Miami is located at the southeastern corner of the United States near the tip of the Florida peninsula. Its climate is marginally tropical, with hot, moist summers and warm, drier winters and an average annual temperature of about 24° C (76° F). Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, Miami grew rapidly because of its resort and recreational opportunities. Since 1980, however, a more diversified economy has emerged in the city and metropolitan region. Miami’s economy is increasingly international in its orientation; the city’s connections to Latin America are particularly vital.

Miami’s economy, until recently dominated by tourism, is increasingly diversified. Tourism still plays a significant role, with 9.5 million visitors staying overnight in Miami-Dade County each year. A sizable proportion of this flow is focused on the port of Miami; the city’s growing fleet of cruise ships has made it one of the world’s leading passenger ports. Trade is another important activity, and the city increasingly serves as the gateway between the United States and Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Banking and international finance have become major functions of Miami’s bilingual business community. Light industry is also important, and lightweight clothing is a notable product.

Miami Beach is located on a long, narrow island (and adjacent islets) between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, near the city of Miami; incorporated 1915. Miami Beach is a world-famous, year-round resort, with palatial oceanfront hotels, ornate nightclubs, and extensive sand beaches. Causeways link it with the mainland.

Fort Lauderdale, city in southeastern Florida and seat of Broward County. The city is located where the New River enters the Atlantic Ocean. Fort Lauderdale is a major yachting center and a beach and fishing resort. Called the Venice of America, the city has an extensive network of inlets and canals that, with the New River, provides more than 266 km (165 mi) of navigable waterways. These waterways include a portion of the Intracoastal Waterway that passes through the city. Fort Lauderdale’s beaches draw visitors from around the world, and tourism is a leading contributor to the economy. South Beach has a promenade of wide walkways for enjoyment of the city’s climate. The city is served by Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

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