The ultimate guide to South Beach, Florida nightlife

After enjoying a late brunch, sunbathing on the beach, a little shopping and a quick afternoon nap, it's time to engage in some night-time fun in Miami, Florida.

Miami's South Beach truly comes alive as the sun starts to set. Neon-soaked, Art Deco buildings along Ocean Drive light up the sidewalks as couples and friends stroll by in fashionable and alluring attire, to dine, dance and celebrate well past midnight.

If you want to join the fun like a local, you’ll need a few tips on navigating the South Beach nightlife on your stay in Florida.

Get Happy

Happy hour on South Beach is a time-honored tradition, and it's your chance to enjoy some of the coolest bars – just make sure you’ve left your rental car back at the hotel.

Dress to impress and start with a stroll down one of the city's romantic pedestrian walkways, Espanola Way, which runs just south of Lincoln Road between Collins and Washington. Try Baia Beach House for Miami Beach’s longest running happy ’hour’, which actually runs from 4pm until 9pm.

For something a little more creative, try NaiYaRa, where you can sip tropical drinks and try Thai appetizers – the sushi is highly praised too, so why not order a few plates to share? Alternatively, head over to the trendy Drift inside the 1 Hotel, especially if you enjoy craft cocktails infused with fresh herbs. Many of the top restaurants and bars are inside chic hotels, making it easy to flow from happy hour to dinner if you want convenience.

Fuel Up

To restore your energy for the evening, be sure to fuel up with a healthy, fresh meal. Don't look for early bird specials here. Nights in South Beach begin late and end in the early hours of the morning. Many restaurants line the sidewalks of Ocean Drive, with the heart of the town located between 5th and 15th Streets. Browse the menus on display outside, and don't be intimidated by the employees paid to hustle you inside. It's fun to people-watch while sharing dishes at tables overlooking the beach, although it can get crowded as the night gets older.

Foodies may want to try one of the fine dining restaurants located off the main strip. Popular spots that don't disappoint include Cleo on Collins Avenue. It offers tasty Mediterranean cuisine that can be enjoyed on cozy couches overlooking the street, while CVI.CHE 105 on Lincoln Road serves up impressive Peruvian fare in a hip, exotic atmosphere. 

Dance the Night Away

When you’re ready to work off dinner, head out to enjoy some of the hottest entertainment in the world. Expect lines and hefty admission fees at the most popular spots, such as Story, Basement and LIV – all located on Collins Avenue. International DJs keep the beats pumping well into the early morning hours and celebrities often make appearances to keep the night exciting.

The sky is the limit on fun, but the city does enforce a 5 am closing time. Be sure to keep the next morning free for sleeping in, followed by a Cuban coffee to sip at brunch – and then do it all over again.

Ready to see and be seen in South Beach? Share photos of your experience (and maybe even selfies with celebrities) with us on Twitter and Instagram.

Hertz encourages you to be responsible. Don’t Drink and Drive.