Miami in summer: How to make the most of your visit

Miami sizzles in summer, and we're not just talking about the temperature. Beat the afternoon showers by ducking into neon-lit Art Deco landmarks, or embrace the heat like a local by diving into the crystal-clear waters of South Beach. From Wynwood's traffic-stopping street art to wildlife encounters in the Everglades' lush wilderness, Miami's summer adventures go well beyond the beach. Ready to turn up the heat on your escape? Here’s your guide to Miami’s top 10 must-do experiences, timed to dodge those summer thunderclaps.

1. Pair Wynwood’s street art with its trendy street food

Miami’s Wynwood district is a vibrant canvas, celebrating world-renowned street art and graffiti. Dive into this artistic hotspot on a Wynwood Food and Art Tour, a perfect summer combo of culture and cuisine.

Highlights:

Admire colorful murals by artists like David Choe while indulging in everything from Peruvian-Japanese fusion to Spanish comfort food.

Address and opening hours:

Wynwood Arts District, Miami, Florida, United States. Tour times and dates vary.

2. Cruise Miami's star-studded shores

Experience Miami’s luxurious side and enjoy views of the city skyline on a Biscayne Bay boat tour of celebrity homes that line the waterfront. Cruise past the Venetian Island, South Beach, and Millionaire's Row as you soak up the Miami sunshine.

Highlights:

This is the ultimate way to glimpse the playgrounds of the rich and famous, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a celebrity enjoying their summer escape!

3. Zip through gator territory on a thrilling airboat ride

Take an educational and exciting airboat tour of the Everglades through marshy swampland. One minute, you’re skimming across open water at speeds up to 40 mph; the next, you’re drifting silently past a sunbathing gator. This million-acre wetland wonderland serves up close encounters with wildlife that’ll have you reaching for your camera faster than you can say "see you later, alligator.”

Highlights:

The Everglades National Park is less than an hour’s drive from Miami, making it the perfect day trip. Summer brings afternoon thunderstorms that create prime wildlife-watching conditions. Look out for herons, turtles and raccoons in their natural habitat, as well as native plants used by indigenous peoples.

Address and opening hours:

Everglades National Park, Florida, United States. Tour times vary.

4. Kick up dust on an off-road quad tour

Swap city streets for untamed trails where mud splashes and engines purr. Miami’s outskirts hide a playground of off-road tracks where you can unleash your inner adventurer on an ATV. Zip past towering pines, splash through seasonal puddles, and feel the rush of wind as you navigate through South Florida's rugged terrain.

Highlights:

Ride through dirt roads while you chase sunflower plantations, sunsets, and amazing views.

5. Discover Miami's top snorkeling spots

Ready to explore South Florida’s vibrant underwater world? Miami’s warm waters offer easy access to colorful reefs, tropical fish, and marine adventures. Whether you’re snorkeling close to South Beach or heading to Key West’s famous coral reefs, you’ll find crystal-clear waters perfect for underwater exploration. There is truly no better way to take advantage of your visit to Miami than with a snorkeling trip.

Highlights:

Book a morning tour to catch the best visibility and most active marine life. New to snorkeling? Start with Miami’s protected sites before tackling Key West’s deeper waters.

6. Hop aboard a Wynwood party bike

Take a quirky ride through Miami’s most colorful district on a party bike bar crawl. These group-powered party bikes roll past vibrant murals and hip cafes, letting you soak up Wynwood's creative energy while staying cool. Between pedaling stretches, hop off to snap photos of ever-changing street art or grab a cold brew from local coffee spots.

Highlights:

Meet new friends on a two-hour party ride and enjoy thumping tunes as you pedal through Wynwood on your way to your next destination.

Address and opening hours:

127 NE 27th St, Miami, FL 33137, United States. Tour times vary.

7. Live the high life on a champagne yacht cruise

Get a taste of the Miami high life as you float along Biscayne Bay in the summer sunshine. A Private Yacht Cruise with Champagne provides excellent vistas of Miami’s waterfront, from the glistening towers of the Financial District to the spinning Skyviews Miami Observation Wheel.

Highlights:

You can create your own playlists using the yacht’s Bluetooth speakers and stash your drinks in the cooler provided.

Address and opening hours:

961 NW 7th St, Miami, FL 33136, United States. Tour times vary.

8. Go surfing in Miami beach

Trade your beach lounger for a surfboard and join Miami's laid-back surf scene. South Beach's warm waters and gentle waves create the perfect classroom for first-time surfers. Start with sand sessions to master the basics, then paddle out to transform those wobbly knees into confident rides. Look for breaking waves near South Pointe Pier, where conditions are typically best for beginners.

Highlights:

Take surfing lessons to experience Miami’s surfing culture for yourself and master the perfect pop-up stance while you learn wave patterns and surf etiquette.

Address and opening hours:

Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States. Tour times vary.

9. Question reality at Miami's most puzzling museum

The Paradox Museum is a wonderful place to visit for a rainy afternoon activity. This is one of Miami’s most famous and fun exhibition spaces. It celebrates scientific paradoxes by placing you right in their midst. Prepare to question your understanding.

Highlights:

A big highlight is the zero gravity room where you can live out your astronaut dreams. This room is something straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Address and opening hours:

2301 N Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33127, United States. Open Monday-Friday, 12:00 PM-6:00 PM, and Saturday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM.

10. Light up your night in the Art Deco district

Step into a neon-drenched wonderland where Miami’s architectural gems put on their evening sparkle. Ocean Drive at night is pure magic; the pastel-painted buildings transform into glowing masterpieces as twilight falls, their curved lines and geometric patterns illuminated against the sky. There is also no shortage of bars, restaurants, and clubs on Ocean Drive, making it a great spot to start a night out in Miami.

Highlights:

Snap photos of the Colony Hotel's iconic blue glow, marvel at Carlyle's symmetrical beauty, or pause for a cocktail at one of the historic hotels turned trendy lounges.

Address and opening hours:

Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States.

FAQs

Where can I go swimming or relax by the water in Miami?

Miami’s warm waters are perfect for a splash. South Beach is, of course, Miami’s most iconic beach. Still, if you’re looking for a quieter experience, Haulover Beach has exquisite white sands and plenty of sporting opportunities for novice surfers.

Are there any great summer festivals in Miami?

Miami Beach Classical Music Festival lights up summer evenings with soaring arias and symphonic sounds. Over in Coral Gables, the CAP Summer Concert Series keeps things cool every other Thursday with local talent. For food and drink lovers, Whiskies of the World Miami pours over 200 spirits at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Cap off summer with Zest Fest at Miami Beach Bandshell, where Miami's best indie rockers turn up the volume.

What are the must-visit outdoor attractions in Miami?

The Everglades Park is one of Miami’s best places to visit and the most beautiful natural wonderland, replete with mangrove swamps and alligators. Biscayne Bay is another important attraction primed for jet ski rides and parasailing.

What are some great day trips to take from Miami in the summer?

Key West is a four-hour drive from Miami, making it the perfect day tour option. View the conch-style houses and coral reefs as you explore this magnificent island. If you don’t want to spend any time on the tarmac, spend the day immersed in Cuban Culture in Little Havana.

What are some fun activities with kids in Miami in summer?

Zoo Miami is always a hit with children, and Miami Seaquarium has more than its share of Nemos to stare at. Adventurous kids will love kayaking and hiking in Oleta River State Park.