Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay: The Perfect Pre-Cruise Stay

Our stay at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay ended up being one of those trips that just worked so well for both adults and kids, especially with a busy schedule.

We were in town for a basketball tournament at the Miami Beach Convention Center, and this hotel was such a great home base. It’s close enough to everything, including Miami Beach, but just far enough away to feel a little calmer and easier to navigate.

From the moment we checked in, it felt like a win. The rooms are extremely spacious, which makes such a difference when you’re traveling with kids, and we were lucky enough to get upgraded. We also had a credit to spend on property, which we used for breakfast, and it was so good. Sitting there in the morning, overlooking the bay, it just set the tone for the day.

The kids loved seeing the cruise ships from our room.

One afternoon, we walked down to the Opera House area near the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts for lunch at Opera House Miami, which was such an easy and scenic walk along the water. Located in Miami’s Edgewater neighborhood, it has a really fun, social atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating.

We ended up ordering a mix of things to share, which was perfect. A couple of us got burgers and sliders, the kids loved the wings and fries, and we added a fresh salad to balance it all out. Of course, a few cocktails made their way to the table, too. It was one of those easy lunches where everyone found something they liked.

After one of the tournament days at the Miami Beach Convention Center, we walked over to Pizza Tua on Lincoln Road for dinner. It ended up being such a fun, easy night. Sitting outside, people-watching, and just letting the kids relax after a long day was perfect.

We kept it simple here, a couple of Margherita pizzas for the table, a burrata to start, and some pasta dishes for those who wanted something a little more filling. The kids were all in on pizza, and of course we had to do dessert after. It was relaxed, casual, and exactly what everyone needed after a full day.

Pizza time

Another day, we stayed right at the hotel and had lunch by the pool, which honestly ended up being one of the highlights. The pool area is so great for families. The kids were completely entertained between all the games at the pool and on the lawn right next to it. They even got to do a little fishing off the dock, which they loved. It’s one of those places where you can actually relax because they’re having so much fun.

What really stood out to me was how comfortable and safe everything felt. We felt totally at ease letting the kids move around the property, which isn’t always the case, especially in a bigger city.

In the evenings, we’d head back and just take in the sunset over Biscayne Bay. Those views are so pretty and peaceful, it’s the kind of moment that reminds you why Miami is so special.

Things to do nearby (especially with kids)

• Bayside Marketplace: Shops, restaurants, and boat tours

• Frost Museum of Science: Super interactive and fun

• Pérez Art Museum Miami: Great for a quick cultural stop

• Bayfront Park: Space to run around and relax

• Quick drive over to Miami Beach for sand and ocean time

Helpful travel info

Closest airports: Miami International Airport, about 15 minutes away, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, about 35–45 minutes away

Cruise port access: Port of Miami is only about 10 minutes from the hotel, making this a really easy pre- or post-cruise stay.

If you’re coming for vacation

• Spend a full day at Miami Beach.

• Walk Lincoln Road for shopping, dining, and people watching.

• Visit Wynwood Walls for art and photos.

• Explore Little Havana for culture and Cuban food.

• Take a boat tour around Biscayne Bay.

In sum

What I loved most about this stay is how easy it felt. You have the energy of Miami when you want it, but you also have a place to come back to that feels calm, spacious, and family-friendly.

It’s the kind of hotel that makes a busy trip feel like a vacation.

• Don’t forget sunscreen. Miami sun is no joke, even on a “quick” outing.

• Make a few dinner reservations ahead of time, especially near Miami Beach.

• Plan your day loosely, but give yourself extra time for traffic and getting between areas.

• Bring comfortable shoes. You’ll end up walking more than you think, especially around Lincoln Road.

• Built-in downtime, pool breaks, or just sitting by the water make all the difference.

A little planning goes a long way here, but the best moments are usually the unplanned ones

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Miami page.