Miami is well known for its beach culture. First-time visitors usually head straight to South Beach to see the beautiful people who hang out to improve their tan or physique. But those in the know have associated Miami with something else for some time now; electronic music.

When the lights go out in Miami the parties begin, and this has been the springboard for the electronic music scene to really take off. South Beach and Ocean Drive at night transform from beach culture to club culture, and Miami’s bars and clubs blast a mix of house, salsa, jazz and techno into the night.

The dance scene in Miami is really setting the standards for the rest of the world to follow. This is reflected in the growing success of festivals like the Ultra Music Festival. This legendary dance festival is now in its eleventh year, having attracted over 55,000 revelers in 2008, winning the coveted award for Best International Dance Event. Some of the biggest names in dance music have performed at the festival over the years, including Tiesto, Underworld, Carl Cox and Paul Oakenfold.

The Ultra Music Festival was the closing event in 2009 of another of the milestones of electronic music in Miami; the Miami Winter Music Conference. The WMC, as it is known, is the place to be for anyone connected to electronic music. It brings together the world of electronic music for a series of events aimed at showcasing what electronic music has to offer, as well as providing an unrivaled concentration of the best artists and promoters.

The culture of Miami, coupled with the energy, drive and enthusiasm displayed by music producers and promoters within Miami, have truly placed the city at the center of the electronic music scene, not only in North America but throughout the world. Worldwide.

And as party destinations go, Miami is sure to offer visitors to the city a great night out. But there are some basic rules to keep in mind before setting foot on the Miami club scene. First of all, Miami nights tend to last well into the next morning and usually don’t reach their peak until midnight, so be prepared for a long night. Second, dress for the occasion, as Miami clubs expect a well-dressed clientele. And lastly, have fun. That’s what it’s about.

Plus, no matter what time of year you choose to take your flights to Miami, it’s good to know that you’re sure to find a suitable club or festival showcasing the best in electronic music.