These packing recommendations really could be for a trip to South Beach anytime of year. But this reflects what I brought for our February getaway there, when the evenings can get a little bit chilly, so there are a couple of extra suggestions. The average temperatures in Miami during the winter months are mid-70s during the day, mid-60s at night, but it’s sometimes colder (and hotter).
Along with the weather, something to keep in mind when packing for South Beach is the Miami location. It’s beachy but also urban, so what you wear can range from easy breezy boho to more sophisticated, even edgy, The great thing about the area, though, is that anything goes! But if you’re looking for guidance, here are some ideas based on what I brought and found most useful.
Swimsuits
Obvi. Any beach trip requires a swimsuit, and I recommend bringing a couple or even more, depending how long you’re staying. After all, between time at the beach and pool, swimwear is a main outfit in South Beach. It’s also a place where you can go for it, as in rock a bathing suit with interesting details or that’s more daring than usual. However, if preference is for basic bikinis, I really like Athleta — they fit so well, are very comfortable, and stay in good condition for a long time (I have this exact suit and just ordered this one). For pretty prints and color blocks, Boden has an amazing selection. And this one piece is a classic, plus the brand has many more great styles.
Cover Up
Another essential to pack. Going from hotel room to the pool or beach, or moving from a spot pool side to the bar area, it’s nice to have something that’s easy to throw on over a swimsuit, but still looks cute, and can pass for a real outfit if you decide to do something else. I brought a few options for our trip: A very loose, breezy jumpsuit, an oversized white linen shirt (that I wore with shorts), and a very simple flowy dress like this. However, the cover ups I kept seeing and loved were crochet. So many women wore them in many different styles — short with long sleeves , long and sleeveless , mini with short sleeves, even sets with shorts and a top.
Dresses
I brought this exact dress from Mango, and found it ideal to wear in Miami. It’s light and airy for a beachy evening, but the black color and cutouts give it a little edge. It’s no longer in stock, but this dress is similar and maybe even a little better because it’s linen. I looove this knit maxi that’s very on trend right now. Something like this colorful wrap would be great for South Beach on a slightly cool evening because of the longer sleeves. And this linen dress was perfect to wear during the day out to lunch.
Pull-On Linen Shorts
Nice and light for warm weather, easy to throw on over a swimsuit, and trendy at the moment, linen shorts are great to have in South Beach — even better with a comfy elastic waist. I adore this striped pair that I brought with me, and these blue and white pinstripes are also great (both come in solid colors, too). And how cute are these embroidered shorts that have matching top to make it a set?
Light Blouse
A blouse to throw on over a dress or tank top if you need an extra, but light layer in the evening or protection from the sun is good to have. I mentioned a white linen blouse to use as a cover up, but of course it also works for all kinds of situations. A gauze button down also works, and the crinkle material makes it low maintenance (no need to iron). And who says it has to be plain? This print blouse is so fun and pretty.
Beachy Pants
This is a whole wardrobe category for me — I loves me a beachy pant. What are they exactly? Pants that are comfortable and swishy when you walk in them, ideally in a fun or pretty print (but solid colors like these are also good), that have a laid back vibe. You don’t necessarily have to wear them to the beach — if so, they should be very light — but pants that you’d wear in a beach setting and could even dress up to wear out. They could be wide leg or joggers, long or cropped… they just have to be comfy and chillaxed.
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Sandals
When the weather is warm, you gotta show off the pedi (and just enjoy the fresh air on your feet). So, sandals are a must. Since South Beach is walkable, comfortable but still chic, like these strappy flats or these would be great. This bronze pair are a good option, too. For something with a cushier sole, this studded pair is unique and fun. Of course, there are always the most comfortable sandals. But no matter which sandals you prefer, bring the best, basic flip flops, too.
Sneakers
At the very least, a good walk on the Miami Beach Boardwalk should be on a South Beach trip agenda. And there are plenty more exercise opportunities. So, athletic shoes should be included on a packing list. Go for an on-trend white pair that can be worn with more outfits, like these New Balance, these cute Vejas, these On Clouds, or these Adidas trainers.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are a staple on any travel packing list, but they’re especially important in a place where the sunshine is strong. If you like fancy sunglasses like these, Miami is a good place to wear them. This design by a classic brand would fit right in, too. This stylish pair looks more expensive than they are. If, like me, you prefer budget sunnies because you’re likely to lose them, I love this brand, and goodrs are very popular, too. (Even if you like the designer brands, it’s not a bad idea to bring a budget pair as a back up — I always pack an extra.)
Jacket
This is the item that makes this a “winter” packing list. In case it gets cool at night, a jacket that works over any outfit is good to have along. A denim jacket could work, but go for something less cumbersome like this cropped style. For a more elevated and unique look, this quilted tie-front is fantastic. And for a jacket that could also work for early morning (think sunrise viewing), this bomber looks versatile for day and evening. Of course, you can bring along an easy hoodie and own the casual look.
Beach Bag
You’ll need something to carry your towel, sunscreen, water bottle, and other beach gear — but you’ll want something that’s easy to pack. This mesh bag is perfect, because it’s very lightweight and easily packable. This bag is kind of similar, but solid (no holes) and waterproof. This striped canvas tote is cute and will fold up nicely in your luggage, too.
Have you been to South Beach? What would you add to the list?
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