9 tips to enjoy Miami during the holiday season

Explore 9 unmissable activities to enjoy Miami during the holiday season, from art and beaches to shopping, gastronomy and outdoor events.

The end of the year marks vacation time in Brazil, and for travelers, Miami is a strategic choice. The city attracts visitors with beaches, shopping, fine dining and a lively nightlife.

Miami offers mild winter weather, with temperatures between 17 °C and 25 °C, little rain and ideal days for outdoor activities.

According to Daniel Ickowicz, CEO of Elite International Realty, the period is one of the best to explore Miami.

“The end of the year in Miami has a unique energy. People are surprised to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve facing the ocean, with summer weather and a festive atmosphere even during the North American winter. It is the perfect time to enjoy the best of the city, from entertainment to shopping”.

Check out 9 tips selected by the CEO of Elite International Realty to enjoy Miami during the holiday season:

South Beach and Ocean Drive

South Beach gains extra charm during the holidays. Ocean Drive becomes illuminated and filled with outdoor events. During the day, visitors walk, bike or relax on the sand. At night, bars and restaurants offer special dinners.

Wynwood Walls and urban art

The artistic Wynwood district hosts fairs, gastronomic events and shows in December. Colorful murals and open-air galleries attract fans of culture and photography.

New Year’s Eve beach parties

Miami is known worldwide for its New Year’s Eve celebrations. Bayfront Park offers free fireworks and live shows. The Fontainebleau Hotel hosts international DJs, including David Guetta, confirmed for the 2025 year-end event. Rooftops such as Sugar offer exclusive parties.

Biscayne Bay boat tours

Boat tours through Biscayne Bay reveal millionaire islands and the skyline at sunset. Options include dinner cruises, live music and themed celebrations.

Holiday shopping in Brickell and Aventura Mall

With seasonal discounts, the end of the year is ideal for shopping. Brickell City Centre and Aventura Mall feature themed decor and international brands. The Design District offers luxury labels in a modern setting.

Festive gastronomy

Restaurants such as Joe’s Stone Crab, Komodo, Casa Tua and The Villa Casa Casuarina offer special Christmas and New Year’s Eve menus with live music and an intimate atmosphere.

Art Basel Miami

From December 1 to 7, Art Basel brings together 4,000 artists from 35 countries at the Miami Beach Convention Center. More than 250 galleries display paintings, sculptures, photographs and multimedia installations.

Visitors enjoy a sophisticated environment with music, design and culture. An Art Deco tour in Miami Beach enriches the experience.

Cultural events and attractions

The Adrienne Arsht Center presents performances in December and January. The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) offers exhibitions and outdoor activities overlooking the bay.

A natural refuge in Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne offers tranquility minutes from downtown. Crandon Park features calm beaches, trails and picnic areas, ideal for recharging before the new year.

“Miami is vibrant all year long, but during the holiday season it becomes even more special. The weather, the celebrations and the positive atmosphere make the city one of the most desired destinations in the world at this time”, concludes Daniel Ickowicz.