Just wondering if someone could explain South Beach to me. I was there for a very short time twice, and both times, wound up on a main ave (A1A?) across from the ocean, with alot of tourists walking up and down the strip, and tourist-y restaurants. What am I missing? Are there different sections? I'm not very into the tourist-y, glamorous people-watching scene. Am I barking up the wrong tree with South Beach? If so, can you suggest any other spots nearby that may be a bit more laid back? Hope I explained this well! Thank you!

Well, frankly, yes you are barking up the wrong tree. Like Cannes, St. Tropez, and other such places it's all about tourists coming to do glamorous people watching. It's about being seen, trendy bars, and restaurants.

Are there any hotels you could suggest that are less trendy and have a more relaxing, tropical feel? Would I be better off in Miami Beach? Thanks.

kiki:

try considering Ft. Lauderdale or my fav beachtown of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, less trendy and crowded and I know LBTS is a residential town that has the locals visiting the beach regularly.

Kiki, Miami Beach is made up of South Beach, Mid Beach, North Beach, North Miami Beach, Sunny Isles, Surfside, Bal Harbour, and Hallendale (I'm sure I've left out beaches). It is the barrier island off the mainland of Miami.

South Beach is the very southern tip of Miami Beach and yes it is very touristy. Depending upon time of year, it brings together Europeans, South Americans, the Hip Hop crowd (VMAs and Urban Beach Week), the artsy crowd (Art Basel) and so many others I can't begin to name them.

South Beach is what you make of it. My parents have a blast in South Beach as do my stepkids who are barely of age. It runs the gamut.

What are you looking for in a beach? There are some wonderful oasis resort hotels in South Beach.

Key Biscayne also has some outstanding hotels.

Firstly; what is your price range per night and what are your dates?

What are your priorities? Dining? Shopping? Attractions?

Thanks so much for the information everyone. We're looking for a place to relax with great beaches and great food, maybe some snorkeling but that's not vital. I'm not too into shopping. I will be in Ft Lauderdale for a conference so I dont want to travel too far. The hotels I have been recommended (Delano, Loews,..) seem almost too hip and trendy. We want to relax while away. Not feel like we're part of a fashion show or VIP scene. Unless I'm wrong about those hotels? We'd like to be on or very near the beach and keep it under $250 a night. We're in our mid 30s. Thanks!

Depending on the time of year, you could probably get into the Ritz-Carlton South Beach for $250.

The biggest plus about staying in South Beach is that you don't need a car. Anywhere else in Miami a car is a must.

I think the Loews is an excellent suggestion. I love the location and they outside pools are fantastic.

I

Crap. My computer did something weird.

Anyway, you will not feel like you are in the middle of some fashion show/hipster wannabe party in South Beach and it is very easy to stay away from the trendsters.

Stay away from the Clevelander all the time and the clubs on Washington Avenue at night.

South Beach is really an upscale beach town with fantastic architcture.

I will try to find a hotel that is a little less trendy, but still close enough to the action (restaurants, beach, etc). The Delano doesnt seem to be my style. I will look into other possibilities. Thanks for the advice!