Miami solo travel. Here is your ultimate guide to Florida’s most popular destination, and everything to plan your won trip.
As one of the best solo travel destinations, Miami is definitely perfect to travel alone. It has beachy vibes, Latin flavor, and buzzing nightlife.
Plus, you get to explore art, indulge in diverse cuisine, or unwind by the ocean.
And the city’s energy is definitely contagious, yet you’ll find calm spots too.
Personally, I always found Miami to be walkable, social, and ideal for discovering your own rhythm.
As a result, in this guide I’m hitting all the notes. From when to visit to where to say, from what to eat to where to shop, you have got plenty coming your way.
So, if you’re planning a trip to the Sunshine State, keep reading.
Miami Solo Travel
A Miami travel is sure to make you feel awesome. This town has unique mix of beaches, culture, and nightlife.
Whether you’re into art, food, or just relaxing by the ocean, your Miami solo travel will probably have plenty of it.
For example, expect a super welcoming place with plenty of group tours, social hostels, and walkable areas.
The art scene is a colorful fusion of street, contemporary galleries, and cultural festivals. For instance, colorful murals, world-class museums, and annual events bring together a global creativity.
Of course, the food scene is bold, diverse, and globally inspired. For example, you will find colorful flavors, fusion cuisines, and a strong influence from coastal cultures.
And the beach culture here? Out of this world! Expect diverse experiences, from the lively atmosphere with gorgeous Art Deco backdrop to peaceful sands.
Meanwhile, you should know that when I say “Miami” that I mean the Miami Area. For example, this includes multiple cities.
Although Miami is the largest city, most tourists end up in Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and neighborhoods of Miami like Wynwood.
So, don’t be confused about that 🙂
Best Time to Visit
Planning a solo beach aesthetic? Well, it depends when you go to the Sunshine State.
For your Miami solo travel, you’ll probably want to visit between mid-November and April. This is the dry season.
For example, expect warm but not scorching temps, low humidity, and lots of sunshine. I love this period, as it’s perfect for beach days and exploring the city.
Of course, you should avoid hurricane season, which lasts from June to November. This is especially late summer, when the heat, rain, and storms can disrupt your plans.
Meanwhile, winter is a fun season. For example, it brings tons of events like Art Basel and South Beach Wine & Food Festival, giving you extra things to do.
Just book early—this is peak tourist season, and accommodations can fill up fast.
Arrival for Miami Solo Travel
Get your travel outfit ideas together before leaving. This is because the airports for your Miami solo travel are chic, chic, and chic.
Generally speaking, you’ll fly into Miami International Airport (MIA). It’s just 8 miles from downtown—super convenient.
As you would expect, this airport is a major international hub, so flights in and out are frequent.
Of course, your transportation options are plenty. For example, you can take the Metrorail Orange Line directly from the airport to central areas, or grab a taxi, Uber, or rental car easily.
Alternatively, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is a great option. This is about 30–40 minutes away and sometimes cheaper, especially for domestic flights.
Both airports are well connected, but MIA will drop you closer to the heart of the action.
If you’re traveling from a cold part of the world, the airports have plenty of clean bathrooms. This means you can quickly change into weather-appropriate attire.
Miami Solo Travel Destinations
Miami neighborhoods are unique destinations across the entire area. As you will see, they are all so different.
For your Miami solo travel, I high recommend basing yourself in South Beach. This is especially the case if you love nightlife, art deco vibes, and being steps from the sand.
Of course, Wynwood is a must for the artsy. Expect street art, hipster cafés, and an artsy, walkable feel. The walls in this neighborhood are gorgeous!
For a more upscale, relaxed experience, stay in Brickell. This is Miami’s sleek financial district with rooftop bars and bay views.
Meanwhile, Coconut Grove is great if you want a quieter, green, village-like neighborhood. I really love this neighborhood.
Also, Fort Lauderdale is super cool. It has a huge gay culture, beaches, and so much more to explore for your trip.
All of these areas are solo-travel-friendly, safe, and well connected by public transit or rideshare options.
What to Eat
Get your food travel aesthetic plans out. Your Miami solo travel is full of delicious, gorgeous moments to experience and capture.
First of all, you must try Cuban cuisines. Cuban sandwich, for example. It’s a crispy, savory, and unforgettable.
Pair it with a cafecito, a sweet espresso, for the full experience.
And, you definitely don’t want skip ceviche or arepas. This is especially in Wynwood or Little Havana.
Of course, croquetas are a beloved snack. And, in Miami, ham ones are the classic you’ve got to try.
For sweet treats, try pastelitos. These are pastries filled with guava, cream cheese, or both.
Then, head over to Little Haiti and try the classics. Start with griot (crispy fried pork), tassot (fried beef or goat), and diri ak djon djon (black mushroom rice).
Also, I absolutely love miss pikliz, a spicy pickled slaw, or akra, crispy malanga fritters.
Enjoy the classics with a refreshing glass of jus grenadia, a delicious passion fruit juice.
Meanwhile, if you’re feeling fancy, Miami has incredible seafood. One of my favorites is stone crabs (in season from October to May).
Plus, the whole world is here. For example, there are plenty of Indian, Italian, Chinese, and so much more to try.
And, of course, there are a lot of high-end, moderen eateries, too. There are 10+ restaurants that have Michelin stars.
So, the mix of Caribbean, Latin American, and Southern flavors will keep your taste buds hyped.
Popular Attractions
As one of the best vacation destinations in the world, your Miami solo travel is full of awesome things to see and do.
Start with South Beach. This part of Miami is full of opportunities for views, people-watching, and ocean dips. For example, walk Ocean Drive and admire the art deco buildings.
Then, go explore Wynwood Walls. I think many travelers love coming here because of the jaw-dropping street art.
After that, visit Little Havana. This Cuban neighborhood is perfect for culture, cigars, and domino games at Máximo Gómez Park.
Of course, you should definitely check out the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. I love this place because it feels like a European palace in Miami.
Meanwhile, don’t miss the Perez Art Museum. For example, this is really perfect if you’re into modern art.
If you want to hop from one gay bar to the next, Wilton Manors is your spot. This Fort Lauderdale-adjacent small town has awesome queer nightlife.
And if you’re into nature, take a trip to the Everglades. Experience airboat rides and gator spotting.
In other words, so much to experience!
Miami Solo Travel Shopping
Travel shopping may be a necessary thing, but this is definitely one destinations where the experience is fun!
For your Miami solo travel, you’ve got amazing shopping options in. For example, head to Lincoln Road Mall in South Beach.
Lincoln Road is awesome, especially for open-air strolling, trendy boutiques, and big-name brands.
Then, there is Brickell City Centre. It presents luxury stores in a sleek, modern setting.
For artsy, local vibes, shop in Wynwood. This neighborhood is so great and you’ll find unique fashion, home goods, and galleries.
Meanwhile, Dolphin Mall near the airport is something you should not miss. I absolutely love this place as it’s great for outlet deals.
And Bal Harbour Shops is where you go if you’re feeling luxe and designer-minded. This chic community is cute to go for stroll, too.
Want something authentic? Check out local markets like the Bayside Marketplace for souvenirs, crafts, and live music as you shop along the bay.
Day Trips
Your Miami solo travel is a chance to go couple of day trips. Depending on what you prefer, there are options.
For example, travelers love to take a solo-friendly day trip to the Everglades. It’s just 45 minutes away and perfect for wildlife and adventure.
If you want a beach break, head to Key Biscayne or Hollywood Beach for quieter shores. Key Biscayne has an island vibe.
For a longer adventure, drive down to Key Largo (about 1.5 hours). This place is awesome for snorkeling or kayaking in crystal waters.
Of course, Boca Raton or Delray Beach are great. They both have artsy downtowns and coastal charm.
Meanwhile, there are also boat tours to nearby islands. You may decide to visit Fisher Island or Stiltsville if you’re craving something unique but still close.
And, of course, Orlando is a longer trip. You can leave early, get there for lunch, see Disney, and drive back in the evening for a midnight return.
So, yeah, you have great options to choose from.
7-Day Miami Solo Travel Itinerary
Although a 7-day Miami solo travel itinerary is great, just be prepared to be wrapped into a whirlwind.
Start your trip by landing at MIA and heading straight to South Beach. Check into your hotel, unwind with a stroll down Ocean Drive, and catch the sunset at Lummus Park.
On Day 2, explore the Art Deco Historic District in the morning, relax on the beach, then enjoy dinner and dancing in South Beach.
Day 3 might whisk you to Wynwood. Spend the day admiring street art at Wynwood Walls, browsing indie boutiques, and grabbing tacos or arepas at a food truck.
On Day 4, jump into Cuban culture with a self-guided tour of Little Havana. Sip a cafecito, watch locals play dominoes, and maybe take a salsa class at night.
Day 5 is all about nature. Book a half-day airboat tour of the Everglades to spot gators and birds, then chill with a sunset dinner in Coconut Grove.
On Day 6, hit up the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in the morning, followed by an afternoon lounging on Key Biscayne’s quieter beaches.
Wrap up your adventure on Day 7 with a lazy brunch in Brickell, a bit of last-minute shopping or museum hopping, and one last walk along the waterfront before heading to the airport.
End your solo trip feeling refreshed, inspired, and sun-kissed.
What to Avoid
Although your Miami solo travel is going to be a great experience, there are still a few things to avoid.
First of all, avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas. This is especially in downtown after business hours—it quiets down fast.
Skip visiting during spring break (March), unless you’re intentionally seeking rowdy crowds and inflated prices. It gets super chaotic, too.
Of course, you should definitely be cautious about beach gear left unattended. Miami has occasional petty theft.
Also, don’t underestimate the sun. I highly recommend that you wear sunscreen even on cloudy days.
While public transport is okay in some areas, avoid relying on it late at night. Opt for rideshare.
And, please, don’t forget to tip. Miami is expensive place to live and serving staff expect around 15–20%.
Final Thoughts
Solo travelers love Miami. This destination has an awesome culture, walkable neighborhoods, beach relaxation, buzzing nightlife, and endless activities.
All of that make it easy to explore, connect, and unwind on your own.
Plus, it’s one of those bucket list things. Every traveler should experience this town at least once in their lifetime.
In this guide, I tried to give you a balanced picture, so go ahead and plan your Miami solo travel.
Enjoy your trip!
AJ Paris is a travel photographer based in New York. He is the editor of Caravanzers.
Follow us on Pinterest.