Miami: What to Know Before You Go

The first decision in Miami is where you'll spend your time, because the city is spread out and the traffic is bad. Miami Beach and the mainland are linked by causeways across Biscayne Bay, and a trip that looks short on a map can take 45 minutes at rush hour. Group your days by area, and you'll spend them on beaches and in cafés rather than in cars.

How the city is laid out

Miami Beach runs north to south along the Atlantic. South Beach, below about 23rd Street, has the Art Deco District, Ocean Drive and most of the nightlife. Mid-Beach and North Beach are quieter. On the mainland, Downtown and Brickell form the business centre on the bay, with Little Havana to the west, Wynwood and the Design District to the north, and Coconut Grove and Coral Gables to the south. Our 3-day itinerary takes them one at a time.

Entry and ESTA

Visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries need an approved ESTA from the official US government website before they fly, ideally at least three days ahead. The fee rose in September 2025, and unofficial sites add their own charges. Other nationalities need a visa.

Getting around

South Beach is walkable, and the free Miami Beach trolley covers the island. Downtown's Metromover, an elevated automated train, is free too. The Metrorail links the airport with Downtown and Brickell, and you can tap a contactless bank card to pay. For crossing the bay at night or reaching Wynwood and Little Havana, rideshare is the practical choice.

Service charges and tipping

Many restaurants, especially on Miami Beach, add a service charge of around 18 percent to the bill automatically. It should be stated on the menu and the bill, but it's easy to miss, and some visitors end up tipping twice. Read the bill first. Where there's no charge, tip 18 to 20 percent. Sales tax, and a resort tax on Miami Beach, are added at the till.

Beach safety and sun

Swim near a lifeguard tower and check the flags: red means dangerous currents. The sun is strong all year, so use high-factor sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Petty theft from beach bags and car break-ins are the most common problems, so don't leave valuables on the sand while you swim.

Plugs are the American flat two-pin type, 120 volts. Tap water is safe. The seasons shape a Miami trip more than anything else, as our best time to visit guide explains.