Cuban-influenced strip of hotels and cafes along the waterfront of Miami Beach
South
Beach, or `SOBE', the lower section of Miami Beach, Florida, originally
developed in the early 1900s, has stunning Art Deco architecture.
Although many of the art deco buildings are either crumbling or have been
demolished, South Beach retains the world's largest collection of
Streamline Modern Art Deco architecture, and a recent resurgence in the
popularity of the area has caused a lot of regeneration and restoration
of this lovely area.
A long-standing spring break favorite, the long stretches of white sand
and crystalline waters of South Beach are separated from the strip' by
Ocean Drive. The pastel cityscape of boutique hotels, mixed with
expensive high-rise blocks of modem flats, nightclubs, cafés, restaurants
and bars shows evidence of the rampant tourism, but if you sit back and
enjoy the show, you are guaranteed to get into the swing of things -
there's something for everyone in South Beach.
Whether you want to sip a mojito and enjoy some Cuban fried plantains
and black beans while you watch tanned locals flex their muscles in
strong-man competitions, dine on fresh seafood at one of America's
gourmet hot spots, dance the night away at a world famous club where you
are likely to bump into rock stars and supermodels or spend a few hours
among the many scantily clad sun worshipers on the often crowded beach as
the sounds of Spanish music waft through the air, you will never be at a
loss for something to do here.
According to magazines like The New Times and GQ, South Beach has
replaced Los Angeles and New York City as the United States' most popular
nightlife spot. There are more than 150 clubs, lounges and bars, most of
which stay open until 5 am, so here you can truly dance the night away.
Entry can be expensive, and access is often difficult, but if you can
wangle your way in, it is worth the investment.
A major location for photo shoots and high fashion, South Beach's
palm-studded promenade is a well recognized backdrop for events ranging
from the Sports Illustrated Swim Suit Issue to the National Women's
Volleyball Championship. Here, people pride themselves on their physique
and fashionable appearance, whatever it may be, and they are not afraid
to show it off. Viva South Beach!
