The Ultimate Guide to South Florida

From Miami to Palm Beach — The Gold Coast

The Ultimate Guide to South Florida

3 min read4 sections

South Florida is not one destination — it is a 100-mile corridor of distinct cities, each with its own character, culture, and clientele. From the Latin energy of Miami to the old-money discretion of Palm Beach, from Fort Lauderdale's yachting capital to Boca Raton's manicured perfection, the Gold Coast offers a depth of luxury that no single city can match.

The Four Pillars of South Florida

Miami (Miami-Dade County)

The global gateway. A city of 6 million that pulses with Latin American energy, Art Deco architecture, world-class dining, and a nightlife scene that rivals Ibiza.

Fort Lauderdale (Broward County)

The yachting capital of the world. With over 300 miles of navigable waterways, Fort Lauderdale earned its title as the "Venice of America."

Boca Raton (Palm Beach County, South)

The refined retreat. Addison Mizner's Mediterranean Revival vision created a city of manicured beauty, championship golf, and understated wealth.

West Palm Beach & Palm Beach (Palm Beach County, North)

The crown jewel. Palm Beach island is America's most exclusive address — home to The Breakers, Worth Avenue, and a social season that defines American philanthropy.

Getting Around South Florida

By Brightline

High-speed rail connecting Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach. First-class includes lounge access and complimentary drinks. Miami to Fort Lauderdale: 30 minutes. Miami to West Palm Beach: 60 minutes.

By Car

I-95 is the main north-south artery, with the Florida Turnpike as a faster toll alternative. A1A is the scenic coastal route.

By Private Aviation

Miami-Opa Locka Executive (OPF), Fort Lauderdale Executive (FXE), and Palm Beach International (PBI).

By Yacht

The Intracoastal Waterway runs the entire length, connecting every city from Miami to Jupiter.

The Luxury Landscape

Dining

From Miami's Michelin-starred establishments to Palm Beach's society dining rooms. Fort Lauderdale's Las Olas corridor and Boca Raton's Mizner Park offer world-class options.

Hotels

Miami has the Faena, Four Seasons Surf Club, and 1 Hotel. Fort Lauderdale has the Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton. Boca Raton has the legendary resort. Palm Beach has The Breakers and Four Seasons.

Real Estate

The fastest-growing luxury market in America. No state income tax is the universal draw.

Yachting

Fort Lauderdale is the undisputed capital. Island Gardens in Miami handles superyachts up to 550ft. Rybovich in West Palm Beach is the legendary sportfish facility.

Golf

Over 100 championship courses, from Trump National Doral to Seminole Golf Club.

Seasonal Calendar

November

The season begins. Fort Lauderdale Boat Show.

December

Art Basel Miami Beach transforms the city into the global art capital.

January-February

Peak season. Miami Yacht Show. Palm Beach's Worth Avenue at its most vibrant.

March-April

South Beach Wine & Food Festival. Easter in Palm Beach.

May-October

Lower rates, fewer crowds, warm water. Hurricane season June through November.

Experience South Florida with Azul Privé

From a superyacht charter in Fort Lauderdale to a private villa in Miami Beach, a golf weekend in Palm Beach to a culinary tour of Boca Raton — our concierge team curates every detail across the entire Gold Coast.