You might be tempted to assume that all Miami Beach has to offer is miles and miles of pristine white sand shores punctuated by rolling turquoise waves. And they do have that (ever heard of a little place called South Beach?), but the city's got much more to lure the tourists in and keep the locals happy. Just take your pick from a treasure trove of attractions including nature sights, cultural activities and shopping.

Art buffs should schedule their trip for December when one of the largest contemporary art fairs in the Americas, Art Basel Miami Beach (300 W. 41st St., 305-674-1292), descends on the city, featuring 20th and 21st century works from more than 200 international galleries, plus parties and crossover events incorporating music, film, design and architecture. Speaking of architecture, Miami Beach is also home to the largest concentration of 1920s and 1930s resort architecture in the U.S. These splashy, colorful buildings (think the backdrop of the Robin Williams' flick The Birdcage) are part of the Miami Beach Architectural District (often called the Art Deco District), which is divided into three groups: the seasonal hotel area (along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue), the commercial area (along Washington Avenue and Lincoln Road), and the residential area (concentrated in the eighty square blocks surrounding Flamingo Park).

If walking around looking at old buildings isn't rowdy enough for you, why not take in the Miami Beach Polo World Cup, which the city hosts each spring (and yes, they actually do play on the sand)? If you're the kind of sports aficionado who would rather get in on the action than watch from the sidelines, grab your nine-iron and head to the historic Miami Beach Golf Club (2301 Alton Road, 305-532-3350). The 18-hole, par-72 public course also includes a driving range for those who could use a few practice swings before hitting the greens.

Miami Beach's beautiful scenery isn't limited to its sandy shores. The city also boasts beautiful flora at the 4.5-acre Miami Beach Botanical Garden where you can take a relaxed stroll while admiring a breathtaking bouquet of orchids and tropical plants or have a moment of zen in the Japanese Garden.

And if a trip anywhere isn't complete without shopping, head to the pedestrian mall on Lincoln Road for a mix of upscale boutiques, familiar chains (like Banana Republic and Pottery Barn), and cute cafes. The road is also home to the Colony Theater and the New World Symphony if you need a dose of culture to round out your visit.

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