The initial lure of Miami is undeniable: the white sand of the beaches, pristine against the azure sea and cobalt skies are perfectly complemented by stunning Art Deco hotels and beautiful people rollerblading along the boardwalks. It is virtually impossible to visit South Beach without picturing yourself in a move set! Of course, a trip to South Beach for a spot of people-watching, something delicious to eat, and a day relaxing on the beach is a must on your trip to Miami. However, the coastal location means that there are a host of water-based activities that must be experienced to be believed.
Due to the 365-day sunshine and warm sea temperatures, Miami offers world-class water sport facilities. Here you can go kayaking, parasailing, scuba diving or deep-sea fishing. You can take windsurfing lessons or rent a jet ski for an hour or two. Whatever you choose, you can be sure that it will be an experience you will never forget.
For a true insight into nature, take a trip to the Everglades, the crocodile-infested tropical wetlands running across Southern Florida. The vast, 1.5 million acres of saw-grass prairies, sub-tropical jungles and swamps are home to fourteen rare and endangered species, including the American crocodile, the Floridan panther and the West Indian manatee. The best way to experience the magnificence of the Everglades is via an airboat tour, which is both exhilarating and fascinating.
Fifteen miles south of Miami and stretching almost all the way to Cuba are the Florida Keys, a stunning series of large coral islands. When you visit Florida Keys, you can choose a larger island, where you will find a host of festivals, museums, galleries and street performers. If you want to escape the vibrant energy of Miami, head for one of the smaller islands: it is not unusual to find a deserted one, where you can enjoy the view, soak up the sun, and indulge in a few hours’ peace.