Miami and the surrounding beaches offer many outdoor recreation opportunities for visitors, including water sports, scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, and canoeing. The warm climate and extensive coastline along Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean provide ideal conditions for activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and more. Several state and national parks in the area like Cape Florida State Park and Biscayne National Park provide additional natural spaces for hiking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors.

1. About Miami
GREATER MIAMI AND THE BEACHES FACT SHEET
MIAMI'S BIRTHDAY: July 28, 1896
GEOGRAPHY: "Miami-Dade County area: 1,955 square miles / 3,145 square kilometers Elevation: 12 feet
/ 3.6 meters / 15+ miles of beaches
CLIMATE: Subtropical annual average daily temperature: 76 degrees Fahrenheit / 23 degrees Celsius
Year-round sunshine
RECREATION: 800+ parks, including Crandon Beach county park and Bill Baggs Cape Florida State
Park, consistently in Dr. Beach's top 10 Best Beaches in the U.S. Miami is also home to two unique
national parks, Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park. Award-winning tennis and golf are
popular here, as well as water sports, such as parasailing, windsurfing, wave-running and jet-skiing.
DEMOGRAPHICS: Miami-Dade County population: 2.3 million+
Ethnic breakdown: White 69.7%, Hispanic 57.3%, Black 20.3%
Median household income: $43,495
GOVERNMENT: 35 municipalities, including Miami-Dade County, City of Miami, City of Miami Beach and
Bal Harbour Village
LODGING: 349 hotels and motels and 42,018 rooms
TRANSPORTATION: Miami International Airport: 34.1 million travelers, 3rd in U.S. for international
passenger traffic "Port of Miami (Cruise Capital of the World): over 4 million annual passengers " 39 taxi
companies, 2,080 taxi cabs " 21-mile elevated Metrorail mass transit " Metromover 4.4-mile urban loop "
SuperShuttle airport transportation " Passenger rails: Amtrak and Tri-Rail
PROFESSIONAL TEAMS: Florida Marlins Baseball
Miami Dolphins Football
Miami Heat Basketball
Florida Panthers Hockey
OTHER FUN FACTS: " Miami was voted as one of the most romantic cities in the United States on
Amazon.com (4th)
"Miami's Cuban Coffee rated by Forbes Traveler as one of the country's best "street food"
Miami Beach's Art Deco District contains the world's largest collection of Art Deco Architecture (800+
buildings)

2. Miami Beach is home to one of the largest snow skiing clubs in the United States " Miami is the
Wreckreational Diving Capital of the World, containing Miami over 50 diveable wreck sites-such as ships,
oil platforms, army tanks and the Spirit of Miami Boeing 727 jet-- sunken to provide artificial reefs for
marine life. " Miami is also home to the largest concentration of Boutique Hotels in the world.
Miami Beach was dubbed the Sun and Fun Capital by Jackie Gleason when he broadcast his show here
in the 1960s. Today Miami Beach is known as America's Riviera and the Latin Hollywood.
Miami Beach is a man-made island that was once a Coconut Grove Plantation.
Julia Tuttle, -- the "Mother of Miami" -- convinced Standard Oil co-founder Henry Flagler to extend his
railroad from central Florida to Miami, build a luxury hotel, and lay out a new town. She did so by sending
him perfect Miami orange blossoms during a crop freeze north of Miami. The railroad arrived in 1896. The
City of Miami was incorporated on July 28 that same year.
Miami is home to the world's only Everglades eco-system, made famous in Marjorie Stoneman Douglas'
book The River of Grass.
Miami is home to 150+ ethnicities and 60+ languages
The popular television series "Miami Vice" made its debut in 1984. On July 28, 2006, "Miami Vice: The
Movie" was released in theaters nationwide. The film stars Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx.
Another top rated show set in Miami is; CBS' CSI: Miami, which has won the ASCAP Award for Top TV
Series in 2005 & 2006, also CSI: Miami has been named the World's Most Popular TV Show following
rating studies of 20 countries worldwide. The survey, which was conducted by Informa Telecoms and
Media, showed that CSI: Miami was featured in more top ten viewing charts than any other show.
Miami is also home to Burn Notice, the winner of the 2008 ASCAP Award for Top TV Series.
Memorable films made in Miami include: "Something About Mary," "The Birdcage," "Goldfinger,"
"Scarface," "True Lies," "2 Fast 2Furious," "Bad Boys," "Bad Boys 2" and "Out of Sight."
Miami's unique sport of Jai-Alai features pelotas which are recorded in the Guinness Book of World
Records as traveling up to 75 mph.
Miami is home to MIA, the largest airport for international flights by US Airlines, boarding 2.4 million
international passengers.
WHAT THEY'RE SAYING:
Miami named top time-saving city by Real Simple Magazine in March 2010
Travel & Leisure Magazine named Miami the #2 city in America for hottest singles.
Miami was named the #2 most romantic city in America by Amazon.com
Feb. 9 Hotwire.com released Miami as #5 on its Top 10 Value Cities for Valentine's Day weekend.
In January 2010 Epic Hotel was awarded the 2010 Travelers Choice Awards for; Top 10 Luxury Hotel of
the year in the US, Top 25 Hotel in the US, and Top 10 Trendiest Hotel in the US.

3. In December 2009 The Biltmore's Palme D'or was named top Restaurant by Zagat.
In December 2009 Travel + Leisure readers voted the JW Marriott Hotel Miami among 2009's "World's
Best Business Hotels"
In October 2009 Travel + Leisure ranked Miami as America's most attractive, most stylish, and as having
the most stylish Boutique Motels
Miami named #4 by Forbes.com among America's Most Entertaining Cities
In September 2009 Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau won the World Travel Award for North
America's Leading Destination: Miami.
Currently Askmen.com Ranks Miami as one of the top 5 places to live in the United States.
Robert Tuchman, author of 100 Sporting Events You Must See Live and President of Premiere Global
Sports. Listed Miami as the #1 best sports city in his new book.
In September 2008, as reported in Reuters, Travel + Leisure readers ranked Miami as the Most Attractive
city in the country.
In 2008, Miami ranked #1 on Forbes.com's America's Cleanest Cities list.
Key Biscayne's Cape Florida State Park Listed among Americas TOP 10 Beaches, Coastal expert Dr.
Stephen Leatherman, a.k.a. "Dr. Beach" ranked Cape Florida State Park 9th in his highly anticipated and
regarded list. (2008)
"South Beach, Miami" has been listed among the nation's Top 10 Most Popular Attractions the TripAdvisor
members are planning to visit. Florida had four entries in the Top 10 with South Beach coming in at #7.
(2008)
Miami ranked 10th among the Cities of the Future by fDi (Foreign Direct Investment) magazine (2007)
Maxim Magazine in their November 2007 issue named Miami the country's top party city. (2007)
Travel + Leisure magazine and CNN Headline News teamed up to poll travelers across the country on
what they like and dislike about America's top 25 urban destinations and they named Miami the #1
destination for having the most attractive people, and #2 for having the most stylish inhabitants. (2007)
The 12th Annual Gay & Lesbian Tourism Survey conducted by Community Marketing, Inc. ranked Miami
as the 10th most popular destination among American gay and lesbian travelers. (2007)
South Beach rated #1 Beach in The World on TripAdvisor.com (June 2007)
South Beached ranked among the 25 Sexiest Beaches in the World according to Concierge.com
Miami Ranked #13 by Forbes.com list of 30 Most Visited US Cities in 2007
American Express Travel agents ranked Miami as #3 destination in U.S. for families (2006)
South Beach ranked #1 Sexiest Place in the World by Cosmopolitan Magazine (September 2006)

4. Miami's Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne ranked #8 in USA Today's Dr. Beach Top 10
Beaches list in 2005 (also rated a Top 10 U.S. Beach by Citysearch.com in 2004).
Self magazine named Miami #3 Fittest City in U.S. in 2005
MovieMaker Magazine ranked Miami #7 best place in U.S. to film
Miami No. 7 in ranking of movie-friendly cities by MovieMaker magazine 2005.
INFORMATION: Contact the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) by mail at GMCVB,
Visitor Services, 701 Brickell Ave., Suite 2700, Miami, FL 33131, on the web at
www.miamiandbeaches.com, or by phone 305-539-3000 or 800-933-8448 (U.S./Canada only).
Information provided by:
Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureay
701 Brickell Avenue, Suite 2700 ~Miami, Florida 33131
305/539-3084, Fax 305/539-2911
http://www.MiamiAndBeaches.com
E-mail: Media@MiamiAndBeaches.com
Miami Florida
Miami's Wild Sides - By Land, Sea and River
By: Hal Peat
Blessed with year-round mild climates and unrivaled ocean access, America's southernmost resort city is
also a sought-after international recreation destination. Ranked the nation's #1 Healthiest City by Natural
Health Magazine in 2002, Miami caters to action-oriented visitors from around the globe with some of the
world's top golf, tennis and sporting facilities. Add sparkling waters that are a magnet for boating
enthusiasts, fishermen, divers and water sports aficionados to the equation and it is easy to see why
Miami is a number one choice for active travelers of all ages and skill levels. But where to start? Miami's
streets are often busy, some of its attractions often attract crowds, and a few days can leave more to
choose from than you have time to include, so knowing the active options in advance—and how to
manage your time and movements—is essential Miami planning. Making the best use of what time you
have by knowing where your points of interest are can help you save more of your energy for the activities
this city offers.

5. Best ways to play along, above or beneath the waves
This is a city closely bound up with the sea it sits besides, and no doubt it's also those waters and miles of
sand beaches that draw many to it. You can get out on the water in a variety of ways in proximity to the
city shores, whether it be jet skiing in Biscayne Bay or sailing Miami Harbor. On practically every beach
you visit, you will find concessions operating water skiing; the leading beachfront hotels along Collins
Avenue offer parasailing lessons, and many have jetski, windsurfing and other sport. If you are staying at
a beachfront property, check ahead with your hotel concierge about available activities on their stretch of
beach, or nearby operators that you can contact to reserve equipment or sessions from.
Different locations in and around Miami produce some very different conditions for water sport.
Windsurfing, for instance: Biscayne Bay off Rickenbacker Causeway has winds that usually blow side-
onshore, and the water stays fairly shallow, allowing even a beginner to walk his way back to shore if
necessary. If you want to go further afield, however, continue toward Key Biscayne and spots like Hobie
Beach, where operators like Sailboards Miami can provide you a two-hour lesson if you are new to the
sport for about $70. After that, you can rent your own board by the hour. The drive down toward Key
Biscayne is itself an experience as you gain a fantastic view of Miami's skyline and closer by beneath you,
the water's surfaces alive with sailboats of all kinds, jet skiers, or just people fishing from the boats. The
biggest collection of rental outlets for jet skis are to be found at Virginia Key on the way to Key Biscayne.
A focal point for water action of all kinds on the Key is at Crandon Park: this two-mile long public beach
also has its own full service-marina and restaurants a short drive from the beach. Not surprisingly, since
the city itself is also an easy drive, many people make a day of coming to this lovely but accessible area.
The Park is also a launching spot for some of the kayaking and snorkeling outings organized by Miami-
Dade Park and Recreation Department through its eco-adventure program. On some of these naturalist-
guided trips, you kayak out to various underwater preserves and wreck sites off the Key and snorkel off to
explore the diverse marine life that populates the dense sea grass beds, sand flats and wreckage; local
inhabitants you might observe hereabout range from Spotted Leopard Rays to a Bottle-nosed Dolphins,
soft corals, sponges, damsel fish to enormous Pufferfish, and Gray Angelfish. Other kayak and snorkeling
expeditions you can do hereabouts will take you into fossilized mangrove reef areas formed by petrified
black mangroves over 1500 years ago, or into the artificial reefs that have been created offshore to
preserve and enhance the marine eco-systems. Check ahead to book for these easy to moderate
adventures.
So you're up for some deeper and lengthier underwater exploration? The scuba diving opportunities are
also plentiful around Miami waters, thanks in large part to the profusion of man-made reefs. Various dive
shops around town can get you out on organized weekend dives to the 10 designated offshore artificial
reef sites, along with explorations of some offshore wreck sites. Actually, the Miami region has one of the

6. largest artificial-reef programs in the world in addition to the natural sites. Fish flock to the more than thirty
ships, tanks, concrete, limestone and other structures which have been sunk over the past 20 years off
Miami's coast, as far south as Florida City and north to Sunny Isles Beach. Most are located just a few
miles offshore, in less than 130 feet of water, providing great diving for all levels. One of the most popular
routes is the Wreck Trek, located off Miami Beach, just north of the Art Deco District. Here, divers can
explore the 85-foot tug Patricia, the 100-foot steel fishing vessel Miss Karline, and an old radio antenna
welded into 19 pyramids.
Getting you on your way to either dive, surf, or windsurf adventure are plenty of well-equipped private
operators around the city and its outer areas. South Beach Divers, for instance, is a renowned PADI Five
Star facility located in the heart of South Beach and within walking distance to most hotels; this small but
full-service shop provides diving gear and instruction from which you can easily receive your certification
over the course of a weekend. They've also begun to cater extensively to the surfing crowd, with a full
range of all the top surfboards and accessories; they offer surf lessons as well and there’s even a 24
hour surf report that is updated daily. If you already a die hard surfer able to take off on your own, you will
find that while this coastal area of south Florida does not have the powerful waves and cross-currents to
match those along the Pacific coast, there are still some respectable surfing conditions out there. Head
just north of Miami Beach, where the swells at Haulover Beach and South Pointe Beach are the largest
and most popular. A little closer to the city, some windy days can see five to seven foot waves roll in off
the beach between First and Third Streets in the South Beach area
Not all outdoor activity on water has to be done right out in the neighboring Atlantic, of course—this is a
city with its own urban and suburban waterways and canals to paddle through: Miami-Dade Parks also
has canoe trips that explores some of the more interesting wildlife aspects of these: for instance, with a
trip into the historic Oleta River which forms the eastern boundary of Greynolds Park. The trip includes a
stop at a tropical hardwood hammock and Tequesta Indian midden in East Greynolds Park. Another
canoe outing takes you through the Coral Gables Waterway--the same historic canals that gondoliers
once used to ferry guests from the Biltmore Hotel to the bay for a day at the beach. Relive this experience
where you may see a surprising amount of wildlife. If you have the time to go further afield, then you might
look into the canoeing available on a day trip to the Everglades or Loxahatchee River preserves which are
just about an hour's drive from the city. Flamingo, deep in Everglades National Park is another great spot
for naturalist-led adventures as well as world-class fishing on Florida Bay. The eight mile stretch of
Loxahatchee River that begins in Riverbend Park meanders through cypress trees, while otters, turtles,
and alligators are all resident in the waters here. More than a third of Everglades National Park is made up
of marine areas and shallow estuaries, and that means thousands of acres of shallow water flats,
channels, and mangrove keys in which to fish for the plentiful snapper, sea trout, redfish, bass and
bluegill.

7. Land adventuring by foot, bike, or on blades
If you're in the Everglades area for the canoeing or other water action, why not take advantage also of the
extensive biking trails in the area? In fact, Everglades National Park allows biking along the main park
roads, on the Shark Valley tram road, on the Old Ingraham Highway, on Long Pine Key Nature Trail, and
on the Snake Bight and Rowdy Bend trails at Flamingo. Much of it gives you plenty of miles to pedal on:
Miami-Dade Parks' 14-miles bike hike along the Long Pine Key path traverses pineland and prairie
habitat. Keep an eye out for alligators slumbering along the sides of many of these trails--they may be
more alert than they seem. And if you're a competitive-minded biker up for an local event while visiting
Miami, then mark your calendar and get ready for the MS 150/Breakaway to Key Largo Bike Tour which
heads south every year at the end of April, starting from the Miami Metro Zoo and ending up down in the
Keys.
For those who have to really limit their Miami sport and fitness to the immediate areas of town, there are
still some excellent outfits and hotspots to get going with, either outdoor or indoor. You might not think of
Miami as a place to vertically challenge yourself for instance, but you can actually do so in style at the
Fitness Complex of Eden Roc Resort (day memberships available) has a great 28 foot high indoor rock
climbing wall, the only indoor rock climbing on Miami Beach. Also in town is the Rock Climbing Center of
Miami, which offers safe indoor climbing with plenty of variety--there are 10,000 square feet of textured
walls, with routes up to 60 feet in length; there is top rope climbing, bouldering, lead rope climbing and
more—and the instruction available makes it great for beginners as well as experienced climbers. Making
the most of your time outdoors while absorbing Miami's human and architectural sights is also simple with
the 30 odd miles of white sand beaches. Before you set off, remember to use sun block so you don't
return with a painful burn—something you need to do even during the winter months here.
Tropical Park is also the headquarters site for Miami Runners Club, the third largest runner's organization
in the country. Within the Park there are up to 10 miles of paved running courses laid out by the Club.
Enjoy some of the scenery of one of the city's toniest old neighborhoods with a run along the 8.5 mile
South Bay Bike Path that passes through Coconut Grove. Around the two mile point, there is a mile-long
bike path that leads into Matheson Hammock Park and in turn connects to a 1.5 mile trail through some
100 acres of mangrove wilds. And if you really want to tie in your running to a competitive event in this part
of the world, then consider the Rums of Puerto Rico 5-K that takes place in June along the sands of Miami
Beach. The after party with its food is an event in itself, and if you are not so disciplined as to be running
again on your own the next day, the plentiful rum on hand is another highlight beyond the finishing line.
The other very SoBe active thing is of course, rollerblading along world-famous Ocean Drive, which can
tend to be more about the body statement than the skating form you display. If you have no skates with
you then rent them from Fritz's Skate, Bike & Surf or the Miami Beach Bicycle Center, then cruise the path
that hugs the drive. The best beachside skating is the section from 5th through 15th streets, where the
other plus is the cafes across the street that make a break convenient.

8. For the more traditionally athletic-minded, there are some 180 public tennis courts covering the range of
surfaces from clay to grass, and the prestige of playing at the Key Biscayne Tennis Association; the state-
of-the-art Crandon Tennis Center hosts the NASDAQ-100 Tennis Championships each March, while the
rest of the year its immaculate courts are open to the public, along with innumerable other well-kept tennis
venues throughout Miami. Finally, if you are one of those who refuse to leave the gym behind at home,
then get a taste of how Miami does it at the brand new Sports Club/LA opened in the new Four Seasons
complex in South Beach; among the amenities here are over 30 different fitness and recreational options
ranging from a 10,000 square-foot weight-training gym, three group exercise studios, a 100-piece
cardiovascular center, and even a destination "cityspa" with all the massage and treatment varieties that
can revive and reenergize you before or after a night on the town or any other of Miami's day-time
adventuring. * * *
Miami Florida
South Beach
Discover what Miami's South Beach has to offer right here at www.miami-florida.com
South Beach, often referred to as the American Riviera, is known for its shopping, dining, beaches and
nightlife.
Whether you are looking for information on upcoming events, weather, beaches, or attractions -- need
rates/photos/panimage tours of our hotels -- or just want to take a step back in time while wandering
through our historical photo album -- we have it all right here!
The Miami Beach Architectural District (sometimes called the Art Deco District) contains the largest
concentration of 1920s and 1930s resort architecture in the United States. These vibrantly colored
buildings represent an era when Miami Beach was heavily promoted and developed as a "tropical
playground." The district was one of the earliest National Register listings to recognize the importance of
the architecture of this period. The area was laid out and developed rapidly, resulting in an extraordinary
architectural consistency. The buildings constructed in the 1920s were designed almost exclusively in the
Mediterranean Revival style, while those built in the 1930s are in the Art Deco, International, or Moderne
styles. The district can be divided into three neighborhood types based on function and use --the seasonal
hotel area (along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue) with such notable hotels as the Amsterdam, reputed to

9. be a replica of Christopher Columbus' home in Santo Domingo; the commercial area (along Washington
Avenue and Lincoln Road); and the residential area (concentrated in the eighty square blocks surrounding
Flamingo Park) with one of the largest concentrations of Mediterranean style residences in the United
States.
The district is roughly bounded by the Atlantic Ocean, 6th Street, Alton Road, Dade Boulevard and 23rd
Street in Miami Beach.
Miami Florida
Miami - A 'Tropicool' Hot Spot For The Hip And Romantic
Story by Jane Cassie
Photos by Brent Cassie
The caressing breeze alleviates the humidity that hangs in the night
air and the metronome sway of our hammock lulls us into a dream-
like state. Beneath our suspended haven, a powder sandy beach
leads to the bath-tempered Atlantic. Above, feathery palm fronds
frame a golden moon. It's pure escapism, doused with romance,
and during our visit to Miami we discover that it's just the beginning
of more to come.
Although once known as 'the geriatric ward,' over the past decade
Miami has undergone numerous reconstructive surgeries and now reverberates with energised vitality.
Worn out hips have been taken over by the ultra hip and romantics like us have replaced retirees.
Boasting a vivacious nightlife, cultural diversity and a lively pulse, it is evident that this effervescent city is
nowhere near the grave.
For a romantic stay, we discover that Beach House Bal Harbour promises all. Instead of a grandiose
reception area, we are greeted with fresh cut daisies, chocolate chip cookies and other wonderful
comforts. A seascape décor, shimmering pool and hammock grove, where we ogle at the moon each
night, are just a few other enticements for amour. "We want our guests to feel right at home," shares
Karen Maerovitz, Marketing Coordinator, "and with the help of the Ralph Lauren Design Team, the
property takes on the feel of a cozy Nantucket-style beach house estate."

10. Although it's hard to pull ourselves away from these five star pleasures, we yearn to check out other
handholding opportunities in this 'tropicool' hot spot, and a personalized tour with Style Ventures reveals
that the city sizzles with them. Bryn becomes our driving almanac and provides a sensational synopsis of
Miami, unrivalled by any guidebook. "Miami is the only destination on the continental U.S. to boast year
round sunshine," he informs, "and that's why it's one of the world's
famous playgrounds!"
We can see that there's truth to this fact. High rise hotels that line
the white sandy shore host scantily clad sun-lovers that laze on
lounges and romp in the surf. The modern maze interconnects with
the art deco treasures of South Beach by a continuous evergreen
walkway where people meander for miles. We cruise the trendy
Ocean Drive, boasting a palisade of pastels and neon that glows
long after the sun does, and Bryn shares notorious landmarks, like
the gated mansion of murdered fashion designer, Versace, and the News Café, where he enjoyed his final
cup of coffee. Today, couples mingle on the same sidewalk eatery that spills into the gridlock street and
there is an undeniably chic feel about this trendy square mile that embraces the most southern edge of
Miami Beach.
As well as the rich and famous, Miami's sprawled out metropolis hosts a thriving kaleidoscope of
neighbourhoods and multiculturalism. Thick rooted banyan trees shade our drive through South Florida's
oldest settlement and captivating Bahamian enclave of Coconut Grove. Graced by flowering hibiscus and
jacaranda the neighbouring Coral Gables or 'City Beautiful,'charms us with dazzling mansions, and Little
Havana shares its varied Latin cultures, boasting a unique flavour
all of its own.
Vizcaya and Deering Estate are two of Miami's historical haunts
that truly imbibe the romance of yesteryear. Although both were
residences of wealthy industrialist brothers in the early 1920's, and
both boast exceptional properties fronting the picturesque Biscayne
Bay, that's pretty much where their similarities end. While Vizcaya
expresses flamboyancy and passion for Italian Renaissance
throughout its seventy rooms bedazzled with gilded ceilings,
elaborate tapestries, and period pieces, Deering Estate in its
unpretentious, unfettered and serene setting lends a hint of mystery with its conservative Mediterranean
Revival feel. Its four hundred and fifty acre parcel also encompasses the offshore island of Chicken Key,
and destination point for the night time canoe trip we sign up for.
"Stick together like a pod," our guide instructs, "and if you tip, don't worry, the water is never over your
head." Biscayne Bay is incredibly shallow and flat and I ponder this
forgiving quality, rationalizing that I probably won't even get my hair
wet if we flip.
Joining us are honeymooners, Argentineans, Kansas folk and their
children from Miami, Andy and Carla, and with the promise of a full

11. moon, we slip our shiny two-man torpedoes into the emerald clear water and start paddling like merry
gondoliers. En route, we sight double-breasted cormorants, stoic looking herons and a glorious spectrum
of colour as the sun falls from the sky.
When we reach Chicken Key the camp fire is burning, the wieners are roasting and the stars are twinkling
above, and the only thing missing to complete my memory of summer camp is a sing along with Kumbaya.
After feasting, American style, we reflect on nature that abounds. The memory stays with us long after the
fire burns out, long after we push away from the shores of the tranquil island and long after we paddle
back home by the light of the moon over Miami.
Jane and Brent Cassie are a travel writer/photographer team. Follow their other adventures on their
website - www.janecassie.com.
Miami Florida
Downtown
Discover what Miami has to offer right here at www.miami-florida.com
Whether you are looking for information on upcoming events, weather, beaches, or attractions -- need
rates/photos/panimage tours of our hotels -- or just want to take a step back in time while wandering
through our historical photo album -- we have it all right here!
Downtown Miami is divided into four distinct areas, Uptown, Park West, the Central Business
District and Brickell. Those four districts are divided into subdistricts:
The northernmost area is Uptown, which is divided into the subdistricts of the Omni, Wynwood/Edgewater,
and Midtown. To the south of Uptown is Park West, the Central Business District and south of the Miami
River, Brickell, divided into Upper Brickell and Lower Brickell.
The Central Business District is separated from Brickell by the Miami River
NW 7th Street marks the line between Park West and the Central Business District.
The Dolphin Expressway separates Park West and Uptown
Broadway divides Upper and Lower Brickell.

12. Miami Florida
Other Miami Neighborhoods
OTHER MIAMI NEIGHBORHOODS
Diversity is the theme that links Miami's urban lifestyle to areas rich in culture and tradition.
LITTLE HAVANA
The official name is Southwest Eight Street but everyone knows it as Calle Ocho, the artery that keeps the
heart of Little Havana beating. Cubans who fled the island in 1960 recreated their community west of
Brickell Avenue, imbuing it with nostalgia for their heritage.
The vibrant neighborhood, home also to many residents from Nicaragua and Honduras, has a distinct
Latin flavor with signs and billboards en español and music to match. Everything is authentic: from the
fruit stands and cigar factories to the eat-at windows of the cafeterias where patrons passionately discuss
politics.
Visit the area's quaint shops to find embroidered guayabera shirts, hand-rolled cigars and Latin music or
explore gift shops offering unique items and Cuban memorabelia.
Cultural activities are blossoming along with art galleries, studios and theaters. Cultural Fridays take place
the last Friday of each month along Calle Ocho and feature music, dance, poetry, visual arts and theater.
The historic Tower Theater is alive with performances, cultural and educational programs and multicultural
films while Teatro Ocho is home to Spanish-language theater.
Food plays an essential part of life in Little Havana from the anytime snacks of chicharones (fried pork
morsels) to croquetas, pastelitos and sugary mouthfuls of merenguÃtos. Dining is infused with many
cuisines. There are a variety of restaurants serving authentic Cuban dishes and delicacies and others
serving traditional Spanish, Mexican, Peruvian, Colombian and Argentinean food.
Every March, thousands of revelers flock to the grand Hispanic street festival called Calle Ocho to
celebrate the finale of Carnaval Miami. Little Havana is one of the best places to experience Cuban culture
and Latin cuisine.
LITTLE HAITI
Little Haiti spans the old Miami neighborhoods of Lemon City, Edison Center, Little River and Buena Vista
East with its heart at N.E. 54th Street between Biscayne Boulevard and North Miami Avenue. This bustling
Creole-speaking community continues a traditional lifestyle amid stores selling familiar foods, spices and
music.
OVERTOWN
There is more to Overtown than the Miami Arena. Before the highways sliced through the area, Overtown
was a thriving center for Greater Miami's African-American community. Now, hidden between Downtown
Miami and the civic center, Overtown is welcoming the restoration of buildings in the two block area
designated as Overtown Historic Village. The Lyric Theater, once a venue for star-studded performances;
the home of D.A. Dorsey, Greater Miami's first African-American millionaire; and the Greater Bethel AME
Church celebrate Overtown's past as it looks to the future.

13. LIBERTY CITY
Liberty City's roots go back to the 1930s when people moved from Overtown. Nowadays, Liberty City's
active African-American community spans the area from NW 12th to 19th Avenues and 62nd to 73rd
Streets. Local artists display their talent and civic pride with colorful murals of African-American heroes,
notably slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., decorating the exterior walls of buildings. The
African Heritage Cultural Arts Center is a hub of activity within the local community. The five-building
facility houses a black box theater, visual arts gallery and dance, art and music studios.
BRICKELL AVENUE
Since the time William and Mary Brickell (founding father and mother of Greater Miami and the Beaches)
named a tree-lined thoroughfare after their homestead, Brickell Avenue has been associated with wealth
and prestige.
Now the international banking and business center of Greater Miami south of the Miami River is taking on
a new role as a vibrant place to stay, dine and reside. Luxury condominium towers, hotels and the tallest
building in Florida are transforming Brickell Avenue’s skyline. And, instead of rolling up the sidewalks
at night, Brickell is thronged after hours with residents and visitors dining in the area's fine restaurants or
shopping in new neighborhood stores.
information provided by Greater Miami & The Beaches Convention and Visitors Bureau -
www.miamiandbeaches.com
Hialeah
Hialeah is a unique city in many respects. For starters, the city ranks number one on the list of American
cities where Spanish is most spoken – as a matter of fact, 92% of the residents of Hialeah speak
Spanish as a first language (so if you want to practice your Spanish, it isn't a bad place to go). The high
Hispanic population means there are a lot of activities and attractions that won't be found, for example, in
the middle of Minnesota. Opportunities to watch and play Jai-Alai abound, and you can regularly see
Quinceanera celebrations as you pass by restaurants and community celebrations....read more about
Hialeah
Miami Florida Beaches
Bal Harbour
Collins Ave. from 96th Street to Haulover Inlet
Bal Harbour ~ 305-866-4633
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area
1200 S. Crandon Blvd. (From Miami, take I-95 to the
Rickenbacker Causeway, all the way to the end - south of
downtown Miami)
Key Biscayne
Open 8 am till sundown 365 days a year.

14. Sunbathe, swim, and picnic on over a mile of sandy Atlantic beachfront. Biking and kayaking are also
popular activities. Anglers can throw in their lines from the seawall along Biscayne Bay for some of the
best shoreline fishing in the region. Overnight boat camping is allowed in No Name Harbor.
Restrooms and showers, concessions for dining, rentals for bicycles, beach chairs and umbrellas,
boardwalk, seawall, fishing, hiking and nature trails. 18 picnic pavilions with picnic tables, and childrens
playground area with swings, slides and monkey bars. Historic lighthouse offers guided tours.
305-361-5811
Crandon Park Beach
4000 Crandon Blvd.
Key Biscayne
Family amusement center offers roller rink, splash fountain, beachfront playground. Beach is in a lagoon
area where waters are calm and good for swimming and snorkeling. Lifeguards patrol the 2 mile beach
from 13 elevated towers. Multiple picnic areas with tables and grills. Nature center and nature trails,
bicycle and walking paths, mangrove boardwalk. Guided tram tour of preserve. Cabana rentals available -
call 305-361-5421. Full-service marina with bait & tackle shop, fuel, pump out, boat launching ramps.
Beach Weelchairs and Surf Chairs are available by calling 786-336-6980,
General Information: 305-361-7373
Miami Florida
Few Miami Fishing Spots: Names That Come First In Mind
by Kevin Pagan (4/29/2011)
Miami is a dream among the fishing spots that anglers get their best time of your life while fishing. There
are several areas which are particularly specified for fishing. These are amazing places to travel and quiet
location, make a little extra fun. Miami is a place that is part of the bays, harbors, lakes and rivers and has
a very tempting coast. This place has the best combination is perfect for fishing in all directions. And they
will get the best of the fish here.
The north offers few attractive opportunities and get to get a hold of the fish of your dreams. While there
are places like the central coast of Sydney, Illawarra South Coast, Newcastle / Hunter, North Coast, East,
West, West Miami - Miami and West Kimberley - South known as the areas where fans can pitch in waves
in rivers, harbors and bays.
Port Lincoln
Good brands of Port Lincoln is the one that really needs a space to discuss. This place is located in South
Miami and this is a commercial fishing. The site attracts more fans. This is a blessing in place like
everyone else and no one is happy with at least one or two fish with them at the end of the day. Tuna
lovers and people who are looking to hook plenty of whiting can get peace of mind here. The site also
offers horse mackerel, squid and needle in a considerable amount. Port Lincoln is one of the fishing spots,
they also have night fishing.
Snowy Mountains
Snowy Mountains is located in the southeastern part of New South Wales. The place is full of lakes and

15. rivers are trout supply. You will be more than happy to find the lakes as Eucumbene, Jindabyne and
Tantangara here. While on the other hand, there Murrumbidgee rivers, snow and Thredbo. All these water
bodies are full of treasures like the rainbow and brown trout on strike. This place is perfectly suited for
trolling, fly fishing, and even for hiking as well.
South Stradbroke Island
South Stradbroke is a place of Queensland, Miami and, without doubt, one of the most productive fishing
spots around the world when it comes to fishing. The ocean waves will make you happy with flatheads.
The place is also a feast for the eyes and was mesmerized by the sight of some humpback whales breach
in the skyline. Wallabies are a form available here and you will find at the large number when sailing
across the ocean.
Undoubtedly, Miami is awash with numerous fishing spots, apart from the destinations that are described
here. Being a fishing territory, the national government has implemented some rules and regulations for
the fishing enthusiasts there. So we must be aware of them and should be found after each of them to
avoid any unforeseen situation. The capture of fish that are endangered species is a total, no, not here.
And have gone on the amount and weight of fish that can hunt. There are seasons in which the
government does not allow fishing Miamin, so plan your trip accordingly.
About the Author:
sea fishing in Miami offers various service like fishing guide, deep sea fishing, sport fishing, Fishing in
Miami and much more.
Miami Florida
Miami's Wild Sides - By Land, Sea and River
By: Hal Peat
Blessed with year-round mild climates and unrivaled ocean access, America's southernmost resort city is
also a sought-after international recreation destination. Ranked the nation's #1 Healthiest City by Natural
Health Magazine in 2002, Miami caters to action-oriented visitors from around the globe with some of the
world's top golf, tennis and sporting facilities. Add sparkling waters that are a magnet for boating
enthusiasts, fishermen, divers and water sports aficionados to the equation and it is easy to see why
Miami is a number one choice for active travelers of all ages and skill levels. But where to start? Miami's
streets are often busy, some of its attractions often attract crowds, and a few days can leave more to
choose from than you have time to include, so knowing the active options in advance—and how to
manage your time and movements—is essential Miami planning. Making the best use of what time you
have by knowing where your points of interest are can help you save more of your energy for the activities
this city offers.
Best ways to play along, above or beneath the waves
This is a city closely bound up with the sea it sits besides, and no doubt it's also those waters and miles of
sand beaches that draw many to it. You can get out on the water in a variety of ways in proximity to the
city shores, whether it be jet skiing in Biscayne Bay or sailing Miami Harbor. On practically every beach
you visit, you will find concessions operating water skiing; the leading beachfront hotels along Collins

16. Avenue offer parasailing lessons, and many have jetski, windsurfing and other sport. If you are staying at
a beachfront property, check ahead with your hotel concierge about available activities on their stretch of
beach, or nearby operators that you can contact to reserve equipment or sessions from.
Different locations in and around Miami produce some very different conditions for water sport.
Windsurfing, for instance: Biscayne Bay off Rickenbacker Causeway has winds that usually blow side-
onshore, and the water stays fairly shallow, allowing even a beginner to walk his way back to shore if
necessary. If you want to go further afield, however, continue toward Key Biscayne and spots like Hobie
Beach, where operators like Sailboards Miami can provide you a two-hour lesson if you are new to the
sport for about $70. After that, you can rent your own board by the hour. The drive down toward Key
Biscayne is itself an experience as you gain a fantastic view of Miami's skyline and closer by beneath you,
the water's surfaces alive with sailboats of all kinds, jet skiers, or just people fishing from the boats. The
biggest collection of rental outlets for jet skis are to be found at Virginia Key on the way to Key Biscayne.
A focal point for water action of all kinds on the Key is at Crandon Park: this two-mile long public beach
also has its own full service-marina and restaurants a short drive from the beach. Not surprisingly, since
the city itself is also an easy drive, many people make a day of coming to this lovely but accessible area.
The Park is also a launching spot for some of the kayaking and snorkeling outings organized by Miami-
Dade Park and Recreation Department through its eco-adventure program. On some of these naturalist-
guided trips, you kayak out to various underwater preserves and wreck sites off the Key and snorkel off to
explore the diverse marine life that populates the dense sea grass beds, sand flats and wreckage; local
inhabitants you might observe hereabout range from Spotted Leopard Rays to a Bottle-nosed Dolphins,
soft corals, sponges, damsel fish to enormous Pufferfish, and Gray Angelfish. Other kayak and snorkeling
expeditions you can do hereabouts will take you into fossilized mangrove reef areas formed by petrified
black mangroves over 1500 years ago, or into the artificial reefs that have been created offshore to
preserve and enhance the marine eco-systems. Check ahead to book for these easy to moderate
adventures.
So you're up for some deeper and lengthier underwater exploration? The scuba diving opportunities are
also plentiful around Miami waters, thanks in large part to the profusion of man-made reefs. Various dive
shops around town can get you out on organized weekend dives to the 10 designated offshore artificial
reef sites, along with explorations of some offshore wreck sites. Actually, the Miami region has one of the
largest artificial-reef programs in the world in addition to the natural sites. Fish flock to the more than thirty
ships, tanks, concrete, limestone and other structures which have been sunk over the past 20 years off
Miami's coast, as far south as Florida City and north to Sunny Isles Beach. Most are located just a few
miles offshore, in less than 130 feet of water, providing great diving for all levels. One of the most popular
routes is the Wreck Trek, located off Miami Beach, just north of the Art Deco District. Here, divers can
explore the 85-foot tug Patricia, the 100-foot steel fishing vessel Miss Karline, and an old radio antenna
welded into 19 pyramids.
Getting you on your way to either dive, surf, or windsurf adventure are plenty of well-equipped private
operators around the city and its outer areas. South Beach Divers, for instance, is a renowned PADI Five
Star facility located in the heart of South Beach and within walking distance to most hotels; this small but
full-service shop provides diving gear and instruction from which you can easily receive your certification
over the course of a weekend. They've also begun to cater extensively to the surfing crowd, with a full
range of all the top surfboards and accessories; they offer surf lessons as well and there’s even a 24
hour surf report that is updated daily. If you already a die hard surfer able to take off on your own, you will
find that while this coastal area of south Florida does not have the powerful waves and cross-currents to

17. match those along the Pacific coast, there are still some respectable surfing conditions out there. Head
just north of Miami Beach, where the swells at Haulover Beach and South Pointe Beach are the largest
and most popular. A little closer to the city, some windy days can see five to seven foot waves roll in off
the beach between First and Third Streets in the South Beach area
Not all outdoor activity on water has to be done right out in the neighboring Atlantic, of course—this is a
city with its own urban and suburban waterways and canals to paddle through: Miami-Dade Parks also
has canoe trips that explores some of the more interesting wildlife aspects of these: for instance, with a
trip into the historic Oleta River which forms the eastern boundary of Greynolds Park. The trip includes a
stop at a tropical hardwood hammock and Tequesta Indian midden in East Greynolds Park. Another
canoe outing takes you through the Coral Gables Waterway--the same historic canals that gondoliers
once used to ferry guests from the Biltmore Hotel to the bay for a day at the beach. Relive this experience
where you may see a surprising amount of wildlife. If you have the time to go further afield, then you might
look into the canoeing available on a day trip to the Everglades or Loxahatchee River preserves which are
just about an hour's drive from the city. Flamingo, deep in Everglades National Park is another great spot
for naturalist-led adventures as well as world-class fishing on Florida Bay. The eight mile stretch of
Loxahatchee River that begins in Riverbend Park meanders through cypress trees, while otters, turtles,
and alligators are all resident in the waters here. More than a third of Everglades National Park is made up
of marine areas and shallow estuaries, and that means thousands of acres of shallow water flats,
channels, and mangrove keys in which to fish for the plentiful snapper, sea trout, redfish, bass and
bluegill.
Land adventuring by foot, bike, or on blades
If you're in the Everglades area for the canoeing or other water action, why not take advantage also of the
extensive biking trails in the area? In fact, Everglades National Park allows biking along the main park
roads, on the Shark Valley tram road, on the Old Ingraham Highway, on Long Pine Key Nature Trail, and
on the Snake Bight and Rowdy Bend trails at Flamingo. Much of it gives you plenty of miles to pedal on:
Miami-Dade Parks' 14-miles bike hike along the Long Pine Key path traverses pineland and prairie
habitat. Keep an eye out for alligators slumbering along the sides of many of these trails--they may be
more alert than they seem. And if you're a competitive-minded biker up for an local event while visiting
Miami, then mark your calendar and get ready for the MS 150/Breakaway to Key Largo Bike Tour which
heads south every year at the end of April, starting from the Miami Metro Zoo and ending up down in the
Keys.
For those who have to really limit their Miami sport and fitness to the immediate areas of town, there are
still some excellent outfits and hotspots to get going with, either outdoor or indoor. You might not think of
Miami as a place to vertically challenge yourself for instance, but you can actually do so in style at the
Fitness Complex of Eden Roc Resort (day memberships available) has a great 28 foot high indoor rock
climbing wall, the only indoor rock climbing on Miami Beach. Also in town is the Rock Climbing Center of
Miami, which offers safe indoor climbing with plenty of variety--there are 10,000 square feet of textured
walls, with routes up to 60 feet in length; there is top rope climbing, bouldering, lead rope climbing and
more—and the instruction available makes it great for beginners as well as experienced climbers. Making
the most of your time outdoors while absorbing Miami's human and architectural sights is also simple with
the 30 odd miles of white sand beaches. Before you set off, remember to use sun block so you don't
return with a painful burn—something you need to do even during the winter months here.
Tropical Park is also the headquarters site for Miami Runners Club, the third largest runner's organization
in the country. Within the Park there are up to 10 miles of paved running courses laid out by the Club.

18. Enjoy some of the scenery of one of the city's toniest old neighborhoods with a run along the 8.5 mile
South Bay Bike Path that passes through Coconut Grove. Around the two mile point, there is a mile-long
bike path that leads into Matheson Hammock Park and in turn connects to a 1.5 mile trail through some
100 acres of mangrove wilds. And if you really want to tie in your running to a competitive event in this part
of the world, then consider the Rums of Puerto Rico 5-K that takes place in June along the sands of Miami
Beach. The after party with its food is an event in itself, and if you are not so disciplined as to be running
again on your own the next day, the plentiful rum on hand is another highlight beyond the finishing line.
The other very SoBe active thing is of course, rollerblading along world-famous Ocean Drive, which can
tend to be more about the body statement than the skating form you display. If you have no skates with
you then rent them from Fritz's Skate, Bike & Surf or the Miami Beach Bicycle Center, then cruise the path
that hugs the drive. The best beachside skating is the section from 5th through 15th streets, where the
other plus is the cafes across the street that make a break convenient.
For the more traditionally athletic-minded, there are some 180 public tennis courts covering the range of
surfaces from clay to grass, and the prestige of playing at the Key Biscayne Tennis Association; the state-
of-the-art Crandon Tennis Center hosts the NASDAQ-100 Tennis Championships each March, while the
rest of the year its immaculate courts are open to the public, along with innumerable other well-kept tennis
venues throughout Miami. Finally, if you are one of those who refuse to leave the gym behind at home,
then get a taste of how Miami does it at the brand new Sports Club/LA opened in the new Four Seasons
complex in South Beach; among the amenities here are over 30 different fitness and recreational options
ranging from a 10,000 square-foot weight-training gym, three group exercise studios, a 100-piece
cardiovascular center, and even a destination "cityspa" with all the massage and treatment varieties that
can revive and reenergize you before or after a night on the town or any other of Miami's day-time
adventuring. * * *