This sunday I will be making a day trip to South Beach/ Miami. I have never been to the area, we want mostly a fun beach to visit. We are mid 20's. Does any one have any suggestions for what beach/location to visit? (we will be traveling from Ft. Lauderdale, and this is a pit stop on the way to the Keys)

You will have a great time in South Beach if you like to party and people watch. Ocean Drive is lined with hotels bars, restaurants, and the beach is right across the street! Lots of clubs too. You will know you are there when you get there, just get to Ocean Drive. Is the Ft. Lauderdale area, fort meyers, sanibel, captiva worth visiting? I am also 24 and from nyc

I am planning a summer trip to South Beach and have read a lot about the beaches.

My understanding is that most of the good people watching and beach scene is between 6th and 16th. Regrettably, I have heard that the quality of the beach itself is not all it's cracked up to be.

For great people watching, grab a bite to eat at NEws Cafe, open 24 hrs. Then walk along Ocean drive and then shop across the street at the boutiques and trendy stores. I suggest going to Mango's at night for some crazy fun. The beach is nice but can get crowded.
Wendy,
I was at Sanibel about a month ago during red tide but it was still pretty nice. Kinda too quiet for my tastes but relaxing. Fort Meyers beach is nearby with some bars but they are cheesy and can attract some undesirables. I'm 24 from DC.....

Actually, I'm not from Ft. Lauderdale, I'm from DC. We'll just be there. Thanks for the input! Unfortunately we won't be able to party, we just wanted a day at a real beach before heading to the Keys

South Beach in Miami is the widest beach in South Florida. You can always find your place in the sun, unlike Fort Lauderdale or North Miami Beach. There is alot to do but most of the activity begins when the some sets. You could walk the Lincoln Road Mall during the day. This is an outdoor traffic free street of shopping and restaurants.