10 hidden gems in Miami

Miami is a beach hopper’s paradise, a style influencer’s inspiration, a shopper’s mecca, and one of the best places in the world to absorb some vitamin D.

But there’s much more to this beach city – and I’m here to let you in on some of those hidden (and sometimes very quirky) gems.

1. SuViche

Wynwood is known for those graffitied walls, and after taking a stroll to have a look at them, I would suggest making a pit stop at SuViche, a Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant. This is just one example of the exciting cultural fusions that define food culture in Miami.

2. Bal Harbour Beach

Nestled in one of Miami’s most exclusive neighborhoods, this beach is a lovely place to relax and do a bit of people-watching. Calmer than many of Miami’s busting beaches, Bal Harbour Beach offers up calm waters that are perfect for a dip. With its quiet ambiance and long stretches of sand, you can also spend some quality me-time reading here.

3. Bayside Marketplace

Great for an afternoon trip, Bayside Marketplace is located in Downtown Miami. This waterfront park is dotted with restaurants and shops, providing the ideal setting for a wander and spontaneous bite to eat. It’s even home to an amphitheater where you can enjoy live music.

4. El Fresco Courtyard

On the outskirts of Little Havana, Dave “Krave” Fila, a local hero and talented street artist, has maintained El Fresco, a cool outdoor chill spot that showcases his artwork, has a mini stage known for spontaneous performances and allows food trucks to pop up so you can have your fixing of both food and art.

5. Wat Buddharangsi

While the Redlands may be known for farmer markets and fruit stands, it’s also a place where you can find your zen at Miami’s Theravada Buddhist temple, the Wat Buddharangsi. Soak up some spirituality and connect with the monks that run the place.

6. Stone Age Antiques

If you’re into vintage finds and thrift shopping, Stone Age Antiques on the Miami River is your spot. It offers plenty – and by plenty we mean PLENTY – of curiosities to browse and buy.

7. Rouge in North Beach

Rouge is considered one of the best French restaurants that Miami has to offer, blending French and Moroccan cultures and tastes with ease. While the food is something you should definitely try, the courtyard is what makes this place stand out with its Moroccan design, bougainvillea plants and occasional jazz concert.

8. Tinta y Cafe

This relaxed Cuban cafe is ideal for those looking to enjoy an authentic cup of Cuban coffee. Tinta y Cafe also features a range of delicious Cuban sandwiches as well as desserts, making it a perfect spot to stop off at during lunch.

9. Manatee Bend Park

If you’ve ever wanted to spot manatees, then head to Manatee Bend Park. Although Miami isn’t known for having a lot of green space, Manatee Bend Park is a small, but refreshing little oasis to relax in. You can couple chilling in the grass with a chance to see some sea cows (a nickname for manatees).

10. Stiltsville Houses

Located a mile south of Cape Florida, Stiltsville is a group of wooden houses perched on sand flats, appearing to float in the water. These houses date back decades and get their name from being built on stilts. Book a boat tour and explore this historic area while you enjoy the surrounding scenery.