Miami: Not Just a Cruise Port

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Days With Bethan
Curated By

Days With Bethan

  • Miami

  • City Travel

  • Beaches

  • Food & Wine

  • Cruises

  • Coastal

Advisor - Miami: Not Just a Cruise Port
Curator’s statement

Miami is the cruise hub of the world, and it needs to be explored. This is the ultimate before/after cruise destination. Don’t miss out on Miami Beach, the street art, the hidden streets, and so many food and drink options. I had such great days exploring Miami. Of course, it is very important to me as I have wonderful ship memories here—like reuniting with my boyfriend or seeing friends again.

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Where to stay in Miami

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Things to do in Miami

Walk along South Beach

One of my favorite things to do in Miami is stroll along South Beach and soak up the atmosphere. The beach, palm trees, pastel lifeguard towers, and energy make it feel iconic.

Explore Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive is full of colorful Art Deco buildings, lively restaurants, and classic Miami vibes. I loved walking here in the evening when everything feels vibrant and alive.

Visit Wynwood Walls

This is such a fun area filled with huge street art murals, trendy cafés, and creative energy. It’s one of the best spots in Miami for photos and exploring local culture.

Watch the sunset at Bayside Marketplace

Bayside has lovely waterfront views, live music, shopping, and restaurants all in one place. I really enjoyed sitting by the marina and watching the boats at sunset.

Take a boat cruise around Star Island

Seeing the Miami skyline from the water is incredible, especially while cruising past luxury homes on Star Island. It’s one of the best ways to experience the city.

Spend time in Brickell

Brickell feels modern, stylish, and full of amazing rooftop bars and restaurants. I loved the mix of city views, nightlife, and luxury atmosphere here.

Visit Little Havana

Little Havana is full of Cuban culture, music, food, and colorful streets. Stopping for Cuban coffee and walking along Calle Ocho was one of my favorite experiences.

Relax at Nikki Beach

For a more luxury beach club experience, Nikki Beach is such a fun spot for cocktails, music, and ocean views. It’s perfect for a relaxing Miami afternoon.

Shop at Lincoln Road

Lincoln Road is great for shopping, people watching, and casual dining. I loved the outdoor atmosphere and mix of local boutiques and popular brands.

Enjoy Miami’s rooftop bars

Miami has some incredible rooftop bars with skyline and ocean views. Watching the sun set with cocktails overlooking the city is something I’d highly recommend.

Places to eat & drink in Miami

Joe’s Stone Crab

One of the most iconic restaurants in Miami and famous for its stone crab claws. I loved the old-school atmosphere and classic seafood dining experience here.

Versace Mansion Restaurant

Dining inside the former Versace Mansion feels incredibly glamorous and unique. The courtyard setting and luxury atmosphere make it such a memorable Miami experience.

Sexy Fish Miami

This spot is perfect for a stylish dinner with amazing seafood, cocktails, and vibrant interiors. The whole experience feels very modern Miami.

LIV Nightclub

One of Miami’s most famous nightlife spots, located inside Fontainebleau Miami Beach. It’s the place to go if you want a high-energy night out and big party atmosphere.

Nikki Beach Miami

A beach club I absolutely loved for relaxed luxury, cocktails, music, and oceanfront dining. It’s ideal for spending an afternoon by the beach with friends.

Havana 1957

One of my favorite places in Miami for authentic Cuban food and mojitos. The lively atmosphere and traditional dishes make it feel really special.

Sugar Rooftop Bar

Located high above Brickell, this rooftop bar has incredible skyline views and amazing cocktails. I loved coming here at sunset for the atmosphere alone.

Bodega Taqueria y Tequila

A really fun casual spot known for tacos, tequila, and nightlife vibes. It starts relaxed during the day and becomes much livelier in the evening.

Komodo Miami

A trendy restaurant with Asian-inspired dishes and a beautiful upscale setting. It’s one of the best places in Miami for dinner before a night out.

Café Bastille

One of my favorite brunch spots in Miami with amazing coffee, pastries, and beautifully presented dishes. It’s perfect for a slower morning before exploring the city.

Need to know

Miami is one of the easiest cruise ports to explore before or after your sailing, with many hotels, restaurants, and attractions close to the port area. I’d highly recommend arriving at least one night before your cruise for a much more relaxed start to your trip, especially during busy travel seasons. The airport is around 15–20 minutes from downtown depending on traffic, making transfers very simple.

Miami is also very spread out, so I found Uber, Lyft, and local taxis the easiest and safest way to get around between beaches, restaurants, cruise terminals, and different neighborhoods.

Days With Bethan

Travel Advisor

Days With Bethan

Advisor - Bethan Mae

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