7 Tips to Prepare For Your Trip to Miami
Your trip to Miami promises vibrant cultural experiences, stunning beaches, diverse dining options, and exciting nightlife. Immerse yourself in the city’s unique blend of Latin and American influences, explore popular attractions, and enjoy the warm, sunny climate that makes Miami a top travel destination.
Looking to travel to Miami? Lots of sunshine, deeply rooted culture, beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife, and more all make Miami one of those sizzling destinations everyone wants to visit at some point in life. And, everyone should.
There are, however, a few things you should know before you go. We’ve got 7 tips to prepare you for your trip to Miami. Check them out!
1. Choose the Best Time to Travel
Any time is a great time to visit Miami. Though, there are a few things you should bear in mind. Winter is the busy season in Florida. People from all over the country – and the world – flock to South Florida during the winter months. Due to a lot of snowbirds and tourists, things are more crowded and costs are a bit elevated due to the increased demand.
Visiting Miami in the off-season is great as there are fewer crowds. Summertime brings with it very hot weather, common afternoon thunderstorms, and hurricane season. It also means you can have your choice of spots on the beach.
So when is the best time? Spring. This is before hurricane season and the miserably hot weather, but it is also not as crowded as the season is coming to an end.
2. Book Your Private Jet
Once you decide when you are going, you need to make sure you have a way to Miami before you do anything else. And that means booking your private jet. Sure, you could fly commercial, but why would you want to? There are so many perks and luxuries that come with flying on a private jet. If you are trying to live it up on your trip to this tropical paradise, then go for it.
It is worth noting that since Miami is a happening destination, flying there is often very affordable on a private jet. Plus, the area is very widespread. Depending on where you are going to be staying, your private jet can get you as close as possible by utilizing smaller, private airports.
3. Decide What You Want to See
There is so much to see in Miami. Are you coming with friends? Family? Girls trip? Bachelor party? Some of the most popular areas around the city include:
- Miami Beach’s Art Deco Historic District
- Clubbing and bar hopping along South Beach
- Catching some sun and waves at the beach. A few to consider are South Beach, Virginia South Beach, and, if you are up for it, the only legal nude beach – Haulover Beach
- The lavish Venetian Pool
- Zoo Miami
- Wynwood Walls at Wynwood Arts District
- Art galleries in Miami Design District
- Bayside Marketplace for shopping and dining
- Fishing and boating
Consider what you may enjoy as well as those traveling with you – and choose a few must-do spots on your trip.
4. Book Your Accommodations
There are a ton of hotels in Miami. After you take a look at all the things you’d like to do and the areas that pique your interest most, you can choose where to stay.
South Beach and Miami Beach are two very common places that most people flock to. And for good reason as they are along the coast, full of restaurants, shopping, beaches, and things to see and do. But they are not the only hot spots in the city. Downtown Miami, in fact, is one of the trendiest. Little Havana is another great area to stay, dine, and experience the massive Cuban culture that makes up this city. Finally, if you are looking for a new up-and-coming area, hotels in the Brickell area may tickle your fancy.
The best thing to do is decide where you will spend most of your time and then book convenient accommodations.
5. Getting Around
Getting around Miami is fairly easy – as long as you know what you are doing. Renting a car, bike, or scooter is a common choice. But public transportation is available, too. It includes the Metrorail and Metromover (for downtown) that serve many different stations throughout the city. The Metrobus has nearly 100 routes throughout the city which makes it an accessible option. Miami and Miami Beach have a trolley that easily connects visitors throughout the city.
Of course, Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
Solidify where you will stay and then take the time to know the best options for getting around.
6. What to Pack
So what does one pack when traveling to Miami? Well, first and foremost, the temps are warm and the humidity is often elevated, if not high. Dressing in this weather is imperative if you want to enjoy yourself. Below are a few things you won’t want to miss:
- Flip flops, dress shoes, and comfortable walking shoes
- Swimming attire
- Sun protection
- Sunglasses
- Lip balm
- Beach bag
- Hat to protect you from the sun
- Reusable water bottle
- Outfits for going out to dinner, clubs, art galleries, etc.
As you put together your suitcase, remember that you may want to pack a couple of outfits in case you get hot throughout the day and decide to change. Otherwise, keep it light, cool, and comfortable. Don’t forget your toiletries, chargers, and any other imperative items.
7. Know These Beach Laws
Nearly everyone who comes to Miami is going to go to the beach during their stay. If you are not interested, then you can skip over this section. However, if you are – you will want to know these Miami beach laws so you don’t find yourself dealing with a fine while on vacation.
In general, the beaches are closed between midnight and 5:00 am, with the lifeguards on duty from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. As you head out there for the day, you will want to leave these things back at your hotel:
- Alcohol
- Glass containers
- Pets
- Fireworks
- Firearms
While you are there:
- Do not disrupt wildlife
- Stay off the sand dunes
- Do not drive your vehicle on the beach
- No fires or bonfires are allowed
If you aren’t sure about something, ask.
In Conclusion
Miami is one of the best vacation spots in the United States. From the beautiful beaches to the exciting nightlife you won’t run short of things to do. Book your private jet – and head south.