24 Hours In Miami: A Luxury Yacht Insider’s Guide 

The iconic Art Deco architecture, a vibrant mix of culture and laid-back luxury coastal charm, is why many return to the ever-evolving and thriving Floridian hub of Miami. Beyond the famous beaches and skyline, the city is brimming with world-class galleries and exclusive marinas. Visitors flock here for the US yachting scene, designer shopping, growing art and culture experiences, and the international dining and nightlife buzz. 

Thanks to the city’s location in sunny South Florida, Miami is a year-round destination with white sand beaches and endless sunshine. Its high-energy vibes are regularly filled with new hotel and restaurant openings, as well as exclusive cultural experiences. While world-renowned events like Art Basel, the Miami Grand Prix, and the Miami International Boat Show have transformed Miami into America’s ultimate creative and luxury hotspot, attracting artists, designers, celebrities, and yachting enthusiasts from all corners. 

Popular neighbourhoods to explore range from the glamour of South Beach, art-filled Wynwood, the cultural heart of Little Havana, to the contemporary Design District. With plenty to fill an itinerary here, 24 hours in Miami gives you a whirlwind introduction to the city. A quick tour of the city is perfect for those beginning or ending a yacht charter here, with the option to extend your stopover into a longer weekend break. 

Whether Miami is featuring on your next yacht charter itinerary or a more extended city break, here’s how we recommend you experience 24 hours in Florida’s multicultural and energetic city: 

Morning

Start the day in style

Early risers should take the opportunity to explore the South Beach coastline at sunrise. Grab rollerblades, a bike, or your two feet and take in the relaxed tropical atmosphere and postcard-perfect views as Miami slowly wakes up, making your way to the southernmost tip of South Beach, South Pointe Park. This scenic waterfront park offers panoramic views of the Atlantic, boardwalks, landscaped gardens, and piers. 

One of the city’s most important meals, brunch is taken to another level in Miami. If you are in the city on a weekend, one of the most lavish brunch experiences is at The Setai, within the hotel’s signature restaurant Jaya. There are endless stations from caviar to live dessert bars washed down with free-flowing champagne. Set in the hotel’s courtyard, accompanied by jazz music, you can soak up a luxurious and leisurely morning before exploring the city. 

For those who prefer a grab-and-go breakfast option, instead start your morning with a strong Cuban coffee and pastry from one of the many coffee spots, such as Crema Gourmet or Shepherd Artisan Coffee, in South Beach. To kick off exploration, along the palm tree-lined Ocean Drive, you will be in the Art Deco Historic District. 

The best way to experience this highly photogenic district is by taking a privately guided walking tour to learn more about the celebrated pastel-coloured architecture and history. You will come across iconic landmarks like The Colony Hotel and The Tides, where you can learn about Miami’s Golden Age and stories from the 1930s. A knowledgeable tour guide will share anecdotes about the city’s development, from glamorous beach resorts to Hollywood-inspired film locations.

Afternoon

Art, culture & Miami leisure 

Continue exploring Miami’s art scene in the afternoon downtown with a short hop across the water to the Wynwood Art District, home to the city’s more contemporary art scene. As you wander, you will come across large urban murals, trendy art galleries, and boutiques. You will also find Wynwood Walls, which has been one of Miami’s must-see art spots since 2009. The outdoor street art museum showcases works by renowned street artists, including Shepard Fairey and Retna. If time allows, you can also pay a visit to the Museum of Graffiti, the first of its kind dedicated to the global graffiti movement. 

Depending on hunger levels since brunch, you can opt for a later lunch in the Wynwood area. To sample some of the best American comfort food staples, from award-winning burgers to fried chicken, check out Le Chick. Or, for a taste of the Mediterranean, head to Doya and enjoy Turkish and Greek-inspired sharing plates. 

For upscale boutiques and some high-end shopping, the Miami Design District is next on the list. Walk the palm-lined streets, admire the public art installations, browse flagship luxury stores, and visit unique design and concept studios. 

If relaxation is more on the cards, spend the rest of the afternoon unwinding at one of Miami’s glamorous beach clubs. Head to the original Nikki Beach to enjoy the brand’s flagship location, or the newly revamped Savoy Beach Club, for its Art Deco charm. A beach club afternoon is perfect for lounging in the sun and sipping cocktails in private cabanas; it could also be a great option to enjoy a later lunch or snack. For a more energetic option, Hyde Beach is a must-try, renowned for its extravagant pool parties and DJ experiences. 

Early Evening

Historic streets & sunset sips

Before you sample more of the city’s acclaimed dining options and watering holes, west of downtown Miami is Little Havana, the heart of Cuban and Latino culture. Wander around the area and the famous Calle Ocho, full of restaurants, galleries, rum bars, and music venues. This lively neighborhood is a significant symbol of Miami’s broader Latin American heritage. Early evening is the ideal time to visit and enjoy some of the live music performances, as well as some of the best mojitos, such as at the restored jazz club, Ball & Chain. 

If you want to catch the sunset, head back to South Beach. At the aptly named Sunset Harbour, there’s a great waterside spot to watch the sun go down. Another great sunset viewing location is within Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, located at the southern tip of Key Biscayne. Here, you will also come across Miami’s oldest structure, the Cape Florida Lighthouse. 

Miami is also renowned for its rooftop bars, and at places like Sugar at EAST Miami Hotel, it is one of the best and highest, offering views of the downtown Miami skyline at sunset, accompanied by tiki-style cocktails. 

Evening

Chef’s tables to late-night venues

There are endless options to choose from for dinner. At Miami Beach, the one Michelin-starred Stubborn Seed is one not to miss, available as an à la carte or a course tasting menu. Chef Jeremy Ford brings contemporary Latin and Asian influences to his ever-changing menu, sourcing ingredients directly from his farm. To sample Miami’s innovative sushi scene, book a table at the city’s latest omakase experience, the one-starred Ogawa, which serves a 19-course menu that changes daily based on preferences and requests. Alternatively, nearby Ogawa features Sunny’s Steakhouse, an ideal choice for those seeking a classic American steakhouse experience with added luxury. 

Miami continues into the early hours with its late-night energy, providing some world-class entertainment, from sophisticated lounges to nightclubs. One of the most famous clubs is LIV, renowned for its glamour, international DJ lineup, and lively dance floor. Another after-hours spot is the MILA Lounge in South Beach, a late-opening rooftop lounge with resident DJs and innovative mixology. The Little Havana area is also an excellent spot for later in the evening, check out places like the lively High Note Jazz Club.

If you have more than 24 hours to spare, there are so many day trip options to take from the city. Miami is the ideal base for exploring more of Florida. Just north of Miami is the yachting capital of Fort Lauderdale, and further up is Palm Beach. Or, going south, spend a day dipping your toes into the Florida Keys, the first stop is Key Largo, an excellent spot for snorkelling. West of Miami is the Everglades National Park, where you can spot the resident alligators, birds, and turtles while on an airboat tour. 

A Day Well Spent 

Spending 24 hours in Miami offers visitors a glimpse into a city where beaches, art, vibrant culture, and world-class dining come together. Exploring different neighborhoods provides a snapshot of what the city offers, from Art Deco streets to luxury avenues and beach promenades. Spend time indulging in leisurely brunches, unwind at beach clubs, or soak up late-night energy at rooftop bars and clubs. In just 24 hours, you will get an excellent introduction to the city and will likely return to soak up more before or after a yacht charter in Florida.