Trip from Miami-- need new suggestions

[vegas]

We are heading to a Miami next month for a wedding.  We were originally going to spend a week in St. Thomas before Miami but I felt bad about leaving my kids that long.  Then we were going to spend a few nights before the wedding in Key West, but we can't find anywhere to stay that isn't a shithole and that doesn't cost $400 a night because it's power boat week.  We are flying in to Ft. Lauderdale and we're trying to figure out where to go from Wednesday-Saturday before we have to be in Miami.  I've been to Ft. Lauderdale a gazillion times because DH lived there while in school at UM,but I'm not opposed to staying there if anyone can recommend a nice place to stay.  

Any suggestions?  We like nice beaches, nice hotels and good food.

[vegas]

I lived in charleston for 10 years but I love it so it's a good idea. Only problem is that I think our time may be too short.

[vegas]

I'm going to look into the cruise idea but I also love the breakers idea. Didn't even think about palm beach.

[love1999]

If you decide to stay in Ft. Lauderdale, we absolutely love the W there. Great hotel. It is one of my happy places.

[vegas]

Thanks everyone! We decided to stay in south beach since we'll be in downtown miami for the wedding. I've never been to south beach. If anyone has good restaurant recs please let me know! We are staying on Collins.

[vegas]

Change of plans and now we are going to Naples. I'll let you all know how it goes!

[seabitch]

Naples is wonderful where are you staying? The Ritz and the Naples Beach Resort are both fun. Even if you stay elsewhere, make it a point to go to one of them for cocktails and/or dinner. Both have great bars directly on the beach for amazing sunsets. The vibe at the Naples Beach Resort are more laid back and the sunset parties are much more lively.

We did a stand up Segway tour around Naples with a guide. It is flat, and you get a lot of good history. Lots of fun, would do again. Also, downtown Naples has a fun vibe in the early evenings.