I come down from NYC for the weekend to run this race and very glad I choose this for a January "escape" run.
Let's start with the course itelf. The only "elevation" occurs within the first 2 miles and, being Florida, is the bridge / causeway approach heading from Miami to Miami Beach. This gets it out of the way immediately and before sun rise. Well thought out. The course takes you through downtown Miami and up Ocean Front drive in Miami Beach, along with maybe a total of 5 miles on Bridges and causeways. Really shows off the town, the cruise ships in Port, etc. Great views. It was an overcast day, but this didn't strike me as a course that would provide much shade. But hey, it's Miami! This is not a run that really goes through residential sections (briefly in Miami Beach only). I am ok with that but just noting.
Crowd support was really great for the last 2 - 2.5 miles upon re-entering Miami.
The post race party area in the park was really well done and it appeared to me to be as friendly to athletes with challenges (not just wheelchair) as I have seen.
Definitely recommend this one.