The Quieter Side of Miami’s South Beach

Although South Beach thrums with lively bars and trendy restaurants, especially along Ocean Drive, the iconic Miami Beach hotspot harbors a quieter—but far from boring—side. We visited South Beach’s north section recently to visit family. It is filled with breathtaking water views, Al fresco dining and Art Deco buildings, as well as street art. The area has a residential vibe rather than being loud.

South Beach runs from South Pointe Park on Miami Beach’s north end to 23rd Street, some descriptions even push it to 26th Street. It stretches east to Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The Kimpton Hotel Palomar South Beach is located in the north section of South Beach. It’s blocks away from both the ocean and the Sunset Harbour neighbourhood.

This changed the way we saw things. We decided to focus on Biscayne Bay instead of the Atlantic Ocean beaches. Bay Road led us to the Art Deco, low-rise buildings of Miami Beach Architecture. We turned towards the bay at 16th Street.

With its stunning views of the water and proximity to the bay, this walkway was a surprise. There were fish visible in the water, and we could see the skyline of Miami Beach from a distance. Walking groups, stroller-pushing mothers and dog-walkers jogged along the nearly one-mile-long promenade. This path separates bay-front condominiums and apartments. This neighborhood jewel is accessible to all from sunrise through sunset.

We were looking for even more views of the bay so we went to the Lido Bayside Grill at Standard Hotel Miami Beach, Belle Isle. This is one of six Venetian Islands that lie on the west edge of South Beach. Although the Standard Hotel is known for its spa-like services, it also welcomes visitors to its restaurant. We enjoyed stunning views as we ate fish sandwiches, salads, and burgers from the table.

We walked across Sunset Harbour to walk east after lunch. This former industrial zone has been transformed into a neighborhood full of good restaurants and eateries. Stiltsville Fish Bar offers seafood such as oysters, tuna poke, fish tacos and grilled shrimp wraps. Loca