This lovely Spanish-style church, located across the street from the Biltmore Hotel, has the distinction of being the very first church built in Coral Gables. Although modern churches, and especially congregational churches, are traditionally austere, here wooden pews, altar candelabra, chandeliers, and side arches signal the lush standards of a different era. The intimate setting that results makes this church a favorite site for weddings. In addition, the church hosts author readings sponsored by Books & Books and features a wonderful musical series.

Miami Shores Country Club consists of an 18-hole golf course and is located 15 miles north of Miami. Designed by Red Laurence and opened in 1938, it is 6,400 yards, par 71 from the back tees and 5,400 yards, par 72 from the front tees. Although caddies are not available and walking the course is not permitted, golf carts are included in the greens fees.  The clubhouse has excellent facilities and may also be rented for banquets and weddings. The lounge and grill room and the ProShop are for your pleasure. Visit website for more details.

This older 18-hole public golf course, designed by Red Lawrence and opened in 1949, is 6,613 yards, par 72 from the back tees and 5,639 yards, par 72 from the front tees. Golf carts are included in the greens fees. The course permits shoes with metal spikes and rents clubs. There is also a great restaurant and a banquet facility. Call for tee times.

For 17 years, this one-stop shop for serious sailors and yachting professionals has provided quality marine services, including licensed yacht brokering and full dealership service for sailboat and trawler sales. It is also an American Sailing Association-certified sailing school, and it offers yacht charter management and yacht charters. Clients can book charters bareboat (no crew) or with a crew for service to South Beach in Miami, Key West, and Abaco in the Bahamas.

There are not many farms to be found in urbanized Miami these days, so this is a particularly delightful diversion for those in search of a little country atmosphere. Children in particular will enjoy this family-oriented park, with its pony rides and petting zoo (housed in a barn). Located in Hialeah, the park includes five lakes that have plenty of fishes. Visitors can also find picnic facilities, playgrounds, and an old-fashioned country store.

This is a relatively small park, but it is home to a bird and animal sanctuary, nature trails, and a museum/nature center containing Indian and pioneer artifacts. Miami-Dade Parks' naturalists conduct free tours once a week. This tranquil park is perfect for a quiet picnic among the trees or a stroll across the limestone natural bridge that was once part of an Indian trail. Park attendants offer a variety of special programs for both children and adults.

People who bemoan the gentrification of Lincoln Road can take a small measure of comfort in the bohemian delight that is Espanola Way. This tiny street is an oasis of charm and creativity, wending its way between the busy main streets of South Beach. Restaurants, shops, and small art galleries line the street. A smoothie shop, a youth hostel, and several street vendors add to the eclectic atmosphere. The street lights up during the evening, when super-chic revelers flock to Blue, one of the hippest bars on the Beach.

At this lush park, you can glide through tranquil waters in your own canoe, join a park ranger on an informative tour, or explore a delightful underwater world. Of course, as at any South Florida Park, you will also find plenty of sunbathing and swimming opportunities. Visitors who are not satisfied with a day trip can camp for the night. However, the campsites are located on two small keys, accessible only by boat. Sometimes the park can provide a boat, but there are no guarantees. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

This museum serves as an educational organization, a repository of police artifacts, and a memorial to 6,000 officers from around the country who lost their lives in the line of duty. An enormous Italian marble block stands in the center of the museum. On its wall are carved the names of fallen officers, along with their rank, state, and city. The museum sponsors a number of educational and outreach programs. A nondenominational chapel is located on the premises, as is a display of futuristic police equipment.

Built in 1825, this 95-foot lighthouse is the oldest building in south Florida. It originally guided sailors through the dangerous waters along the Straits of Florida. Although it was removed from service many times during various wars, it has weathered the years extraordinarily well. The US Coast Guard has used it as a navigational device for the past 25 years. The lighthouse is part of Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Guests can take guided tours, explore by themselves, or relax in the open-air Lighthouse Café. The Lighthouse is open daily at 8 am.