Spring Break: South Beach, Miami

South Beach is rapidly headed to the number one spot on the list of “Great Spring Break Destinations.” If you’ve never visited, you’ve probably seen it on TV. It’s glitzy, glamorous, hip, and trendy. It’s in the Art Deco District, but it’s a melting pot of cultures. People from all over the world come here, including models, movie stars, and other celebrities. It’s a non-stop party where the legendary clubs are hoppin’ until dawn. Spring break trips to Miami will prove to be super exciting and unforgettable experiences!

Lodging

First of all, you need to understand that South Beach, Miami Beach, and Miami are three different places. South Beach is, well, south and east of Miami Beach. South Beach begins at First Street and ends at 22^nd Street. It’s also east of Biscayne Bay. Most rooms in South Beach are not cheap. Many are around $300 per night, and some are much higher. You can find a cheaper room in Miami Beach, but then you won’t be near all the Spring Break action.

I have a solution for you. I’ve done some research and have discovered hotels in South Beach for modest prices. Who says there’s no such thing as a cheap Spring Break vacation in South Beach? Check these out:

Whitelaw Hotel: This place is clean, bright, and airy, and it’s very close to the beach and clubs. Extras include free breakfast, passes to nightclubs, and a free nightly happy hour for guests. Rooms start at $150 a night.

The Loft: This oceanfront hotel has large rooms and a tropical garden. Each room has a kitchen with a refrigerator. Prices start at $99 per night.

Hotel Chelsea: This place is two blocks from the beach and offers a free cocktail hour every evening for guests. All the rooms have a mini-bar and fridge, and there are a bar and a restaurant on site. Prices start at around $160 a night.

Century Hotel: This is a real Art Deco hotel right on Ocean Drive, near great restaurants and hot clubs. The rooms are clean and unpretentious and start at $129 a night.

The Kent: Just a block from the beach, The Kent is a retro-themed hotel with psychedelic colors. Free breakfast is included with lodging. Prices start at $105 a night.

Chesterfield: Located a block from the beach, the Chesterfield has a jungle safari theme. A bar and spa are onsite. Rooms start at $146 a night.

Beachcomber Hotel: Just a block from the beach, the Beachcomber is clean but not fancy. A stay includes free breakfast. Each room has a mini-bar, and prices start at $116 per night.

If you want something even cheaper, you might want to consider one of the area hostels like Jazz, Tropics, or the Clay Hotel. You might be bunking with complete strangers, but you’ll save some cash – some of these places charge less than ten bucks a night. You can find these online.

If you want a place to “spread out,” consider renting a condo for a week during Spring Break. Lots of condo owners leave SoBe during Spring Break to avoid all the revelry, and some rent out their homes while they’re away. Again, do an online search.

You can also find package deals, discounts, and coupons online.

Daytime Activities

There’s plenty to do at SoBe during the day. Hanging out on the beautiful sand seems to be the favorite pastime with Breakers. Remember that this area allows the ladies to go topless, so don’t be shocked. Actually, nothing you see here should surprise you – it’s wild and crazy! The favorite beach with Breakers and celebrities is Lummus Park, which runs between 6^th and 14^th Streets. Swimming, tanning, jet skiing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and parasailing are all great ways to enjoy the sand and the warm water.

There are also lots of parties in various hotels and on the pool decks. Many are sponsored by local businesses, while others are hosted by MTV and Playboy.

You can book passage on a sightseeing cruise and get a guided tour of the area. There are also ships that take you out to international waters where you can gamble in the onboard casinos. These gambling boats charge only $10 per person for a day or evening cruise.

Shopping in SoBe is a real adventure. Enjoy the open air mall at Lincoln Road, hit one of the numerous boutiques, or browse the designer stores on Collins Avenue. A short drive will take you to Miami’s sprawling malls.

Nightlife

Here’s where things get REALLY interesting! South Beach has an amazing array of night clubs. Your biggest problem will be deciding which one to go to first! Keep in mind that SoBe is a late-night town, so much of the action won’t really get started until close to midnight. Also, remember that this is South Beach, so dress accordingly. Some of the clubs have a pretty strict dress code, and some are hard to get in unless you have a concierge who can hook you up. Some clubs aren’t going to let in a group of guys, so grab some of your female friends and get them to accompany you and your buds. Most clubs allow 18-year-olds in, but they can’t drink.

Wet Willy’s: On Ocean Drive, this is a casual club with dancing and frozen drinks. The roof-top bar is really cool and provides great views.

Mynt: This club on Collins Avenue is one of the most elite in SoBe, so you might not be able to get in. just standing in line, however, can be somewhat of a party. You’ll be surrounded by lots of beautiful people!

Cameo: On Washington Avenue, this club is always filled with a young, hot crowd. It’s all light and sound, with awesome entertainment. Tip: Don’t wear your tennis shoes.

Club Deep: This is an amazing club on Washington Avenue with an aquarium dance floor. It plays mostly hip hop and dance music.

Club Nikki: This awesome place is on Ocean Drive, and it’s definitely HOT! It’s a mixture of fur walls, orange neon, and a great dance floor. Save this club for late, late night – around 1 am.

Laundry Bar: On Lincoln Lane, this club offers dancing and a daily happy hour from 4-9 pm when drinks are two for one. They’re open from 7am until 5 am.

Mansion: This club on Washington is beautiful and houses six bars on two levels. Cover charge ranges from $20-$30. Dress your sexiest to get in.

B.E.D.: This place is totally innovative! The letters stand for beverages, entertainment, and dining. Guests lounge on comfy king-size beds as they listen to music, watch a fashion show, and take in a cabaret performance.

Crobar: On Washington Avenue, Crobar is a favorite with Breakers. Flashing lights, DJs, and pulsating music keep everyone dancing the night away. Expect to pay a cover charge of around $25.