Getting Around South Beach. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

The Miami-Dade Transit system comprises Metrobus, Metromover, and Metrorail. Metrobus offers an extensive bus network connecting South Beach to downtown Miami and other areas. Metromover is a free, elevated automated people mover serving Downtown Miami and Brickell, useful for connecting to Metrorail.

Metrorail, an elevated heavy-rail system, connects northern Miami-Dade County to South Miami, with a branch to Miami International Airport (MIA). Metrorail does not directly serve South Beach; travelers need a bus transfer. The South Beach Local is a dedicated bus route within South Beach itself, with a low flat fare of $0.25.

Public Transit Elements

Metrobus: Extensive network for longer distances.
Metromover: Free, elevated, for Downtown and Brickell.
Metrorail: Connects county; transfer needed for South Beach.
South Beach Local: Low-fare, dedicated route within South Beach.

Ticketing & Fares

EASY Card/Ticket, Contactless Payment (credit/debit card, mobile wallet). Single ride: $2.25. 1-Day Pass: $5.65. 7-Day Pass: $29.25.

Hours & Frequency

Metrorail: 5 AM to midnight daily (5-15 min frequency). Metrobus: Varies by route. South Beach Local: 8 AM to 1 AM (10-20 min frequency).

Accessibility

Miami-Dade Transit is generally accessible. Buses equip lifts/ramps. Metrorail/Metromover stations feature elevators/ramps.

Navigation Tips & Hubs

Efficient Navigation

Utilize Google Maps or Miami-Dade Transit app for real-time tracking and route planning.
Consider an EASY Card or contactless payment for seamless travel.
Walk to many attractions within South Beach's compact layout.

Important Hubs

Miami Central Station: Serves Metrorail, Brightline, Tri-Rail.
Government Center: Major Metrorail and Metromover transfer point.
South Beach Bus Stops: Along Washington Ave, Collins Ave, Alton Rd.

Freebee Electric Shuttle

On-Demand

Request rides via mobile app.

Free Service

Available in designated zones, including South Beach.

Short Distances

Offers convenient, quick travel within its service area.

Tip-Based

Consider tipping your driver.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services present convenient, door-to-door transportation, especially when time is limited or you carry luggage.

Licensed Taxis

Typically yellow with a "Taxi" sign.
Hail on street (Ocean Drive) or book by phone.
Fares are metered (except airport flat rates).
Payment by cash or credit card (confirm acceptance).

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular.
Use apps on your smartphone for convenience.
Transparent pricing and competitive rates.
Safety: Verify driver info (name, car, plate) before entering. Share trip details.

Rental Options

Car Rental: Min. 21 years old (under 25 incurs fee). Valid driver's license (IDP for non-English). Major credit card necessary. DiscoverCars.com offers options.
Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Specialty shops offer rentals. Appropriate licensing is necessary.
Parking in South Beach: Expensive and challenging. Factor in costs.

Bicycle Sharing: Citi Bike Miami offers extensive network, stations throughout Miami Beach. Hourly, daily, monthly passes.
Private Bike Rentals: Independent shops provide various bike types (beach cruisers, road bikes).
Helmets recommended for cyclists (not legally necessary for adults in FL).

Driving & Walking Environment

Driving Laws

Drive on the right. Seatbelt use is mandatory. Speed limits enforce strictly. Right turn on red after full stop generally permitted.

Road Conditions

Generally well-maintained. Watch for speed bumps and pedestrians, especially in tourist areas.

Parking Challenges

Often difficult and expensive. Street parking is metered. Public garages available (7th St/Washington Ave, 13th St/Collins Ave). Use PayByPhone app.

Walking & Cycling

South Beach is a walker's and cyclist's paradise. Its flat terrain and grid layout simplify exploration on foot or by bike.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Highly walkable: Art Deco Historic District, Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road Mall, Española Way.
Lummus Park: Excellent for leisurely strolls along the beach.
Self-guided tours with Art Deco guidebooks are popular.
Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) Welcome Center offers guided tours.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated bike lanes exist on some streets (beachfront path, Alton Road).
Exercise caution due to traffic on busier roads.
Helmets are recommended for safety (not legally necessary for adult cyclists in Florida).
All of South Beach is generally safe for pedestrians and cyclists; observe urban precautions.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Big Bus Miami offers hop-on-hop-off tours covering South Beach, Downtown, and other areas. These tours present an overview of the city.

Explore at your own pace.
Comprehensive city overview.
Connects major sights.

Water Taxis

Water taxi services mainly operate in Biscayne Bay. They connect points in Miami and Miami Beach (e.g., Bayside Marketplace to South Beach Marina).

Offer scenic views.
Avoids road traffic.
Pleasant way to see the city from the water.

Accessibility Services

Miami-Dade Transit buses and rail systems are generally accessible. Many hotels and attractions also present accessible facilities.

Contact venues for specific needs.
Miami Beach Visitor Center assists.
Inclusive travel focus.

Local Transport hints

Freebee Experience

Electric shuttle service.
Request rides via mobile app.
Often the quickest and most enjoyable way for short distances.

Urban Precautions

Stick to well-lit and populated areas at night.
Be mindful of city traffic when walking or cycling.
Urban precautions are a good idea.

No-Go Areas Generally

Pedestrian/Cyclist Areas

Generally, all of South Beach maintains safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Standard urban precautions should be observed, especially at night.
Stick to well-lit and populated areas for evening strolls.

Crime & Safety

Be aware of petty crime (pickpocketing) in crowded areas.
Stay aware of your surroundings.
Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.

Transportation Insight

For short distances within South Beach, especially during the day, the Freebee electric shuttle offers the quickest and most enjoyable way to travel.

Just download the app and request a ride for convenient, local travel.

Getting Around South Beach