Illustrated Miami Beach Map

This Miami Beach map was one of the early digital model based illustrated maps created by Escape Key Graphics and reflects an important stage in the development of the studio’s visual style. The map was built as a virtual model with a defined outer edge, giving it the appearance of a tabletop display. While this presentation approach was later refined in response to client preferences, it remains a strong example of early 3D mapping techniques and creative experimentation.

The illustration features a distinctly Miami inspired color palette with soft pastels that reflect the character and energy of the area. At the time of production, the map was designed as a wide foldout piece for print use. Although the boat shows no longer use this specific venue, the surrounding neighborhood remains largely unchanged, making the map a lasting visual record of the location.

Wayfinding was handled through a clear and organized system. Ramps were identified using numbered red rectangles, while additional points of interest were marked with colored, numbered dots. Recurring amenities were represented with simple icons for easy recognition. The three dimensional model was created in SketchUp Pro, rendered in Kerkythea, refined in Adobe Photoshop, and completed with final layout and graphic elements in Adobe Illustrator. This project demonstrates an early but thoughtful approach to combining illustration, accuracy, and practical navigation.

Which Miami Boat Show is this?:

Here is all you need to know... I have been making maps for boat shows in Miami since 2011 and in that time a lot has changed. There have been multiple simultaneous shows, show names have changed and now shows have merged. The assorted show titles used have been Miami International Boat Show, Miami Yacht Show, Yachts Miami Beach, Miami Beach Yacht and Brokerage Show and this doesn't include subsections of the shows like Sea Isle Marina, Museum Park Marina and Strictly Sail Miami at Miamarina Bayside. These shows have been managed by different, sometimes competing, management companies. At some point I have been commissioned to make maps for all of them. I'm not going to try to sort this into a comprehensible timeline or anything like that.

I've endeavored to make the maps easy to find but you may find some hidden gems on my site if you dig. Please enjoy these maps for what they are without getting too distracted by the sequence or sponsors/management companies etc.