Miami

WHERE TO STAY:
The city of Miami suffers from a slight case of split personality. From sexy, neon-lit nightlife to upscale, Spanish-style elegance, Miami’s got it all, scattered throughout its various vibrant neighborhoods. Located in the heart of South Beach, the Delano is a sleek oceanfront favorite. By day, this 208-room hotel evokes the relaxed spirit of the Greek Isles with its all-white decor, private beach, and “barefoot chic” attitude. But be forewarned (or enticed): At night, the Delano transforms into a bumping nightspot for the see-and-be-seen crowd (1685 Collins Ave., 800-697-1791, www.delano-hotel.com). Just down the street, you’ll find The Setai—a 75-room, 50-suite, three-pool resort. Though its Collins Avenue address screams South Beach, the Zen-like interior feels a world away (2001 Collins Ave., 888-625-7500, www.setai.com). The Mayfair Hotel and Spa is a sophisticated option nestled in the funky borough of Coconut Grove. Though the boutique hotel’s posh style and proximity to the Coco Walk shopping village are pluses, its 4,500-square-foot Jurlique Spa steals the spotlight (3000 Florida Ave., 800-433-4555, www.mayfairhotelandspa.com). Or if you’d like to sneak in a few rounds of golf between business deals, the Biltmore Hotel in nearby Coral Gables is your best bet. The luxurious resort and spa is set on 150 acres of lush land, which includes a sweeping, 18-hole, Donald Ross-designed course. Throughout the 20th century, stars like Johnny Weissmuller and Ginger Rogers would frequent this ultra-lavish escape and lounge by one of the largest hotel pools in the country (1200 Anastasia Ave., 800-915-1926, www.biltmorehotel.com).

Enjoy subdued sophistication at Azul. photo courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel

WHERE TO EAT:
Prime 112 offers a hip twist on the traditional steakhouse, with art deco furniture and a sweet, yellow, beach house facade. The interior setting is the usual (sophisticated), as are the prices (high) and the wine list (long). But the trendy patrons trade dress ties for open collars, and the scene is more showy than secluded (112 Ocean Dr., 305-532-8112, www.prime112.com). Distinguished diners looking for attentive service, a fantastic view, and exceptional food need look no further than Azul, located in Brickell Key’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Chef Clay Conley’s Mediterranean- and Asian-influenced restaurant provides a bit of rare, understated luxury in an often-splashy city (500 Brickell Key Dr., 305-913-8358, www.mandarinoriental.com). As is customary in any coastal city, visitors to Miami should indulge in the fresh, local seafood. Since 1913, Joe’s Stone Crab has been known far and wide for having the sweetest crab meat the ocean has to offer. Try it with butter, lemon, or Joe’s original recipe mustard sauce. For dessert, sample Joe’s famous Key Lime Pie (11 Washington Ave., 305-673-0365, www.joesstonecrab.com). Miami owes much of its cultural—and culinary—flavor to its thriving Cuban community. Coconut Grove’s Las Culebrinas serves up some of the city’s best authentic Cuban food in a refined but dynamic, tropical setting. Live calypso and salsa music often accompany the plates of fried pork in avocado sauce and deep-fried plantains (2890 SW 27th Ave., 305-448-4090).

WHAT TO DO:
With summer-like temperatures lasting nearly year-round, you can enjoy the beach well into the fall and winter months. But if lounging in the sand ever loses its luster, there’s plenty of activity by land or sea to keep you entertained. Miami offers great shopping, particularly along Collins Avenue and Lincoln Road. Stroll in the shade, people-watch, and browse unique boutiques and high-end designer shops. Just half an hour away in nearby Hollywood, Fl., the Seminole Hard Rock Casino houses more than 2,100 gaming machines inside its 130,000-square-foot gambling hall. If you don’t like your odds, restaurants, retail, and a 5,500-seat entertainment venue round out the experience (1 Seminole Way, 866-502-7529, www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com). Or take to the high seas on a deep-sea fishing adventure, courtesy of Miami Charter Fishing. Board the Cutting Edge, a 45-foot custom fishing boat, and cast your line with confidence thanks to a knowledgeable captain and crew. Don’t be surprised if you wind up with a marlin, shark, or swordfish tugging on the other end (For reservations: 305-361-9740, www.miamicharterfishing.com).