A short guide to Miami and Miami Beach
This doesn’t want to be your definitive and comprehensive guide about Miami. It would be insane to claim such a title in a place that is constantly changing and in the age of AI.
What I’m going to share, instead, are my favorite things about Miami and Miami Beach, as well as the areas I found most interesting street photography-wise.
I hope you’ll find this practical and somewhat inspiring.
Some of the links are affiliated: if you book something through those it doesn’t cost anything extra for you but it helps me and this website a great deal. Thank you!
A brief intro
Miami Beach, the Miami you see in movies — filled with mojitos, flashy cars, neon lights, and tiny bikinis — is alive and well in parts of South Beach. But that's just scratching the surface. Head over the causeway, and you'll find Wynwood and Brickell, where a lively, modern scene has taken off.
The city also has a rich history shaped by various cultures, especially from Latin America and the Caribbean, which enhance its food, arts, and music. If that isn’t enough, there are fancy shops, art galleries, a bunch of walking tours, salsa dancing, cool neighborhoods, museums, and even wildlife reserves.
Miami truly has it all, and it comes with plenty of sunshine, after all Florida is “the sunshine state”.
What to see
Miami Beach
South Beach and Ocean drive
I don’t think those need an introduction. They basically represent the image people have of Miami. Beach, ocean, nightlife, neons, restaurants and bars, there’s a lot!
Lincoln Road
A small notable street with shops and lots of things to do in general. If you’re in luck you’ll bump into the occasional car show. Also a hot-spot on Halloween.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/aPA6WXQPNhDXTdmFA
South Pointe Park
It’s a quiet and relaxing spot where you can watch the big ships going in and out of Miami’s port. I realize this might not be interesting to everyone but it was to me so…
https://maps.app.goo.gl/EkK5dsH5kbJdWBw58
Versace Mansion
You’re going to see it walking on Ocean Drive. It has been an italian restaurant for some years now. A bit on the expensive side but it’s a truly unique place in case you feel like splurging a little bit.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ho335NtNYRBSPSai7
Miami
Brickell
It’s probably one of the richest areas in the world. Worth a stroll in my opinion.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UFtotu7rghVqRRud8
Wynwood
By far my favorite neighborhood. It is renowned for its colourful street art and creative atmosphere. Once an industrial area, it has transformed into a cultural hub, attracting artists, entrepreneurs, and visitors alike. With its eclectic mix of galleries, shops, and eateries, Wynwood offers a unique blend of artistic expression and urban culture, making it a must-visit destination in the city.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7LhbC7AwdZxd1RLGA
Raccoon island
The name says everything you need to know even though the real name is Sandspur Island.
There are tours available to go there by either sup, kayak, jet ski or boat.
This is a link to the best tour I could find on GetYourGuide: Raccoon Island: Exploration on SUP/Kayak.
Other tour operators are: Stellar Miami Tours and Ocean Force Adventures but they are more expensive.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QPE8AzDanpNeG8Fp6.
You’re welcome.
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a temple of located in Downtown Miami’s Bayfront Park. is vast and comprehensive, featuring an aquarium, a planetarium two science galleries. Be sure to take the elevator to the sixth floor’s terrace for expansive views of downtown Miami.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zh7fWuMVBPUPEzgA6
Allapattah
Known as one of the most culturally diverse neighborhoods in a city full of them, Allapattah, just west of Wynwood, keeps adding arts attractions its growing lineup of thrift shops, hipster, and Latin restaurants (including Dominican and Honduran eateries and a fantastic Mexican taqueria). The famed Rubell Museum, housing a collection of world-class contemporary works by artists like Keith Haring, Jeff Ko, Cindy Sherman, many celebrated newcomers, is Allapattah’s heavyweight. Right from the Rubell Museum, the new walk-through art experience called Superblue immerses visitors in exhibitions music and visuals.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/fvqaa8uzcCcceoM16
Events
Miami and Miami Beach host a diverse array of events annually that cater to various interests and demographics. One of the highlights is Art Basel Miami Beach, which occurs every December. This prestigious art fair attracts galleries, collectors, and art enthusiasts from around the globe, showcasing contemporary artworks from established and emerging artists. The event is accompanied by numerous parties, exhibitions, and installations across the city, transforming Miami into a hub of creativity and culture.
Aside from art, Miami is known for its vibrant music scene, exemplified by the Ultra Music Festival held each March. This electronic dance music festival draws thousands of fans and top DJs from around the world, turning Bayfront Park into a playground of sound and lights. Additionally, the Miami Music Week coincides with the festival, featuring numerous parties, showcases, and events at various venues throughout the city, further enhancing Miami's reputation as a music capital.
Miami Beach also plays host to an array of culinary events, such as the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, which occurs in February. This event celebrates the culinary arts with tastings, seminars, and dinners featuring renowned chefs and celebrities. The festival attracts food lovers and industry professionals alike, making it one of the most anticipated gastronomic events in the region. Together with events like the Miami International Boat Show and the Miami Fashion Week, these annual occurrences solidify Miami's status as a vibrant cultural and entertainment destination.
Food and drinks
Over multiple trips to Miami I saved a few favorite places, both for food and drinks, that I keep going back to.
Here’s the lists on Google Maps:
Of all of those bars I definitely recommend visiting:
“La Trova” - try to go on a live music even night, the atmosphere is pretty unbeatable
"Better Days” - pretty chill place, my favorite bar in Miami by far. Fair prices, good drinks and you can also easily play games and socialize.
Where to stay
Each area in Miami and Miami Beach has its unique charm and appeal, catering to various preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere or a tranquil retreat, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your stay.
South Beach
South Beach is iconic for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and pastel-coloured Art Deco architecture. It's particularly popular among tourists and offers a variety of hotels, from luxury to budget-friendly options. The beach is easily accessible, and you'll find numerous restaurants, shops, and bars within walking distance.
Downtown Miami
Downtown Miami features a mix of business and leisure, making it a great base for visitors. It boasts a number of cultural attractions, including museums, parks, and waterfront promenades. The area is well-connected via public transit, and you'll find a range of accommodations, from high-end hotels to more affordable stays.
Wynwood
Known for its street art and trendy atmosphere, Wynwood has become a hotspot for creatives and visitors alike. The Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum of street art, is a major draw. Accommodations in this area tend to be boutique hotels and hostels, appealing to those looking for a unique experience.
Now, if you’re looking for something different or maybe this isn’t your first visit you should consider checking out these areas:
Coconut Grove - Coconut Grove is a more residential area that offers a laid-back vibe with lush greenery and waterfront views. The area is known for its picturesque parks and relaxed atmosphere. There are a variety of hotels and vacation rentals, making it suitable for families and those seeking a quieter stay.
Coral Gables - Coral Gables is known for its Mediterranean revival architecture, upscale shopping, and fine dining. It's a charming neighbourhood with beautiful tree-lined streets and parks. Accommodations range from luxury hotels to cosy bed-and-breakfasts, offering a more serene experience compared to the bustling beach areas.
Mid-Beach - Mid-Beach offers a balance between South Beach's excitement and the more relaxed atmosphere of North Beach. It's home to many upscale hotels and resorts. Visitors can enjoy quieter beaches while still being near the popular nightlife and cultural attractions of South Beach.
North Beach - For those seeking a more peaceful experience, North Beach is ideal. The area features fewer crowds, a family-friendly atmosphere, and beautiful shoreline parks. You'll find a mix of accommodations, including hotels and vacation rentals, catering to a range of budgets.
Moving Around in Miami and Miami Beach
If you can afford it (mind the cost of parking as it’s not that cheap) I definitely recommend hiring a car as public transport is not the best. But navigating Miami and Miami Beach without a car be done if you know your options.
Public Transportation
Metrobus: Miami’s Metrobus system covers a wide area, including Miami Beach. It’s a cost-effective way to travel, with buses running regularly.
Metrorail: This elevated train system connects various parts of Miami and offers access to attractions, work hubs, and the airport.
Miami Beach Trolley: Free trolleys run throughout Miami Beach, providing convenient stops close to major hotels and attractions.
Other means of transportation
Ride sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Miami and Miami Beach. They provide a flexible way to get around, especially during peak tourist times or late-night outings.
Rent a bike: Biking is a popular mode of transport in Miami Beach, with designated bike lanes and rental stations. Look for local bike-sharing platforms like Citi Bike for easy rentals.
Rent a scooter: Electric scooters are available for rent throughout Miami Beach. They offer a fun and quick way to navigate short distances.
Favorite areas for street photography
At this point I feel like I keep writing the same three names but as a street photographer you follow the people and the light. As you might have guessed by now, my favorites areas are, in order:
Wynwood
Anything can happen all over Miami but if you’re into juxtappositions then Wynwood is definitely your best bet. Also everything is very colorful so if you shoot color you have one more reason to go. It might be a challenge to shoot there if you don’t shoot close to people as there’s always a lot going on and the backgrounds can get messy but what do I know.
South Beach and Ocean drive
Known for its iconic lifeguard stands, Art Deco architecture, and lively atmosphere, South Beach can be a photographer's paradise. The colorful buildings and bustling streets provide endless opportunities for capturing unique shots but it can be a bit of a hit or miss. I think it depends on a number of factors but the craziest things I’ve seen in Miami happened there. Like in the picture above where a man is holding a condom and gesturing that “can do both”. Pretty good at night too when the nightlife and the neon lights light up the dark.
Brickell
As Miami's financial district, Brickell Avenue offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and bustling streets. The area is filled with professionals and tourists, providing a dynamic environment for capturing urban life. This area is very consistent and also offers a number of different angles you can shoot from because of the many malls. Especially good in the afternoon imo.
Lincoln Road Mall
Located just a few blocks from South Beach, Lincoln Road is a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, cafes, and street performers. The lively atmosphere and diverse crowd make it a great place to capture candid moments. Reliable place when there are events going.
If you want to see the full collection of pictures I took in Miami, Miami Beach and across Florida during multiple trips over there, check out “Impressions - Florida” in the shop (link opens in a new tab). It will give you access to a lot of images and it will help me a great deal in maintaining this website and producing more content.
(Hopefully) Useful stuff
Or rather “things that I wish I knew before going”.
Parking can be pretty expensive. This is the most convenient garage I found in South Beach, I hope it helps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RnH5f4FB9dJ8FjQ48.
Miami and Miami beach are two different cities. Officers at immigration gave me a hard time the first time I went for telling them I was staying in Miami and providing a Miami Beach address. No comment about that but it can be avoided if you know beforehand and now you know.
A visit to the Everglades can be done in a day trip.
Visiting the Key Islands can’t. They are too far. I guess if you really want to you can but it’s going to be very tiring. If you want to visit those considering staying at least one night in one of the Islands. They don’t look that far from the city but they are, in addition the speed limits are kind of slow and the road can get busy.
Welcome to Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a vertical labyrinth of raw cinematic energy, making it an absolute dream for street photography. It’s a city of thrilling visual contrasts—where the intense, neon-lit density of Mong Kok gives way to quiet, hidden alleyways, and grand colonial architecture sits in the shadow of towering glass skyscrapers. From double-decker trams slicing through seas of commuters to abstract reflections, moody shadows, and steam rising from street food stalls, Hong Kong is an endless playground of geometry, scale, and human emotion.
Join internationally recognised street photographers Paolo Maschio and Tom Bugatti (website | Instagram) for an immersive workshop designed to sharpen your eye, refine your technique, and help you carve out your own unique visual voice. Over two full days, we’ll explore two distinct philosophical styles: Paolo’s humanistic approach—focusing on raw emotion, proximity, and individuals navigating the city—and Tom’s formalistic approach, where human subjects become elements of geometry, light, reflection, and abstraction within a larger frame.
Workshop at a Glance
Dates: 16-17 of January 2027
Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Duration: 2 days
Price: 600€ per person
Skill Level: All levels welcome
Group Size: Maximum 10 participants
What to Expect
Two focused days, two distinct visual philosophies, and a city that never stops moving. You’ll be gently pushed to shoot more instinctively, to take the frame you almost talked yourself out of, and to trust your eye whether you're capturing close-range human emotion or abstracting subjects into geometric architecture.
Expect a genuine mix of theory, image critique, and extensive field shooting in one of the most cinematic cities in the world. As participants sign up, we will reach out directly to understand your specific goals and visual interests. Depending on the group's preferences, we will tailor our on-the-street approach—either splitting into smaller targeted groups or alternating leads—to ensure maximum personal attention.
With two instructors sharing the lead, you'll benefit from a rich dual approach. Ultimately, our goal isn't to make you shoot like us, but to help you develop your own distinct way of seeing. There’s no competition here—just a community of photographers learning from two complementary perspectives and from each other.
What You’ll Learn
Whether you've never done street photography before or you're looking to break through a creative plateau, this workshop is designed to give you concrete tools you can keep using long after you leave Hong Kong.
Over the two days we'll cover:
Humanistic vs. Formalistic Approaches — choosing whether to tell a story through personal emotion or through abstract shape, reflection, and structure;
Reading a scene — how to anticipate moments before they happen;
Composition and framing — layers, geometry, and urban scale;
Overcoming hesitation — practical techniques for shooting confidently up close;
Working with available light — navigating moody shadows, neon, and high-contrast reflections;
Editing and curation — how to select your strongest images and understand why they work.
Requirements
No prior experience with street photography is required but you’ll definitely need:
A camera you're comfortable using — DSLR, mirrorless, compact or film, all welcome;
Lenses: Wide lenses for close-quarters shooting are great, but if you are interested in capturing architectural reflections, geometric details, or abstract compositions, please make sure to bring a telephoto lens (100mm or longer);
Comfortable shoes (expect to walk several Km each day);
A laptop for reviewing and post-producing images;
Curiosity, patience, and respect for the people and places we photograph.
Pricing & Booking
The price of the workshop is €600 per person,* and it includes the following:
Pre-workshop outreach to understand your personal goals and tailor the experience;
Portfolio reviews by both Paolo and Tom;
Two days of guided shooting in Hong Kong’s most photographically rich neighbourhoods;
Theory sessions exploring humanistic, formalistic, and abstract street photography;
Daily photo critiques — reviewing your images together and understanding what's working and why;
Personal feedback tailored to your individual level and style.
Transportation, meals, drinks, travel insurance, and any other incurred costs are not included and are to be paid individually.
* All workshop participants receive a 10% discount on any future workshops they attend with me (co-sponsored workshops with other instructors excluded).
Cancellation
There are no refunds in case you need to cancel.
If we need to cancel, you will be refunded in full. We are not responsible for any reimbursement of travel expenses or other costs incurred by participants in the event that we need to cancel. Travel insurance covering cancellations, missed flights, and similar is strongly recommended. There are no partial refunds in the event a participant misses days or takes time off during the workshop for any reason.
FAQ
Do I need to be an experienced photographer?
Not at all. This workshop is open to all skill levels. The only requirement is that you're comfortable handling your own camera. Whether you're just starting out or you've been shooting for years and want fresh eyes on your work, there's something here for you.
What camera should I bring?
Whatever you already own and feel comfortable with. Street photography is about seeing, not gear. A compact camera or even a film camera is absolutely fine but you should know how to operate it.
Will we stay in the same hotel?
Accommodation is not included in the price. If you want I can share recommended areas to make it easy to stay close to the group.
Is travel insurance required?
I strongly recommend taking out travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical expenses and lost equipment. This is your responsibility to arrange independently.
I have a question not answered here — can I get in touch?
Absolutely. Reach me through the contacts section of this website and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.