Public transport- what’s free?

Question

Hi, staying on South beach for 3 nights. Have 2 full days. Trying to work out what best transportation option is for visiting little Havana and Bayside market place. Is trolley really free? Do u just jump on? Thank you.

Answer

Miami’s public transport system offers several convenient options for visitors, especially if you are staying in South Beach and want to visit Little Havana and Bayside Marketplace. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available and what’s free.

Trolley Service:

The Miami Beach Trolley is indeed free and covers multiple routes around Miami Beach. You can hop on and off at designated stops along the route. The trolleys run frequently, typically every 15–20 minutes, depending on the line.
For your stay in South Beach, you can take the trolley to nearby attractions along Miami Beach, but note that the trolley does not go directly to Little Havana or Bayside Marketplace.

Traveling to Little Havana and Bayside Marketplace:

To reach Little Havana from South Beach, the most direct option is using the Metrobus. Routes such as the 119 (Airport Flyer) or 120 can get you there. Fares are $2.25 per ride (or free with a day pass if you purchase one for the Metrorail/Metrobus).
To get to Bayside Marketplace, you can take the Metrobus or a rideshare (Uber/Lyft). The trolley won’t take you directly there. Metrorail can connect you to the bus lines going downtown if needed.

Other Options:

Consider using a rideshare service if you are short on time or want a more direct route, especially to Little Havana and Bayside Marketplace. The cost will vary depending on traffic.
If you enjoy walking, some areas of Miami Beach and nearby attractions are walkable, but trips to Little Havana and downtown Miami are a few miles away and better accessed by bus or car.

In summary, the Miami Beach Trolley is free and easy to use within Miami Beach itself. For Little Havana and Bayside Marketplace, a combination of Metrobus or rideshare is the most practical approach. Always check the latest schedules and stops online to plan your routes efficiently.