Late November

Question

I have 2-3 couples going to Miami at the end of November for Dolphins vs Saints game. I would like to spend a couple days in Miami then drive down and spend a few day in the keys. Any recommendations on hotels for the short time in Miami and any tips/must see while there?

Answer

For a short stay in Miami around a Dolphins vs Saints game, you’ll want accommodations that are convenient for both sightseeing and easy access to Hard Rock Stadium (or wherever the game is being held). Staying near downtown, Brickell, or Miami Beach gives you a mix of restaurants, nightlife, and beach access.

Some recommended hotels for couples include:

1 Hotel South Beach – upscale, eco-friendly, beach access, great pool and restaurants
The Confidante Miami Beach – classic beach hotel with stylish decor and ocean views
Kimpton EPIC Hotel (Downtown/Brickell) – convenient for downtown sightseeing and nightlife
W South Beach – trendy, luxurious, great for couples and walking to the beach

While in Miami for a couple of days, don’t miss the following experiences:

Wynwood Walls – colorful street art and galleries
Little Havana – try Cuban coffee, pastries, and explore Calle Ocho
Miami Design District – upscale shopping and art installations
Ocean Drive & Lincoln Road (South Beach) – for people-watching, casual dining, and beach walks
Everglades airboat tour – if you want a short nature escape before heading south

Driving down to the Florida Keys from Miami takes roughly 3-4 hours to Key Largo and 4.5-5 hours to Key West. Suggested stops along the way for a relaxed trip:

Key Largo – John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling or kayaking
Islamorada – Robbie’s Marina for feeding tarpon and casual waterside dining
Marathon – Turtle Hospital and Sombrero Beach for a laid-back vibe
Key West – Duval Street for nightlife, Mallory Square for sunset celebration, historic sites like Ernest Hemingway Home

Tips for your trip:

Book hotels in Miami early, especially around game weekends.
Consider traffic when driving to the Keys; leaving early in the day helps avoid congestion.
For the Keys, staying 1-2 nights in Islamorada or Marathon and 2-3 nights in Key West provides a relaxed pace.
Pack sunscreen and light layers; late November can be warm during the day but cooler in the evenings.

This itinerary balances game-related convenience with sightseeing in Miami and a laid-back exploration of the Keys without rushing.