SOUTH BEACH. The glitz and glamour of Miami is intoxicating, but sometimes locals and visitors want to relax in a place that is free of pretension. Escape the see-and-be-seen mentality at this casually elegant hangout, where late-night cocktails are all the rage. The mellow decor, friendly staff, lengthy drinks list and great music have made this a favorite among the more laid-back, South Beach regulars who are proud to say they are too cool to be trendy. As the name suggests, the entire bar is decked out in electric blue paint and decor. Hot DJs are often on hand, playing a mix of deep house and soul.

DOWNTOWN. For Cuban cuisine set to a pop beat, don't miss this cafe owned by singer Gloria Estefan and husband Emilio. Vivid colors, Latin beats, and plenty of bongos (of course!) get you in a festive mood, and the authentic Cuban cuisine is served with creative aplomb. Come early to enjoy a satisfying meal of roasted chicken marinated in orange and lime or the traditional Cuban strip steak. Wash it down with an exotic tropical drink, and then prepare to hit the dance floor, which starts hopping around 11pm. This is a great place to make a night of it. Reservations recommended.

SOUTH BEACH. [In a city known for great dance clubs and stellar music, this club stands apart from the competitive pack. Top DJs from around the world whip the beautiful crowds into pulsating frenzies, inundating them with trance, musica latina and house. Club kids show their appreciation with coolly confident dance moves. This cool, vibe-alicious space that was once an old Art Deco theater. VIP tables may be reserved by calling 786-281-4529.

SOUTH BEACH. Most bars don't include an outdoor pool on the beach ­ that's just one of the perks that makes the Clevelander a popular oceanside destination. The raucous and splashy atmosphere is quintessential South Beach, and the crowd makes it feel like Spring Break all summer long. Don't worry about a dress code ­ bathing suits and flip-flops are the order of the day. The music runs the gamut, from rock to dance, and live music or DJs are sometimes featured.

DOWNTOWN. When Miami's top DJs rock downtown, nine times out of ten you'll find them at this 11th Street hotspot, a high-octane warehouse-turned-dance club that attracts more than its share of the SoBe hipster crowd. In the cavernous main room, where professional DJs with names like Roland and the Lizard Man keep the party going long after sunrise, you'll find 30,000 square feet of dance space, one of Miami's loudest sound systems, and a dazzling light show. An open-air patio at the rear of the club is a primo place to catch a little fresh air, escape from the music, and enjoy some chitchat with your most recent dancing partner.