8 Best Miami Shore Excursions: How to Spend Your Port of Call

Planning a cruise from Miami and wondering which shore excursions are actually worth booking? We’ve rounded up the best ones!

Miami has so much to offer, no joke! Even if your ship is docked overnight, there’s only so much time to explore the city. And with so many tours to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones are really worth your time and money.

So, we did the research for you. From Segway rides and speedboats to food tours and Everglades adventures, these are the excursions we’d make time for if we only had a day in Miami.

Why We Book Shore Excursions Independently 

We almost always book our shore excursions independently. We’ve used Viator many times for cruise ship tours, and we’ve never had an issue! The key is to choose tours specifically designed for cruise passengers, like the ones we’ve listed below. 

These tours are built around cruise schedules, with start times and pick-up locations that align with ship arrivals in port. They’re also typically much more affordable than booking directly through the cruise line, while offering many of the same experiences. Plus, if a ship-sponsored tour is sold out, you can usually find a very similar option independently.

Another big advantage is the experience itself. Independent tours often run in smaller groups, which makes things feel more relaxed and personal. You’re not stuck moving around in a huge crowd and competing to get the best views and shots! 

There’s also less risk involved than you might think. Many tours offer guarantees to get you back to the ship on time, and full refunds if your ship is late or misses the port altogether, so you can enjoy peace of mind while saving money. When booking, you’ll be asked for your cruise details so operators can plan accordingly and make sure you’re back well before all-aboard. If anything feels tight, it’s always worth double-checking with the tour provider before booking.

Best Miami Shore Excursions

1. Discover Little Havana’s incredible food scene (best for unique culture)

If there’s one way to experience Little Havana’s food scene, this guided walking food tour is it! In just 2 hours, you’ll cover so much of this vibrant neighborhood, stopping at some of the best family-owned Cuban restaurants to sample delicious specialties all while listening to traditional Cuban music in the background. 

By the end of the tour, you’ll have tried everything from guava pastelitos, empanadas, croquetas, and chicken plantain cups to flan ice cream. And let’s not forget the traditional drinks, including a rum mojito, guarapo, and Café Cubano (on a hot Miami day, there’s nothing better than a cold mojito!). 

But food isn’t all you’ll get! You’ll also meet some of the local artists, watch people play Cuban dominoes, and see skilled Cuban cigar rollers at work in a cigar factory. Along the way, you’ll pass cultural landmarks like Domino Park and the Tower Theater while learning about Little Havana’s fascinating history. Plus, a knowledgeable local guide will accompany you the whole time, sharing local history and culture and answering your questions. 

This tour is especially suitable for cruise travelers with limited time. While port pickup isn’t available, you can easily catch an Uber to the meeting point at the Tower Theater, just a 15-minute drive from Port Miami. We recommend booking the 11:30 am start time, as it should fit well with most cruise schedules. And if your plans change, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

2. Ride an airboat through the Everglades (best for wildlife)

This half-day tour is absolutely perfect if you want to see alligators and other local wildlife up close! It’s also a great choice if you’re after something more exhilarating than your typical Miami sightseeing excursion. Your adventure starts with private transportation in small groups of up to 14 people. Keep in mind, though, that the Everglades Park is open to the public, so you will be sharing it with other visitors.

Here, you’ll spend about an hour gliding through the Everglades on an airboat with no more than 24 people on board. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, colorful birds, fish, and, if you’re lucky, wild alligators lurking in the marshes! 

After the airboat ride, you’ll get to watch a show and learn that the story behind this place is all about rescuing alligators that would otherwise be lawfully removed due to their size or the threat they pose. There’s even a photo opportunity and the chance to hold a baby alligator (not something you get to do every day!).

This tour is especially well suited for cruise passengers since it’s so easy to fit into a port day. Pickup is from the Holiday Inn Port of Miami, just a 5-minute drive from Port Miami, for an additional $25 USD per booking (payable directly to your driver). Even better, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour in case your cruise schedule changes.

3. Get your adrenaline pumping on a speedboat ride (best for adventure) 

If you’re after an adrenaline-packed tour, this speedboat ride is hard to beat! Hold on tight as you race across Biscayne Bay, feeling the wind in your hair while taking in some of Miami’s most iconic sights from the water.

Once you get to your boat (which holds up to 36 passengers), sit back and let your captain show you a whole new side of Miami. Along the way, you’ll get amazing views and lots of photo opportunities of Fisher Island and Star Island’s multi-million-dollar celebrity homes.

You’ll cruise along Miami Beach and South Beach, lined with Art Deco buildings (great photo op!) before returning through Fisherman’s Channel, where you’ll witness some of the best panoramic views of the downtown Miami skyline. It’s one gorgeous view after another!

This tour is definitely a great fit for cruise passengers because it’s quick, convenient, and packed with excitement. It departs from the other side of Port Miami, inside Bayside Marketplace, just a six-minute drive from the cruise port (an Uber is the easiest way to get there!). Look for the yellow umbrella and race flag at the check-in kiosk, but be sure to check in at least 30 minutes before your departure time. 

At only 45 minutes long, it’s an easy activity to fit in if you only have a few hours in Miami. And if your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund. Fun tip: If you want to get soaked, grab a seat in the back!

4. Relax on the water with a private boat and captain (best for relaxation) 

Looking to spoil your partner for a special occasion? This private boat tour of Miami Bay will help you win anyone over! Jokes aside, this really is a fun, relaxing, and unique way to spend a few hours off the boat, spotting celebrity homes as your captain navigates the bay.

You’ll cruise down the Miami River until you reach Miami Bay, and from there the scenery just keeps getting better. You might even see manatees and dolphins, so keep your camera close! 

The best part is that it’s private, so there’s no sharing with strangers. It’s just you and your group, whether you’re celebrating or just relaxing. It certainly helps that you can bring your own food and drinks onboard, so it’s party time indeed (or a romantic dinner for two if that’s your goal). Just keep in mind that there’s an additional $70 USD captain fee per booking for the 2-hour tour, so be sure to factor that into the total cost.

It’s also very cruise-friendly. The meeting point is just a 15-minute drive from Port Miami, and although they don’t offer port pickup, it’s an easy Uber ride away. Because the tour is short and well organized, you can truly relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about missing the boat. We’d still recommend booking the earliest departure so you have more time to enjoy Miami afterward. 

5. Explore South Beach on a food and walking tour (best South Beach tour) 

Want to eat your way through Miami? If you’re a foodie like us, you’ll love this food-tasting walking tour of South Beach. It might sound funny to tell cruise passengers to arrive hungry, but for this tour, you really will want to have room to try all the deliciousness along the way! 

Your excursion includes tastings of everything from empanadas, plantains, croquetas, churros, and tacos to smoothies, Cuban coffee, and even tequila shots. You’ll also pass by celebrity homes, including Versace Mansion, buildings featured in movies like Scarface and The Birdcage, and Gloria Estefan’s hotel.

Lucky for you, it’s a small-group tour with a maximum of 14 people, so you can ask all the questions you’ve had since arriving in Miami. Note that this tour isn’t suitable for vegans, but it can cater to everyone else. It’s also a walking tour, so it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes. The best part is that it runs rain or shine, so check the forecast if you need to pack a poncho, umbrella, or just a cap.

The meeting point is at Bolivar Restaurant on Washington Avenue, just a 15-minute drive from Port Miami. They don’t offer port pickup, but you can easily get an Uber to the meeting point (be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour starts). If your plans change, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time). 

6. See Miami’s stunning Art Deco architecture (best for sightseeing) 

Miami Beach is like an open-air museum and is home to the world’s largest concentration of Art Deco architecture. This guided Art Deco walking tour lets you see so much of it in just a short amount of time. From start to finish, you’ll be guided by a local expert who has seen the evolution of the Art Deco District over the decades and knows it inside and out. 

You’ll see examples of the different architectural styles and learn how they’ve evolved over the last century. It’s hard to believe, but much of the Art Deco District was actually scheduled to be demolished in the 1970s before local preservationists stepped in to save it. Today, it’s one of Miami Beach’s most iconic attractions. Admission to the Art Deco Museum is also included with the tour, but spaces are limited, so it’s best to plan ahead and book early.

This is an easy walk, so most travelers can participate. Just keep in mind that some buildings may have limited wheelchair accessibility. Also, don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring some sun protection! 

This tour is an easy option for cruise passengers thanks to its convenient 10:30 am start time. The meeting point is just a 20-minute drive from Port Miami, and while port pickup isn’t available, it’s easy to grab an Uber there. Just make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes beforehand. 

7. Explore Wynwood’s graffiti-covered streets on a golf cart (best unique tour) 

If you’re looking for a fun way to explore Wynwood, this golf-cart tour is the way to go! Known for its fascinating street art, the neighborhood is covered in colorful murals and graffiti, and you’ll get to see all the highlights in no time. Even better, you’ll get up close to the artwork without wearing yourself out!

Your guide will also take you down streets and hidden alleys, so you’ll see places you might otherwise miss if you were exploring on your own. The murals and graffiti are definitely what most people come here for. They’re always changing, but every new piece is just as impressive and worth pulling your camera out for. 

But Wynwood isn’t all about the street art! It’s also home to some of the coolest restaurants and breweries in the city, and your guide will point them out if you’d like to come back later. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a whole new appreciation for how this once-industrial neighborhood became one of Miami’s trendiest hotspots.

There are multiple departure times available, and since the tour only lasts an hour, it’s easy to fit into your day, whether you’re planning to go shopping, hit the beach, see the gators in the Everglades, or do whatever else you have planned in Miami. The meeting point is about a 15-minute drive from Port Miami. They don’t offer port pickup, but you can easily get an Uber to the meeting point.

8. Cruise around Miami on a Segway (best way to see more) 

Want to see more of Miami without spending hours walking? This 2-hour Segway tour lets you cover much more ground while still enjoying the city’s top sights. And don’t worry if you’ve never ridden one before—you’ll get a 30-minute training session before heading out.

Even better, you won’t have to worry about Miami traffic! Your guide will lead the way along designated bike lanes and quieter roads, so all you have to do is enjoy the ride.

Starting at Villa Casa Casuarina, better known as the Versace Mansion, you’ll glide through the colorful Art Deco District and bustling Lincoln Road Mall before cruising along Biscayne Bay to Bayfront Park, where you’ll enjoy waterfront views, spot mega yachts, and watch enormous cruise ships come and go.

Keep your camera handy! You’ll have lots of photo ops while learning about the city’s history and culture. One thing to know before you sign up is that riders must be at least 12 years old and weigh at least 100 pounds (45 kg) to participate.

This is also a great option for cruise passengers. The meeting point is about a 15-minute drive from Port Miami, and although they don’t offer port pickup, you can easily grab an Uber. With morning and afternoon departures available, you can choose what works best for your shore excursion; just arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour starts. 

Related Read: Have more time in the city? Check out our Miami itinerary for the perfect way to plan your days and experience even more of Miami!

Where to Stay Before or After your Cruise

If you’re cruising from Miami, we recommend staying in Downtown Miami for a night or two before or after your trip. It’s one of the most convenient areas for cruise passengers since you’ll be just a short drive from PortMiami, while still having plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions nearby.

Downtown is also a great base if you want to make the most of your extra time in the city. You’ll be close to Bayside Marketplace and the waterfront, plus neighboring Brickell is easy to reach for even more restaurants and nightlife.

Here are some of our favorite Downtown Miami hotels for every budget:

Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area – $$$ 

Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area is a great option if you want something comfortable and well-located for a short stay. It sits right between Downtown and Brickell, so you’ve got easy access to both areas, plus you’re only a short drive from the cruise port.

The hotel has a modern, business-style feel, with spacious rooms and a reliable setup that works well for a quick stop in the city. There’s also a pool and on-site dining, which is handy if you don’t feel like heading out after a long travel day.

It’s not the most exciting stay, but it’s very practical and easy. Rooms here usually start at around $300 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

The Elser Hotel Miami – $$

The Elser Hotel Miami is a solid choice for cruise travelers who want a little extra space before or after setting sail. It’s right in Downtown Miami, close to the waterfront and Bayside Marketplace, with an easy drive to PortMiami.

The rooms here are more like apartments, with full kitchens and living areas, plus floor-to-ceiling windows in some units. We think this is a great option if you’re staying for a few nights or just want somewhere a bit more comfortable to spread out.

There’s also an awesome infinity pool with great views over the bay! Rooms here usually start at around $280 USD per night. Reserve your stay at The Elser Hotel Miami here!

citizenM Miami World Center – $

CitizenM Miami World Center is a great budget-friendly option if you want something modern and central. It’s located near the Worldcenter complex, so you’re close to shops, restaurants, and transport links, plus PortMiami is just a short drive away, making it super convenient for cruise passengers.

The rooms are compact, but they’re very well designed, with a smart layout that makes the most of the space. The hotel also has a fun, tech-forward feel, with self-check-in and a stylish rooftop pool area. It’s a great pick if you’re happy with a smaller room in exchange for a great location and lower price.

Rooms here usually start at around $120 USD per night. Reserve this budget-friendly stay here before rooms are booked!

Related Read: Looking for even more options? Check out our complete where to stay in Miami guide for the best areas and hotels for every budget!

Thanks for reading!

Miami is one of those cruise stops where you’ll wish you had more time! From racing across Biscayne Bay on a speedboat and eating your way through Little Havana to spotting alligators in the Everglades, there are so many fun ways to make the most of a day in port. We hope this guide makes choosing your Miami shore excursions easy, so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying the sunshine!

Before you pack your bags, check out our other USA blogs for even more travel tips, epic things to do, and places to explore. Or keep browsing below for more inspiration for your next adventure! Happy cruising!

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