When I think of a truly relaxing vacation, I think of the beach. To wake up in the morning with nothing on my agenda but to lie in the sun and cool off in the ocean can really put a smile on my face. Miami beaches have it all; white sand, clear water and beach weather year round. There are undisturbed beaches in Northern Miami or you can liven up your beach experience in South Beach. A beach day in Miami can be whatever you want it to be.

Next to Copacabana in Brazil, South Beach is the most famous beach in the world. Whatever your perfect beach day entails, you can find it here on this two-mile stretch of beach between 1st and 17th street. You can rent surfboards or paddle boards depending on the water conditions, complete with lessons if you need them. The real adrenaline junkies can take a kite-boarding lesson. If you want to get a bird’s eye view of it all you can go parasailing just off shore. If you want to get a closer look at the mega yachts off in the distance then rent a jet ski and go explore.

Play volleyball, paddleball, soccer or just read a book and re-charge your batteries with a nap. There is plenty of room for everyone and you can always find a spot that is not too crowded. You may notice some of the ladies don’t have tan lines above the waist, that’s because tops are optional on South Beach. This is a beach unlike any other in the United States. If you want a beach experience with international flavor, South Beach is for you.