Miami for a couple of nights, best ideas please?

Question

Hi, last minute request! Landing at MIA on Monday and have 3 nights prior to onward travels. I have booked first night at airport to recover, what’s your best recommendations for nice place/things to do/stay until flying again from Fort Lauderdaleon Thursday? Is there good public transport to Fort L from Miami, maybe South Beach? Many thanks 😊

Answer

For a short Miami visit, you can balance relaxation, sightseeing, and dining in just a couple of nights. Since you’re landing Monday and staying the first night near the airport, the main focus will be your time in Miami Beach and possibly a trip to Fort Lauderdale on Thursday.

Accommodation:

South Beach: Staying here puts you right on the sand with access to nightlife, restaurants, and ocean views. Options include boutique hotels like The Betsy, 1 Hotel South Beach, or more budget-friendly options like Freehand Miami.
Mid-Beach: Quieter than South Beach, good for a relaxed stay but still walkable to the beach. Hotels like Faena or Nobu offer upscale experiences.
Downtown Miami / Brickell: If you prefer a city vibe and easy access to restaurants and bars, consider staying near Brickell or Downtown, which is also convenient for public transport to Fort Lauderdale.

Things to Do:

Stroll along Ocean Drive and the Art Deco Historic District in South Beach.
Relax on the beach—South Beach for iconic views, Mid-Beach for a quieter morning.
Visit Wynwood Walls for street art and galleries.
Explore Little Havana for Cuban culture, coffee, and cigars.
Take a boat tour or rent a kayak in Biscayne Bay to see the city from the water.
Enjoy a sunset at South Pointe Park, a scenic spot at the tip of South Beach.

Dining:

Joe’s Stone Crab – classic Miami seafood (seasonal)
Yardbird Southern Table & Bar – southern comfort cuisine
La Sandwicherie – casual and fresh sandwiches
Zuma or Komodo – for a chic, upscale evening

Transportation to Fort Lauderdale:

Tri-Rail: The commuter train runs from Miami to Fort Lauderdale and beyond. From Miami Airport, you can catch the Tri-Rail at the MIA station; ride takes about 45–50 minutes to downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Bus or Shuttle: Some private shuttle services run between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, usually door-to-door but a bit more expensive.
Uber/Lyft: Convenient but can be pricey, around $40–60 depending on traffic.

Tip: For three nights, a South Beach hotel gives you the best combination of beach, dining, and nightlife, with easy access to public transit for your Fort Lauderdale departure.