Collins Avenue, Florida, United States

4Natalia A 5:00 PM Nov 21, 2020

Nice but Mixed Bag
I love Collins Avenue for its iconic appeal. Having said that it really does suffer from its own popularity. The historic buildings are lovingly preserved in South Beach portion (roughly below 17th Street), but sidewalks are narrow and make for very awkward stroll. During the pandemic you will be better off walking on Washington Ave which is a bit wider. I wonder if it would not be better for the city to make it pedestrian or residential traffic only to allow for safer and more enjoyable walks. Other than that it’s charming in its architectural appeal, locals who always smile and wanna help, quaint little cafes, restaurants and lounges. Be prepared to spend big even on basics like breakfast, or coffee and sandwich. Trolley runs along and it’s free, but we couldn’t see where it stops or how frequently. Above the 17 Street it becomes wider, but street life gradually disappears giving way to grand hotels that suck out pedestrian traffic. So in that part of town Collins Avenue changes its style and becomes more of a Florida highway A1A. At 63 Street it splits into north and south bound sections, so be mindful when coming back. You can be very easily diverted onto I-95 or onto suburban streets with many bumps. Many new hotels and condos line Collins Avenue in the northern section of the beach, but they appear to be completely void of life from the outside. So while buildings are beautiful there is little one can stop for unless staying in a hotel. You might want to take bottled water with you in the car.

4Treasure A 5:00 PM Jul 1, 2021

Fun during the week and weekends
I spent a week on Collins Ave in June 2021 and the city is moving as usual with great foods and shops. The beach is always available during open hours. There is a bit of construction going through Mid beach but the hotels and locations are worth a bit of traffic. Please don't hesitate to visit the beach this year.