February food and boat events in Miami Beach (Photos)

Always a hot destination, there are a couple of exciting events that are helping to heat up the month of February in Miami Beach, Florida. The Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival and the Miami International Boat Show are bringing an extra sizzle to the sand of South Beach.

The Miami International Boat Show

Whether you’re in the market for a new boat or yacht, or just in the mood to window shop for one, Miami Beach is the place to be this month. The Miami International Boat Show takes place throughout Miami and its beaches February 14-18, 2013. Billed as the “Greatest Boat Show in the World,” the Show spans three locations and features more than 3,000 of the newest boats and 2,000 local, national and international exhibitors.

Take free sailing lessons, learn how to maintain and repair your boat and get up-to-date on the latest gear, gadgets, engines and more. Seminars and guest appearances from such noted celebrities as the Discovery Channel’s Bear Grylls, fishing and outdoor legend Tred Barta, the History Channel/A&E’s Shark Wranglers Chris Fischer, Brett McBride and Jody Whitworth and 2012 Indy car champion Ryan Hunter-Reay make this a star-studded outdoor event.

“Miami Beach, home to so many world class events, is perfectly realized this time of year with a blend of food, commerce, beaches, style and warm winter weather,” says Jeff Lehman, Chair of Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority. “February adds a matchless combination of unique events and fantastic weather to our one-of-a-kind destination experience.”

Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival

Sun-seeking food and wine lovers will descend upon Miami Beach for the Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival, presented by FOOD & WINE, on February 21-24. Celebrity chefs, restaurateurs, culinary showcases, wine and spirits producers and educational opportunities will capture the attention of connoisseurs of every type.

More than 60,000 foodies will stroll the beach as they indulge in gourmet cuisine, winning wines and decadent desserts. Celebrity chefs and restaurateurs scheduled to appear include Anne Burrell, Paula Deen, Bobby Flay, Guy Fieri, Robert Irvine, Giada De Laurentiis, Emeril Lagasse, Rachael Ray, country singer and cookbook author Trisha Yearwood and many, many more

Shop Shop Shop

In addition to the warm weather (average temperatures are between 70-75 degrees), travelers to Miami in February can take advantage of Shop Miami Month, a shopping incentive program that offers deals and discounts at select retailers throughout the area. Miami Beach offers a large selection of boutique hotel shops, specialty stores and weekend morning markets in its mere 18.7 square miles, making it an ideal destination for the traveler that likes style and variety. Miami’s diversity of shops and super sales will satisfy even the most serious of shopaholics.

Make it a romantic escape to Miami Beach

Miami Beach was recently ranked number one on TripAdvisor’s list of “Top Winter Sun Vacation Rental Getaway Destinations.” It has been included on both the “Top 25 Beaches in the World” and the “Top 25 Destinations in the U.S” lists.

With more than 17,000 luxury, boutique and resort hotel rooms, 12 public parks and quiet hideaway restaurants, Miami Beach offers some of the best in romantic getaway options. Sexy spas, exciting nightlife and romantic walks along beautiful beaches all add up to paradise for seekers of sun, fun and romance.

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, Richmond Beaches Examiner

Sandy is a freelance writer, photographer and self-professed beach bum. From the coasts of the Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico and the Chesapeake Bay, if there’s soft sand, warm waves and swaying palm trees, you can bet she’ll be there. Her specialties include coastal cuisine,...

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