Miami Beach
There is no better way to celebrate a special occasion than with a getaway. To celebrate my partner’s birthday, we traded the Canadian chill for the sun-soaked streets of Miami. Driven by an appreciation for Mediterranean Revival architecture, pastel-hued Art Deco designs, and vintage cars, we set out to experience the city's rich Latin American culture and world-class culinary scene.
Stay
Hilton Bentley Miami South Beach (Ocean Drive): Oceanfront views, central access, and direct proximity to South Beach, Brickell, Little Havana, and Wynwood. Perfect for balancing relaxing morning ocean vistas with evening city explorations.
Activities
Wynwood Walls: Stroll through world-class outdoor street art curated by Goldman Global Arts. Highlights include 3D optical illusions like Leon Keer’s reset button mural.
Little Haiti Cultural Complex: Explore vibrant outdoor murals, an art gallery, a marketplace, and a theatre showcasing local culture.
Neighbourhood Exploration: Stroll down Española Way to take in the Mediterranean Revival architecture and classic 1940s–50s cars.
Eats
Las Olas Cafe: Local Latin spot ideal for stuffed empanadas, roasted pork sandwiches, salchipapas, and fresh sugarcane juice.
Alma Cubana: Ocean Drive terrace dining serving Mi Pueblo (roasted pork with rice, black beans, fried egg, and avocado) and classic Cuban sandwiches.
Marabú (Brickell City Centre): Contemporary Cuban fare featuring Tasajo over tamal en cazuela (cured short rib over corn purée) and garlic-sautéed shrimp (camarones al ajillo).
Chef Creole: Outdoor dining spot in Little Haiti serving flavourful oxtail, fried fish, plantains, rice, beans, and spicy pikliz.
The Den at Azabu: Michelin-starred, 16-seat hidden omakase counter serving a 10-course menu paired with sake.
Españolita: Romantic Spanish terrace on Española Way featuring Jamón Ibérico, seafood paella, and Ribera del Duero wine.
Entertainment
Sala’o Restaurant & Bar: Lively Little Havana venue featuring live salsa and rumba music, energetic dancers, and interactive celebrations.
El Salón: Cozy speakeasy hidden behind multi-door access near Española Way, serving masterfully balanced cocktails in an intimate setting.
Miami delivered the ultimate birthday trip, filled with striking architecture, warm hospitality, and vibrant flavours. From energetic salsa rhythms in Little Havana to quiet dining spots hidden around South Beach, every neighbourhood brought something distinct to the celebration. Ultimately, the city proves that the best getaways aren't just about escaping the cold—they are about immersing yourself in a culture that turns every meal and evening stroll into its own celebration.
