Dangling off the Atlantic coast, South Beach (or SoBe) has been luring visitors to its white sands and magnificent blue waters since it first burst onto the social scene in the 1920s, with successive generations discovering it anew and claiming it as their own.
But don't be deterred by the crop of buffed and bronzed hedonists that descended when Ricky Martin swayed his hips in praise of la vida loca: The new wave of pioneers are upon us, and they're all about livin' the healthy life, which is why Miami Beach is one of our favorite spa weekend getaways.
STAY: MIAMI BEACH HOTELS
Gansevoort South Hotel, Spa and Residences: Although there are plenty of places in Miami Beach to party (such as Gansevoort South Hotel, Spa and Residences, where the rooftop pool is always a scene), those seeking peace and quiet have no shortage of options. In fact even at the Gansevoort, in-room yoga mats and spacious private balconies overlooking the ocean make morning sun salutations easy, and fitness guru David Barton offers a gym alongside his first-ever spa downstairs.
The Regent Bal Harbour: Away from the buzz, on the northern tip of the strip, The Regent Bal Harbour is just a quick ride to the action, but you'll likely be content to stay put and admire the multimillion-dollar art collection.
Fontainebleau: Once the king of Miami Beach and still an architectural landmark, the Fontainebleau has recaptured its heyday with the help of a recent $1 billion expansion and renovation that included a 40,000-square-foot two-story spa focused on deeply healing thermal therapies.
Traymore Hotel: Opening in winter 2010, the entire Traymore Hotel will be an Exhale spa: All 85 guestrooms will be spa suites, and when you leave your room you'll want to try out the rooftop hammam or celebrity chef Michelle Bernstein's seafood restaurant. Wherever you are in the hotel, wellness remains the focus.
EAT: MIAMI BEACH RESTAURANTS
The dining scene is as over-the-top as the club scene in Miami Beach, but thankfully the area's "see and be seen" vibe lends itself to nutritious eats.
Gourmet Carrot: Delicious vegan, vegetarian, and kosher fare sans dairy (the restaurant offers soy versions of milk and cheese) has drawn crowds to the Gourmet Carrot for more than a decade; grab one of the tables on the tree-lined sidewalk for a breath of fresh air. (305) 534-4211
Escopazzo: Seeking more upscale fare? Head to Escopazzo, an organic restaurant with a loyal celeb following where linguine of zucchini with vegan pesto demonstrates that health-conscious needn't be boring.
Go-Go: Indulge in Miami's Latin flair without the calories at hole-in-the-wall Go-Go, where light and flaky whole-wheat (on request) empanadas are stuffed with tasty vegetarian fillings. (305) 673-3137
Pita Pit: And if you do find yourself out enjoying the Miami nightlife, head to Pita Pit for late-night noshing without the grease: Greek salads and pitas are the stars here.
Next: Where to Spa and Play
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