There are countless bars in and around Miami, with the highest concentration on trendy South Beach. The selection listed here is a mere sample. Keep in mind that many of the popular bars--and the easiest to get into--are in hotels. For a clubbier scene, if you don't mind making your way through hordes of inebriated club kids, a stroll on Washington Avenue will provide you with ample insight into what's hot and what's not. Just hold onto your bags. It's not dangerous, but occasionally, a few shady types manage to slip into the crowd. Another very important tip when in a club: Never put your drink down out of your sight--there have been unfortunate incidents in which drinks have been spiked with illegal chemical substances. For a less hard-core, collegiate nightlife, head to Coconut Grove. Most require proof that you are over 21 to enter. Oh, yes, and when going out in South Beach, make sure to take a so-called disco nap, as things don't get going until at least 11pm. If you go earlier, be prepared to face an empty bar or club. Off of South Beach and in hotel bars in general, the hours are fashionably earlier, with the action starting as early as, say, 7pm.

Swank Hotel Bars--Long gone are the days of the old-school Holiday Inn lounges. In fact, some hotels seem to spend more money on their bars than they do on their bedding. That aside, hotel barhopping is very popular in Miami. Here's my list of the best:

Rose Bar at the Delano for seeing and being seen.

Lobby bar at the Hotel Astor, 956 Washington Ave., South Beach (tel. 305/672-1402), to bask in a flattering light with a sophisticated, not snotty, crowd.

Marlin Bar at the Marlin hotel, 1200 Collins Ave., South Beach (tel. 305/673-8373), to experience what is known as Caribbean chic.

Bond St. Lounge at the Townhouse hotel, 150 20th St., South Beach (tel. 305/534-3800), a New York import, is a tiny bar/lounge which also serves food; it's known for excellent sushi and a hip, chic jet-set crowd.

Harry's American Bar at the Eden Roc Resort, 4525 Collins Ave., Miami Beach (tel. 305/674-5568), a throwback to the days of Miami Beach kitsch, when Liza, Sammy, and Frank were splashing around at the pool.