The Bar Scene

There are countless bars and lounges in and around Miami (most require proof that you are 21 or older to enter), with the highest concentration on trendy South Beach. The selection here is a mere sample. Keep in mind that many of the popular bars -- and the easiest to get into -- are in hotels (with a few notable exceptions -- see below). For a clubbier scene, if you don't mind making your way through hordes of inebriated club kids, a stroll on Washington Avenue will provide you with ample insight into what's hot and what's not. Just hold on to your bags. It's not dangerous, but, occasionally, a few shady types manage to slip into the crowd. Another very important tip when in a club: Never put your drink down out of your sight -- there have been unfortunate incidents in which drinks have been spiked with illegal chemical substances. For a less hard-core, more collegiate nightlife, head to Coconut Grove. Oh, yes, and when going out in South Beach, make sure to take a so-called disco nap, as things don't get going until at least 11pm. If you go earlier, be prepared to face an empty bar or club. Off of South Beach and in hotel bars in general, the hours are fashionably earlier, with the action starting as early as, say, 7pm.

Stargazing -- The most popular places for celebrity sightings include Mynt, Opium Garden, SkyBar, poolside at the Shore Club or the Delano, and, when it comes to J-Lo, somewhere on the beach around 20th Street. Miami Heat basketball games are also star magnets.

Swank Hotel Bars

Long gone are the days of the old-school Holiday Inn lounges. In fact, some hotels seem to spend more money on their bars than they do on their bedding. That aside, hotel bar-hopping is very popular in Miami. The newest hotel in town, the swanker-than-thou Setai, has the prettiest and most expensive bars, including their "Champagne and Crustacean Bar." Here's my list of the rest of the best:

Rose Bar at the Delano: For seeing and being seen.

SkyBar at The Shore Club: Also for seeing and being seen.

Metro Kitchen + Bar at Hotel Astor: To bask in a flattering light with a sophisticated, not snotty, crowd. Call tel. 305/672-7217 for Metro reservations.

Bond St. Lounge at the Townhouse Hotel: A tiny bar/lounge that also serves food. A New York import, it's known for excellent sushi and a hip, chic, jet-set crowd.

Raleigh Bar at the Raleigh Hotel: A true throwback to the days of deco set to the tunes of Edith Piaf, Tony Bennett, Sinatra, and more, and run by Crispy, one of Miami's best-known bartenders (ask for her original concoction, the Frescita).