Blog - SoFLA Vacations

5 Best Beaches in South Florida

October 14, 2022 No Comments

Whether it’s winter, summer, spring, or fall, it’s always a good time to go to the beach in Miami, FL! Home to some of the best beaches in the country, Miami is a tropical paradise that seems like something taken straight out of a movie. The pristine coastlines, the vibrant blue Atlantic ocean water, the palm trees that decorate the beaches… it truly does seem like movie magic but it is indeed real. If you’re a local, you most likely already know where all the good beach spots are, but if you’re not, they might be a lil tricky to find. Have no fear, we are here to help with the five best beaches in South Florida!

Lummus Park Beach

When people think of Miami, they tend to think of South Beach. This is Miami Beach at it’s peak. Located on the eastern side of Ocean Drive, Lummus Park is a great place for all out fun in the sun. Things like sunbathing, swimming, beach volleyball, and so much more! There’s also a boardwalk across the street filled with wonderful bars, shops, and restaurants.

South Pointe Park Pier

If tourists and locals can agree on one thing for sure, it’s that South Pointe Park is a fantastic and stunning beach. Located on a 17-acre park, South Pointe Park has boat loads of activities such asdesignated picnic areas, playgrounds, and a fishing pier.

Haulover Beach

Located between Sunny Isles and Bal Harbour, Haulover Beach has stunning landscapes that you will most likely end up photographing before you leave. This is also a great beach to go to if you have a dog, as they have a designated dog area between lifeguard stations #2 and #3.

Surfside Beach

Surfside is a small beach town that has their own view of paradise. Located between North Beach Oceanside Park and Bal Harbour Beach, Surfside Beach has pristine clear shores with upscale resorts over its near mile long shore. This is a wonderful beach to go relax at.

Sunny Isles Beach

Sunny Isles is two miles of pure beaches, nightclubs, upscale hotels, and tons of delicious restaurants. Their local beach, Sunny Isles Beach, has a well maintained shoreline and provides easy access to events, attractions, and some luxury resorts.

5 Hot New Restaurants in the Grove

September 10, 2022 No Comments

The Grove is full of Art, Entertainment, Stores, Restaurants, and a rich history. Known as the oldest neighborhood in Miami Dade County, Coconut Grove has only gotten better over time. In addition to the newly renovated Cocowalk, the Grove has also seen a rise in new businesses opening up to the public. To pay homage to our local businesses, here are five new restauraunts you need to try the next time you’re in Coconut Grove!

Bayshore Club

Built right along the water on the historic Dinner Key site, Bayshore Club has a lot going on. From live music, to happy hour, to the 2$ oyster mondays, Bayshore Club is always up to something. Try their delicious seafood as you sit in this gorgeous outdoor venue.

https://bayshoreclubmiami.com/

Narbona

Narbona is so much more than just a restaurant. Located in the newly renovated Cocowalk, this family owned & operated Uruguayan restaurant also has a Market, Butcher, and Bakery located inside. The food is fantastic, and you must try their Gelato icecream!

https://narbona.com/

The Key Club

The King of Miami Nightlife is back with his latest hit… The Key Club. Known for creating club LIV, as well as restaurants Komodo and Planta, David Grutman’s latest restaurant is a all-new take on the classic American bar and grill. Whether it’s Brunch, Dinner, or Happy Hour, you will be leaving The Key Club extremely satisfied.

https://thekeyclub.com/

Amal

From the team behind popular South Beach restaurants Byblos and Meet Dalia, Amal is the newest (and most delicious) modern interpretation of traditional Lebanese food here in The Grove. Enjoy the breathtaking ambience, signature cocktails, and delicious Lebanese cuisine.

https://www.amalmiami.com/

Bodega

Coming over from South Beach, the Bodega’s newest location is right here in Coconut Grove! Although they serve mouth watering Mexican Cuisine, Bodega is also a great place to go for a drink. They have multiple floors to house their taco shack, lounge, and bar.

https://www.bodegataqueria.com/location/coconutgrove/

Top 3 Best Water Excursions For Your Next Miami Vacation

August 12, 2022 No Comments

Virginia Key beach park aerial shot, great place for water excursions — Historic Virginia Key Beach Park

Looking for some fun and relaxation on the water during your next Miami vacation? From dinner cruises and kayak tours on Biscayne Bay to airboat rides in the Everglades, SoFLA Vacations has you covered! Here are the 3 best water excursions for your maiden voyage…

Whether you want a day, dinner or sunset cruise, Happy Cruises is your key to a great day on the water! Captain Derek will take you anywhere in Miami your heart desires, Vizcaya, Downtown Miami and Brickell, Millionaires Row, Key Biscayne and many more prime locations! Sailing out of Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove (walking distance from SoFLA Vacations’ units in the Hotel Arya), accessing the boat is very simple and straightforward. Book with Captain Derek for all your Miami cruise needs and leave happy, guaranteed!

Maybe you’re looking for something more lowkey and tuned into nature, if so Virginia Key Outdoor Center will take you back to a time when Biscayne Bay was a natural paradise. Explore the mangroves and hidden coves along the beautiful island of Virginia Key on a kayak or paddleboard. Solo and guided options are available. Or rent a mountain bike and venture into the mangroves on the shady and winding trails.

Okay, so you want an authentic Florida experience, Alligators, sawgrass and one of the most pristine wildernesses in the United States, The Everglades…then Everglades Airboat Expedition is for you! Just off of Tamiami trail west of West Kendall, Everglades Airboat Expedition offers a unique tour of the Everglades, up close and personal. Witness the animals in their natural habitat and marvel at this ancient landscape. From flying across sawgrass to slowly drifting through tree draped waterways, you will get the true Florida experience, one you’ll never forget!

4 Best Places to Get Your Art Fix While on Your Next Miami Vacation

July 21, 2022 No Comments

Miami may be known for its beaches and nightlife, but with so much culture and affluence, the art scene is thriving. Whether you’re in the streets of Wynwood, the shores of Biscayne Bay or historic yet youthful Coconut Grove, good art is around every corner. Make the most of your Miami Vacation with SoFLA Vacations by indulging in this rich art scene.

Opened in 1984, the Perez Art Museum is a treasure trove of contemporary works from the 20th and 21st centuries. Located on beautiful Biscayne Bay, the views inside and outside of the Perez Art Museum are stunning. Just outside the museum is an interactive sculpture garden, the perfect place to snap your Instagram photos while vacationing in Miami. Perez Art Museum also features art talks and studio features, a great opportunity to connect with the artist.

Not far from the Perez Art Museum in Miami’s Design District is Markowicz Fine Art. With works from artists like Andy Warhol, Carole A. Feuerman and Banksy, come observe mastery of the contemporary field. Open since 2010, Markowicz Fine Art now has 3 locations nationwide in Miami, Dallas and Laguna Beach, that feature work from local artists and icons alike.

Now it’s time to get on the street and see the core of Miami art culture, at Wynwood Walls. Founded in 2009 by Tony Goldman of Goldman Properties, Wynwood Walls is an art installation that has quickly become one of the most famous art exhibits in the country. A series of walls hold breathtaking and profound murals from artists like Obey, Kenny Scharf and Futura, and are regularly replaced so that each time you visit you will experience new works.

Maybe you’re familiar with popular contemporary artists and the work that every gallery tries to emulate? If you’re ready for a new experience, longing to see what the best local artists of Miami hold, LnS Gallery is beckoning. Opened in 2017, this progressive contemporary art gallery is located in the lively and beautiful clutches of Coconut Grove. The focus of LnS Gallery is on multiculturalism and inclusivity, it is sure to inspire.

The Perfect Night Out In South Miami

June 24, 2022 No Comments

(From top to bottom) Casa Cuba, Whip’N Dip, Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern, Sunset Place AMC and the streets of South Miami

To have the perfect night out, one thing must be true, by the end of it you wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.

While staying at the Sunset Inn in South Miami, the perfect night out is right around the corner. Not only will you enjoy a comfortable and quiet stay, but you will also have access to tons of boutique shops and the beautiful, historic downtown area. With wonderful restaurants, bars, ice cream shops and movies, your options are endless.

First stop: Dinner is an obvious first stop for your night out, nobody wants to be hangry while trying to enjoy themselves. And while on vacation it’s always nice to try the local food, after eating the same meal prepped food everyday it’s time to give your taste buds a vacation too. While in Miami it’s a requirement to have authentic Cuban food, and adjacent to Sunset Inn is the exquisite Casa Cuba. Featuring indoor and outdoor dining, Casa Cuba is a full-service Cuban restaurant with breakfast, lunch, dinner and even pastries! My personal favorite is the ropa vieja with black beans and rice, and of course maduros.

Second stop: After dinner, dessert is in order. Casa Cuba features delicious Cuban desserts, but if you’re feeling like getting a good old fashioned ice cream cone look no further than Whip’n Dip Ice Cream Shop. There’s nothing like a rich and creamy ice cream cone to put your hunger to rest and with warm weather year-round it’s always a good choice.

Last stop: AMC Sunset Place 24 theaters is a perfect place to end the night, a good movie in a historic building will be the cherry on top. Go see the newest releases only a short walk from your hotel. Or if the night is young…Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern is a rustic dive bar with tons of selection, great specials and live music. Come meet your new best friends (for the week) and get a feel for being a South Miami local.

3 Best “Hidden Gem” Attractions while vacationing in Miami!

March 23, 2022 No Comments

Discover hidden gems on your next Miami vacation while staying with SoFLA Vacations…

Venetian Pool in Coral Gables in a great Hidden Gem — Pictured above: The spring fed Venetian Pool in Coral Gables

There is so much to do and see when vacationing in the Greater Miami area. Everyone knows about the amazing white sand beaches, airboat rides in the Everglades and world-famous nightclubs but what about the not-so-well-known attractions? Here is our list of some of the best “hidden gems” to experience while vacationing in the Greater Miami area in 2022.

Venetian Pool/Coral Gables – A beautiful oasis inspired by Mediterranean architecture, the Venetian Pool is a unique part of Miami’s history! This former rock quarry was turned into the Venetian Pool in 1924. Large enough to hold 820,000 gallons of fresh water from an underground aquifer, the pool draws water from artesian wells and features a historic edifice earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, and the perfect destination for a great family day of frolick while visiting Miami.
Deering Estate – One of the truly most idyllic spots in Miami is the Deering Estate, an area that was created to preserve Charles Deering’s 1920s-era property. From its picturesque location on the South Dade coast, the Deering Estate Features historical buildings, mangrove forests, tropical Rockland, and much more. From canoe tours to butterfly walks to guided museum and natural area tours, the Deering Estate has diverse activities and special events for the whole family to enjoy on your next Miami Vacation.
Gold Coast Railroad Museum – One of Miami’s very best-kept secrets is the Gold Coast Railroad Museum. An absolute highlight when it comes to family-friendly attractions Miami, the Gold Coast Railroad Museum is located in southwestern Miami adjacent to Zoo Miami. It features over 40 historic railcars, perhaps most notably of all, the presidential railcar built in 1928 called the Ferdinand Magellan that was used by Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman and Ronald Reagan.

Experiencing these hidden gems will make your next Miami vacation a memorable one.

Best Miami Events for Spring/Summer 2022

March 11, 2022 No Comments

Music festivals, art shows, sporting events and more, The Magic City is know for hosting some of the most spectacular events year-round. From the Super Bowl to Art Basel to Miami International Boat Show, events occur in Miami that are known around the world! Here are our choices for the “can’t miss” events when visiting the Greater Miami area this Spring and Summer:

Ultra Music Festival

The Spring kicks off as party people from around the world descend on Miami as the Ultra Music Festival takes over Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami March 25-27. This 3-day electronic dance music festival features over 150 entertainers from around the world performing on 7 stages with music, pyrotechnics, lasers and confetti enhancing the performances. If you like music and energy, this is a can’t miss Miami event.

Deering Bay Seafood Festival

Love munching on the delectables from the sea? Then you won’t want to miss the 16th annual Deering Bay Seafood Festival April 10th from 10am-6pm on the grounds of the Deering Estate in Southern Miami-Dade. This family-friendly event features all the great treasures of the sea, chef demonstations, live entertainment and kids activities while exposing visitors and the South Florida community to the historic Deering Estate.

F1 Miami Grand Prix

Rev up your engines and check-out the inaugural Formula 1® Miami Grand Prix taking place May 6-8 on the grounds of Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. The action will be split across all three days as the greatest car racers in the World compete with Practice on Friday, Qualifying on Saturday and the Grand Prix on Sunday. The newly constructed Miami International Autodrome is a temporary circuit that features a 3.36 mile track with 19 corners and an anticipated average speed of 140mph. Fast and exciting racing on the streets of Miami!!

Miami Swim Week

My dream job? How about towel boy for Miami Swim Week! Why not, I mean it features the most beautiful women in the world modeling the latest swimwear fashion in a series of ticketed events from July 14 – 21 at various venues throughout Miami Beach. It surely gets hot and steamy for fashion lovers at the 2022 Miami Swim Week.

So remember, when traveling to the Greater Miami area this Spring or Summer there is an event for your food-, music-, art- or sports-loving side!

3 Best Miami Tours For Your Next Vacation

December 22, 2021 No Comments

Miami Tours from the air overlooking South Beach

Discover Miami’s hidden gem and take your next vacation in Coconut Grove! A lot has changed since its founding in 1825, but some of its history remains. From the Barnacle, Coconut Grove’s oldest standing house, to the lavish Vizcaya Gardens and Museum, Coconut Grove is full of secrets waiting to be discovered. Today the Grove is a vibrant center for art, food and entertainment.

Tap Tap Tours

Tap Tap Tours offers a walking tour that showcases all that the Grove has to offer! Murals, architecture and breathtaking Biscayne Bay will be on full display. Tours are 90 minutes and take place Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, starting at 10 am every two hours until the last tour at 4 pm. Private Miami tours available as well.

Sailing On Biscayne Bay

Have you ever wanted to have your own tropical island? Well now you can have the next best thing, a tour of one by sailboat! Sailing on Biscayne Bay offers 2 hour to full day tours featuring snorkeling and paddle boarding that start at 10 am and continue throughout the day. Sunset tours are also available, starting between 3 and 4 pm. Photos and refreshments included, longer tours include food as well. Make sure to also inquire about their full moon tours!

Heli Air Miami Helicopter Tours

You’ve walked it, you’ve sailed it, now fly it! Heli Air Miami Helicopter Tours offer a unique glimpse of Miami and more! On your tour you will see South Beach, celebrity homes on Star Island and get an up close look at the Miami skyline. Seeing Miami from the air is a great way to scout your next adventure. Heli Air Miami offers 30-35 minute Miami Mega and Sunset Mega Tours, as well as a 1 hour South Florida Special Tour. Keep an eye out for Sharks, Dolphins and Manatees!

Book your Miami vacation rental today and get a glimpse of all Miami has to offer with these spectacular tours!

Where to See Christmas Lights in Coconut Grove

November 11, 2021 No Comments

If you’re taking a visit to South Florida this holiday season, you’re in luck! Miami has some of the best Christmas lights around. There are plenty of places to see spectacular drive-thru light shows when staying at a South Florida Vacation Rental. These shows have been rated some of the best things to do in Miami over the holiday season.

The Enchanted Place of North Miami is a South Florida fan favorite. Since 1988, it has been a community effort, with neighbors in the area decorating their homes with flashy Christmas lights. Not only can you drive-thru and see the lights, but you can also pose for photos with Santas, Christmas trees, and snowmen with your entire group. Find this light show at 1800 NE 137th Ter in North Miami.

Zoo Light at Zoo Miami is another favorite, especially when staying in Coconut Grove vacation rentals. This show features almost one million animal-shaped lights. Families are welcome to walk through the park and admire the lights while hopping on a carousel ride or two. You’ll also get to see and hear carolers, and an amazing 26-foot LED tree. Want a family photo with Santa? He’ll be there too – with milk and cookies!

Santa’s Spectacular: A Drive-Thru Musical Extravaganza is Miami’s first Christmas drive-thru. Get a look at Santa, Mrs. Claus, North Pole Elves, and Rudolph. It’s a spectacular light show you don’t want to miss! The show runs from November 28 to December 23. Tickets cover the costs of one vehicle for six people and will run $45 per vehicle.

South Florida Beaches You Need to See – Even in the Winter

November 10, 2021 No Comments

Who says that winter has to put a damper on all the fun? In Florida, there’s no such thing as a bad season, and the weather is always nearly perfect (except for the occasional hurricane, of course). When you think of visiting Florida Keys vacation rentals, fall and winter are probably not the seasons you think of when visiting. However, there are breathtaking beaches all over that you should make a point to check out before spring break rolls around.

Delray Beach’s downtown area is directly located on the water. You won’t find anywhere else like it within the entire country. Visitors get a surreal feeling of being in the water without actually being in the water. Get a view of the famous Atlantic Avenue and its many shops, restaurants, and bars. Delray Beach is home to three million visitors in a single year.

Sebastian Inlet State Park is three miles of surfing and fishing. If you are the outdoors type, this one’s for you. Enjoy snorkeling, surfing, fishing, swimming, beachcombing, and more (note: some of these excursions may not be available at all times of the year.)

During your South Florida vacation rentals stay, be sure to also check out Calusa Beach. It’s located on Big Pine Key and is a smaller beach, so if you’re looking for a quiet getaway, you’ll love it here. It has plenty of beautiful views and includes showers and changing rooms, so it makes a great place for families.

Love dogs? Sombrero Beach in Marathon, FL, is dog-friendly! You can also try your hand at beach volleyball while you soak up the sun.