The Complete Guide to a Smoldering Miami Beach Honeymoon

A Miami Beach honeymoon is an exceptional choice for vibrant couples who want the finer things in life. In fact, the destination is an absolute playground for two. The barrier island east of Miami is famous for all-things-fun and sexy. We're talking poolside cocktails at swanky hotels, amazing outdoor art, acclaimed fine dining destinations, and of course, champagne popping atop the shoreline's hottest rooftop clubs and establishments.

While North Miami Beach is more affordable (and therefore, more residential), the southern part of town is where you'll want to stay for the very best of what comes with a Miami Beach honeymoon. Direct flights are in abundance from all corners of the country, including two and a half hours from Dallas and four and a half hours from Las Vegas, and there's also Amtrak running along the East Coast. Driving is also a possibility, especially for those within the state.

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Is Miami Beach Good for a Honeymoon?

Pros of a Miami Beach Honeymoon

Traveling within the US greatly eliminates the chances of anything (though not everything) going wrong. There are no travel restrictions to consider, nor will you have to fuss over data plans, currency exchange or passports. The journey time is also relatively short for travelers from within the US mainland and Caribbean islands. Miami Beach is also perfect for a minimoon. Simply land and let the fun times begin.

Cons of a Miami Beach Honeymoon

During peak seasons, prices can inflate to some of the highest in the country, and outside of that, Miami is notorious for being expensive. Those renting a car may find driving frustrating, with traffic often bumper-to-bumper due to a lack of efficient public transportation, and thanks to famous Brugal 1888 cocktails at Café La Trova (named one of the world's 50 best bars), driving will be a no-go much of the time.

The Best Times of Year to Go on a Miami Beach Honeymoon for Good Weather

Miami Beach has a tropical monsoon climate, meaning hot and humid summers or warm and dry winters. You'll want to visit between December and May, avoiding hurricane season which runs from June to November. (Tip: steer clear of March as the destination is extremely popular with rowdy Spring Breakers.)

Things to Do During a Miami Beach Honeymoon

Hit the Beach

Ample time on sand ranks high on any trip to Miami Beach. Whilst South Beach is a staple go-to, make time for some of the other shoreline stops. For a respite from the noise, Virginia Key Beach Park is a secluded haven where you're treated to sweeping views across the bay and Atlantic ocean. Haulover Beach is Miami Beach's only legal nude beach for those who want to skip the tan lines. And for a touch of glam, try Nikki Beach Miami, which offers picture-perfect cabanas alongside cocktail service.

Savor the A-List favorites

As a destination frequented by famous faces, you'll find an A-List of eats that'll fill the date night schedule every night of the week. For a French Mediterranean dining experience favored by the likes of Tom Cruise and Beyonce, book a table at Bagatelle Miami. Craving Chinese food like P.Diddy and Naomi Campbell? Mr Chow's Peking Duck awaits within the W South Beach. Meanwhile, Zuma Miami is where you might spot a Kardashian tucking into sashimi, and Casa Tua cooks up a delicious truffle risotto that's a winner for Serena Williams.

See Outdoor Art at The Wynwood Walls

In a former industrial neighborhood that's since evolved into a cultural hub full of graffiti and street art, a ticket to the Wynwood Walls is a must to explore the works of the world's top artists in the genre. It also happens to be Miami's most Instagrammed place, so book a Flytographer to capture the magnificent colors for use both on and off social media. The platform offers hand-picked local photographers in over 350 destinations worldwide, so you can leave the tripod at home and still get perfect honeymoon shots.

Spend a Day at the Everglades

Take a break from the city, and book a Viator experience in Everglades National Park. The 1.5 million acres of swamp is home to rare and endangered species such as the American crocodile, Florida Panther, West Indian manatee and much more. Viator offers top-rated easy-to-find tours to suit every need, whether that's a Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour or a Private Photo Wildlife Safari.

Best Hotels and Resorts in Miami Beach for a Honeymoon

W South Beach

The Collins Avenue resort is a beachfront oasis where detox to retox runs through its veins. Relax in your newly renovated contemporary suite or retreat to the AWAY Spa; and when you're recharged and raring to go, turn it up at Mr Chow's or the vibrant art-filled Living Room Bar.

The Tony Hotel South Beach

The boutique hotel is full of vintage wonder, thanks to meticulously preserved 1930s Art Deco architecture and retro guest rooms and suites. The rooftop pool deck is ideal for breakfast or an afternoon cocktail, and the Wish Café by the lobby offers a serene outdoor garden setting covered in lush green foliage amidst white furniture.

1 Hotel

A sustainable luxury hotel, 1 uses reclaimed materials like fallen rainforest trees for its furniture and salvaged wood from water towers on its ceilings. Eco practices on the property include recycled glass bottles for in-room carafes and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems.

The Faena Miami Beach

Home to Damien Hirst artwork, a theater and multiple restaurant concepts, Alan Faena's hotel is often a destination of its own within Miami Beach. The property meets the top standards of luxury with full-service amenities, spacious suites and prime access to the best parts of Miami Beach. A stay here is pricey, but it's your honeymoon, after all.

What to Pack for a Miami Beach Honeymoon

Though it's hot in Miami Beach, upscale restaurants tend to have a stricter dress code than those on nearby Caribbean islands. Pack smart shoes and dressy attire. You'll of course need beachwear, sunscreen and mosquito repellent for daytime activities.