Miami is one of the world’s most preferred tourist destination. The pristine beaches, cruise port, and beautiful hotels are key attractions in the city.Miami in Florida is a world-renowned destination for all tourists who love cruising. A majority of tourists tend to go on cruises to the Caribbean.
The Miami weather is one of the best, and you can get to loosen up and laze. Whenever you are planning for a trip, it is salient to check for the right places to stay. It helps you in planning your itinerary for your vacation. The city is a top tourist destination where you can bring your family, lover and even friends to enjoy the deep ocean on a cruise. Why not stay for a few days and visit Miami’s best attractions.
Where Should I Stay for a Cruise from Miami ?
Downtown Area & Brickell Neighborhood
It is one of the finest areas that you can stay pre or post cruise and if you want to experince the urban feel of Miami Florida. With the myriads of skyscrapers in Miami, the Downtown is one of the preminent areas where you need to book a pre cruise hotel. As there are unending views of the port and the ocean; the zone is the home to many luxurious hotels in Miami. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the high rising hotels in Downtown.
Downtown was home to the first development boom in Miami; the growth occurred in the early 1900s with Flagler Street as its core. This area hosts popular tourist destinations, such as the Port of Miami. The American Airlines Arena, which also homes the Miami Heat, is the locals’ favorite destination. For dining out and shopping, the nearby Bayside Marketplace has many options to choose from. Both InterContinental Miami and Holiday Inn Hotel Port of Miami-Downtown are within easy walking distance from the Bayside Marketplace.
Brickell is a blend of urban and suburban lifestyles. This area has several modern and old buildings. Brickell is known to be one of the earliest international attractions in Miami. The famous Royal Palm Hotel, which was opened in 1897, is found in this area along the Miami River.
Freedom Tower is located in this neighborhood as well. The tower is a mark of the entry point for Cuban refugees arriving in Miami in 1959. There are several excellent hotels you can choose from depending on your needs. The services offered at the hotels vary depending on prices and customer preference. Brickell has actually far more options for good dining and shopping than the Downtown area, most within easy walking distance from hotels. Lots of nearby dining and shopping options can be found at Mary Brickell Village.
Miami Beach & South Beach
When you want to sunbath, cruise and enjoy the views of the ocean, Miami and South Beach are the places to be. It is the best area for beach lovers to book a hotel. This oceanfront area provides tourists with a fantastic view of the ocean and pristine beaches. This region boosts of an eclectic mix of world-class hotels.
The beautiful scenery of the waterfront will always be the first thing you will see when you stay in the area, not forgetting the fantastic pictures you can take right from your hotel room.
Miami Beach and South Beach area is one of the most culturally diverse places in Florida. The locale is a culinary hot spot thanks to recipes brought in by chefs from different parts of the world. The area is ideal for both fine dining and casual beachside cuisines. The Ocean Drive skyline, the clear blue waters, and extensive white beaches are a must-see during your stay in Miami.
While staying in this area, you can take a break from the beach and down Lincoln Road. The Lincoln Road is where most of the people in Miami go for routine walks. You can also get into one of the fancy bars around the area for your favorite drink or cocktail. Other typical attractions in this area include Bass Museum of Art and the Wolfsonian FIU.
Miami Airport
If you have an early flight, delayed flight or late arrival, the Miami Airport neighborhood is covered by several hotels that will make you enjoy your stay. As Miami Airport is one of the largest in the US, the sleek architectural design causes it to be admired. Nonetheless, the numerous travel airlines available allows you to get to Florida efficiently.
Miami International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country. Sitting on a 7.5-million-square feet parcel of land, the airport receives more than 157 flights a day. The airport serves more than 45 million travelers a year. For this reason, it is referred to as the ‘Gateway to Latin America.’ Whether you are staying in Miami or on a lengthy layover, the airport has a lot to offer. There are over 250 dining, entertainment, and shopping destinations. Thus, it gives you a feel of Miami even without leaving the airport.
Miami Airport hosts one of the most impressive art initiatives in the world. It is among the few airports with art galleries. The art gallery at Miami Airport displays the magnificent beauty of Florida and the unique culture, lifestyle, and history of South Florida people. If you are looking for a place to stay, the Miami International Airport Hotel will be a go-to option. The hotel is located in the central terminus of the airport with direct access to airline ticket counters. Enjoy panoramic views of the runways from the top of the restaurant within the hotel.
Coral Gables / Coconut Grove Area
People travel to Florida for different purposes, and this is the determinant to the location of your stay. Coral Gables is one of the historical neighborhood because it is marked with attractive historical landmarks, ivy-capped mansions and neat botanical gardens.
The area is very chilled and is suitable for persons who want a peaceful and reposed area. In as much as you may want to go for a cruise, the domain gives you other activities to engage in such as the Lowe art museum and Matheson Hammock Park.
Coconut Grove is highlighted as the most affordable areas, with its location right next to Biscayne Bay. The waterfront site is epic as you can see the cruise ships in the ocean creating incredible scenes. The Coconut Grove in engraved into the culture because it was initially occupied by adventurers in the previous years.
Therefore, the serenity of the places is incorporated with the cultures hence becoming the hosts to different cultural festivities.
DoubleTree Biscayne Bay (Cruise port area)
If you want to make your hotel stay memorable, then this spot could be your top choice. It sits on Biscayne Bay, looking out over the water to Miami Beach and the cruise terminals. From here you are just minutes to the cruise ships.
The DoubleTree name is known for a high-end experience, and this hotel doesn’t disappoint. It’s rated a strong four out of five stars. You’re also near the Perez Art Museum and the Miami Heat’s arena. Keep in mind, however, that this is one of the pricier spots to stay near the cruise port.
- Price: $$$
- Distance to Port: 2 miles
- Review Rating: 4 out of 5
Marriott Stanton South Beach (South Beach)
South Beach is known for its beautiful people, art deco architecture, and nightlife. This spot allows you to experience it all while staying beachfront and just a few miles from the cruise port.
Highly rated, this hotel is a few blocks south of the more crowded spots of South Beach, giving you a chance to enjoy everything without being in the middle of it. It’s also near the famous Joe’s Stone Crab restaurant. If you’re wanting a stay that is very “Miami,” then it’s hard to top this hotel. One more thing — you’re just blocks from the channel out of the port where all the cruise ships pass as they depart.
- Price: $$$
- Distance to Port: 5 miles
- Review Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon(Airport area)
This hotel makes our list because of how unique it is. It’s located just south of the airport (which you can access via the hotel’s shuttle). But what makes this spot unique is that it’s located at the end of a peninsula that juts out into Blue Lagoon. In other words, you are right near the airport, but surrounded by water.
For those wanting the convenience of staying close to Miami International but a feeling that’s more secluded, this spot is ideal. From here you are about 20 minutes from the cruise terminals via Uber/Lyft.
- Price: $$
- Distance to Port: 9.5 miles
- Review Rating: 4 out of 5
How Much Are Miami Cruise Hotels?
Of course the price of a hotel depends on a lot of factors, including the location, type, and brand of the hotel. In general, however, we’d suggest budgeting about $200 per night for a hotel room before your cruise. Some hotels will be more (some MUCH more!) while you can also find lower priced options. But for a solid hotel in a decent spot, around $200 per night is a good rule of thumb. Prices can be less if staying on a weekday night. However, most cruises depart on the weekend.
What About Resort Fees?
Resort fees are the extra charges you pay at some hotels. These fees often run $30-40 and include things like w-fi service, welcome drinks, newspapers, and more. Unfortunately, they have popped up in tourist destinations like Miami to extract more money from visitors and can be widespread.
In our experience, hotels that are near hotspots like South Beach often charge these extra fees while hotels in other spots (e.g. near the airport) do not. Any resort fee should be fully disclosed before you purchase; not sprung on you at the last minute. Just be prepared that your hotel could have one if looking in a touristy area.
What About Staying Outside of Miami Before a Cruise?
The entire South Florida area offers lots to do and see, from Boca Raton to Coral Gables. Plus, with Uber/Lyft, taxis, trains, and more, it’s relatively easy to get around the city, though traffic can be bad.
In other words, it’s no big deal if you want to stay somewhere outside of the port area before your cruise. Just keep in mind that it will take you a bit longer (and be more expensive) to get to the port on cruise day.
The shuttle going to the Port of Miami is complimentary to all our guests, but the return shuttle from the Port is not. You can arrange for a pickup at a charge of $10 per adult and $5 per child, at the hotel, before leaving for your cruise with the same company that will bring you there.