From voluntourism opportunities that help support conservation efforts to restaurants with programs that give back to the local community, there are plenty of ways to make mindful choices in this dynamic south Florida city.
Here are some of our favorite attractions, restaurants, stores, and activities in Miami, just in time for Earth Day.
Frost Science’s MUVE
The Museum Volunteers for the Environment program was developed to connect visitors and locals to efforts aimed at protecting oceans and other South Florida habitats. Since 2007, the MUVE program has restored over 25 acres of mangroves, freshwater wetlands, dune habitats and coastal forest, as well as planted nearly 14,000 native plants at coastal restoration sites. It’s important work, as these environments provide shelter for native organisms above and below the water line and help protect the city from storms and sea-level rise.
Pelican Harbor Seabird Station
This rehabilitation center cares for over 1,000 injured brown pelicans, seabirds, raptors, songbirds, and reptiles every year (most of whom had run-ins with fishing tackle). There are daily volunteering opportunities, as well as BYOB sunset birding cruises of Biscayne Bay during the full moon.
Zoo Miami
The staff of Zoo Miami helps with conservation efforts for myriad iconic Florida animals, like flamingos, Florida panthers, and rare bonneted bats, as well as over 40 endangered species from around the world (and the roughly 3,000 other animals living in the 750-acre wildlife facility). The “Zoo Doo” program also recycles manure from the big animals (think elephants and rhinos) with landscape debris to sell as high-quality natural fertilizer.
Coconut Grove Farmers Market
Held every Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm, this farmers market is stacked with unique vendors, including those that specialize in products that are raw, plant-based, dairy-free, nut-based, and beyond. There’s also a popular vegan food hall (we recommend the “ice dream” – their take on ice cream).
Lincoln Road Farmers Market
The Lincoln Road Farmers Market each Sunday is the ultimate community gathering spot, with stands for local fruit and vegetable growers, fresh-cut flowers, and treats ranging from bread and honey to empanadas and ceviche.
KYU
The Korean fried chicken and roasted cauliflower at this popular wood-fired Asian barbecue spot in Wynwood is worth the trip alone, but their conservation efforts make it all the more enjoyable. Because the restaurant uses flame grilling and all day smoking for their entrees, two cooking methods that use wood, they make a point to give back to the planet through the Trees For The Future initiative. The restaurant has a menu option to “Buy 50 Trees for 5.00” which they match each month.
Pura Vida
Not only is this menu drool and Instagram-worthy (we’re looking at you, mango salmon bowl and sunshine beach smoothie), but they also make a point to source local and organic ingredients whenever possible.
Plant Miami
This vegan eatery focuses on plant-based foods inspired by the South Florida landscape, making eating your vegetables easy (and most importantly, tasty). We love the sunflower risotto and the beet tostada. Bonus: they always have an array of dairy-free desserts.
Verde Market
Verde Market is a lifestyle bulk refill store that aims to help get customers in the habit of reusing containers and minimizing trash. They have everything from laundry detergent to dog treats to fresh-pressed juices to infused olive oils and balsamics and more. Guests can either bring their own container or purchase one at the store.
Wynwood Tribe
Simply put, Wynwood Tribe is a fashion marketplace that focuses on brands that are handmade, fair trade, recycled and help support charities. Come for fashionable clothing (new and upcycled), handmade jewelry and shoes, home goods, ethically made bags, and more. You’re sure to find something unique for your collection.
Dragonfly Thrift
There’s a throughline at this uber-trendy second-hand store: second chances. Here you’ll find pre-loved designer shoes, dresses, bags, menswear, and more for reasonable prices.
When in Miami, stay with us at KAYAK Miami Beach. Located at the heart of the city’s vibrant cultural and cultural scene just minutes from the beach, our first-ever hotel brings together everything we love about travel and gives it a tech-forward twist.
All to-go materials from our restaurant, Layla, are recyclable, we’ve done away with single-use plastics and we partner with local shops and farms for some of our food and products.
