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SUMMER 2026 Written from South Miami, FL

The Blog.

Restaurants, drives, dive bars, and day trips. Dispatches from South Florida, written by people who actually live here.

Florida Keys September 2026

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys? A Month-by-Month Guide

Discover the best time to visit the Florida Keys for great weather, fewer crowds, snorkeling, wildlife, events, lower prices and more.

Miami 5 min read

Best Cuban Food in Miami: 5 Local Favorites You Have to Try

Looking for the best Cuban food in Miami? Discover 5 local favorites, what to order, Cuban coffee tips, and where to find authentic Cuban cuisine.

Florida Keys 6 min read

The Ultimate Florida Keys Packing List: What to Bring for a Perfect Island Vacation

There’s packing for a normal beach vacation… and then there’s packing for the Florida Keys.

Archive 4 min read

Best Farmers Markets in South Florida

South Florida is known for its sunshine, beaches, and vibrant food scene — but one of the best ways to experience the local culture is by visiting a farmers market. From waterfront markets in Miami to

Archive 6 min read

Best Beaches in Miami & Fort Lauderdale

Miami Beach: Top Beaches in South Florida

Archive 5 min read

10 Hidden Gems in Miami Only Locals Know About

Miami’s Best Hidden Gems (That Most Tourists Miss)

Coral Gables 5 min read

A Weekend in Coral Gables: What to Do, Eat & See

Known as The City Beautiful, Coral Gables is one of South Florida’s most charming destinations—blending Mediterranean Revival architecture, leafy boulevards, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant food sce

Florida Keys 3 min read

5 Best FL Keys Restaurants to Eat with a View

One of the best parts of a Florida Keys vacation is dining with a view. Whether you’re watching boats drift by, catching a golden sunset, or listening to the water lap against the dock, the Keys know

Florida Keys 3 min read

5 Best Stops on a Florida Keys Road Trip

Winter is the best time to visit the beautiful Florida Keys, and there’s no better way to enjoy the sunshine and ocean views than a classic Florida Keys road trip. With warm weather, fewer crowds, and

Food 3 min read

4 Most Iconic Miami Holiday Food Traditions

4 Holiday Food Traditions That Define Miami’s Cultural Flavor

Miami 4 min read

Four holiday food traditions that define Miami

A field guide to lechón, pastelitos, and the year-end table.

Archive 2 min read

Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida (2025 Guide)

Best Holiday Light Shows in South Florida

Miami 3 min read

Outdoor Holiday Shopping in Miami: Best Places to Shop in 2025

If you’re looking for the best outdoor holiday shopping in Miami this season, you’re in the right place. Because holiday shopping shouldn’t feel like a chore—especially in perfect Miami winter weather

Properties 7 min read

Inside SeaGlass Cove

How we vet the houses on our list, told through one of them.

Miami 5 min read

Where to find quiet in Miami

Five neighborhoods, five very different versions of slow.

Travel 4 min read

Booking direct: why it matters

The fees you skip and the things you get when you book the owner.

Florida Keys 5 min read

Why Islamorada is the easiest Keys trip

Closest to Miami, biggest sunsets, smallest crowds in February.

Miami 2 min read

Best Burgers in Miami | National Cheeseburger Day Guide

Here at SoFLA Vacations, we consider ourselves burger aficionados. In honor of National Cheeseburger Day (September 18), we’re sharing our top five Miami burger spots you can’t miss. From trendy smash

Miami 2 min read

Best Neighborhoods in Miami to See It Like a Native

Miami’s postcard views and nightlife often take center stage, but to truly experience the city like a local on your next vacation to the Greater Miami area, you’ll want to dive into its neighborhoods

Archive 2 min read

Where to Sunbathe Topless (or Naked!) in Miami-Dade: Your Guide to Bare It All in Miami!

Looking to ditch the tan lines while soaking up the South Florida sun? You’re not alone! Miami-Dade County might not be overflowing with nudist beaches, but there are a few sunny spots where going top

Archive 2 min read

Best Events to Attend While Visiting Miami This Spring

Spring is just around the corner, and Miami is ready to dazzle with unforgettable events that will make your vacation in South Florida even more special. From world-class sports to cultural celebratio

Archive 3 min read

New Year's Events in Miami

Top Ideas for Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Miami: 2025

Archive 2 min read

What’s Hot in Miami Right Now: October to Mid-November

As the leaves change and the air cools, Miami turns up the heat with an array of exciting activities and events. From mouthwatering cuisine to captivating art and lively nightlife, this vibrant city h

Archive 2 min read

Unique Miami Must-See Spots!

It’s no secret that there’s an abundance of sights and activities awaiting travelers in Miami. From vibrant Little Havana and the decorated Wynwood Walls to the amazing Art Deco architecture prevalent

Archive 2 min read

Clubs to get your GROOVE on while visiting Miami, FL

There are many things Miami is known for that attract visitors from all over the world. The great beaches, amazing Cuban culture and food, Art Deco architecture and design and, of course, our beloved

Miami 2 min read

Best Cold Spots this Summer in Hot, Miami, FL!

Best Cold Spots this Summer in Hot, Miami, FL!

South Miami 2 min read

Top Breakfast Spots in South Miami

South Miami has expanded a lot over the last decade, with many local businesses setting up shop in the area. This would be the driving reason that led to SoFLA Vacations opening our newest addition “T

Beaches 2 min read

5 Best Beaches in South Florida

Whether it’s winter, summer, spring, or fall, it’s always a good time to go to the beach in Miami, FL! Home to some of the best beaches in the country, Miami is a tropical paradise that seems like som

Archive 2 min read

5 Hot New Restaurants in the Grove

The Grove is full of Art, Entertainment, Stores, Restaurants, and a rich history. Known as the oldest neighborhood in Miami Dade County, Coconut Grove has only gotten better over time. In addition to

Archive 1 min read

Top 3 Best Water Excursions For Your Next Miami Vacation

Looking for some fun and relaxation on the water during your next Miami vacation? From dinner cruises and kayak tours on Biscayne Bay to airboat rides in the Everglades, SoFLA Vacations has you covere

Miami 2 min read

4 Best Places to Get Your Art Fix While on Your Next Miami Vacation

Miami may be known for its beaches and nightlife, but with so much culture and affluence, the art scene is thriving. Whether you’re in the streets of Wynwood, the shores of Biscayne Bay or historic ye

South Miami 2 min read

The Perfect Night Out In South Miami

(From top to bottom) Casa Cuba, Whip’N Dip, Bougainvillea’s Old Florida Tavern, Sunset Place AMC and the streets of South Miami

Miami 2 min read

"Hidden Gem" Attractions while vacationing in Miami!

text for the blog itself – South Florida hidden gem attractions

Archive 2 min read

3 Best "Hidden Gem" Attractions while vacationing in Miami!

Discover hidden gems on your next Miami vacation while staying with SoFLA Vacations…

Archive 2 min read

Best Miami Events for Spring/Summer 2022

Music festivals, art shows, sporting events and more, The Magic City is know for hosting some of the most spectacular events year-round. From the Super Bowl to Art Basel to Miami International Boat Sh

Archive 2 min read

3 Best Miami Tours For Your Next Vacation

Discover Miami’s hidden gem and take your next vacation in Coconut Grove! A lot has changed since its founding in 1825, but some of its history remains. From the Barnacle, Coconut Grove’s oldest stand

Archive 3 min read

Outdoor Dining Experiences not to miss when visiting Coconut Grove/Miami this winter

When visiting Coconut Grove and Greater Miami during the winter you have to dine outdoors. I mean, the weather is one of the reasons you are visiting so why not enjoy it even when dining? There are so

Archive 1 min read

South Florida Beaches You Need to See - Even in the Winter

Who says that winter has to put a damper on all the fun? In Florida, there’s no such thing as a bad season, and the weather is always nearly perfect (except for the occasional hurricane, of course). W

Archive 1 min read

South Florida Winter Vacation Ideas

Yes, even in the year’s coldest month’s South Florida continues to be a safe haven for those who enjoy warmer weather. While Florida may not be what you picture when you think of an idyllic Christmas

Archive 1 min read

Visiting Florida This Winter? Here’s What You Need to Know

Florida is filled with visitors all over any time of the year, but contrary to popular belief, it can still be packed full in the colder months. In the fall and winter, many flock to Florida to escape

Archive 1 min read

Where to See Christmas Lights in Coconut Grove

If you’re taking a visit to South Florida this holiday season, you’re in luck! Miami has some of the best Christmas lights around. There are plenty of places to see spectacular drive-thru light shows

Florida Keys vacation rentals 1 min read

Headed to the Florida Keys? Here’s What You Should Put on the Agenda

There’s nothing quite like a Florida Keys vacation – but we didn’t have to tell you that, right? Chances are you’ve heard of the magnificent beaches, beautiful blue water, and the multitude of activit

Miami vacation rentals 2 min read

Make Your Airline Travel to Miami Better With These 4 Tips

For some, airports start all the excitement a vacation has to offer, taking in the business and waiting in anticipation at the gate to board their flight and officially begin vacation mode. For others

Archive 1 min read

Miami Beach Family Vacation Ideas

Miami is most commonly known for its nightlight and unique art district, but it’s a place filled with entertainment for anyone of any age. With a wide variety of things to do, things to see, and oppor

Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Visiting Miami Soon? Here's Where You Need to Go

Summer is for beach weather in Miami, but fall is when the social season kicks off. There’s a ton of fun and exciting things to do in Miami this September from museums to holiday events. Clear your va

Miami vacation rental 1 min read

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Miami

If you’re planning on visiting Miami, chances are you have an itinerary jam-packed with beach days, nights out on Miami’s nightlife scene, and time well spent at some of the best restaurants in the na

Florida Keys vacation rentals 1 min read

August Events in the Florida Keys

Even as the summer is winding down into its last month, that doesn’t mean the fun is over in the Florida Keys. In fact, that’s one of the perks of South Florida – our year-round good weather! When you

Miami Beach vacation rentals 1 min read

The History of Surfing in Florida

When you hear the word “surfing,” you probably picture the beaches of places like Southern California. Chances are Florida is one of the last places you think about when dreaming of a surfer’s paradis

Miami vacation rental 2 min read

4 Fun Outdoor Activities to do in South Florida This Summer

While Florida beaches are some of the most unmatched in the country, there are a world of other fun activities to do and sights to see throughout Miami and the Florida keys. Rich in history, culture,

Florida Keys 2 min read

A Brief History of the Florida Keys

The Calusa and Tequesta tribes were the original inhabitants of the Florida Keys, and famous Spanish explore Juan Ponce de León chartered them in 1513. He dubbed the islands Los Martires (“The Martyrs

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 2 min read

Discover “The Grove” in Miami

The glitz and glam of Miami Beach ensure its perennial appeal but when you want to experience something scenic yet quieter, consider Coconut Grove. “The Grove” continues to be a longtime classic, and

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Exploring South Florida in 2021

You’ve agreed you’re going to visit Miami in 2021 with a much-needed break, but in terms of what to do, you’re at a loss of what to do or what places to visit. The beaches are a must-visit, but The Ma

Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Florida Cities Make List of Top Vacation Spots

It’ll probably come as no surprise to Sunshine State residents and South Florida locals that 3 Florida cities have made the list of the top 5 most desired vacation spots in the world, beating out citi

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Florida Keys Experience Becomes One Woman’s Home

A Business Insider article shares the story of a woman who was living in Maine. She was working as a therapist part-time and also writing on the side, with plans to publish another book after already

Florida Keys 1 min read

How the Florida Keys Got Their Names

You’ve probably heard hundreds of stories of how the Florida Keys were named. While some are fiction and hearsay, some of them are the real story!

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Save Big With Our All-Inclusive Travel Package

We are excited to announce our new SoFLA Vacations all-inclusive health-minded travel package! Our travel package is perfect for those looking to visit South Florida to get operations such as cosmetic

Miami Beach vacation rentals 2 min read

Simple Tips for a First Vacation Rental Experience

If you’re willing to travel, we want you to enjoy the South Florida experience the way a local would, resting and basking in the sunlight. You will first need to select the right one before you can mo

Outdoors 2 min read

Snorkeling in South Florida

Snorkeling is one of South Florida’s most popular summertime activities. It allows you views of the reefs and ocean wildlife you just can’t get anywhere else. Plus, it’s family-friendly, and people of

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

South Florida Magazine Publishes Staycation Guide

We are all about catering to tourists and helping them enjoy the South Florida experience to the max, but we also know that plenty of reasons exist to enjoy a good staycation, especially in South Flor

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 2 min read

Tips for Experiencing South Florida

Florida is recognized for its world-class beaches but there is so much more to it than that. If you don’t explore beyond the beach, you may be missing out on a fun, engrossing, and exciting adventure.

Miami vacation rentals 2 min read

Understanding Tide Conditions in South Florida

The water is beautiful here in South Florida and is home to many fun activities that drive tourism. However, before you go out for a swim or boating trip, you’ll want to understand the way the water b

Key Largo vacation rentals 1 min read

Vibrant Life in Key Largo

Key Largo is Florida’s largest key with a population of 9,952 residents. It’s continually one of the most popular destinations not only in Florida but in the United States. Founded around 1870 with ju

Florida Keys vacation rentals 1 min read

4 Things to do Before You Head to the Beach

The beach is essential for any South Florida vacation. It’s perfect for relaxing solo, or building sandcastles and playing in the water with kids. You should know and prepare for a few things before h

Florida Keys vacation rentals 2 min read

The Best Sunscreens for Your South Florida Vacation

Sunscreen is always a good idea – whether you’re hitting the pool or going for an afternoon walk in the middle of October. Applying sunscreen is especially important at the beach since the sand and wa

Miami Beach vacation rentals 1 min read

A Vacation May Do Wonders

A holiday vacation is highly beneficial in helping the body and mind take a load off and relax. Might it be the solution to marriage difficulties as well? An article in the South Florida Reporter from

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Tips for the Best Miami Vacation

It’s no surprise that Miami continues to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. With its beautiful beaches, year-round warm weather, an impressive arts district, and delicious

Florida Keys vacation rentals 1 min read

What Makes the Florida Keys Perfect for Vacation

The Florida Keys, or known to Miami locals as “The Keys,” are tropical islands off the coast of Florida that stretch out for 120 miles, making up the southernmost part of the United States (well, asid

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Harper’s Bazaar Singles Out the Magic City

Staying home is still the safest option, but if you’re planning on doing any traveling in 2021, where will you be going? Harper’s Bazaar is one of the most well-known and oldest fashion magazines in t

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Weather the Winter in South Florida

The major news this week is the unprecedented winter storms and below zero temperatures affecting most of the country. States like Texas are facing power outages and well, the weather is not the most

Downtown Miami vacation rentals 1 min read

Watch a Movie on the Water in Miami

While movie theaters remain closed for obvious reasons, Miami has gotten creative with screening films and offering people a way to have some fun. Hard Rock Stadium, for example, has seen increased ac