Miami cruise stopover. What to do during your stopover?

Welcome aboard this complete “ Miami cruise stopover ” guide

I am Sarah (or Miss Tatane 😛), passionate about cruises and a cruise traveler like you. I am here to share with you my experiences and advice so that you can fully enjoy your stopover or boarding in Miami.

Happy reading and above all, have a great cruise. Have fun and remember: ONE LIFE 🤩

Miami cruise stopover – Complete guide

A stopover or embarkation in Miami is much more than just a stopover. It is an opportunity to discover a vibrant city, full of life and exciting activities. Personally, I had the chance to embark in Miami and spend two nights there before leaving on a cruise. I was captivated by this incredible city, one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. Whether you choose an adventure in the Everglades (I highly recommend this experience!) or you prefer to explore Miami on foot, each moment spent in this magical city is a promise of unforgettable memories.

You are looking for:

Tourist attractions in Miami
Miami Guided Tours
Activities for cruise passengers
How to get to the Port of Miami
Arriving in Miami before your cruise
Why stay a few days in Miami before boarding?

How to get from Miami airport to cruise port

When you arrive at Miami International Airport to begin your cruise, it is crucial to choose a transfer that meets your needs in terms of comfort, speed and budget. Here are two paid transfer options that will allow you to reach the port of Miami with complete peace of mind. We took the transfer because there were 4 of us (we shared the cost) and it is easier because I find the bus really difficult.

Miami Dodge Island Cruise Port Address
1015 N. America Way
Miami, FL 33132

Embark on a cruise in Miami

Options for reaching the Port of Miami

When it comes to getting to the port for your cruise, there are several options available to you for making this transfer. Here is a guide to the main solutions available to reach the Port of Miami from Miami International Airport (MIA).

Cruise line shuttles

Some cruise lines offer dedicated shuttle services between the airport and the Port of Miami. These shuttles are convenient because they are often timed with flight arrivals and take you directly to the cruise terminal.

Cost . Around 30-50 $ per person.
Advantages : Straightforward and hassle-free.
Disadvantages . If there are 2 of you it’s ok, however if you are a big family or a group of friends, I recommend the private transfer which is much more economical.

Taxis

Taxis are also available at the airport if there are 2 of you it’s cool, but for more than 2 the private transfer is more affordable.

Cost . Taxis cost around 30-40$ for a direct trip (for 2).
Advantages . Fast (25/30 mins), direct, and with assistance for your luggage.
Disadvantages . Higher cost if you are 2 people in this case I recommend the taxi.

Public transport

If you’re looking for a more economical option, public transportation is a viable option. Miami-Dade Transit offers buses and light rail service that can take you near the port.

Disadvantages : The journey is longer (1 hour) and less convenient, especially with luggage.

Bus . You can take bus 150 from the airport which will take you to the metro station. From there you can go to downtown Miami and take a taxi or another bus to the port.

Cost . Around 5 $ for the bus/metro journey + 3 $ for the coral.

Advantages . Very economical.

Private transfer

Private transfers with driver are a comfortable and reliable option to get to the port of Miami (25/30 mins). There are two very affordable options whether you are traveling as a 2/3 person or in a large group (see below).

Advantages . Very economical if you travel in a group. Fast, direct, and with assistance for your luggage.

Miami airport transfers to cruise port

Private transfer for large group

Ideal for large groups or families, this service offers a complete solution to reach your destination in Miami in comfort and without stress.

Service details:

Airport Pick-up . Your driver will be waiting for you at Miami International Airport at the scheduled time, with an additional 60 minutes waiting time to ensure you have time to clear security and collect your luggage.
Professional service and spacious vehicle . Enjoy a bilingual, fully trained driver service in a new, spacious vehicle, ideal for groups of up to 14 people.
Flexibility in case of flight delays . If your flight is delayed, the service will be automatically rescheduled to accommodate your new schedule. Upon arrival, the driver will contact you to arrange a meeting point.
Baggage Assistance . The driver will help you load and unload your luggage, providing you with a hassle-free experience from the moment you arrive.
Final Destination . The transfer will take you directly to your hotel or the Port of Miami, with an estimated driving time of 30 to 45 minutes.

Price: €108.82 per group (whether you are 3 or 14 people, the price remains the same). Very advantageous if you travel with your large family or your group of friends.

This service is perfect if you are looking for personalized support, with maximum comfort for all members of your group.

Transfer No. 1

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rate: 119 $

See availability – Booking

Private transfer for small groups

For those traveling in a small group or as a couple, this private transfer is a great option for a quick and relaxed ride to the Port of Miami.

Service details:

Personalized welcome . Avoid taxi queues or the complexity of public transport. Upon your arrival, a driver will be waiting for you directly at the airport exit to guide you to your private vehicle.
Comfort and peace of mind . Board a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, where your driver will take care of all your luggage. This service is designed to offer you a peaceful journey after your flight.
Duration and efficiency . The transfer is fast and direct, taking you to the port of Miami without unnecessary stopovers, ideal for starting your cruise without stress.

Price: €43.53 per group (up to 3 people)

This service is perfectly suited for travelers who value simplicity and efficiency, while benefiting from a high-end service.

Transfert N°2

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Tarif: 47 $ per group (up to 3 people)

See availability – Booking

How to get from the port of Miami to downtown

To reach Downtown Miami from the Port of Miami, you have several convenient options:

City of Miami Coral way trolley route . This trolley is the only public transportation that goes from PortMiami to downtown. If you are already in downtown, you can catch it at Government Center Station. At this location, you will find connections to the Metrorail, Metrobus, Brightline etc.
Tri-Rail . If you are arriving from other areas north of Miami, the Tri-Rail offers convenient service to downtown Miami. From the Tri-Rail station, you can easily access PortMiami using the other public transportation options available at Government Center Station.

These options will allow you to easily travel from PortMiami to the heart of the city to explore all of its attractions.

Miami must sees for cruise passengers

On stopover or before boarding!

Whether you are on a stopover or have some time before boarding in Miami, here are some must-do activities not to be missed. This city offers a multitude of experiences that will make your stay unforgettable. I really recommend the Everglades, it is a unique experience, and thrills guaranteed.

Stroll south beach and admire the art deco

South Beach is the perfect place to start your Miami exploration. With its colorful Art Deco buildings and vibrant atmosphere, Ocean Drive is a must-see. Enjoy the warm sand, relax in the sun, and explore the restaurants and shops that line the beach.

Immersion in Little Havana

For an authentic dive into Cuban culture, head to Little Havana. This lively neighborhood offers a unique atmosphere with cigar shops, Cuban cafes, and murals. A stroll down Calle Ocho will give you a taste of local cuisine and a taste of Miami’s vibrant culture.

Admire the artwork at Wynwood Walls

Wynwood Walls is a veritable open-air museum with street art works created by renowned artists. It is the ideal place for urban art lovers and to take memorable photos.

Also discover the guided tours of the galleries and murals of Wynwood Walls. Admire the street works and learn their history with an official guide – Price : 18 euros.

Admire the stunning street art found within the expansive walls of Wynwood.
Explore the world’s most famous street art collection with an official guide.
Discover the artist’s profile and the meaning of the different wall concepts.
Discover the impact of street art on the transformation of an entire neighborhood.
Your guide will show you the best spots to take photos of the amazing art.

→ I would like to see availability – Reservation

Explore the Everglades

For a unique adventure, take a trip to the Everglades. About a 50-minute drive from Miami, this national park offers a rare chance to see alligators in their natural habitat. A memorable experience for nature lovers.

Ride a hovercraft through the Everglades, see an animal show and enjoy round-trip air-conditioned bus transportation from Miami – Cost – €52.

Expert guides show you the best places to take photos.
Attend a spectacular animal show and see alligators up close with trainers.
Enjoy a round-trip air-conditioned bus ride from Miami to the Everglades.

→ I would like to see availability – Reservation

Relaxing in Coconut Grove

Coconut Grove is one of Miami’s most picturesque neighborhoods. With its tree-lined streets, artisan boutiques and charming cafes, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Enjoy parks with stunning views of Biscayne Bay for a relaxing break before or after your cruise.

Explorer le Miami Seaquarium

For a family outing or a day of marine adventure, the Miami Seaquarium is a great option. Here you’ll find animal shows, marine exhibits, and even the chance to swim with dolphins. It’s a great place to learn about marine life while having a great time.

Opt for the tourist bus

To maximize your time and see Miami’s highlights without the stress, consider a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. It’s a great way to see the city’s top sights in a minimal amount of time, while still having the flexibility to hop off and on wherever you like.

Things to do in Miami for cruise passengers

Cruise stopover in Miami – TOP 3

Miami is full of awesome things to do for every budget. Here are my top three picks:

The Everglades . An unforgettable adventure for nature lovers. Price : 52 euros.
Tourist bus . A practical and quick way to discover the city. Price : 48 euros.
South Beach Flyover . Admire Miami from the air. Price : 126 euros.

The Everglades No. 1

Bus transfer included from Miami

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 3 520 reviews

Since I was a little girl, as an animal lover, I dreamed of visiting the Everglades. And it is simply incredible, really! If you have the opportunity, do not hesitate for a second. It is not very expensive, especially from Miami, so go for it, you will not regret it. I loved this experience!

Price → 57$

See availability – Booking

Tourist bus No. 2

Hop-on Hop-off bus sightseeing tour

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 1 530 reviews

I highly recommend the hop on hop off bus as one of the things to do in Miami. It’s a real time saver, especially if you’re only staying for one day. This bus allows you to see all the must-see places in Miami without the hassle of trying to figure out where to go. It’s super convenient and a great way to make the most of your time in this incredible city.

Price → 53$

See availability – Booking

Survol de south person N°3

Cruise stopover in Miami

30 minute private airplane sightseeing tour

⭐⭐⭐⭐/ 337 reviews

Enjoy a magical flight over glamorous South Miami and admire Miami’s breathtaking beauty from the sky. You’ll glide over golden beaches and luxurious island homes, before gazing down at the skyscrapers of Downtown Miami from Biscayne Bay.

Price → 138$

See availability – Booking

Activities to do during a cruise stopover

Be sure to explore GetYourGuide’s full catalog below to discover all the activities Miami has to offer. Book in advance to make sure you don’t miss out on your stopover.

Practical tips for a successful stopover in Miami

Planning a layover in Miami can seem like a challenge, but with the right tips, you can maximize your time and take full advantage of everything the city has to offer. Here are some practical tips for a successful layover in Miami.

Dress for the climate

Miami has a tropical climate with high temperatures and high humidity. Wear light, comfortable clothing, don’t forget your sunglasses, a hat, and most importantly, apply sunscreen. If you’re visiting during the rainy season (June to November), bring an umbrella or a lightweight raincoat.

Take into account the time difference

If you are arriving in Miami from another time zone, jet lag may affect you. Plan some rest before starting your sightseeing to be in top shape and avoid fatigue during your layover.

Secure your personal belongings

As in any big city, it is important to stay vigilant. Keep your belongings safe, especially in busy areas like South Beach or tourist districts. Use a backpack or pouch with a secure closure.

Prepare your itinerary in advance

To make sure you don’t miss anything during your stopover, create a detailed itinerary. Prioritize the attractions you absolutely want to see and take into account travel times between each location. A hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus can be a great option to see several points of interest in a short time.

By following these practical tips, you will be well prepared to fully enjoy your stopover in Miami. Good organization is the key to a stress-free experience, and to making this stopover an unforgettable moment of your trip.

Safety in Miami during a cruise stopover

Miami is a vibrant and popular city, but like any major metropolis, it presents certain safety challenges. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, here are some practical tips to enjoy your stopover with complete peace of mind.

→ Know the safe and avoid areas

Miami is generally safe for tourists, especially in tourist areas like South Beach , Downtown , Wynwood , and Little Havana . However, it is important to remain vigilant in certain parts of the city, especially after dark.

Safe neighborhoods for tourists . South Beach, Brickell, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Key Biscayne.
Neighborhoods to avoid at night . Parts of Overtown, Liberty City, and Allapattah.

→ Secure transport

When traveling, favor safe and official transportation options:

Taxis and Uber/Lyft . Always use official taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get around safely. Avoid hailing unofficial taxis on the street.
Public transportation . Miami buses and subways are generally safe during the day. In the evening, it is advisable to take a taxi or Uber, especially if you are traveling alone.

Tip: If you’re using Uber or Lyft, always check that the vehicle’s license plate matches the one on the app before getting in.