearby SoFLA Vacations stay, so you’re never far from your next meal with a view.

1. Alabama Jack's (North Key Largo)

An iconic stop for anyone driving down the Overseas Highway, Alabama Jack’s is pure Keys character. Sitting right on the water, this open-air bar and grill is known for live music, cold drinks, and legendary conch fritters.

It’s casual, loud, and unapologetically local—the kind of place where bikers, boaters, and road-trippers all gather before officially entering island mode.

2. Snapper's Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar (Key Largo)

Few places truly live up to the term oceanfront, but Snappers delivers. Located directly on the Atlantic with plenty of tables on their outdoor deck, this laid-back restaurant offers unbeatable views, tropical cocktails from their tiki bar, and fresh seafood. A great family spot – you can even rent jetskis for some pre- or post-meal thrills!

It’s the perfect stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—and an easy pairing with a stay at Oleander Hideaway in Tavernier, just minutes away.

3. Wahoo's Seafood Bar & Grill (Islamorada)

A longtime local favorite, Wahoo’s combines classic Keys seafood with a relaxed waterfront setting overlooking the marina. Known for its smoked fish dip and fresh catches – though we are partial to their key lime pie, this is a must-stop in Islamorada. Pro tip: go just before sunset to enjoy one of the best happy hours in the keys!

Honorable mentions:
Loralie’s, Ziggie & Mad Dog’s, and The Square Grouper (less of a view, but the food is worth the stop! There are just too many good options in Islamorada.)

👉 Where to stay nearby:
Make Islamorada your base at Executive Bay Club, perfectly located for hopping between waterfront restaurants and enjoying the heart of the Keys.

4. The Island Fish Co. Restaurant & Tiki Bar (Marathon)

If you want dinner with a sunset view then this is the place to be! With open-air seating overlooking the gulf water, Island Fish Co. delivers classic Keys vibes—fresh seafood, live music, and sunset views that never disappoint.

It’s an ideal dinner stop after a beach day or boating adventure, and just minutes from SeaGlass Cove in Marathon, making it easy to enjoy a night out without a long drive.

Honorable mentions:
Bongo’s Botanical Beer Garden & Café and Sparky’s Landing

5. Four Marlins at The Reach (Key West)

For a more elevated dining experience, Four Marlins Oceanfront Dining offers stunning ocean views, refined coastal cuisine, and one of the best brunches in Key West. You’ll walk in and immediately feel like royalty with their elevated service. It’s our number one brunch spot in Key West but also a great dinner spot to celebrate a special occasion with a sunset view.

And yes—the key lime pie alone is worth the visit!

Honorable mention:
Seaside Café (the lobster pizza is something to write home about)

Final Thoughts

Waterfront dining is part of what makes the Florida Keys so unforgettable. From roadside legends and marina views to oceanfront brunches and tiki bars, these restaurants capture the relaxed, sun-soaked spirit of “island life.”

To make the most of it all, stay close to the action with SoFLA Vacations—from Oleander Hideaway in Tavernier, to Executive Bay Club in Islamorada, to SeaGlass Cove in Marathon. Great food, stunning views, and the perfect home base—it’s the Keys done right.

https://soflavacations.com/properties/

5 Best Stops on a Florida Keys Road Trip

January 2, 2026 No Comments

5 Best Stops on a Florida Keys Road Trip

Winter is the best time to visit the beautiful Florida Keys, and there’s no better way to enjoy the sunshine and ocean views than a classic Florida Keys road trip. With warm weather, fewer crowds, and endless turquoise water, the Overseas Highway becomes a destination all its own.

While everyone will tell you to visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo or Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada—and with good reason—we’re here to share the stops locals love most. These are the places that capture the laid-back magic, quirky charm, and authentic flavor of the Keys.

Here are our 5 favorite stops to add to your next Florida Keys road trip.

1. Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park (Key Largo)

For a quieter, more nature-forward experience in Key Largo, Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park is a must. This protected preserve showcases the natural side of the Keys, with winding trails through tropical hardwood forests and native wildlife at every turn. It’s the perfect reminder that the Florida Keys aren’t just about the water — they’re also about preserving the land that makes this destination so special. You can review park hours here.

2. The Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory (Tavernier)

No Keys road trip is complete without a slice of key lime pie, and The Blonde Giraffe is legendary for it. Family-owned and proudly local, this stop is perfect for a mid-drive sugar break. You can choose between meringue or whipped cream topping (always a debate). Grab a slice (or two), hang out in their beautiful back patio, and enjoy a moment of pure Florida Keys nostalgia. Or do what we do and get a frozen chocolate covered slice on a stick! Don’t forget to grab a pack of key lime cookies for gifts to take home and share with friends.

3. Florida Keys Brewing Company (Islamorada)

Located in the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, Florida Keys Brewing Company blends craft beer with local creativity. This stop offers refreshing island-inspired brews, live music, food trucks, and a relaxed atmosphere that captures Islamorada’s artistic spirit.

It’s an ideal afternoon stop to stretch your legs, sip something cold, and soak up the community vibe. It’s extra special because of its location, surrounded by local shops and artist studios filled with local crafts, trinkets, art and other fabulous shopping.

4. Sombrero Beach (Marathon)

If you’re craving a beach stop that feels uncrowded and peaceful, Sombrero Beach is a must. With soft sand, clear water, and plenty of space to relax, it’s one of the most beautiful public beaches in the Keys. It’s also a hidden gem with mostly locals so it’s rarely crowded on busy holidays or weekends.

Pack a towel, take a swim, or just enjoy the view—this is Keys relaxation at its finest.

5. The Turtle Hospital (Marathon)

End your road trip with a meaningful experience at The Turtle Hospital. This unique nonprofit rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured sea turtles while educating visitors on conservation efforts in the Keys.

It’s a great stop for families, animal lovers, and anyone looking to connect more deeply with the Florida Keys ecosystem. Learn more about the Turtle Hospital and their mission here.

Final Thoughts

A Florida Keys road trip isn’t about rushing from point A to point B—it’s about the stops in between. From iconic waterfront bars and local bakeries to hidden beaches and cultural landmarks, each stop adds a new layer to the journey.

👉 Where to stay nearby: when you’re ready to unwind, SoFLA Vacations’ properties in the FL Keys—SeaGlass Cove, Executive Bay, and Oleander—offer the perfect place to relax, recharge, and experience the Keys like a local. Click here to see all South Florida listings.

4 Iconic Miami Holiday Food Traditions

December 19, 2025 No Comments

4 Holiday Food Traditions That Define Miami’s Cultural Flavor

Miami isn’t just a destination — it’s a celebration on every plate. During the holiday season, this vibrant city transforms into a melting pot of festive food traditions, each telling a story of community, culture, and centuries-old heritage. From the sweet creaminess of Puerto Rican coquito to the savory spice of Haitian griot in Little Haiti, South Florida’s holiday table is packed with delicious diversity. Here are our top 4 Miami holiday food traditions you’ll want to try:

🥥 1. Coquito – Puerto Rican Holiday Cheer

What it is: Coquito — literally “little coconut” — is Puerto Rico’s beloved holiday drink, rich and creamy like a tropical eggnog. Made with coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, rum, cinnamon, and vanilla, coquito arrives in Miami homes and bars as early as November and stays through the New Year.

Why it’s special in Miami: Local spots like Hialeah bars and upscale cocktail lounges offer creative twists on this classic, blending cultural comfort with contemporary flair. It’s more than a drink — it’s a holiday hug in a glass.

Here’s a recipe so you can try your hand on making this at home.

🐖 2. Lechón Asado in a Caja China – Cuban Christmas Feast

What it is: For many Cuban families in Miami, Christmas Eve isn’t complete without a whole hog roasted in a caja china — a roasting box that delivers juicy, crispy-skinned lechón. This tradition anchors countless holiday gatherings across neighborhoods like Little Havana. In fact, many of our holiday guests at our Little Havana Retreat have reported a strong “barbeque” aroma in the air on Christmas Eve.

Local flavor: Some locals even celebrate this tradition with a festive twist: the annual pig pardoning event, where community members symbolically spare pigs bound for roasting — a uniquely Miami holiday ritual rooted in Cuban Christmas food culture. See this article in The Guardian

🍲 3. Soup Joumou & Griot – A Haitian Celebration

What it is: Around New Year’s — especially on January 1 — Haitian communities in Miami honor a food deeply tied to independence and identity: Soup Joumou, a hearty squash soup traditionally served to celebrate liberation and new beginnings.

Another staple is griot, marinated and fried pork served with pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables) and fried plantains — a festive centerpiece that resonates throughout Little Haiti and beyond.

Cultural significance: These dishes go well beyond taste — they symbolize resilience, memory, and community gathering, especially poignant among diaspora families in South Florida.

Here’s a list from Infatuation Miami of some of the best Haitian restaurants in Miami so you can try it for yourself.

🍃 4. Hallacas – Venezuelan Holiday Tamales

What it is: Brought here by a thriving Venezuelan community, hallacas are festive bundles of yellow corn masa filled with a richly seasoned blend of meats, olives, and raisins, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled to perfection.

Why Miami loves them: Hallacas are a holiday staple around Christmas and New Year’s, served at community gatherings, home celebrations, and local bakeries. They embody the spirit of hands-on holiday cooking and family sharing.

Try to make them with your family this holiday season, here’s a recipe we 100% sign-off on.

Tips for Visitors

Explore Little Havana, Little Haiti, and Doral for authentic holiday food experiences.
Visit local markets or cultural festivals during December to taste dishes straight from community kitchens.
Don’t miss small family-run restaurants— they often serve holiday specialties not found on typical restaurant menus.

Miami’s holiday food traditions reflect the city itself: rich, diverse, deliciously layered, and deeply cultural. Whether you’re sipping coquito by Biscayne Bay or sharing table space with neighbors celebrating Haitian Soup Joumou, the holidays in South Florida are as much about food as they are about community.

Outdoor Holiday Shopping in Miami: Best Places to Shop in 2025

November 21, 2025 No Comments

If you’re looking for the best outdoor holiday shopping in Miami this season, you’re in the right place. Because holiday shopping shouldn’t feel like a chore—especially in perfect Miami winter weather. Miami’s winter weather makes it ideal for outdoor holiday shopping in Miami, with markets and open-air malls offering seasonal events and unique gifts.

If you’re lucky enough to spend winter in South Florida, you know the drill: sunshine, breezy afternoons, and zero chance of shoveling snow. But the holidays still come with a long to-do list, and shopping can feel… less than magical. So we made a list (and yes, checked it twice!) of the best outdoor holiday shopping experiences in Miami—places where you can find unique gifts and enjoy the gorgeous winter weather South Florida is famous for. Shop, stroll, sip, repea

Vizcaya Village Holiday Night Market (Coconut Grove)

If you’re staying at Hotel Arya or near Coconut Grove, this stop is a must. Vizcaya Village transforms its historic space into a glowing, open-air night market with more than 20 local vendors. Expect handcrafted jewelry, artisan gifts, gourmet treats, and that magical Vizcaya ambiance the Grove is known for.

When: December 19th, 2025

Where: 3250 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129

Hours: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

The Shops at Merrick Park (Coral Gables)

Just steps from The Avenue Hotel, this Coral Gables gem is one of Miami’s most beautiful open-air luxury shopping destinations. Think lush landscaping, strolling paths, and a massive 50-foot Christmas tree towering over the courtyard. Browse brands like Nordstrom, Gucci, J.Crew, and Sephora, then swing by their Sunday farmers market for locally baked goods, jewelry, candles, and more. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon of shopping, snacking, and holiday wandering.

Julia & Henry’s Holiday Village (Downtown Miami)

This brand-new Holiday Village on Flagler Street brings major festive energy to Downtown Miami. With 60+ vendors, a unique outdoor ice rink, holiday bars, live performances, Santa photos, and a huge seasonal market featuring handmade soaps, vintage finds, toys, décor, and more—it’s basically the North Pole, Miami-style.

When: Nov. 15 – Jan. 1, 2025

Where: 200 E Flagler St Miami, FL 33131

Hours: Saturday 1 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Miami Design District (MiMo)

Just a quick ride from The New Yorker Hotel, the Miami Design District is where luxury shopping meets art-world cool. Here you’ll find Hermès, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and other high-end boutiques, all tucked between bold architecture and some of Miami’s best public art. During the holidays, the district lights up—literally—with installations and festive décor that make the entire area sparkle. Whether you’re shopping for designer gifts or just soaking up the atmosphere, it’s the most stylish holiday stop in Miami.

Ready to Shop the Season?

Wherever you stay, you’ll find plenty of outdoor holiday shopping in Miami to make your trip festive and fun. Whether you’re staying in Coral Gables, Downtown Miami, Coconut Grove, or the MiMo District, South Florida is full of festive outdoor experiences to make your holiday shopping actually enjoyable. Sunshine included.

Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida: Miami, Fort Lauderdale & Beyond (2025 Guide)

December 5, 2025 No Comments

Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida

Let’s be real—when it’s 82 degrees in December, it’s not always easy to feel that classic holiday cheer. But one thing South Florida does better than almost anywhere else? Holiday lights. From immersive botanical displays to iconic boat parades, these festive shows bring all the magic—minus the frostbite.

Whether you’re visiting Miami this winter, planning a family outing, or staying at one of our SoFLA Vacations properties, here are the top holiday light shows in South Florida for 2025.

NightGarden at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (Coral Gables)

NightGarden transforms the lush Fairchild grounds into an illuminated wonderland with glowing mazes, interactive features, and vibrant installations. It’s just minutes from The Avenue, our boutique hotel in Coral Gables.

Why We Love It:

Immersive lights & interactive experiences
Perfect for photos, couples, and families
A garden holiday must-see

Symphony in Lights at Gulfstream Park Village (Hallandale Beach)

This free holiday light show features a 50-foot tree, nightly music-synchronized displays, and festive entertainment—right next door to our Sunset Inn in Hallandale Beach.

Why We Love It:

It’s free and family-friendly
Music + lights = instant holiday joy
Surrounded by restaurants and shops

Zoo Lights Miami (South Miami Heights)

Zoo Lights Miami features over one million twinkling lights, glowing animal displays, themed encounters, treats, and nighttime train rides through the expansive Zoo Miami.

Why We Love It:

One million lights across the zoo
Kid-friendly nighttime activities
A festive twist on an iconic Miami attraction

Winterfest Boat Parade (Fort Lauderdale)

Known as “The Best Show on H2O,” this one-night-only illuminated parade cruises up the Intracoastal with themed yachts, decked-out boats, and thousands of spectators. The 2025 theme is “Yacht Rock of Ages” so get ready to jam out!

When: Saturday, December 13 at 5:30 PM

Why We Love It:

Iconic Fort Lauderdale holiday tradition
Over-the-top floating light displays
The most Florida-style holiday celebration

Plan Your Holiday Stay

Whether you’re exploring Miami, Hallandale Beach, or the Keys, stay close to the festivities at our SoFLA Vacations properties like The Avenue, Sunset Inn, and our brand-new oceanfront escape SeaGlass Cove.

Best Things to Do in Miami’s MiMo District | The New Yorker Hotel

October 14, 2025 No Comments

Top 5 Best Things To Do in Miami’s MiMo District

Miami’s MiMo District (short for Miami Modern) is one of the city’s most vibrant and design-forward neighborhoods — full of mid-century architecture, local eateries, and that nostalgic Miami charm. Here are our favorite things to do when exploring the MiMo Biscayne Boulevard Historic District:

1. Legion Park Farmers Market in MiMo

Kick off your Saturday with a stroll through the Legion Park Farmers Market, one of the most beloved outdoor markets in Miami. It’s a perfect day date where you can enjoy a photo-worthy açaí bowl, shop local vendors, and stretch out by the bay for unbeatable views. Best part? It’s right across the street from The New Yorker Hotel!

2. Fly Boutique – Vintage Shopping in MiMo

If you love the thrill of a good find, Fly Boutique is a Miami vintage staple. This local gem has been curating high-end consignment fashion and home décor for decades. Every visit feels like a treasure hunt through the best of Miami style.

3. Jimmy’s East-Side Diner – Breakfast All Day

Since 1968, Jimmy’s East-Side Diner has been serving up stacks of pancakes and diner classics that taste like home. Known for its retro charm and classic neon sign, this local landmark keeps the old-school Miami diner experience alive.

4. Neon Sign Stroll – Snap Miami’s Retro Glow

When the sun sets, Biscayne Boulevard lights up with vintage neon signs from the 1950s and ‘60s. Take a walk, grab your Polaroid, and snap photos of MiMo’s iconic hotels and architecture — a postcard-perfect slice of Miami history.

5. Lounge Poolside at The New Yorker – The Best Pool in MiMo

End your day the Miami way — poolside at The New Yorker Hotel. Designed by famed architect Norman Giller, this mid-century modern gem offers the perfect mix of nostalgia and relaxation. Grab a drink, lounge under the palms, and soak in the Miami sun — right in the center of MiMo’s best attractions.

Stay in the Heart of MiMo

Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or planning a longer Miami escape, staying at The New Yorker puts you right in the heart of all the action — just steps from the best restaurants, shops, and photo ops in town.

Book your stay with SoFLA Vacations and experience Miami like a local.

🍔Best Cheeseburgers in Miami: Where to Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day Like a Local

September 18, 2025 No Comments

Here at SoFLA Vacations, we consider ourselves burger aficionados. In honor of National Cheeseburger Day (September 18), we’re sharing our top five Miami burger spots you can’t miss. From trendy smash burgers to Cuban fritas to pub-style giants — we know where to celebrate National Cheeseburger Day like a local.

🍑Lala’s Burgers (Bird Road)

Hidden behind Lincoln’s Beard Brewing in the Bird Road warehouse district, Lala’s Burgers is one of Miami’s best-kept secrets. Their Angus beef smash burgers come stacked high and dripping with flavor (thanks to their signature Lala’s sauce). With a simple rotating menu of just three burgers, a pint from Lincoln’s, and a gooey chocolate chip cookie for dessert, this spot is pure Miami burger bliss.

🪄El Mago de las Fritas (Little Havana)

Before smash burgers, Miami had fritas — the Cuban burger classic made with a beef-and-chorizo patty, buttery Cuban bread, and a mountain of potato sticks. And nobody does it better than El Mago de las Fritas. Open for 35+ years, it’s a true slice of Miami history. When our guests stay in our Little Havana Retreat vacation home, we always recommend a frita walking tour — but trust us, El Mago is a must-stop.

🌴Chug’s Diner (Coconut Grove)

Part Cuban café, part American diner, Chug’s is the heart of Coconut Grove. Their Diner Burger—juicy beef, potato sticks, and secret sauce on a sesame bun—is easily one of the best burgers in Coconut Grove. Plus, it’s just steps from our rentals at Hotel Arya, where you can enjoy the best bay views in Miami before or after your burger run.

🍟Blue Collar (MiMo District)

For longtime Miami locals, Blue Collar is comfort food heaven. Sitting right on Biscayne Blvd in the historic MiMo District, this laid-back restaurant serves a classic cheeseburger that’s all about quality meat and the perfect bun. No gimmicks, no trends—just one of the best cheeseburgers in Miami-Dade. Pair it with the neighborhood vibe (and a stay at The New Yorker Hotel nearby), and you’ve got the ultimate vintage Miami experience.

🍺 Keg South (Pinecrest & Kendall)

If you’re craving a true Miami pub-style burger, head south to Keg South. This no-frills local dive serves juicy, made-to-order burgers that taste like a summer backyard cookout. Add in cold pints, plenty of TVs for the game, and grilled wings (locals swear they’re the best wings in Miami), and you’ll feel right at home.

🎉 Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day in Miami

So there you have it — our local guide to the best cheeseburgers in Miami. Whether you’re smashing patties at Lala’s, tasting fritas in Little Havana, or going classic at Blue Collar, Miami’s burger scene has something for every appetite.

Now grab your stretchy pants, celebrate National Cheeseburger Day Miami-style, and don’t forget — SoFLA’s vacation rentals put you right near all these mouthwatering spots.

Best Neighborhoods in Miami to See It Like a Native

June 27, 2025 No Comments

Miami’s postcard views and nightlife often take center stage, but to truly experience the city like a local on your next vacation to the Greater Miami area, you’ll want to dive into its neighborhoods rich in culture, history, and unique charm. Here are four must-explore areas where you can tap into the true soul of the Magic City.

Coconut Grove
Known as Miami’s oldest neighborhood, Coconut Grove offers a bohemian vibe with lush, shaded streets and a slower pace that feels worlds away from South Beach. Start your day at Greenstreet Café, Chugg’s Diner or Panther Coffee, then explore The Kampong—an exotic botanical garden tucked away in the Grove’s residential heart. Don’t miss the Coconut Grove Art Festival if you’re visiting in February, or catch the Sunday farmers market at Peacock Park for fresh local goods and people-watching.

Coral Gables
Nicknamed “The City Beautiful,” Coral Gables blends Mediterranean architecture with tropical elegance. Visit the iconic Biltmore Hotel or cool off in the historic Venetian Pool, a spring-fed public pool carved from coral rock. The Village of Merrick Park offers a bevy of boutiques, galleries, eateries and movie theaters where locals gather, while Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden offers an escape into nature with rare plants and art installations.

MiMo District
Short for “Miami Modern,” this stretch along Biscayne Boulevard is a mid-century design lover’s dream. The restored motels and retro signage feel like a step back in time. Grab a bite at the famous Blue Collar or check out the New Yorker Hotel for its chic, vintage flair. Street art, eclectic shops, and Saturday’s Farmers Market in Legion Park pop-up make MiMo one of Miami’s most exciting up-and-coming areas.

South Miami
Often overlooked, South Miami is a gem for those wanting a quieter, authentic experience. Sunset Place is great for shopping and cinema, but the local charm lies in the small family-owned restaurants and cafés. Explore the tree-lined streets, check out live music at Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern or Sunset Tavern, and enjoy a local’s perspective just minutes from the city’s hustle.

For a real Miami experience during your next vacation, step away from the guidebooks and into these neighborhoods that locals truly love while working with locals at SoFLA Vacations. https://soflavacations.com/

Where to Sunbathe Topless (or Naked!) in Miami-Dade: Your Guide to Bare It All in Miami!

April 14, 2025 No Comments

Looking to ditch the tan lines while soaking up the South Florida sun? You’re not alone! Miami-Dade County might not be overflowing with nudist beaches, but there are a few sunny spots where going topless—or even totally nude—is perfectly legal and widely accepted.

Let’s strip it down and explore where you can sunbathe au naturel during your next vacation to Greater Miami and the Beaches!

🌞 Haulover Beach Park – The Gold Standard for Going Nude

Located in North Miami Beach, Haulover is one of the most famous clothing-optional beaches in the U.S. It’s the only legal nude beach in Miami-Dade County, with a long history of welcoming bare-bodied beachgoers.

There are lifeguards, restrooms, chair rentals, and even a designated nude section clearly marked between lifeguard towers #12 and #16. It’s clean, safe, and incredibly popular—so don’t be shy while visiting Miami!

👙 Topless-Friendly Beaches (Men & Women)

In Florida, topless sunbathing is legal—but discretion is key. While it’s not uncommon to see topless sunbathers in more liberal beach areas, there are only a few places where it’s culturally accepted:

South Beach (Lummus Park Area)

Lummus Park, South Beach, Miami Beach, Florida, USA

From about 5th to 15th Street, topless sunbathing is relatively common. You’ll fit right in near Ocean Drive, especially on the sand just east of the Art Deco hotels. Enjoy tanning, then grab a bite or hit the clubs on lively Ocean Drive to wind down.

North Beach & 79th Street Areas

Less crowded and more relaxed, this area sometimes sees topless sunbathers catching rays in peace. We especially like North Shore Park Beach or Sandy Beach at Oleta River State Park for tanning your complete “upper parts.”

📍 Bare-Friendly Beaches Map

Here’s a handy map of your tan-friendly Miami hot spots!
Click to view the full map here.

🌴 Ready for that all-over tan?

Book your South Florida escape with SoFLA Vacations and save 20–40% this summer on stylish, centrally located rentals.

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Welcome to Coral Gables

Day One: Live Comedy & Late-Night Fun

Start with Happy Hour in the Gables

Nightcap at Mankind

Day Two: Culture, History & Classic Coral Gables

Dinner on Miracle Mile

Day Three: Outdoor Fun, Family Time & Local Flavor

A Deliciously Casual Lunch

Explore The Shops at Merrick Park

Evening: Wine, Views & a Relaxed Night Out

Sunset Views at The Avenue Hotel

Where to Stay Nearby

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

5 Best Stops on a Florida Keys Road Trip

4. Sombrero Beach (Marathon)

Final Thoughts

4 Holiday Food Traditions That Define Miami’s Cultural Flavor

🥥 1. Coquito – Puerto Rican Holiday Cheer

🐖 2. Lechón Asado in a Caja China – Cuban Christmas Feast

🍲 3. Soup Joumou & Griot – A Haitian Celebration

🍃 4. Hallacas – Venezuelan Holiday Tamales

Tips for Visitors

Vizcaya Village Holiday Night Market (Coconut Grove)

The Shops at Merrick Park (Coral Gables)

Julia & Henry’s Holiday Village (Downtown Miami)

Miami Design District (MiMo)

Ready to Shop the Season?

Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida

4. Neon Sign Stroll – Snap Miami’s Retro Glow

Stay in the Heart of MiMo

🌞 Haulover Beach Park – The Gold Standard for Going Nude

👙 Topless-Friendly Beaches (Men & Women)

South Beach (Lummus Park Area)

North Beach & 79th Street Areas

📍 Bare-Friendly Beaches Map

🌴 Ready for that all-over tan?

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