Romantic Miami: Coconut Grove, Vizcaya & Sunset Cruise
A relaxed, intimate one-day Miami itinerary for couples in December — warm winter air, fewer crowds, and golden-hour romance. Mornings in leafy Coconut Grove and Vizcaya’s gardens, an easy waterfront afternoon, a sunset cruise on Biscayne Bay, rooftop cocktails and a riverside dinner to end the night.
Highlights
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens — quiet, romantic gardens
- Coconut Grove cafés and waterfront strolls
- Sunset cruise on Biscayne Bay (special moment)
- Rooftop cocktail with skyline views
- Riverside, intimate dinner
Itinerary
Day 1
An unhurried, romantic day starting in Coconut Grove, exploring Vizcaya, then moving toward the bay for golden-hour on the water and an intimate evening in Brickell.
Cozy breakfast at Greenstreet Cafe (Coconut Grove)
Start the morning at this beloved outdoor spot — coffee, light bites and a relaxed vibe in Coconut Grove to set an easy pace for the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a corner table under the canopy for a quieter, shaded spot and a more intimate conversation.
- Go early (by 9:00) to avoid weekend rushes and get the best people-watching benches without the noise.
- Order a takeaway espresso if you want to stroll to nearby parks — they’ll make it quickly and keep it warm for the walk.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens — romantic garden stroll & historic house
Wander Vizcaya’s formal gardens, hidden terraces and waterfront views — ideal for couples’ photos and quiet moments among century-old landscaping.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive mid-morning when the light is soft and gardens are quieter — perfect for photos on the stone balustrades.
- Wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths; the estate has historic stone steps and gravel paths that are charming but not stroller-friendly.
- Ask staff about the lesser-seen garden terraces facing Biscayne Bay — those spots are especially private during weekdays in December.
Leisure lunch on the lawn at Glass & Vine (Peacock Park)
A tranquil lunch tucked under trees facing Peacock Park — seasonal Florida dishes and an intimate patio atmosphere favored by locals.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a patio table in advance and request a spot shaded by the banyan — the outdoor setting is particularly romantic in December.
- Share a few plates to sample chef favorites and leave room for a stroll in the park afterward.
- If you want privacy, ask for a table away from the walkway; the staff are great about accommodating quieter seating when possible.
Slow waterfront stroll at Peacock Park / CocoWalk
A relaxed walk through Coconut Grove’s green spaces and boutique-lined streets — time to digest, browse, and enjoy shade, sculptures and bay glimpses.
Tips from local experts:
- Take the path toward the marina for quieter bay views — the small docks make for lovely photo backdrops as the sun lowers.
- Pop into a nearby gallery or shop if you want a souvenir; many Grove shops close earlier in winter, so plan a quick stop.
- If you need shade, the banyans at the park create intimate pockets — perfect for a peaceful pause together.
Transfer to Bayside Marketplace / easy check-in for the cruise
Comfortable drive (or rideshare) to Bayside to arrive early for the evening cruise — use this time to relax and sip a coffee by the water.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow buffer time for afternoon traffic toward downtown; a rideshare typically takes 25–40 minutes from Coconut Grove mid-afternoon.
- If you prefer public transit, the free Metromover connects well from Brickell/Downtown areas — but check schedules in advance.
- Arrive at least 45 minutes before the cruise boarding time to secure seating and avoid last-minute stress.
Pre-cruise break at Bayside — waterfront coffee & people-watching
Unwind at the Bayfront with a light snack and time to enjoy the marina atmosphere before boarding. Perfect slow moment before the special sunset experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a bench near the water for private views of passing yachts — late afternoon is pleasantly breezy in December.
- If you want a quieter spot, walk a little east along the bay; areas near Bayfront Park are less crowded than the main marketplace.
- Pick up a light wrap or shawl here if you expect a cool breeze on the water after sunset; temperatures drop slightly once the sun sets.
Sunset cruise on Biscayne Bay (Island Queen Sunset Cruise) — special moment
A romantic sunset cruise around Biscayne Bay: skyline views, soft light on the water and a relaxed pace to watch day turn into night together.
Tips from local experts:
- Book window or forward seating if possible for unobstructed skyline and sunset views — late December sunsets are early, so aim for the 5:30–6:00 start.
- Bring a light layer — breezes on the bay feel cooler once the sun dips below the horizon.
- Ask the crew for a quieter spot onboard (sometimes the stern is less crowded) and plan a small toast with a takeaway glass of bubbly if allowed.
Rooftop cocktails at Sugar (EAST, Miami) — skyline nightcap
Head up to this intimate rooftop garden bar in Brickell for panoramic city views, craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere — ideal for a post-sunset drink together.
Tips from local experts:
- Make a reservation for a window table and request a seat near the planting beds for the most intimate, garden-like feel.
- Dress smart-casual; Sugar enforces a relaxed but polished dress code, and it gets chilly on the rooftop after sunset.
- If you prefer a quieter moment, arrive right at opening to enjoy the early-evening views before it fills up.
Riverside dinner at Zuma — intimate contemporary Japanese
Finish the evening with a refined, riverside dinner at Zuma — share plates, sip sake or wine, and enjoy ambient lighting and waterfront views.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a riverside table in advance and note it’s a special occasion — they’ll often seat couples with the best view when possible.
- Share several small plates to taste a variety of flavors and leave room for dessert or a nightcap.
- Ask for quieter seating away from the louder bar area; Zuma’s dining room has pockets of privacy ideal for couples.
