Naty Pascual on the Soul of Miami Beach

Our Miami Guides series takes you beyond the usual tourist map, exploring the city through the eyes of local creatives who live and breathe its energy every day. Each edition is more than a list of favorite places: it’s an invitation to experience Miami with fresh eyes, to notice the subtle rhythms and textures that give the city its soul. From sun-soaked beaches to quiet streets brimming with character, from the hum of cafecito breaks to the glow of late-night music drifting through open doors, each guide sketches Miami’s cultural pulse in full color.

For this installment, we sat down with Naty Pascual, a Miami-based creative whose perspective captures the essence of Miami Beach like few others. Naty moves through the city with a practiced awareness of its details: the pastel hues of Mid-Beach walk-ups, the salty tang of the ocean after a morning run, the golden glow of sunset over a glass of wine on the water. Her Miami is one of contrasts: serene yet lively, nostalgic yet ever-evolving. In this guide, she shares the places she holds close, the rituals that ground her, and the timeless moments she hopes will never fade, offering a portrait of Miami Beach that feels both personal and universal.

Q: Where in Miami Beach sparks something creative in you?

Naty Pascual: “When I’m driving down the Venetian Causeway. It’s not exactly Miami Beach, but that stretch-with the water, the skyline, the quiet-always gets me thinking.”

Q: What’s the most “only-in-Miami-Beach” wellness ritual you swear by?

Naty Pascual: “A plunge in the ocean after a long run along the boardwalk. No spa needed.”

Q: You’ve got a full day to yourself in Miami Beach-no emails, no obligations. What’s the move?
Naty Pascual:

“Wake up slow, coffee in hand. Long lunch somewhere with an ocean view-The Shelborne hits. Dinner at Joe’s or Macchialina, drinks at Swizzle, and dancing the night away at Medium Cool. And you can’t forget a late night drink at Club Deuce. But honestly, it depends what kind of day you’re having, because pre-dinner drinks at Surf Club’s champagne bar is an A+ move every time.”

Q: Which pocket of Miami Beach feels like it’s having a moment(or is about to)?

Naty Pascual: “North Beach.  It’s still quiet and local, but you can feel something building. It’s evolving without losing its edge.”

Q: Are there any overlooked cafés, buildings, or even color palettes that feel deeply Miami in terms of design,but don’t get the spotlight?

Naty Pascual: “Those soft pastel walk-ups in Mid-Beach are timeless; like a Wes Anderson set with humidity. The chipped paint, the faded colors… they’re kind of perfect.”

Q: What restaurant feels like Miami Beach to you? Not just the food, but the people, the vibe, the soundtrack?

Naty Pascual: “Joe’s is forever a Miami staple. White tablecloths, big pours of wine, and yes-putting on a bib to eat. It doesn’t get more classic than that. Macchialina is a very close second. And honestly? Monty’s is iconic in its own way:right on the water, frozen drink in hand, unbeatable at sunset.”

Q: Is there a place or ritual in Miami Beach you’d only share with someone who really gets it?

Naty Pascual: “A workout on Purdy Ave, smoothie somewhere close by, and a walk down to the beach. It’s low-key, grounding, and the perfect solo reset.”

Q: What’s something about old-school Miami Beach you hope never disappears?

Naty Pascual: “The characters, always. The people-watching, the energy, the ‘overdressed for no reason’ attitude at 9 a.m.t’s chaotic in the best way and I hope it never changes.”

Keep following Miami Guides as we continue uncovering the city’s hidden rhythms, one creative perspective at a time. Each story is a reminder that Miami is more than a destination; it’s a collection of voices, rituals, and places that come alive when shared.

Q: If Miami Beach were a song, what would it be?

Naty Pascual: “Something vibey you play at sunset, right after you’ve showered from the beach: tan, glowing, and headed to dinner. That golden hour track that makes you feel like the main character. That’s Miami Beach.”

Keep following Miami Guides as we continue uncovering the city’s hidden rhythms, one creative perspective at a time. Each story is a reminder that Miami is more than a destination; it’s a collection of voices, rituals, and places that come alive when shared.

Where is The Shelborne in Miami Beach?

The Shelborne By Proper is located at 1801 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

How do I book a stay at The Shelborne in Miami Beach?

For reservations or inquiries, call 305-341-1400 or visit www.shelborne.com

How do I keep up with happenings and events on property?

You can explore events on property by visiting the Happenings page on site.