inspiredexplorer

My mother, sister and I have tickets purchased and the Ritz-Carlton South Beach reserved for three nights over Memorial Day weekend. As New Yorkers, we've never been to Miami, and are really just looking forward to beach and pool time, great restaurants, maybe some water sports and relaxing time.

Only after we booked did we learn that Miami's Memorial Day weekend is home to Urban Beach Week, and the online reporting on it ranges from a simple hip-hop festival with special club appearances to a debaucherous, dangerous 24-7 orgiastic mosh pit.

So I'm hoping fodorites can shed some factual, non hyperbolic information about what to expect in Miami over Memorial Day weekend. Is it as bad / dangerous / overwhelming as advertised? Are the crazy partying crowds avoidable?

Changing our flight travel plans is not possible at this point, but if you'd recommend a different area to stay in during this time, we could look at other hotel options.

Thank you!

Nati_Ave

It's not dangerous but it's honestly not favorable. The Ritz Carlton is in the heart of South Beach which is normally advantageous location-wise, but you'll be right in the hub of all the "activities". And the beach isn't private. The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne is wonderful and has so much to do on-site, you barely have to leave. Otherwise, I'd suggest looking at Fort Lauderdale as an option. It's about a 45 minute drive from Miami. Good luck!

rncheryl

I would not want to be in Miami at that location that weekend. (And I live in Ft Lauderdale)

BigRuss

>

Thinking Nati's idea is good - off the general path of the partiers.

inspiredexplorer

Thank you so much! The Ritz in Key Biscayne is the same price as South Beach, so it'll be an easy swap.

Appreciate the advice, as always!