Morning
South American Sampler. Try the Venezuelan Tasting at Artisan Kitchen and Bar and enjoy five different breakfast picaduras, including cachapas (fresh corn cakes with cheese and ham) mini empanadas and crispy arepas.
A Breathtaking View. Climb the 109 stairs to the top of Cape Florida Light at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and gaze out on the Atlantic. The landmark’s fascinating history — arson and artillery attacks by Seminole Indians, sabotage by Confederate sympathizers during the Civil War — makes it a marvel the building is the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County.
Midday
Man the Lunch Pads. The oceanfront Lighthouse Café is moments away from Cape Florida Light, with seafood selections aplenty. Or pilot your craft around the key to dock at No Name Cove, where what once was a hideaway for pirates and smugglers is now home to the waterside Boaters Grill.
Hit the Beach. The mile-long beach at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park has been ranked among the best in the nation by coastal ecologist Stephen Leatherman, aka “Dr. Beach.” In addition to its powder-fine sand, the area has some of the best shoreline fishing in the region.
Clear Your Sights. Be sure to stick around until sunset. The park is one of the few spots where you can watch the sun set with no obstructions from man-made buildings or other land masses.
Afternoon
Park Place. There’s yet more to explore in the sprawling Crandon Park campus: The former coconut plantation also houses a 26-court tennis center, a family amusement park, the Bear Cut Preserve environmental study area and 2 magnificent miles of beaches.
Surrender to Serenity. Relax and revitalize at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Key Biscayne. The Power Hour body treatment includes salt and oil exfoliation and a back massage to reawaken the senses, while the After Sun Ritual soothes and nourishes skin with cooling and moisturizing oils and extracts.
Evening
Set Course for Cuba. Sip a signature mixology cocktail at Rumbar, which offers a half-dozen specialty drinks inspired by Hemingway and Havana, along with multiple mojitos and more than 100 selections of rum.
Then Make for Mexico. For dinner, enjoy the best of coastal Mexican cuisine at Cantina Beach, a casual oceanfront restaurant that pairs fresh fare with stunning views.