Seven things to do in sexy Miami

1. Check out the buzzing art scene Miami South Beach is now firmly on the art-party map thanks to Art Basel (December 6–9), showcasing some of the world’s most spectacular art. But year-round, Miami is home to a subculture of emerging artists. Check out the Wynwood Arts District, with outdoor exhibitions from renowned street artists and independent galleries like the Bakehouse Art Complex, where you can talk to artists and attend workshops.

2. Where to stay The Angler's Resort is a boutique hotel transformed from two art deco 1930s buildings into a tropical oasis. Nestled in the heart of South Beach, the hotel has an intimate, friendly feel with luxurious touches. A spa, a pool, close proximity to the beach and a lively hotel bar will keep you entertained, theanglersresort.com.

3. Have brunch One of the most decadent brunch spots around, The Biltmore Hotel courtyard comes to life during its all-you-can-eat buffet. At almost $100 a head it’s not cheap but that includes unlimited Laurent Perrier champagne, caviar and fillet steak, as well as made-to-order waffles, pancakes and omelets. And when your appetite’s satiated, you can still enjoy the impressive architecture and watch Miami’s best-dressed in action. biltmorehotel.com

Miami's Angler's Resort Hotel

4. Get sporty If ever there’s a way to appreciate a U.S. City at its most extravagant, it’s at a baseball game and the new Miami Marlin’s Park is all about spectacle. The 37,000 seat facility comes with some more familiar features – a retractable roof, fireworks and fairground style home-run sculpture – and others that remind you Miami is Miami. Like the on-site Clevelander Club complete with swimming pool and podium dancers, and original artworks dotted around including “Figures Mountains Sky Star & Bird” by Joan Miro and Roy Lichtentein’s “Baseball Manager.” miami.marlins.mlb.com

5. Head to the perfect dive bar Have a drink at Tobacco Road and you’re in infamous company. Legend has it Al Capone himself was once a patron in this bar that’s considered one of Miami’s oldest. In its 100 years not much has changed about this perfectly dark and dingy spot, except the hideout rooms upstairs are now used for live music performances. tobacco-road.com

6. Eat some Cuban cuisine You can’t beat D.Rodriguez for a modern take on traditional Cuban cuisine. Set in the Hilton Bentley Beach Club, De Rodriguez Cuba oozes the decadence of South Beach, and the food is no exception. Tapas-style plates are bursting with flavour, as is the extensive cocktail menu. drodriguezcuba.com

7. What to do Indulge in a fabulous gospel brunch at City Hall Restaurant — you’re serenaded with each bite, cityhalltherestaurant.com.

The innovative New World Symphony projects free concerts onto its building, and hosts $3 gigs and the late-night Pulse, where DJs mix along to classical music.

For an oldschool Cuban experience head to Little Havana and grab a mojito at Cuba Ocho. On the last Friday of every month a local historian gives free tours starting outside the Tower Theater at 7 p.m.

Have you ever been to Miami? Tell us about your fave spots below!