Miami Transportation Services: Every Way to Get Around

July 10, 2011 Mike 4 Comments

Miami has more ways to get around than most visitors expect: two rail systems run by the county, free trolleys, two regional trains, taxis, ride apps, rental cars and shared bikes. The trick is knowing which one fits the trip in front of you.

This overview covers each service, what it costs and when to use it, with links to our detailed guides. Fares and rates were checked against official sources in October 2026.

Miami transportation at a glance

Service	Best for	Cost
Metrorail	Airport, downtown, Brickell, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables	$2.25 per trip
Metromover	Getting around downtown and Brickell	Free
Metrobus	Miami Beach and everywhere rail does not go	$2.25 per trip
City trolleys	Short hops within Miami and Miami Beach	Free
Tri-Rail	Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach	By distance on weekdays, $5 flat on weekends
Brightline	Fast trips to Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Orlando	Varies by train
Taxi	Airport and port trips, late nights	Metered
Ride apps	Door-to-door trips anywhere	Varies with demand
Rental car	Everglades, Keys, suburbs, day trips	Daily rate plus fees

Public transit

Miami-Dade Transit runs the core of the system.

Metrorail is the elevated train, with a line from the airport and a line from the northwest suburbs that meet and run through downtown to Dadeland South. It operates from 5 a.m. to midnight.
Metromover is a free automated train that loops through downtown and Brickell.
Metrobus covers the rest of the county. Route 150, the Miami Beach Airport Express, links the airport with Miami Beach.

You can pay by tapping a contactless bank card or phone at the gate or farebox. Fares are capped at $5.65 a day when you use the same card or device.

The City of Miami and the City of Miami Beach also run free trolleys on neighborhood routes. They are separate systems with their own maps and hours.

Regional trains

Tri-Rail is the commuter train through Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. It stops at the Miami airport station and at Fort Lauderdale’s airport station.
Brightline is the faster intercity train from MiamiCentral station downtown to Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach and Orlando.
Amtrak runs long-distance trains north from its Miami station.

Taxis

Taxis are easiest to find at the airport, the cruise port, major hotels and taxi stands in busy areas. Elsewhere, call or book ahead.

Miami-Dade County sets the meter rates:

$2.95 for the first sixth of a mile
$0.85 for each additional sixth of a mile up to one mile
$0.55 for each sixth of a mile after that
$0.40 per minute of waiting time

Trips that start at Miami International Airport add a $2 airport fee and have a $15 minimum. SUVs and vans may charge 30 percent above the meter. At the airport, use the official taxi stands outside baggage claim on the arrivals level and ignore anyone offering a ride inside the terminal. The airport posts current rates on its taxi page.

Ride apps

Uber and Lyft operate throughout the county and are usually the simplest way to go door to door. At the airport, pickups are on both the arrivals and departures levels, and the app shows the door number.

Prices rise with demand. Expect higher fares on weekend nights in South Beach, on cruise mornings, after big events and during heavy rain. If the quote looks high, compare it with a metered taxi.

Rental cars

A car is the right tool for the Everglades, the Keys, the suburbs and any day with several stops. In South Beach and downtown it can be more trouble than it is worth, because parking is expensive and limited.

If you rent, these guides will save you money:

New to the roads here? Start with Driving in Miami: 7 Fast Facts You Need to Know.

Private cars and limousines

For weddings, corporate travel or a group heading to the port, a pre-booked car service gives you a fixed price and a driver who is waiting when you arrive. Book with a licensed company, get the total in writing including tolls and gratuity, and confirm the pickup spot.

Bikes

Citi Bike Miami has more than 160 stations across Miami and Miami Beach, available around the clock. It works well for short trips along the beach and through neighborhoods such as South Beach and Brickell. Ride in bike lanes where they exist and take extra care on the causeways.

Getting to and from the airport and the port

From Miami International Airport, the free MIA Mover connects the terminal to the Miami Intermodal Center, where you find Metrorail, Tri-Rail, buses and the Rental Car Center.

Downtown or Brickell: Metrorail Orange Line, $2.25.
Miami Beach: Route 150 Miami Beach Airport Express, $2.25, or a taxi or ride app.
PortMiami: A ride app or taxi is simplest. See how to get to PortMiami from the airports.

Accessibility

Miami-Dade’s trains, buses and trolleys are wheelchair accessible. The county also runs Special Transportation Service, a door-to-door paratransit service for eligible riders at $3.50 a trip, and wheelchair-accessible taxis are available on request at the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest way to get around Miami?

The Metromover and the city trolleys are free. Metrorail and Metrobus cost $2.25 a ride and no more than $5.65 a day when you tap the same card.

Do I need a car in Miami?

Not for a stay centered on downtown, Brickell and Miami Beach. You will want one for the Everglades, the Keys and most suburbs.

Are taxis or ride apps cheaper in Miami?

It depends on demand. Ride apps are often cheaper at quiet times and more expensive when demand surges. Taxis charge the same metered rate at any hour.

Is there a train from Miami airport to downtown?

Yes. The Metrorail Orange Line runs from the airport station to Government Center and Brickell.

The bottom line

Use the free Metromover and trolleys for short trips, Metrorail and Route 150 for the airport, a ride app or taxi late at night, and a rental car for the days you leave the city.

Fares and rates were checked against Miami-Dade County and Miami International Airport sources in October 2026. They change, so confirm before you travel.

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Travel and Leisure

Explore Miami – Things To Do

July 2, 2011 Mike 42 Comments

Explore Miami – Things To Do

Miami’s sunny weather, golden beaches and fascinating attractions make it a popular destination for tourists worldwide. This south Florida city has a subtropical climate. The summers are hot and humid and the winters are short and warm. Miami welcomes snowbirds, spring breakers, celebrities and millions of other tourists each year.

The Gateway of the Americas is world-renowned for it year-round good weather, white sandy beaches and turquoise-blue waters. The Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is ranked as one of the top ten beaches in America. It has 1.25 miles of natural beach, gentle waves and a bike path that takes you beneath a canopy of trees and near the beautiful Biscayne Bay. Canoeing, kayaking and hiking are popular activities. There is a seawall for some of the best fishing in the region. Visitors to the beach can tour the Cape Florida Lighthouse, the oldest standing building in south Florida. The park is also recognized as part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

The Virginia Key Beach, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was originally established as a Colored Only beach during the era of segregation. It has concession stands, a carousel and a playground. Snorkeling, biking, fishing and windsurfing are popular pastimes at this historic beach. Beachcombers can discover some of south Florida’s unique plants and endangered wildlife.

Bordered by two national parks, Miami is a haven for the outdoor enthusiast. The Everglades National Park is an important habitat for the American crocodile, the West Indian manatee and dozens of other rare and endangered species. There are many ways to enjoy this river of grass and its abundant wildlife. Park visitors can hike, camp, boat, snorkel or take a backcountry trek.

The Biscayne National Park is one of the largest marine parks in the United States. Its waters are a nursery and habitat for the region’s shellfish, crustaceans and fish. The park has a mangrove forest ecosystem and is home to many threatened or endangered wildlife species. This is an incredible destination for those who want to canoe, windsurf, kayak or fish. Snorkelers and divers can explore the park’s living tropical coral reef system.

Miami’s zoo and aquarium also provide exciting opportunities to experience wildlife. Zoo Miami is widely-regarded as one of the best zoos in the United States. It has thousands of animals and more than three miles of walkways. There are hundreds of interesting and educational exhibits. The Amazon and Beyond Exhibit is a 27-acres display of jaguars, anacondas, river otters and other inhabitants of the Amazon, Atlantic and Cloud Forests. Families with young children will enjoy the petting zoo with its kid-friendly goats, Shetland horses, alpaca and sheep. Those 18 years and older can be zoo keeper for a day working alongside zookeepers. Children of all ages can feed reticulated giraffes and ride dromedary camels.

The Seaquarium is a 38-acres marine-life theme park with stunning views of Miami’s skyline and the Biscayne Bay. Guest can watch a diver hand-feed tropical fish, moray eels, groupers and loggerhead turtles in the aquarium’s 750,000 gallon tank. Their aquatic shows and presentations feature dolphins, sharks, sea lions and crocodiles. The Dolphin Odyssey is an educational and interactive program for those who want an up-close and personal experience with dolphins. Participants are invited to touch, rub or climb aboard a dolphin for a ride across the pool.

Miami has several world-famous neighborhoods. South Beach is Miami Beach’s quintessential tourist destination. This trendy neighborhood is also known as SoBe and the American Riviera. Its Art Deco District neighborhood is the first 20th Century community to be recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. There are more than 800 pastel-colored buildings with sleek curves, glass blocks and glistening chrome. You can explore this rich architectural treasure by walking along Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road. If you stop by Lummus Park at night, you can enjoy live music under the stars. South Beach is a top international tourist destination with a vibrant nightlife. Its cuisine is a fusion of Latin and Mediterranean food and spices.

Coral Gables is another famous Miami neighborhood. It personifies its nickname, The City Beautiful. The abundant green spaces, tree-lined streets and Mediterranean Revivalist architecture are the backdrop for your shopping trip on Miracle Mile. This landmark shopping destination has almost 200 specialty stores and numerous chic eateries and restaurants. It is a relaxing and pedestrian-friendly city. The Merrick House and the Biltmore Hotel are two of Coral Gables’ historic landmarks and architectural gems.

Miami is also home to some unusual architecture. The Coral Castle is a monumental testament of a man’s undying love. Jilted by the fiancée, Ed Leedskalnin mysteriously carved over 1,100 tons of coral rock. He spent the next 28 years constructing his castle under the cover of night. The structure has a heart-shaped table, a sundial and a throne. Most of the pieces weigh nearly 15 tons. Mr. Leedskalnin died in 1951 and no one knows how he singled-handedly built his castle. Coral Castle’s visitors can try their hand at unraveling the mysteries of Miami’s Taj Mahal.

The curators of Miami’s museums make science more accessible for their visitors. Miami’s Children’s Museum has two floors and over 14 galleries of exhibits. The museum invites visitors to learn, imagine and create with their hands-on activities. Children can climb inside a two-story sandcastle, ride on a police motorcycle and harvest Florida fruits.

The Miami Science Museum has a planetarium, observatory and a wildlife center. Current exhibits explore subjects ranging from heart disease to the view of earth from space. The Moving Things Exhibit invites guests to use their brain and brawn to move objects. You can touch stingrays in the museum’s 3,000 gallon touch tank. The planetarium show uses the latest technology to project celestial bodies on a four-story projection screen during their music and laser show. The observatory offers a free star show in the planetarium and telescopic observing in the observatory. Visitors can view nebulas, galaxies, the rings of Saturn and the planets.

There is a rich blend of cultures in Miami. From Little Havana to Little Haiti, the Caribbean influences leave an indelible mark on all it touches. Miami is a dynamic tourist destination with unlimited potential for excitement and fun.

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Cars

How to Find a Great Car Rental Deals

July 2, 2011 Mike 4 Comments

How to Find a Great Car Rental Deals

Before reserving a vehicle when going to Florida or Los Angeles, the Internet can be a very useful tool. The Internet is where tourists can find the best car rental deals that will make their trips a much more enjoyable affair. The Internet allows people to find and reserve their vehicles by doing a comparison search.

In order to find great Orlando car rental deals at the Orlando International Airport, people only need to visit a website that shows them the prices that are available on various vehicles. On one such website, several different vehicles can be rented for a significant amount taken off of the regular price. Some of them include:

• The Chevrolet Aveo: This car can be had for $21/day,
• The Chevrolet Impala: As a larger car than the Aveo, its price is $25/day,
• The Jeep Liberty: This medium-sized SUV comes at a price of $27/day,
• The Pontiac G6: This medium-sized vehicle fits five grown people with four pieces of luggage for $27/day,
• The Dodge Caravan: For those who would like the space a minivan has to offer, they could not do much better than the Dodge Caravan for $40/day,
• The Chrysler 300: For travelers who need a more luxurious drive, the Chrysler 300 offers it to them for $50/day.

In another way to find rental cars for lower prices, tourists may visit the websites of individual car rental agencies. Travelers will find the best Miami car rental deals here, because these car rental companies sometimes give their clients nice discounts. With coupons, people looking for deals can print them for discounts directly from the website. Coupons that allow people to save five percent exist for:

• People over the age of 50,
• Students,
• School teachers and administrators,
• Military and government personnel,
• People who work for airlines,
• Members of the rental company’s discount clubs,
• Law enforcement personnel,
• Weekend car rentals,
• For choosing a smaller, less expensive vehicle.

Tourists can also take the opportunity to enjoy the rewards that some rental companies offer their clients. Signing up for these programs is free for everyone, and gives them several chances to receive a discount:

• The corporate program gives businesses five percent off of their car rentals,
• The Visitation program allows for a five percent discount for everyone who is visiting a national park, for instance,
• Signing up for their newsletters brings great deals and offers right to people’s email inboxes.

When people purchase a vacation package for their Opa-Locka rental deals, part of the deal is the rental car. Travelers can book their car rental in several different ways:

• They can arrange to rent the car only,
• The car and the hotel may be reserved together,
• The car can be reserved along with airline reservations,
• The car, airline travel and the hotel accommodations may be booked all at once.

After people have chosen how they want to book their travel, they can do a comparison shopping expedition that will show them the best prices available for what they need. All they have to do is type the name of the airport they are leaving from and the airport where they will arrive, if they want to seek a price on airline tickets, also. Then they will need to tell the system their check-in time and check-out time, if they have chosen to search for a hotel. Then all they will do is tell them how many rooms they need and the numbers and ages of the people traveling.

Although it is better to plan ahead, if for some reason people neglect to book their car rentals early, they may benefit from the last minute deals that can be found on car rental websites at LAX. For those who make it a habit of procrastinating, they may be able to:

• Rent economy cars for as low as $17 a day,
• Compact cars can be had for $18 a day,
• Medium-sized vehicles for $19 a day and
• Large sedans for $27 a day.

To find great car deals, there is even a website that concentrates just on LAX. This website will take people’s information and compare it to every car rental establishment located at LAX. People will enter the same information that was described above, and cheap car rental deals will be returned to them. At this point, they have the opportunity to save even more money on their car rentals if they have a discount code for this particular website.

Sometimes, people have a specific vehicle they have in mind for their travels. Tourists may search for the lowest prices on these vehicles specifically from several different companies such as for:

• SUVS,
• Minivans,
• Luxury cars,
• Economy cars,
• Compact cars.

As people are planning their trips, they will want to find the best deals they can for their car rentals. With a little preparation, people can find coupons, rewards memberships and discounts for the car rentals that they desire. Even if people are not very good planners, they can find last minute deals they can reserve if they are booked to travel the next day.

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Sports, Travel and Leisure

Miami Sport Fishing

June 25, 2011 Mike 8 Comments

Miami Sport Fishing Trips – Great Fishing Spots

With dozens of miles of pristine coastline converging with the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, the city of Miami, Florida, is quite possibly the world’s epicenter for sport fishing. The fishing area is sectioned off by the Bahamas, the edges of which lie about 50 miles east of the Miami coast. As a result, Miami fishing trips offer some of the most exhilarating and biologically diverse recreation that the planet has to offer, without the dangers of being out in the middle of the high seas. Avid sport fishermen sometimes travel thousands of miles to experience the clear waters and the incredible diversity of fish that can be hooked and reeled in.

Many purchasing options are available for people looking to take a sport fishing vacation to Miami, including commissioning a Miami charter boat or renting a Miami party boat. Whatever your pleasure, getting on a vessel and experiencing the incredible marine life of the area is something that should absolutely be done while visiting the fine city of Miami. Sport fishing tours are a major industry in the area, and many businesses are run by friendly folks equipped with the knowledge and savvy to make your sport fishing experience a lifelong memory.

A few dozen quality sport fishing locales dot the landscape along the Miami Beach strip, as well as the Bayside Marketplace region and Key Biscayne. The adventures range from authentic and rustic tours led by seasoned locals who have been in the business for decades to well-polished corporations that cater to a passenger’s every need.

Although the environment is tropical and the vibe is laid back, folks who operate Miami charter boats and other Miami fishing trips are well-trained professionals who know how to handle any situation the untamed sea can present. Before patrons embark on the fishing element of sport fishing tours, they will first be informed of the basics of how to move around a sport fishing boat and what to do when the action begins. Once that has been completed, the fun is ready to begin.

Whatever way you opt to access Miami’s prime sport fishing areas, you will likely be whisked about 10 or 15 miles off of the coast to where the sea floor rises, creating a concentrated thoroughfare for fish headed toward cooler waters of the the Atlantic. Naturally, accessing an area with a greater density of fish enhances the entire sport fishing experience. Folks who have opted to go with Miami party boats might not be quite as focused on the fishing festivities, but when someone on-board pulls a bright blue spearfish out of the water, you can be sure it will garner much attention.

Recreational sports fishermen from all over the world regularly pull amazing and exotic catches out of the saltwater using nothing more than determination and a little bit of technique. People are sometimes scared off by the idea of getting on a boat and battling some of the greatest athletes of the sea, but those folks can be comforted by the fact that the elements are controlled, the equipment is often state of the art and the staff and captains are thoroughly experienced at doing their jobs.

It is no secret that some of the planet’s most dynamic and awe-inspiring fish are swimming in the waters off of the outer coast of Florida. The aquatic life ranges from delicate and beautiful to large and aggressive. Swordfish are commonly hooked in the warm coastal waters and rarely look forward to boarding a fishing boat, creating a genuine challenge to sport anglers of all experience levels. They are just one of the well over 100 fish that are hooked regularly during Miami charter boat trips and Miami fishing trips. Incredible celebrations of evolution can be spotted regularly throughout the voyage, such as the barracuda or the sailfish, which are as beautiful as they are dangerous.

Mackerels, sea trout, tarpon and various types of tunas, groupers and marlins are amongst the most common species pulled out of the waters in the Miami area. Each has a unique and incredible color scheme that has been brought out by the salts of the sea. Many will be equipped with some type of weapon that has come standard with their biological structure and should be handled delicately while getting the fish on deck and posing for pictures that will soon make their way onto social networking websites.

Every single line that wiggles during a sport fishing tour is like a birthday present falling from the sky, or perhaps more accurately, rising from the depths. No one can be sure what is going to emerge on the other end of the hook, but it is certain to be an exotic and tropical catch that is full of passion and fight. Because of the clarity of the waters, hooked fish can often be seen 10 to 15 feet below the surface of the waves. The initial moments of a catch are incredible. First, a vague shape appears in the depths and quickly rises to the surface as the color and size of the fish become clear, at which point pulses quicken and endorphins are released. The first time a fish breaches the water is a sight to behold, as the being inadvertently shows off its intense beauty, strength and fear. Certainly not every fish that is hooked on Miami party boats or a Miami charter boat will be successfully reeled in, but many sports fishermen subscribe to the notion that the chase is the best part of the hunt.

Much like a lifelong baseball fan visiting the sport’s Hall Of Fame in Cooperstown, NY, all true sporting fishermen need to pay a visit to the city of Miami at some point in time. The city is a celebration of geological and human beauty, and an epicenter of the sport fishing universe. Common tourists often traipse around town looking for the freshest seafood. Sport fishermen go out and get it themselves.

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Car Rental, Cars, Sport Cars

The Ford Mustang Convertible

June 23, 2011 Mike 7 Comments

Tour one of the premier vacation spots in the country, sample exotic cuisines, enjoy stunning, sweeping views of gorgeous, sandy beaches, breathtaking sunsets, take the family to one of the many theme parks, or just go driving along the coastal highways. For those of you planning a trip to Miami, there is no better way to see all the sights than by renting a car. Though, finding the right rental car can take a bit of time, a little extra money, and knowing where to look for the best deal on the sports car can make your vacation truly memorable. My personal favorite for taking in the stellar panoramas of Miami and South Beach is the singular Ford Mustang convertible, preferable in a candy apple red.

When you rent any car, typically the first concern is budget, but the second concern is style. Nothing is worse than trying to find a sports car and only being able to find a minivan available for rent. First thing to do when you’re looking for a great rental car – give yourself plenty of time to find just the right fit for you. Keep in mind the timeframe you need the car for – sometimes you can save some money by renting for a longer period of time or renting on certain days of the week. If your travel dates are flexible, look into when you will be needing your hotel and car, and you can easily shave five to ten percent off your fixed vacation costs. Also, keep in mind what extras you need, from GPS to satellite radio, always know what you’re looking for. Often times, after I’ve secured a rental car, I call the car company and ask if they can include a few extras at little or no extra charge. You would be surprised at how often you can score small upgrades for little or no charge by simply asking for them.

Next question you have is where to find such a pristine Ford Mustang to rent for your trip and how to make it fit your budget. For me, a little research goes a long, long way. From car dealerships to standard car rental agencies, there are many avenues you can use, but here are a few ideas off the beaten path – to help you find the best deal on the car of your dreams. See what your credit card company can do – often times they have discounts that can save you money, they can also provide complimentary car rental insurance, saving you from purchasing it through the car rental provider. Also, check with any clubs or memberships you have, often they can provide discounts for car rentals, or help you score more upgrades. Do an online search for coupon codes for car rentals, check with your bank or credit union, there are plenty of discounts available, you just have to ask for them.

Explore the beaches, shops, parks, and unique eateries that Miami is known for and do it in style and do it at your leisure. Seeing Miami at your pace, leisurely taking in all the fantastic sights and sounds from the drivers’ seat of a sleek Ford Mustang convertible will make this the vacation of a lifetime.

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Florida Travel, Miami, Travel and Leisure

Miami Travel Information for Tourists: What to Know Before You Go

June 22, 2011 Mike 11 Comments

Miami rewards a little planning. The city is spread out, the weather has two very different seasons, and where you stay decides how you get around. This page gathers the practical Miami travel information most first-time visitors look for, with links to our detailed guides.

Details were checked against official sources in October 2026.

Getting here

Airports

Miami International Airport (MIA) is the main airport, about 9 miles from PortMiami and downtown. A free train, the MIA Mover, links the terminal to Metrorail, Tri-Rail, buses and the Rental Car Center.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is about 27 miles north of PortMiami. Fares are sometimes lower, but allow about an hour to reach Miami by car.

Private and charter flights often use Opa-locka Executive Airport, about 7 miles north of MIA.

Trains

Amtrak serves Miami from the north. Brightline runs fast trains between Orlando, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and MiamiCentral station downtown.

Cruises

PortMiami sits on an island beside downtown. If you are sailing, read how to get to PortMiami from MIA and FLL.

When to visit

Season	Months	What to expect
Dry season	December to April	Warm, sunny and less humid. The busiest and most expensive time.
Shoulder months	May and November	Warm, with fewer crowds and better prices.
Wet season	June to October	Hot and humid, with short, heavy afternoon storms. Lower hotel rates.

Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Most trips in those months go ahead without trouble, but book flexible rates, consider travel insurance and watch forecasts from the National Hurricane Center in the week before you fly.

Where to stay

South Beach. Beach, Art Deco hotels, restaurants and nightlife, all walkable. Parking is scarce and expensive.
Mid-Beach and North Beach. Quieter stretches of Miami Beach with larger resorts and more space.
Downtown and Brickell. High-rise hotels, the bayfront, the arena and museums, with the free Metromover at the door. A short ride from the cruise port.
Wynwood and Midtown. Street art, galleries, breweries and restaurants.
Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. Leafy, relaxed neighborhoods south of downtown, both on the Metrorail line.

Miami Beach and Miami are separate cities, joined by causeways across Biscayne Bay. Getting between them takes 15 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.

Getting around

You can cover downtown, Brickell and South Beach without a car. For the Everglades, the Keys and the suburbs you will want one.

Transit: Public transportation in Miami and the free trolleys
Everything else: Miami transportation services, from taxis to bikes
Renting: What to know about renting a car and how to save money on it
Driving: 7 fast facts about driving in Miami and how rental car tolls work
Parking: Miami Beach parking guide

Money

Sales tax is 7 percent in Miami-Dade County, added at the register.
Hotels add taxes on top of the room rate, and many charge a daily resort fee. Check the total before you book.
Tipping is expected: around 18 to 20 percent in restaurants, 15 to 20 percent for taxis, and a few dollars for valets and housekeeping.
Check the bill before you tip. Many restaurants, especially in Miami Beach, add a service charge automatically.
Cards and contactless payment are accepted almost everywhere, including on Metrorail and buses.

Language

English and Spanish are both used everywhere, and you will hear Haitian Creole and Portuguese as well. Most hotels, restaurants and attractions have staff who speak both English and Spanish.

Beach basics

Miami Beach enforces its beach rules. The city prohibits:

Alcohol in public, including on the sand
Glass containers
Smoking on beaches and in parks
Coolers, tents, tables and inflatable devices
Styrofoam, plastic straws and balloons
Loud music

The full list is on the city’s visitor rules page. Swim near a lifeguard tower and check the warning flags. Rip currents are the main hazard, and the flags tell you when the water is rough.

Sun, heat and storms

The sun is strong all year. Use sunscreen and drink water, even on cloudy days.
In summer, plan outdoor time for the morning. Storms usually arrive in the afternoon and pass quickly.
Lightning is common in summer storms. Leave the beach or pool when you hear thunder.
Streets in low areas can flood during heavy rain and seasonal high tides. Do not drive through standing water.

Staying safe

Miami is a major city and ordinary city sense applies. Keep valuables out of sight in a parked car, watch your phone and bag on the beach and in nightlife areas, and use official taxi stands or a ride app at the airport. In an emergency, call 911.

Useful official links

Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau for events and attractions
Miami International Airport
Miami-Dade Transit
FL511 for live traffic
National Hurricane Center

For trip ideas, the Miami pages from Frommer’s, Lonely Planet and Tripadvisor are good starting points, and our own Miami: Explore the Magic City covers the main sights.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month to visit Miami?

For weather, December through April. For lower prices with good weather, try May or November.

Do I need a car in Miami?

Not if you are staying in South Beach, downtown or Brickell. Rent one for day trips to the Everglades or the Keys.

Which airport is better for Miami, MIA or FLL?

MIA is much closer to Miami and Miami Beach. FLL can be cheaper to fly into, but it is about an hour away by car.

Can you drink alcohol on the beach in Miami Beach?

No. Drinking alcohol in public is illegal in Miami Beach, and that includes the beach.

The bottom line

Pick your neighborhood first, because it decides whether you need a car. Come between December and April for the best weather, or in the shoulder months for value, and read the bill before you tip.

Details were checked against Miami-Dade County, City of Miami Beach and airport sources in October 2026. Prices and rules change, so confirm before you travel.

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Travel and Leisure

Visit Florida – How To Save Money

June 15, 2011 Mike 8 Comments

Going On Vacation: Why It’s Time To Enjoy The Summer Off-Season Time In Florida

There’s a secret that most people don’t know about Florida: visiting the state in the off season is actually the best time to go.

It’s a well-known fact that the majority of folks will head to Florida in its peak season, which runs from December until Memorial Day. The goal behind it is the max exodus many are doing to get away from the cold, winters months in the north. However, people do visit the state in its off months, which runs from June until the end of November. And, for them, there is an array of benefits to be had after the greatest chunk of visitors has left.

Three Reasons Why You Should Visit Florida In Its Off Months

1 – Cost

The best reason to see the “Sunshine State” in its off months is the cost. After Memorial Day, every business, from the hotels to the restaurants to the boutique stores, feel the pain of the tourists leaving. These places will drop their prices to encourage the visitors (and locals) to spend their money.

While you get a cut-rate, the service is still top of the line. Customers still expect great service during the off season and business owners understand this. Since your business is greatly appreciated during these off-season months, the service is bound to be better.

2 – Taking In The Attractions

Another reason to enjoy the state in its off-season is the attractions you can visit without all the crowds to contend with. Think about how nice it would be to ride your favorite amusement ride without the hour or more wait. The shopping centers won’t be so crowded and you can find a parking space easier. The people waiting in line for a table at a restaurant are more likely the locals. Plus, the hotels and vehicle rental agencies will offer deep discounts and upgrades.

3 – Taking A Dip

Sure, the summer months means it’s hotter in the state. However, you don’t have to just sit back in a hotel room and enjoy the cool air. Rather, get out to the beach and enjoy a nice dip in the ocean (or Gulf of Mexico). You can also enjoy the hotel’s pool. When you’re out and about visiting the sites, you can get into an air-conditioned room and cool off that way.

Possible Hazard Of Going To Florida In The Off Season

Summer Florida vacations do have some potential hazards associated with them. Summer months are considered hurricane season with the peak of it in August and September. Thus, you need to keep in mind that these storms will form at any point and hit the state. Make sure you stay alert for warnings and prepare yourself with the necessary supplies. If a storm is serious enough, you might want to cut short the trip and head home before the store comes ashore.

Sure, it sounds a warning but remember this: there are millions of people living in Florida all the time and they enjoy the peak season with vacationers and the off-season benefits. For them, it’s worth going through the rough, threatening weather to have that all-enjoyable vacation.

With the economy just now turning for the better (according to government data), it’s nice to know that your family vacation doesn’t have to cost you an arm and leg to enjoy. Rather, enjoy the off-season Florida offers and get away from the hustle and bustle of your life.

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News and Society

Hurricane Season

June 11, 2011 Mike 4 Comments

Hurricane Season

Most everyone on the Atlantic Coast and Gulf Coast is acutely aware of hurricanes. Even if a particular location has not been affected, chances are somewhere nearby has. What many people don’t understand, whether they are residents or tourists, is that hurricanes do not occur throughout the year. Hurricanes rarely occur between the beginning of December and the end of May.

Annual occurrences of hurricanes as gathered through historical reports, hurricane satellite image histories and storm watch data that have originated over the Atlantic Ocean has led to the official declaration of Hurricane Season as being from June 1 to November 30. The National Hurricane Center, operating from Florida International University in Miami, is responsible for tracking the storms.

What is a Hurricane?
Hurricanes, also known as tropical cyclones, are large storm systems that form over the ocean. Most of the world’s hurricanes occur over the Pacific Ocean and affect the Philippines, Indonesia and the east coast of China. Hurricanes that affect the United States almost always occur over the Atlantic. Hurricane season refers specifically to these Atlantic Ocean hurricanes.

A hurricane begins as a tropical depression, which is a low-pressure storm system with winds of up to 33 miles per hour. A tropical depression may develop into a tropical storm when winds reach 35 mph. When sustained winds reach speeds of 64 mph, the storm is declared a level 1 hurricane.

Atlantic hurricanes are categorized through a five-level system. Level 1 hurricanes have winds from 64 to 83 mph. Level 2 hurricanes have winds of 84 to 98 mph. Level 3 winds are at speeds of 99 to 114 mph. A level 4 hurricane has sustained winds of 120 to 137 mph. The most devastating hurricanes are level 5 hurricanes with wind speeds of 140 mph or greater.

In the northern hemisphere, the winds revolve counter-clockwise around a central low-pressure area called the eye. Hurricane satellite photography shows that the eye appears as cloudless circle from 10 to 50 miles wide at the center of the storm. The total diameter of a hurricane can be up to 1,350 miles. However, average diameter is about 300 miles.

Hurricane Destruction
Most hurricanes never reach land. They form over the ocean and die out before reaching land. When the path of a hurricane does lead it to land, the destruction it can cause can be devastating. Many cities and villages in the Caribbean have been destroyed by hurricanes through the years and countless more have suffered crippling damages. Thousands of people have lost their lives due to hurricanes.

Forecasting Hurricanes
Although the official hurricane season is June 1 through November 30, this is no guarantee that hurricanes will not originate outside this time frame. It is estimated that 97 percent of hurricanes originate in this time period. This means that one hurricane occurs outside of hurricane season about every three years.

The National Hurricane Center in Florida, one of several World Meteorological Organizations, is charged with observing satellite images and weather patterns to predict hurricane formation and the path of hurricanes. The Tropical Analysis and Forecast Branch (TAFB) performs the forecasting. The information is then sent to the National Weather Service (NWS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), among other organizations for further analysis.

If a hurricane is deemed a threat to any areas in the United States or the Caribbean, a storm alert is issued. Storm alerts are mostly geared toward areas in the U.S., but International alerts are also sent to other countries for the benefit of the citizens and any tourists on vacation.

Hurricane Season Safety
It is important that everyone on the Atlantic Coast and Gulf Coast be prepared for hurricanes. Tourists who plan to travel to these areas should also prepare themselves for the eventuality of a hurricane.

Some tourists avoid traveling to hurricane-prone areas during hurricane season, but reduced hotel rates and plane fares are too attractive for many to pass up. In all likelihood, the chances that a hurricane will strike one particular tourist destination are very small. The small risk can be reduced further with some strategic planning. Some of the safest Caribbean destinations are the Dutch islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. Trinidad and Tobago are also safer than most other Caribbean destinations.

Even if a resort destination is not directly stricken by a hurricane, the hurricane affects the weather in a much wider area than the hurricane itself. If any hurricanes are predicted for a particular vacation spot, it is recommended to cancel the trip. Some resorts offer weather guarantees just in case. In all cases, it is recommended to read any hurricane safety information available to know what to do in the eventuality that such a situation occurs.

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Real Estate

Reverse Mortgage Information

June 9, 2011 Mike 3 Comments

Reverse Mortgage Information

A reverse mortgage releases the equity in the home in a single payment. A senior reverse mortgage is usually reserved for seniors over the age of 62. The homeowner is not obligated to repay the loan until the owner’s death. At that time, the lender will assume the title of the property as repayment. The owner may also choose to leave or sell the property also. The homeowner may be out of the home for up to 364 consecutive days and the reverse mortgage will still be effective.

The reverse mortgage differs from the conventional mortgages in several ways. A reverse mortgage requires no payments throughout the duration of the loan. All the interest is added to the lien on the property. If the owner receives monthly payments from the equity in the home, the debt on property increases each month. In a conventional mortgage, the homeowner is obligated to make a monthly payment to the lender. Any equity in the property may only be obtained through a second mortgage or home equity loan.

If the property increases in value after a mortgage, clients may obtain a second or third reverse mortgage
based upon the increased value of the home or the increased equity in the home. Most lenders are reticent about approving a second or third lien on a property, because the balance increases over time. Banks must ensure the client will have the funds to pay the loan after their death. This option, however, is an available option for some clients.

Lenders may allow refinancing of a reverse mortgage if enough equity is present in the home. If interest rates are reduced, then some people may qualify for a streamline refinance rate.

Clients must also be aware that when a reverse mortgage is obtained, the amount of money recorded on the loan is higher than the dollar amount actually dispersed. The amount is often misconstrued by buyers as the amount owed on the mortgage. In actuality, the amount is the maximum lending amount given the equity in the home at the time of the mortgage. The required payout is calculated based on the amount dispersed.

Florida Reverse Mortgage and Reverse Mortgages in California

A Florida reverse mortgage is the same as any mortgage anywhere. There are not any credit requirements, income requirements or health requirements associated with a reverse mortgage in Florida. In most instances, the borrower is the homeowner and is of 62 years of age or older. The reverse mortgage is also in conjunction with HUD’s Federal Housing Administration (FHA) as well. The borrower may not owe more on the home than the home is worth. The lender may not seek recourse on the loan through other assets, income or estate.

Best Reverse Mortgages

Reverse mortgages are not popular in United States. In February of 2011, lenders expected the program to expand, but the program did not. Specifically, they expected the FHA Saver reverse mortgage to gain momentum because of its 0.1 percent mortgage insurance premium rather than the 2.0 percent required with regular FHA-insured reverse mortgage products.

This year, HUD has approved over 6900 standard reverse mortgages. This percentage is down from last year. Only 296 FHA Saver loans were approved by HUD as of January 2011.

Reverse Mortgage Wholesale Lender

Experts have found that the senior market represents $4.3 trillion of the home equity available, according to ReverseMortgageWholesale.com. Currently, lenders have only capitalized on 2% of this market share. Because seniors do not have to make monthly payments to receive access to the funds, reverse mortgages are a win-win situation for all.

Clients that decide to obtain a reverse mortgage should keep in mind that reverse mortgages are supported by government funding. The fees and rates are regulated by government entities. Before obtaining a reverse mortgage, ensure that lenders provide full disclosure and a good faith estimate. All fees and costs should be discussed.

Clients should shop around to various lenders to find the best deal available. The reverse mortgage calculator can help someone determine how much cash they would qualify for. Providing accurate information to the lender will ensure that a valid estimate of the amount available will be provided.

Reverse Mortgage Stimulus

Congress recently signed in the reverse mortgage stimulus into effect to help downsizing seniors. They can conserve cash and not have any payments for the rest of their lives. Single family homes, condos, PUDs and other loans are all available. No origination fee and no monthly service fees are required.

Fannie Mae “Homekeeper” Reverse Mortgage is another type of mortgage that is similar to other FHA/HUD monthly programs. The limit on the “Homekeeper” mortgage is $417,000, but clients rarely select this option because the FHA currently has a $625,000 limit. The interest rate is typically 4.5% about the “One Month Certificate of Deposit Index.”

Will I Be Able to Pass on My property to My Heirs?

Clients that do a reverse mortgage may sell the property, pay off the property with life insurance or will it to a surviving family member. The survivor may then refinance the remainder of the mortgage into a regular mortgage and pay the balance due on the home. Heirs may also have access to any equity remaining in the property. If the person dies with no heirs, the lender will accept the title of the property as payment in full until the time of death.

Reverse Mortgages and Property Taxes

Clients that obtain reverse mortgages will be required to pay property taxes annually. Other than property taxes, seniors receive their property tax free. The reverse mortgage actually pays the client to remain in the property until their time of death. There is not cap on the age that a person may live with a reverse mortgage. Principal reductions are also allowed if the senior client decides to take advantage of the property.

How are Interest Rates Calculated?

Interest rates are calculated by the government. An initial rate will be set at the time of closing of the reverse mortgage loan. Some reverse mortgages have variable or adjustable interest rates that adjust according to the market conditions and other reverse mortgages are fixed rate for clients that desire predictability.

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Travel and Leisure

Miami Extended Stay Hotels

May 30, 2011 Mike 4 Comments

Extended Stay Miami Hotels

With its clear waters, tropical breeze and vibrant night life, Miami offers plenty of reasons to visit and stay for a while. Home to several extended stay hotels Miami invites you to stick around and enjoy. The following are descriptions of several Miami extended stay hotels.

Extended Stay America Miami – Coral Gables has a convenient location within walking distance to the Alhambra District and Miracle Mile and only three miles away from Miami Children’s Hospital and Coconut Grove. This Miami extended stay hotel was designed with longer stays in mind. Its studios feature lots of work space and kitchens with microwaves, refrigerators, and stovetops. Other amenities include guest laundry, pet friendly rooms, wireless internet for one fee of $4.99, free local calls, iron/ironing board, personalized voicemail, cooking and dining utensils, and transportation to the Port for an additional fee. You may choose from Studio Suites featuring queen beds, king beds, or 2 double beds. The front desk can help you with mail delivery or copy and fax service. The hotel offers free transportation to and from Bascom Palmer/Jackson Memorial Hospital during operating hours. If you are staying 7 or more nights, then one full housekeeping service is provided and includes vacuuming, dusting, changing towels and linens, emptying trash, replenishing toilet paper and soap if necessary, and cleaning the kitchen and bathroom. This service is given once every 7 days. For $10.00 per service, you can purchase additional full service cleanings. Guests staying from one to six nights may exchange their towels at the Front Desk. Any guests may purchase a $3.00 Refresh Service, which includes emptying trash, replacing soiled towels, replenishing toilet paper and soap as needed, and making the bed with the linens already on it. Neither service offers dishwashing. Check-in time is 3:00 p.m., and check-out time is 11 a.m. If cancellation is necessary, it must be done by 6pm hotel time on the projected day of arrival. Otherwise, your credit card will be charged the first night’s stay plus tax. Each guest room is allowed one pet. A non-refundable $25 per day cleaning fee will be charged on the first night’s stay, though it will not exceed $150. Size, breed, and weight restrictions may apply. Extended Stay America’s policy requires advance payment for rooms. Guest paying by the night will pay for their entire stay at check-in, and guests paying by the week will be charged at check-in for the first week. Children 17 and under stay free in the same room as an adult.

Extended Stay America Miami – South – Brickell is near Jackson Memorial Hospital, the Metro Rail, Marry Brickell Village and Brickell District. These locations are within walking distance, and the Port of Miami is just two miles away. This hotel is also designed for longer stays, and its studios have kitchens with refrigerators, stovetops, and microwaves. Guest laundry on site, $4.99 wireless internet, workspace, pet friendly rooms, free local calls, iron/ironing board, personalized voicemail, and cooking and dining utensils are included, and transportation is available to the Port for an additional fee. You may choose from Studio Suites with 2 double beds, king beds, or queen beds. Mail delivery and copy/fax services assistance is available through the front desk. During operating hours, complimentary transportation is offered to and from Bascom Palmer/Jackson Memorial Hospital. If you are staying 7 or more nights, then you receive one full housekeeping service. This service is provided once each 7 days. For $10.00, you may purchase an additional full service cleaning. You may exchanges your towels at the Front Desk if you are staying 1-6 nights. Any guest can purchase a Refresh Service for $3.00. Dish washing is not offered with either service. Check-in time is 3 p.m. and check-out time is 11 a.m. If you must cancel a reservation, then do so by 6pm hotel time on the projected day of arrival. Otherwise, they will charge your credit card the first night’s stay plus tax. You may have one pet in your room, but you must pay a non-refundable $25 per day cleaning fee, not to exceed $150, which you must pay on your first night’s stay. Breed, weight, and size restrictions may apply. Extended Stay America requires that you pay in advance. At check-in, those paying per night will be charged for the whole stay, and those paying per week will be charged for their first week. Children 17 and under can stay free in the same room as an adult.

Homestead Miami Airport/Blue Lagoon hotel is another extended stay hotel in Miami offers to its guests. Studio suite rooms for long-term guests include a kitchen with stovetop, microwave, and refrigerator. In addition to the guest laundry, personalized voicemail, iron/ironing board, workspace, pet friendly rooms, $4.99 wireless internet, and cooking/dining utensils, you can enjoy the fitness club access. Incoming faxes are complimentary and outgoing faxes and copy service cost a small fee. Faxes, packages, and mail are delivered to the rooms at each business day’s end. Like with the previous two hotels, one full housekeeping service is performed for those who stay 7 or more nights, and it includes the same as above. Front desk towel exchange is available, and the Refresh Service costs $5.00, should you need it. No dishes will be washed. Check-in time is 3:00 p.m. and check-out time is 11:00 a.m. should you arrive earlier than 3:00, you may be asked to store your bags and wait for the next available room. Based on demand and availability, property management might agree to extend your check-out hour. A higher rate may apply to those who depart early. Cancellations must be made by 6pm hotel time on the arrival date, or you must pay the first night’s stay plus tax. The hotel has the same pet policy and fees as the previous two, and they require the same advance payment at check-in as well.

Homestead Miami/Airport/Miami Springs extended stay hotel offers all the amenities of the previous hotel but also offers a pool, an on-site fitness facility, manager’s reception, and daily continental breakfast. You may also request Airport Shuttle to MIA from 7am-10pm. Room choices include a Deluxe Studio with a queen bed and sofa sleeper and a studio suite with 2 double beds. Mail and fax delivery are offered, as well as a two-line phone, incoming faxes for free, and small-cost copy and outgoing fax services. Housekeeping services, check-in/check-out times, cancellation and pet policies are the same as those of the Homestead Miami Airport/Blue Lagoon hotel.

Extended Stay Deluxe Miami – Airport – Doral, in addition to the amenities offered by the other extended stay hotels, offers a document printing station, 24-hour van service, and DVD/MP3 players in all rooms. Deluxe Studio options include 1 queen bed and sofa sleeper, 1 king bed and sofa sleeper, or 2 double beds and a sofa sleeper.

Homestead Miami Airport/Doral, offering the same amenities and policies as the above Homestead hotels, is located in the center of the Doral Business District. You may choose from a Studio Suite with a queen bed or a Deluxe Studio with a king bed and sofa sleeper.

Choices like these make finding a comfortable extended stay hotel in Miami easy!

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