I had a very long list of destinations I wanted to visit in Florida, the things I intended to see and do, but sincerely, Miami is nowhere on that list.
I have always had preconceived notions about Miami and what it looks like.
However, being a travel blogger, I made up my mind and traveled to Miami.
My company wanted us to cover the entire state in two weeks.
The journey was a tough job, but someone must do it.
During the period, I was the only one available to make the trip.
Is it better to stay in South Beach or Miami Beach?
Before I proceed, I would like to point out a big difference here.
There is Miami which is a city on the mainland and Miami beach which is a city of its own on a barrier island, off the coast of Miami.
Most people do not understand the difference between the two places and generally call the name “Miami””.
I am deeply in love with the city of Miami.
The city is of international standard, very eclectic, and is home to many places of international repute attraction.
The city has classy accommodation facilities, delicious foods, and exotic shopping centers.
Miami is a great winter getaway because of the perfect weather condition.
South Beach vs Miami Beach
The two beaches can be said to be the same thing.
However, I will give you a little rundown.
I said before that Miami Beach is a 10-mile-long barrier island located off the coast of Miami.
All of the islands are called Miami, except the sport where Surfside and Bal Harbor are located.
South beach is the most famous part of Miami Beach, and it is located at the south end of the island.
Note that South beach and Miami Beach are neighbors.
That means that when you are staying in South beach you are also staying in Miami Beach.
South beach is well known all over the world.
The beach is mainly synonymous with Miami city.
It is most tourists’ preferred destination.
Technically speaking, South beach is south of 23rd Street, but I like segmenting them into three different sections.
Sofi:
South of 5th (Sofi) is a place I so much admired.
Sofi is a small place; it does not have many hotels and is more of a local setting.
In addition, the prettiest beach I have been to in the whole Miami Beach area is South Pointe Park.
5th-15th:
The heart of South Beach is the 5th-15th.
It is the area in Miami Beach that I will do everything possible not to visit.
A lot of old art deco hotels are lined up on Ocean Drive Avenue.
These hotels are the hot spots for Miami Beach parties.
Beach parties take place here till 5 am all night.
Some illicit substances are taken at these parties.
You cannot sleep nor relax in this place.
15th to 23rd:
This location is also a part of South beach but it is more decent than the other party center that is just south of it.
It is a more decent place and the more you go north the cooler and better things get.
Do not forget, all these places are all part of Miami Beach.
Mid Beach:
South Beach started from north of 23rd Street and vanished into Mid beach.
The hotels in this area are bigger and better.
Beach parties hold in this place but they are more mature.
I have to say this, if you are living in Miami or you know the area very well, you will take note of the difference between South Beach and Mid Beach.
People who do not know the area so well call everywhere South beach.
With a little clarity of these beaches, it becomes easier for you to explore them.
A lot of hotels that are as far north as 40th Street use South beach in their description because of the international popularity it has.
The bigger question: Is South Beach the Best Place to Stay in Miami?
In my opinion, I will answer no to that question.
First of all, have you decided to stay on the beach or not?
If you want to take a tour of Miami, to explore the palaces of tourist attractions that abound in the city.
With the number of things to do on both beaches, you may have a different opinion than mine.
However, I have listed some things you should know about these beaches.
I advise you to lodge downtown Miami, around Brickell or Coconut Grove.
That location will make getting around easy for you because you will be closer to about 90% of the places you will love to visit in Miami.
The location is also very close to Miami Beach.
Finally, the two beaches offer you amazing places to visit.
Whether you want to experience solitude or jump from one tourist location to another, I believe these beaches will give fulfill your desires.
FAQs
Is Miami Beach different from South Beach?
The most popular section of Miami beach is South beach.
It is situated at the south end of Miami.
That means that South beach is a neighbor to Miami Beach.
Staying in South beach is staying at Miami Beach as well.
Which part of Miami Beach is the best?
Among the following beaches, which will you choose as the best?
- South Pointe Park Pier.
- Lummus Park Beach.
- Mid-Beach (21st–45th Street)
- 46th–63rd Street (Mid-)Beach
- North Beach (63rd–87th Street
- Haulover Beach.
- Bal Harbour.
Is it better to stay in South Beach or Miami Beach?
Generally, if you want to enjoy the best of Miami beach, places north of South beach are the best for you.
These palaces are calm and cool for you to sleep in.
Is South Beach nicer than Miami Beach?
South Beach is a beautiful place to unwind.
Most of the clubs, hotels, and restaurants are within a walkable distance.
Unlike Miami Beach, South Beach has some of the best beaches, shopping streets, clubs,and restaurants.
Many more people prefer to stay at South beach rather than at Miami Beach.
