Memorial Weekend is here and it’s not something Miami Beach takes lightly. The beach is flooded with residents and tourists, all looking to celebrate the official start of summer and the fact that we don’t have to work on Monday.
But getting around the beach can put a damper on that real fast, between checkpoints and traffic and parking. Here’s what you need to know to navigate the chaos.
If you’re a Miami Beach resident whose response to all the craziness is “noooope,” the best time to get out will be between 10 and 11 a.m., just before the afternoon rush.
This year we won’t have DUI checkpoints, but there will be a lot of police out, all of them on high alert for drunk drivers. Our recommendation? We’ve got Lyft and Uber, and even better, we’ve got Lyft Line and Uber Pool, and all of it is finally legal. Just call one of those.
But if you just have to drive, here’s what you need to know:
- After dark Alton Rd. and Collins Ave between 10th street and 16th street will only be open to residents.
- Beginning Friday night, Collins Ave. will be a one-way northbound street from 5th to 17th Street and Washington will be a one-way southbound street, forming a loop each night from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Alton Road will still be a two-way street.
- There will be no driving on Ocean Drive between 5th and 16th Streets from 7 a.m. on Friday to 7 a.m. Tuesday, May 31.
The city has also provided a map to assist as well.
If you’re going to brave the crowds, you’ll at least be rewarded with some epic festivities. Here are our top parties to check out this weekend:
- 5/27 Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz at Story
- 5/27 Miguel at Faena Theater
- 5/27 Lollipop
- 5/28 2K Pool Party
And if you’re hightailing it to the mainland:
Have fun this weekend and stay safe!