DK Travel : Miami : Miami Beach and Key Biscayne

Nowher else on earth seems to be so happily addicted to glamour as Miami Beach. All the traits of modern life are here, pushed to the limit: symbols of speed, wealth, and status are vaunted everywhere you look in this body-conscious, sexually charged resort. Key Biscayne, the next big island to the south, provides a stark contast to the dynamism and self-consciousness of its neighbor; here you will find a tranquil and family-oriented atmosphere pervading parks, perfect beaches, and a scattering of museums.

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Bicycling

The best way to get around both Miami Beach and Key Biscayne.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area

This beach, also rated among the nation’s top ten, is conveniently joined to picnic areas and pavilions by boardwalks across the dunes. The sugary sand is sometimes marred by clumps of seaweed, but it is the stinging man-o’-war jellyfish that you need to watch out for most.
Blue

Very laid back and cool, as in the color that dominates in this fun cocktail bar-and-club. Musical nights include tropical house, flashbacks, flow, and soul.
Cape Florida Lighthouse

The oldest structure in South Florida has been standing sentinel since 1825. In 1836, it was destroyed by Native Americans, only to be reborn 10 years later. It has since withstood some blistering meteorological onslaughts, but the worst threat came from simple neglect following its dismissal from duties 1878. Only in 1966 did its renovation and preservation begin.
China Grill

A fusion cuisine pioneer. Portions are not pretentiously miniscule; tastes are light and cleverly composed. Try the sakemarinated chicken.
Clevelander

Facing the beach and on the sidewalk, there’s always something going on here: listening to the live music, having something to eat, or just checking out the passersby.
Coliseum

This gay night spot is very popular and full of beautiful creatures dancing to some of the top DJs in the city. Located near Fort Lauderdale’s Hollywood airport, but worth the trip out there.
Collins Avenue at 7th Street, South Beach

The block or two around this intersection has all the designer boutiques you’ll ever need, from Versace Jeans Couture to Club Monaco, with its carefully selected knockoffs. Also check out the side-street stores.
Crandon Park

Key Biscayne is blessed with some of Miami’s top beaches. Certainly the most impressive is this one, which is actually rated among the top ten in the country. Located on the upper half of the key, it’s 3 miles (5 km) long and enormously wide, with palm trees and picnic areas. The waters are calm and shallow, and good for snorkeling. There are also concession stands, 75 barbecue grills, a winding boardwalk, and convenient parking. Very popular for parties.
crobar

Housed in the former Cameo movie theater, this place employs high-tech prestidigitations to give you the sense of floating in a Surrealist’s dreamworld.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $20
- $20–$40
- $40–$55
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- over $80