Given its idyllic beach location and world-famous nightlife, there are plenty of movies shot in Miami Beach, Florida. From slapstick comedy to fighting crime drama, there’s a mix of the good, the bad, and the ugly. Fortunately, there are some true cinematic gems out there and here is a list of my top five movies shot on Miami Beach. These movies do more than entertain, they make us laugh and cry and inspire us to travel. Consider this tourism from the comfort of your home. So put these movies on your DVD player and let your mind wander to a tropical beach and feel the sand between your toes.

Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)

It may seem like Jim Carrey has been famous forever, but it was in this movie that he got his start as an over-the-top comedic actor. Making silly jokes while looking ridiculous himself, pet detective Ace Ventura tries to track down the Miami Dolphins’ mascot, Snowflake. Jim Carrey capitalizes on his trademark style of physical comedy and Ace manages to save the day just in time for the Super Bowl.

The Birdcage (1996)

Proving that there is more to Miami Beach than police shows, drug busts and beaches, and Birdcage recognizes Miamians from the established gay and lesbian community. Robin Williams and Nathan Lane do not disappoint in this intentionally wacky comedy about coping with the realities of modern families with not a few eccentric individuals. With notable performances from Nathan Lane as a dramatic actor, prepare to laugh until your sides break.

Scarface (1983)

Epic movie. Perhaps the gold standard for all future Miami crime dramas, Scarface is packed with extreme violence, drugs, and obscenity. In short, destined to be a classic. The film follows King Tony Montana on his quest for the American dream and so eloquently describes his vision: “In this country, you have to make money first. Then when you get the money, you get the power.”

Miami Vice (2007)

A cliche maybe, but you can’t list movies about Miami Beach without mentioning it. Based on the popular 1980s television series that made Miami Beach famous, Don Johnson and the white suits, Jamie Foxx and Colin Farrell boldly took on their action-packed roles in style. The rumor mill was working overtime during the production of this movie and see if you can tell any tension in the movie.