Though August is the time when we start thinking about back-to-school prep and last-minute summer vacations, it’s also an opportunity to take it easy and reflect. We’re also plotting ways to stay cool, so here are ideas for indoor activities to refreshing dips to beat the heat and make the most of this quiet month before fall season begins.
NSU Art Museum
Take a moment to visit NSU Art Museum’s summer exhibits. “The Swans: Artwork by Karen Kilimnik & Dresses from Stephanie Seymour,” a conversation between the artist’s paintings and the model/fashion collector’s vintage haute couture pieces by Balenciaga, Alaïa and others, appeals to art and fashion lovers alike. “Future Past Perfect” is comprised of seven solo shows by emerging South Florida artists.
nsuartmuseum.org
Fort Lauderdale, the Venice of America, is a boater’s and beachgoer’s paradise. But it’s also home to a burgeoning art scene that spills over into art-centric neighborhoods and annual events. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.
Coral Ridge Country Club Estates | Lauderdale by the Sea
Town Center at Boca Raton
A perennial destination for designer brands, Town Center at Boca Raton unveiled new boutiques. Marni opened its second store in the Sunshine State to shop its full assortment including an Erykah Badu collaboration, striped signature striped mohair sweaters and new styles of Prisma and Tropicalia handbags. Pop into Cartier’s new location as well for beach-ready baubles among the Parisian house’s fine jewelry and accessories.
marni.com | cartier.com
Perhaps most famous for its destination mall and namesake luxury resort, Boca Raton also delights snowbirds and locals alike for its arts, entertainment venues and proximity to down-home Delray Beach. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.
Boca Raton
Miami Spa Month
This is the moment Miamians wait for all year: Miami Spa Month. Dozens of luxury spas pamper locals and visitors alike with spa specials through August 31. Make it a spa day with treatments such as the Rose Quartz Collagen Facial at 1 Hotel South Beach’s Bamford Wellness Spa, which includes complimentary valet parking and access to its full-service beach club.
miamiandbeaches.com
Known as the gateway to Latin America, the dynamic city of Miami is constantly evolving with the influx of new residents, visitors, businesses and brands from all over the world. There’s always something new and exciting to try, whether a starchitect-designed space, museum exhibit or hot restaurant. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.
Brickell | Miami Beach
Cocoa Beach Aquatic Center
Though surfing is huge along the Space Coast, its Cocoa Beach Aquatic Center offers another respite for residents to cool off. The treasured 50-meter pool is even adjusted for seasonal temps, so expect refreshing water when you dive in this summer. Programs and perks range from water aerobics to water slides, while many locals learn to swim here through Red Cross-certified lessons.
cityofcocoabeach.com
Named for the Kennedy Space Center, site of NASA’s SpaceX rocket launches, the Space Coast occupies much of Brevard County. It attracts surfers, cruise passengers (Port Canaveral) and nature lovers looking for pristine white beaches where sea turtles nest. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.
Melbourne Beach | Merritt Island
LOL Jax Film Festival & More
If you could use a good laugh, the 7th annual LOL Jax Film Festival has you covered. Its “Laughing Out Loud” program highlights “Loves Our Locals” filmmakers, standup comedians and witty musical acts (WJCT Studios, August 5-6). A live orchestra and DJs accompany the screening of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Live in Concert” (Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, August 27).
loljax.com | jacksonvillecenterfortheperformingarts.com
Jacksonville, the largest city geographically in the contiguous U.S., boasts an incredible variety of green spaces and beaches, as well as prime waterfront from the Atlantic Ocean to St. Johns River with its iconic bridges. The city’s vast network of neighborhoods and islands further invites nonstop adventure. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.
Jacksonville
Life Time at The Falls
Skip outdoor workouts for now by opting for luxury gyms. Life Time continues its nationwide, health-minded mission with the premiere of its new location at The Falls shopping center on August 4. The one-stop fitness and wellness hub goes above and beyond with options (spinning and yoga classes, cardio and weight equipment) and amenities (eucalyptus steam rooms, indoor pickleball courts).
lifetime.life
The Falls is a convenient drive from the upscale residential neighborhoods of Pinecrest, Cutler Bay, Palmetto Bay and South Miami. Families appreciate these areas’ top private and public schools, green spaces and bustling commercial districts.