Miami Beach Travel Diary Part 2: Palm Trees, Pelicans, and Sunset Walks

Miami Beach Travel Diary Part 2: Palm Trees, Pelicans, and Sunset Walks

While Part 1 of this travel diary captured the excitement of arrival, Part 2 slows down to embrace the tropical rhythms, natural beauty, and unexpected wonders of Miami Beach. This day was less about doing and more about observing—and finding joy in the details that make this place truly alive.

Where Palms and Cacti Coexist

One of the first things I noticed while walking around our hotel and nearby streets was the striking combination of palm trees and cacti growing side by side. Towering coconut palms swayed overhead, while agave plants with their sharp, sculptural leaves rooted firmly in the sandy soil below.

It was fascinating to see tropical softness meet desert boldness in the same space. Miami Beach doesn’t just offer a postcard-perfect image—it surprises you with contrasts that somehow feel harmonious.

Bursts of Color in Unexpected Places

As I wandered through back paths and neighborhood corners, my eyes kept catching vivid spots of color: bright pink bougainvillea curling over fences, and the fiery red blossoms of the Royal Poinciana—also known as the Flame Tree. Their flowers lit up the greenery like nature’s own celebration of summer.
There was something joyful and spontaneous about them, like they bloomed not just from the soil, but from the spirit of the place itself.

Discover the tropical side of Miami Beach in Part 2 of our travel diary—featuring palm trees, colorful flowers, curious pelicans, iguanas, and peaceful oceanfront strolls that bring nature up close.

A Close Encounter with Brown Pelicans

The most unexpected moment of the day came at the beach, when I noticed two large birds standing calmly near the water’s edge. At first, they seemed too still to be real. But then one of them spread its massive wings and turned its head—it was a Brown Pelican, a native coastal bird known for its long bill and graceful diving skills.
The two pelicans didn’t seem at all bothered by people walking or swimming nearby. They moved slowly, waddling along the wet sand as if they owned the shore. There was something oddly human about their presence—like two quiet locals enjoying the evening air.

The Iguana Among the Green

Later, as we explored the hotel grounds, I spotted something moving along the garden wall. It was an iguana, sunbathing on a warm stone. With its long tail, textured skin, and prehistoric look, it seemed like a creature from another era—but here, it was just part of the scenery.
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Iguanas are common in South Florida, especially in the warmer months. Although not native, they’ve become familiar residents. This one sat still, blending in with the tropical leaves and sandy gravel, occasionally blinking as if watching us in return.

Evening Walks Along the Ocean Path

As twilight settled in, we took a walk along the beachside promenade that starts right behind our hotel. Unlike traditional wooden boardwalks, this one is paved with smooth curves, bordered by palm trees and dune plants. Lights flickered on as the sky turned navy blue, and a breeze began to cool the air.
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People walked barefoot, wrapped in towels, or with beach bags still slung over their shoulders—moving slowly, like they too wanted to stretch out the last light of day. There was peace in the air, a quiet sense of belonging between humans and nature.

A Day Lived with All the Senses

Looking back on this day, it felt like living inside a painting—full of color, texture, and gentle surprises. The pelicans. The flowers. The iguana watching from the shadows. Each one was a reminder that Miami Beach isn’t just a place—it’s an experience layered with life.

Nature is never far away here. Even in the middle of a busy beach, it speaks softly if you take the time to notice.

In Part 3, I’ll be sharing some of the food spots we visited, local art encounters, and tips for a peaceful, meaningful stay.
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☀️ Stay tuned for Part 3