Miami
Miami: Sun, sand, and pure paradise! ☀️🌴 It's a must-experience destination, and our guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip!
Navigating Miami: A Guide for Cruisers
I've got everything you need!
Port of Miami is about 10 miles (16 Km) from Miami Airport. The time to get there can vary as traffic in Miami is unpredictable, it could take you 20 min or over 1 hr.
I recommend arriving the day before your cruise to avoid any setbacks, as Cruise lines will NOT wait for you and you have no control of airlines and traffic!
There are 2 airports you could use:
-Miami International Airport (MIA). This is the closest to Port
-Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL). You might find better flight prices to this airport.
Getting Around:
Rideshare: The best way of transportation in Miami is by Uber or Lyft. It's easy, inexpensive and reliable.
Public transportation: Miami's Metrorail and Metrobus systems are convenient and affordable ways to get around the city. The Metromover offers free rides in the downtown area.
Rental Cars: Renting a car can be a great option if you plan to explore more of Miami and its surroundings.
Parking at the port: Rates are around $25-$35 dollars per car, per day.
Garage Hours and Access:
-Cruise Days (Cruise Ships at Port)
All garages are open and staffed by a parking attendant from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
-Non-Cruise Days
Contact PortMiami Cruise Operations or Port Security at 305-347-4800
Helpful Tips:
Time Zones: Remember that Miami is in the Eastern Time Zone, so plan accordingly.
Safety: Like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Weather: Miami is known for its warm and humid climate, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Currency Exchange Rate: The official currency in Miami is, of course, the American Dollar.
-Changing Money Before Travelling
If you don't want complications on your trip, the best thing to do is to change money before leaving. You can do so at any bank, although the commission is usually high, or at a specialized company.
-Changing Money in Miami
If you would prefer to exchange money in Miami, you can do this in banks or at an ATM. Here too you'll have to carefully check the exchange rate and commission.
The best way to save on commission is to pay by credit card. When paying using this type of card, you benefit from the current exchange rate, and the commission does not normally exceed 1%, although it does vary from bank to bank.
Check the current exchange rate:
Must-Visit Attractions:
South Beach: Famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Art Deco architecture.
Little Havana: Immerse yourself in Cuban culture with delicious food, live music, and colorful street art.
Wynwood Walls: A trendy neighborhood known for its impressive street art, galleries, and hip cafes.
Bayside Marketplace: A lively waterfront shopping and dining area with stunning views of Biscayne Bay.
Dinning Recommendations:
Versailles Restaurant: A must-visit for authentic Cuban cuisine in Little Havana.
Joe's Stone Crab: A Miami institution, known for its delicious seafood.
Zuma: A chic Japanese restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience in downtown Miami.
La Mar by Gastón Acurio: Peruvian cuisine with a waterfront view in Brickell Key.
Looking for a place to stay? These hotels are a great starting point.
Hotels in Miami Beach
Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel
4.5 🌟 (7,524 reviews) | 6 miles from Miami Port
Located near Lincoln Road and the beach, this hotel offers a vibrant South Beach vibe. Features include a well-kept pool area, outdoor bar, and access to main streets. Enjoy nightly wine hours, morning coffee, and a lively social club.
Kimpton Surfcomber perfectly embodies subdued sophistication with a South Beach flair. Inside, our posh new makeover reveals Calacutta marble, velvety sofas, and understated statement pieces. A calming color palette is accented with pops of pink grapefruit, blood orange and pine green. Clean lines abound, both curved and linear, echoing the heritage of our Art Deco building.
1 Hotel South Beach
4.5 🌟 (4,265 reviews) | 6.3 miles from Miami Port
This upscale beachfront hotel is a mile from outdoor shopping at Lincoln Road Mall and 3 minutes walk from the Bass Museum of Art.
Immaculate, modern hotel with friendly staff and top-notch service. Features multiple pools, including a unique rooftop and beachfront pool. Excellent dining options, especially at the Sandbox pool. Located in a prime spot with amazing views.
Royal Palm South Beach Miami, a Tribute Portfolio Resort
3.9 🌟 (2,588 reviews) | 6.2 miles from Miami Port
South Beach Miami resort with direct beach access, 2 pools and steps away from popular shopping.
Overview
Royal Palm South Beach Miami, A Tribute Portfolio Resort is situated on Collins Avenue and Ocean Drive. Our art deco hotel in Miami South Beach is just minutes from the Convention Center, Sunny Isles, Bal Harbour, Aventura, Lincoln Road and Wynwood.
Hotels Near Miami Airport
Pullman Miami Airport
4 🌟 (2,936 reviews) | 8.8 miles from Miami Port
Hotels combining lifestyle and design, for business and leisure
Welcome to the Pullman Miami Airport!
We are delighted to have you as our esteemed guests. At our hotel, you'll experience a world of comfort, luxury, and convenience. Explore the city of Miami from our prime location, near popular attractions, shopping districts, and entertainment venues, ensuring you have plenty to discover during your stay.
We strive to create an unforgettable experience for each and every guest. We hope your time with us at the Pullman Miami Airport will be truly exceptional.
Boutique Miami hotel Art Deco Hotel.
Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon
3.9 🌟 (6,495 reviews) | 9.2 miles from Miami Port
Lagoon Resort near Miami International Airport.
We’re in Blue Lagoon, four miles from Miami International Airport via our free local shuttle. Downtown Miami and Dolphin Mall are 15 minutes away. South Beach, Zoo Miami, and cruises from PortMiami are within a half-hour. We have sports courts, bike and car rental, a fitness center, and a hot tub. Enjoy a dip in our outdoor pool and a drink at the pool bar.
Hotels in Downtown/Brickell Area
JW Marriott Miami
4.3 🌟 (1,535 reviews) | 2.3 miles from Miami Port
Timeless elegance hotel located on Brickell Avenue near Miami’s downtown restaurants and shopping. This upscale hotel is 3.8 miles from South Beach and 5.9 miles from Ocean Drive.
Overview
Located on prestigious Brickell Ave. in the heart of Miami's financial district, just one mile south of downtown Miami and just 10 minutes from South Beach.
InterContinental Miami, an IHG Hotel
4 🌟 (6,705 reviews) | 2.1 miles from Miami Port
Overlooking Biscayne Bay, this upmarket high-rise hotel is an 8-minute walk from the Olympia Theater and 12 minutes' walk from the FTX Arena.
Sophisticated rooms feature coffeemakers and marble bathrooms, plus flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi; some provide bay views. Club rooms and suites offer access to a lounge with free breakfast and appetizers. Suites include living rooms; bi-level suites have kitchens and media rooms.
There's an upscale Latin American restaurant, a coffee shop, and a rooftop pool with a breezy cafe. Other amenities include a spa, a 24/7 fitness center, and more than 100,000 sq ft of event space.
Holiday Inn Hotel Port of Miami-Downtown
3.6 🌟 (3,310 reviews) | 1.1 miles from Miami Port
This modern hotel is a 13-minute drive from Miami International Airport and 1.1 miles from the Port for Miami.
The straightforward rooms come with desks, flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers, while deluxe rooms add minifridges and microwaves. There's also free WiFi and high-pressure showerheads in the bathrooms, while kids 19 and under stay free with an adult. Suites add separate living spaces with pull-out sofas and wet bars.
Amenities include an outdoor pool and a fitness center, as well as an American restaurant (where kids 12 and under eat free) serving continental dishes and cocktails.
Hotels in Wynwood
AC Hotel Miami Wynwood
4.2 🌟 (491 reviews) | 3.8 miles from Miami Port
A well-designed hotel in Wynwood, Miami with a sophisticated guest experience and elevated dining.
Overview
The AC Hotel Miami Wynwood's urban vibe is custom made for those seeking a new way to travel. Located just steps from the sights and sounds of Wynwood and the Design District, as well as the airport, guests will never be far from Miami's vibrant culture.
Moxy Miami Wynwood
3.4 🌟 (23 reviews) | 3.5 mi from Port Miami
The newest lifestyle hotel in Wynwood Miami with a premium location!
Overview
Located in the heart of Miami's Art District, our Wynwood Florida hotel is just 2.5 miles from Brickell and downtown; 7 miles from the Miami Airport, and 3.5 miles from the Port of Miami.
Note
Thank you for taking the time to read our guide on navigating Miami! I hope you find it helpful and informative as you plan your exciting journey.
As a dedicated travel advisor, I'm here to ensure your trip is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Whether you need assistance with booking flights, finding the perfect hotel, or arranging unique experiences, I'm here to help every step of the way.
Feel free to reach out to me for personalized travel planning and expert advice. Let's make your next adventure truly unforgettable!
Warm regards,
Celina Reese