Chasing the SUNSET! Miami Beach local favorites

Don't be intimidated by the flashy cars and neon lights. I'm about to give you my secret tips on how to enjoy Miami Beach as a local. Granted, if this is your first time in the magic city, you should hit all the tourist spots in the travel guides. But my ideal visit includes a little bit more substance: the sassy flavor you can only get if I would be your own private tour guide. Ready??

Can you guess where I am? So peaceful here

After hosting several friends from all over the world, I decided to put some tips together. My formula has never received complains and it goes beyond popular destination or big brands. Bottle service, champagne showers, pool parties, etc are activities that you associate with the 305. In my opinion, there is a lot more to offer other than the vibrant nightlife. We have exquisite water sports, incredible FREE sightseeing, local restaurants that will knock your sacks off and best of all, beaches for days...

Sofi - The beach where the locals play

So here it goes, these are the things I love to do in Miami Beach. Try a few of these options besides your usual  touristy spots such as: Ocean, Drive, Lincoln Rd, Espanola way, LIV, Collins Ave and anything you see on the plain ride coming down to the 305.

CHASING THE SUNSET

SOUTH POINTE PARK - This park is a MUST. The South of 5th neighborhood is one of the most exclusive ones in all of the city but it still remains  quiet and a little secluded from all the craziness in Sobe. In this little piece of land south of 5th street you can be sure to mix with the locals. The secret to this area is that most of the towers are residences and not hotels. A lot of its residents live here year round so there are many things to do. Something I enjoy a couple times a month is a little bike ride from the end of the park all the way to the W Hotel station on 23rd street and Collins (here you can drop off your city bike and walk to Lincoln Rd). For a bout $6 you can rent a city bike for an hour and ride north passing Ocean Drive, the Miami Beach board walk and ending on Collins ave. If you let yourself go you can ride all the way up to 40th street where you can grab lunch at the Iconic Fountaine Bleau Hotel. It is a very pretty scene, you can stop as many times as you wish to take pictures. You will feel the wind brushing on your face while getting a workout and viewing some of the most amazing Art Deco buildings in the City. I highly recommend it! Never had one of my friends complain about it.

Rent the Citi Bikes and ride along the boardwalk 

RESTAURANTS - Some of the most popular restaurants in the city are actually located in the neighborhood above (Sofi). Still one of my favorites is Smith and Wollensky ( I know, it's a chain). Grab a table outside right before sunset to see the spectacle in the sky transforming colors from pink to purple to orange. One the best spots in the city to grab an early dinner and watch the sunset unfold. I try to go there once a week when the weather allows it. It has a great local scene, killer martinis and it is great for people watching. This steak house will  leave you hungry for more. If you are around on Sunday try the brunch menu and watch the cruise ships go by as they leave the port of Miami. Really amazing. 

Watch the cruises leave the port of Miami while eating BRUNCH 

Other great restaurants in this area are:

JOE'S STONE CRAB - Open during season. This Miami staple offers extra fresh seafood with a Miami twist. The HUGE line is totally worth the wait (they don't take reservations). One of the best sea food restaurants in the entire city. TIP from Gabriela Wanderlust: enjoy many delicious options next door in the casual dinner. They have way better prices but still the high quality products from the formal restaurant. DELISH!! 

MONTY"S TIKI BAR - Love the casual nature of this waterfront tiki bar. Right at the South Pointe Marina you will find find people hangout in flip flops, shorts and even bathing suits. It's hard to imagine such a low key joint right in South beach. The happy hour is great, they offer fresh sea food, killer pina coladas and decent bar food. Most of the nights they have reggae live bands or a DJ. Super chill spot to unwind after a day on the beach (though life, I know). One of the only outdoor (waterfront) bars in Sobe. 

The sky will transform in front of your eyes at SUNSET

VENETIAN ISLAND - If you are a runner or up for a long walk, I highly recommend to go from east to west all along the Venetian Cause Way. This little piece of land connects Miami Beach with Downtown. It hosts some of the most spectacular homes on the water. Grab your camera because the views get pretty on this side of the city. Take a break at the Lido restaurant inside of The Standard Hotel while you are at it. Their healthy menu, combined with the water front dinning experience will elevate your palate. The sexy beats by local DJs are not bad either.  If you get lucky, buy the day pass for the pool and spa (for $75). They have great specials in the summer time. Best way to disconnect and refresh in the Miami Heat. My favorite time to do this little walk is right before sunset. Truly one of the favorite spots for the locals.

The Lido Bay-side Grill at The Standard Hotel 

Get the day pass here!!! 

PADDLE BOARDING - Head to the Sunset Harbor Marina for some fun under the sun. If you are into water sports, then try to get on the paddle. You are going to love it. There are many locations to choose from but my favorite one is in the Sunset Harbor neighborhood. This area has a beautiful backdrop of the exclusive Miami Beach Islands. Feeling strong? Paddle your way to the Standard hotel, grab a snack and head back to shore. Another great option is to book the Neon Tour. This magical paddle-boarding experience takes place at sunset and it will allow you to see the marine life that lays below the water. One of a kind experience that you must taste. This will be the best hour or 2 that you spend on the water.

Meet sporty friends on the paddle 

MORNING COFFEE - Panther coffee on Purdy ave (right around the Venetian Island and Sunset Harbor Marina) has the most relaxing atmosphere to get inspired. Can I mention their almond croissants are to die for? This is really the best way to wake up. Take a walk around the park, breath the fresh air hitting the bay, enjoy the view of the marina while you get your caffeine fix. My ultimate favorite spot for my morning coffee. Away from all the hustle and bustle of Sobe but still an entertaining area. You will truly enjoy all the little shops around here. Sip in the goodness, try all the exotic options. 

Upgrade your morning coffee experience 

Hope these options give you a different spin on your visit to Miami Beach. There is a BIG movement trying to organize social events that include healthy options such as yoga, running clubs and biking tours. Check with your concierge or ask me how to spend the best hours of your life chasing the sunset. My local favorites will knock your sacks off!!! So much to do in my beautiful 305. Travel well and travel often.

THE END!

My London Eye - a quick guide to the perfect layover

Can't get enough of London!!! In the last couple of years I have enjoyed several stops in this unique destination. Some short, some others long but ALL of them with one thing in common - my layovers in London were MAGICAL. It doesn't matter what time of the year it is, it seems like every time I find something new and charming to do. I have tried the food, the party, the shopping, the sight seeing and every time I fall  more and more in love with this place.

Catching the sun in the south bank of the River Thames 

Take a stroll around Buckingham Palace

These are my favorite things to do if you ONLY have 24 hours and this is your first time here:

Of course you need to be cultured and check off your list all these main spots that make London so POSH: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, St Paul's Cathedral, Buckingham Palace ( in this last one try to catch the change of guard). Depending on the beauty of the sky and the season you should get on the London Eye to enjoy a beautiful sunset. If there is enough time please do squeeze in the boat ride on the River Thames. It's truly magical to see such a vibrant city from the water (bring a jacket or heavy cover because no matter if summer or winter it gets COLD on the  boat). If you love walking like me and the weather allows it, do this city tour by foot. It's virtually impossible to get lost in London and if you do, you will discover new things to make you fall in love. Also, another option is the red bus. This last one for about $40 will drive you around and give you some history on the way. Not a bad deal if you want to feel like a total tourist.

Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster

The famous Nelson's Column 

*Gabriela_Wanderlust TIP: If visiting after September 1st come on an even day because there is NO changing of the guard on odd days.

THESE attractions will pack your first 24 hours and you will wish to stay another day. If you do and you have 48 hours here, then this is my list to do:

Kensington Palace - quick stop for your bike ride

The Big Ben SELFIE

Sports are in my blood so one my favorite ways to explore London is by bike. They are easy to rent throughout the city and if you are feeling adventurous, you will discover a whole new face of the city. Try to ride as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy the beautiful colors of sunrise. Prime time (depending on the month) is 7am and temperature of 50 degrees - SIMPLY HEAVEN. There are multiple trails to choose from. London is very friendly for biking so get started in one of the fabulous parks and ride your way down to the financial district. These will be the BEST couple hours spent exploring. Don't forget to take quick refreshing break along the river and in the local Pubs while you are at it.

These is a list of parks to visit:

Victoria Park, Greenwhich Park, Hyde park, Kensington Gardens (Of course), Regent's Park, Richmond park and St James Park. In some of these parks you must get off the bike and walk in. Again, depending on the weather you can have a enchanted picnic on the lawn (bring wine, cheese and snacks). The beauty of the natural setting in the middle of the city will literally take your breath away!!! 

Fall ride in Victoria Park

*Gabriela_Wanderlust TIP: Take a few minutes to visit the beautiful Swans at the Serpentine Lake at the Hyde Park. Simply a MAGICAL experience.

If you woke up early enough then after this little park tour you will be hungry and ready for a late lunch/drink. My TOP recommendation for a sunset lunch/early dinner would be to head up high to the Sky garden or Top of the Shard. In these 2 roof tops you can watch the city winding down. It's truly an spectacular sight. A little touristy but still very enjoyable. Another great place for sushi on top of London is the Sushi Samba. They have an popping outside terrace and the design is so beautiful. It will become a lounge if you stay late enough.

SkyGarden - Make sure you reserve your visit in ADVANCE!!

View from TOP OF THE SHARD!! A must see

Still have energy? Head to Mayfair for a posh drink and to mingle with the locals.

Some of my favorite spots to eat and drink after a long day are: Novikov, Zuma, Bodega La Negra, any of the many restaurants at the Dorchester Hotel, Park Room at Grosvenor House, La Petite Maison, Corrigans, Cut at 45 Park Lane, Espelette, Hakkasan, Pescatori Fish and Seafood, Coya, Cecconis.

YOU MADE IT!!! Your first 48 hours were a total sucess. Have some energy to burn?? In the next 24 hours you should get in the tube and explore the following areas. By the end of the day you will feel like a local LOL

Bloomsburry, Mayfair, Wembley and Whitechapel. Canary Wharf has recently developed into a new financial and commercial hub in the Docklands to the East. Great around happy hour time. The west End is London's main entertainment and shopping district. Kengsington and Chelsea are my favorites to see the locals in their everyday lives. These last 2 areas can also show you some of the most spectacular pieces of property in the city. And  PRICEY - the average home sells for about 4million pounds!

Oxford Circus - The equivalent to our Times Square in NYC

This third day I highly recommend to visit HARRODS! This iconic shopping experience will be one in a life time. Reserve in advance for Tea time or do champagne for lunch. It  is a unique department store that would make you feel like Royalty EVERYBODY LOVES HARRODS, you will not regret spending most of your last day here.

Try everything you can afford at HARRODS!! 

Hope these options can help you plan your layover in London. Being one of the biggest hops in the world, I felt the need to talk about what you can do in your quick stops there. Nonetheless, I would recommend to spend at least a week exploring London. Each area transforms into little villages and they offer a million different options for food and entertainment. Here you can find and enjoy all cultures, move around easily in the public transport and enjoy fun for all ages. Simply one of the best cities to visit!!! A lay over in London will leave you hungry from more. POSH POSH POSH 

Summer days relaxing and people watching

THE SHARD: 87-story Skyscraper in Southwark 

Interesting facts about LONDON:

This TOP Global city is one of the capitals of the world. It posses strengths in arts, commerce, education, entertainment, fashion, finance, healthcare, media, professional services, research and development, tourism and transport.

London has the world's largest airport system. It's the 5th GDP and the largest concentration of higher education in Europe.


LONDON has it all!! THE END

Wynwood - Miami The Hipster

When I think of Wynwood, I think of art. This eclectic and colorful neighborhood has transformed in front of my eyes. Driving pass the ghetto you will find the most interesting mix of artsy, hipsters, musicians, and yogis in Miami. This is like nothing you expect when you visit the magic city. Far away from the luxury resorts from Miami Beach, Wynwood offers a vast selection of picturesque  art galleries, local shops, organic restaurants and interesting coffee shops. This is where the creative people take a break. Mid day coffees at Panther coffee, pastries at Zack the baker, lunch at Coyo Taco and late night drinks at gramps or Wood Tavern... Many options to choose from. Wynwood is the new face of Miami, this is a different type of tourist but nevertheless a very interesting kind. This neighborhood is now one of the most important in the city as far as tourism and one to watch for FAST economic growth. Who says artists are broke?

 

PANTHER COFFEE  - There is not one time of the day where this spot stays quiet. Hipsters, students, artists, and wannabe cool kids all drive or walk into this joint to get a powerful doses of their brew. It is very cool to watch people working on their music while people watching. Others do some reading, some just seat down to play on Facebook or maybe get some inspiration, I have spotted groups having from one to 3 or 4 cups of coffee through out a lunch break of an afternoon relaxing session. Cops even take their coffee break here. The crow at Panther coffee is colorful and the smell of their coffee is to die for. Even when is storching hot outside, the patio chairs stay FULL. It is hard to imagine that just about 5 years ago, this was a warehouse district where you would never step a foot to socialize. Today Panther Coffee has become a thriving local business with export quality. Thumbs up as the best café in Miami.

How I feel after my double shot of espresso!!!

 

WYNWOOD WALLS - Step into the magic of Miami. Walking through these walls will transport you to a parallel world where the crazy thoughts in your head transform into beautiful art. All dancing together, each wall offers a variety of styles to get inspiration from. Big or small, bright or dark, Wynwoodwalls have showcased some of the biggest graffiti artists in the industry such as:   Ryan McGinness, Ron English, AIKO, FAFI, Lady Pink, Maya Hayuk, Miss Van, and last but NOT least - Wynwood Walls very first tenant - Peter Tunney.     

People flock from all around to get their "cool art" fix. With Art Basel taking over Miami every December, the city has become the epicenter from modern art in this side of the globe. And wynwood is at the middle of it all. Their rapid growth and platform for many international artist has put an eye in the magic city as well as this incredible neighborhood. LOVE to finally have such a strong presence in the artistic world with our very own and unique Wynwood.

 



Shepard Fairey is renowned for his...

"Obey" campaign and for his Obama "Hope" poster. His mural for the Wynwood Walls, visible from 2nd Avenue, is a stunning example of his wheat-pasted work. When Shepard first heard about the project, one of the things that impressed him most was the idea that the outdoor pieces curated for the project would not only be very accessible to the public, but that they would also be maintained. From the years he spent putting artwork up in the streets illegally, Shepard was accustomed to the opposite, that street art pieces are usually short-lived.

           

SWOON from Brooklyn to Miami with LOVE!!!

PETER TUNNEY ART GALLERY - I clearly remember the first time I visited his gallery. The experience was different because I have never seen "this" type of art up to this point. I was new in the scene and had no idea what modern art really was. Overall, it was a unique, very cool experience and I'm glad to see his art in far away places like "Nantucket" (so random) - I  was walking around the island a few days ago and I recognized his brand right away. Very proudly I told my friends I know him from Miami ( I was static!!! ). His work probes our culture by mining images from newspapers, magazines, and art books and reinterpreting them through his own unique perspective. His recent works, where refreshingly optimistic phrases and quotes are colorfully painted over collaged headlines, serve as a subtle attack on our culture of fear and ennui. As our media sources relay stories of death, destruction, hysteria and greed, Peter whimsically overpowers them with his own headlines, such as "DON'T PANIC", "BELIEVE", "GRATTITUDE" and "CHANGE THE WAY YOU SEE EVERYTHING".

After having a career on Wall Street, Peter turned to art and opened his first gallery in New York in 1991. In 2010, he became the Wynwood Walls first tenant when he opened the Peter Tunney Experience gallery inside the Walls. One of my favorite places to feel positive and artsy at the same time.

 

Fafi - yes, where all of us girls take pictures outside the Peter Tunney Gallery LOL

 

As part of the Women on the Walls program for Art Basel 2013 Fafi created a beautiful mural constructed entirely of flowers on one of the gates and also collaborated with Joey Goldman on a mural of one of her Fafinettes inside the Wynwood Doors.

 

 

WOOD TAVERN - "Get comfortable" in this laid back neighborhood bar with great old school hip hop and  Jinga!! This is a place where everyone wants to be, because anyone is welcome. Always expect good music and killer drinks, so catch a picnic table with your friends on the patio and relax. You never know what type pf character could show up at WoodTavern. There is almost a college vibe to it but withvery cool people. The food truck, backyard grill set up makes it easy to talk to strangers. One minute you could be eating tacos with your friends and the next monute you might win your first game of Junga. Seriuouly, Junga? YESSS, it's the perfect way to talk to stragers and make new frineds. This is far frmthe boring, low key local spot. I have spotted old school hip hip legends playing here. It is also a cool spot during the week with it's daily speciasl andthemes. Overall this is a MUST if you areplanning to do bar hopping in Wynwood. Casual, fresh is the dress code and most importantly come thistry because their drink selection is as packedas their patio.

How you can dress to go to Wood Tavern - CONFY!!

 

JUGO FRESH - If I could go back in time, this would be a business that I would like to have. LOVE their healthy concept and store design. They have taken over Miami. This is the perfect place to re charge and boost you immune system. Jugo Fresh doesn't offer just "fresh juices", they offer your prime healthy choices in a container. This is a lifestyle that you don't want to miss. Allow yourself to surrender to nature's best kept secrets. 100% organic I don't compromise with what I put into my body. This place has it ALL! I could literally grab my bed and move in here LOL When I step into it's temple I immediately feel re boost with energy and cleanse from outside toxins. It is a great place to gather after a workout or for a midday power smoothie. Your body will thank you for it. Going natural and ingesting all kinds of greens/fruits through out the day will improve your body from the inside out. This place has a Great business model (that many others have follow) and it's a pioneer in it's craft. LOVE LOVE my green smoothies!! Try them all and try them often.

Exactly! Dreaming of Jugo Fresh right now

ME after my ginger shot at Jugo Fresh

 

 

 

Some other things to do in Wynwood:

 

Art Walk:

This is bananas, every 2nd Saturday of the month. Come eraly with confy shoes

 

Drift Shopping:

Usually at art walk but sometimes they have good pop up stores on a regular weekend. I have purchased some pretty interesting things here.

 

FOOD TRUCKS:

Come hungry and get ready to get messy while you eat. Also bring cash and an open mind as youwill try new things (specially if you are not from Miami).

 

Bardot (chill European style lounge - I like it on Fridays)

Cafeina, Gramps are also some good spotsif you are looking for nightlife in Wynwood

Wynwood Brewing Company

Kush ( BEST CHICKEN AND WAFFLES)

Morgans, Miam Café are also some of the local's favorite.

 

THE END!

 

Top 10 Pools in Miami - Summer Splash

When you think about Miami the first thing that pops into your head is "beach" right? But here is another sexy option if you are traveling to  the magic city and want to show off your best summer outfits. Let me tell you about "THE BEST POOLS IN MIAMI". Luxurious, sexy, crowded, exclusive and vibrant, there is an option for each and every taste. In Miami we  mix the luxurious and lavish with the classic and authentic. Each space has a personality of its own so grab your bikini, put on some sun block (or a lot) and head to any of these fabulous pools. They won't disappoint!!

1) THE 1 HOTEL ROOFTOP POOL

This newly remodeled hotel used to be the Gansevoort. The Gansenvoort  (about 6 years ago)  offered "Jersey Shore" style soirees with college  bikinis contest, muscle showings, and baby oil dripping from a very greased up crowed.
Thankfully The 1 rooftop pool is now a different story. This rooftop hosts some of the best private events in Miami. It is a sexy venue fully remodeled with incredible ocean front views, amazing drinks, and guaranteed sun all day. Small and exclusive, this is a great spot if you are looking for some sun and also if you want  to show off your best resort outfit. The food is incredible and you will be sure to make friends with interesting people from all over the world - I love their international ultra chic crowd . The 1 rooftop is one of the TOP pools in Miami right now. With it's great location and fantastic ambiance, it's a MUST see. Did I mentioned this is the only roof top pool on Collins avenue? So Miami!

My favorite time to visit is right before sunset!

2) THE ICON POOL AT THE VICEROY HOTEL

As a former resident, the best way to describe the pool at the Icon would be:  a playground for adults. There is so much  stimulation here that you will feel like you are back in college. Many of my friends that still live there see it as living in a dorm with  ultra luxurious amenities. You will need a lot of cash to play in this luxury adult playground, but it is worth it. It even has the largest pool in Florida!
The hot tub is inviting, sexy, and packed even in the  hot Miami weather. The hot tub also claims to be the largest one in the nation. The décor theme is Alice  in Wonderland meets Miami: oversize furniture, rabbits everywhere, and one killer view of the Biscayne Bay at the edge of the pool makes you feel like you are truly in Wonderland. Let your fantasies become a reality in this work hard play hard escape. The Icon pool is the perfect place to mingle and socialize with the locals. If you are looking for a relaxing pool time, be sure to go during the week—the weekends are madness. Enjoy the great drinks, great DJ, and great snacks by the pool and one incredible Bayfront and /city view. The Icon pool is also home for some of the best looking people in Miami! Bring your hottest outfit and enjoy the eye candy. Being out of shape is not allowed unless your bank account is fat too. This is probably my favorite spot in the Brickell/Downtown area. Definitely check it out!

NOT the pool at Club 50 LOL

3) THE STANDARD

The location of this pool is key to its success and uniqueness. Hidden away from civilization in the Venetian Island, The Standard offers one of the more chill pool options in Miami. It's sexy and  has killer views of the sunset. It  is also tranquil and peaceful, like being in your own backyard.

The Standard pool is the perfect place to re connect with your inner self or with your partner (the mixed sex spa options are incredible here). I enjoy it the most with friends: taking paddle yoga classes, drinking at sunset and relaxing in their secret garden. Perfect spot to read, breathe fresh air and regenerate in an Art Deco environment. It's so cozy here that you will feel like a true Miamian vacationing back in the 1950s. The crowd is particularly interesting here, and members can be found from old school Miami Beach to northerners looking for a different spin on things. Artsy, fashionable home away from home! Make it your secret little place away from touristy South Beach. Definitely one of my personal favorites.

NO filter needed :)

4) THE MONDRIAN

The Mondrian pool is another one of my favorites for people watching and sunsets. This is where the hot models come to get a tan. I have spotted some of the most amazing bodies in this pool. Definitely a good looking crew on the weekends but still relaxed enough to enjoy the bay breeze. During the week I love to schedule business meetings here. The Mondrian is a hectic and vibrant environment where the "beautiful minds" thrive. Their friendly staff will make you feel at home while popping a bottle of Rose in your name. If you are feeling extra celebratory rent a cabana (about $2500 minimum) and this will guarantee  a superior experience poolside.

Order the crab cake sandwich here!

5) The W Hotel

The pool at The W Hotel, Always a happening spot! You can expect hip, young crowd surrounded by beautiful tropical luxury.  It is the perfect pool to lounge with friends, relax to the sexy beats and do some celebrity spotting in between. I love the feeling of openness, the luscious palm trees, the ocean breeze. The W Pool is a  picturesque location to enjoy the SoBe sunshine. I particularly enjoy the healthy bites from their WET bar. There are a lot of organic options if you are not looking to drink alcohol but instead replenish your body from the inside out. Get high on the green smoothies at the W Pool.

6) THE EPIC

The pool at the Epic Hotel is for the work hard play hard "local tourist". Located in the core of Downtown Miami, this pool offers a feeling of corporate world meets the spa LOL why? Because it is surrounded by the top corporations in Miami and the scene can get pretty executive (but still resort chic) here. It is the perfect place to unwind after a busy week at work. Their Friday happy hour is one  of the biggest in the financial district. The Epic pool is small and quiet, but a perfect place to mingle with your young professionals. It also offers a great scene for wellness activities - The Exhale Spa is  located in the hotel so make sure you check out their class schedule.
This pool sits high up on the 15th floor. The views are KILLER - they span Brickell and Downtown - I love to sit at the pool around dusk time and admire the spectacular real estate on Brickell Avenue. City lights come to me!!

Spectacular views from The Epic Pool

7) THE FONTAINEBLEAU

The Fontainebleau Pool is another Miami classic that  re opened  in 2008 to take over the Miami Beach scene.  There is a HUGE pool and plenty of  amenities where you can lose yourself and get your party ON. Some of the best DJs have performed at The Pool at The Fontainebleau. Massive parties for Ultra and New Years Eve are held here, they are outrageous, and I'm not talking about the pricing. Feel like a kid in a candy store once you enter this surreal world in a bikini.
This pool is one that you have to experience at least once in your life and preferably when there is a big production in town. Just talking about it makes me excited!! LUXURY, FUN, CHIC

A lot of action!

8) THE MANDARIN ORIENTAL BRICKELL KEY

Unique city views from Brickell Key

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel  is in the heart of Miami's financial district so it is hard to imagine how serene it is. The pool is very private, never packed with big crowds, and this is great as  you will have a city retreat to yourself.
I love the scene here because wannabes don't make it to this side of the bridge. I've even seen Justin Bieber and Britney Spears soaking in the sun poolside. The Pool at The Mandarin is so under the radar and low key that you could be laying next to the president of Brazil and nobody would make a big deal about it. I give this pool an A+ for its networking scene and location. Nobody would expect The Mandarin's man-made private beach in the heart of the city. This is a breathtaking venue if you are planning an intimate gathering. The Mandarin Pool and private Beach are  a VERY popular spot for weddings and engagement parties in Miami.

Yes! This little
piece of heaven is in the heart of The Magic City

9) THE DELANO

The pool at The Delano Hotel is a Miami classic - the ultimate seaside luxury setting with refined outdoor environment. This beautiful pool is an intimate retreat in the heart of South Beach, designed by the renowned Philippe Starck.  The music is always on point, and this place will transport you back to the chic Art Deco era filled with glamorous characters and the latest fashion. This pool is the perfect spot if you are looking for a relaxing time, good vibes and excellent mojitos. It will remind you of a Miami Beach post card. I will never forget going to South Beach when none of the new hotels were there yet, and the Delano was the place to be. It is so chic, fabulous, and small enough to feel exclusive. I've been to some of the most amazing parties in this pool: swim week, winter music conference, New Years Eve! So many memories, so little time!

10) SLS

BEST place for a crazy pool party in Miami Beach

The pool at the SLS Hotel has one of the craziest pool parties you will attend in your life. Wild dancing, intense PDA, twerking, and champagne showers can all be found here at the SLS. This hotel opened just a few years ago but because of the strong brand recognition it has become a MUST visit spot during your weekend adventures. The Saturday and Sunday pool parties are EPIC!! You will not leave this pool disappointed, but tired for sure. The pool at the SLS is not a quick stop before a big night out. This day party will drain every single ounce of energy out of your body. You will not  exactly have time to lay out under the sun, relax, and chill. Most likely you will be dancing non-stop and tire your eyes with MUCHA action while mingling with people from all over the world. Great spot to find "las mamis calientes" - voluptuous bodies from all nationalities, get together, one big accelerating experience. Definitely the place to be if you are looking for a sexy, hip, vibrant scene.

THE END