Miami is always a good idea! When I was thinking about where I wanted to travel this year, I knew at some point that I wanted to spend a few days in Miami, just chillin’ on the beach.
When I came back from Tulum, I started looking at flights and they were so cheap, like under $200 for a round trip ticket. It was hard not to book it, so I booked it. Also, considering how rainy NYC was this past summer, I needed a break from NYC and more time in the sun more than ever!
WHERE I STAYED:
A part of me wanted to stay in Downtown Miami, since visiting the Wynwood Walls was on my itinerary, but I couldn’t find any hotels available the days I was in Miami. Instead, I stayed at the Cardozo Hotel. Cardozo South Beach Hotel is located on Ocean Drive, right across from South Beach and was close to many restaurants.
I checked in on Monday, 7/26 and checked out on Thursday, 7/29. I stayed in the Cardozo King room for $170/night. With taxes and fees, my total for three nights was $653.55.
I arrived to the hotel at 11:30AMish and check-in wasn’t until 4PM but I was able to leave my bags with the front desk, changed into a bikini and immediately ran to the beach.
I loved the Art Deco design of this hotel. My room didn’t have much of a view, which didn’t bother me because I planned to be out in the sun anyway. My room was very spacious though, which was great and would be great if two people were staying in that room. Breakfast was included in my rate, which was a bonus. The options were pretty simple – pancakes, eggs with potatoes and yogurt parfait, with a choice of coffee or apple juice.
WYNWOOD WALLS/ART DISTRICT:
I’ve been to Miami a couple of times and have always did the usual: tanning, shopping, eating and partying. I’ve always wanted to visit the Wynwood Art District but there was just never time. This time I made sure to visit and I’m so happy I got to visit.
Apparently visiting the Wynwood Walls used to be free but now tickets are $10 for a one-hour slot. You can buy your tickets or book a tour here. I love the open space and how you can walk and take pictures at your own leisure. Nobody is really clocking you or rushing you out. I was able to set up my tripod and didn’t have any interruptions while taking photos. A kind man did take a few of my photos in front of one of the walls, which I appreciated. I also stopped in the gift shop before I left and got 2 Andy Warhol (my fave) mugs for myself and my mom.
I walked around for a bit after the Walls and got some photos of some of the street art. I wanted to do some more exploring, as there was a cool Instagrammable garage I wanted to check out. However, scorching hot that day and Aunt Flow had me nervous I was going to leak, so I headed back to my hotel. Next time, I will definitely explore more and eat in that area.
WHERE I ATE:
Esotico: TikTok put me on to Esotico and I knew I had to eat there. I loved the Tiki vibe and everything on the menu sounded so delicious. They have Happy Hour on Monday-Friday from 5-7PM. Drinks and some appetizers are $8. I had the Sexy Colada, Calamari Teriyaki and Hawaiian Pineapple Rice, which did not disappoint at all. I sat at the bar since I was solo and the bartender was so sweet. She also gave me a shot when I was closing out. Idk what it was but I took it because we don’t waste alcohol. Highly recommend when in Miami!
Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill: One of my favorite restaurants from New York that unfortunately did not survive the pandemic. When I booked my trip, I knew I had to visit Sugarcane because I miss it so much! I honesty could have ate there everyday! This restaurant used to be near my job, so you know I frequented it. The menu includes both Latin American and Asian dishes and their sangria is amazing.
One thing about me, I’m always gonna eat good, so I ordered all of my favorites from the menu and left with the only food baby – no regrets at all. I ordered the Goat Cheese Croquettes, Bacon Wrapped Dates (best dish on the menu), Spicy Tuna Rolls and the Nutella Sundae. They have Happy Hour 7 days a week from 3PM-6PM. You must eat here when in Miami!
All in all, it was a cute little getaway. I ate great, relaxed and got a great tan. I will say I think I have outgrown South Beach and the next time I visit Miami, I will likely stay in the Downtown Area. I really liked the vibe and all of the restaurants I ate at were there, so it would make sense to stay closer.
For a recap of all of my outfits from this trip, click HERE.
As always, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below or DM me on Instagram.