Getting Around Miami Like a Local: Taxis, Ride Shares & Public Transit Tips

🚖 Taking taxis, Uber, and public transportation in Miami

Welcome to Miami, where the sun is always shining, the beaches are always inviting, and getting around town is an adventure in itself. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, understanding your transportation options can make all the difference. As a Miami local and owner of Miami Tour Company, I've gathered everything you need to know about taxis, ride shares, and public transit in the Magic City.

Taxis are a staple of Miami's transportation scene, offering a reliable and straightforward way to get from point A to point B.

📍 Where to find a taxi

• Miami International Airport (MIA): Taxis are readily available on the lower level, just outside the baggage claim area. Uniformed taxi captains are there to assist you.
• Port of Miami: Taxis are stationed at all cruise terminals, ready to take you to your next destination.

🚕 Miami taxi rates

Miami taxis operate on a metered fare system, with the following rates:

• Base fare: $2.95 for the first 1/6 mile
• Additional distance: $0.85 for each additional 1/6 mile up to one mile
• Beyond one mile: $0.55 for each additional 1/6 mile
• Wait time: $0.40 per minute ($24.00 per hour)
• Airport surcharge: $2.00

For example, a taxi ride from MIA to South Beach typically costs between $50 and $65, depending on traffic and exact drop-off location.

🚨 Fun fact

Many Miami taxi drivers hail from Haiti and speak French, adding a unique cultural touch to your ride.

🚗 Ride shares: Uber & Lyft rates

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become popular choices for getting around Miami, offering convenience and competitive pricing.

• Base fare: $1.04
• Per mile: $0.90
• Per minute: $0.19
• Minimum fare: $2.15
• Service fee: $4.15

For a ride from MIA to South Beach, you can expect to pay around $30, depending on the time of day and demand.

💡 Tip

During peak hours or special events, surge pricing may apply, increasing the fare. It's always a good idea to check the fare estimate in the app before confirming your ride.

Public transportation: Metrobus & Metrorail

Miami's public transportation system offers an affordable way to explore the city, though it's not as extensive as in some other major cities.

🚌 Metrobus

• Route 150 (Airport Flyer): This express bus runs between MIA and Miami Beach, with stops at key locations like Washington Avenue and Collins Avenue. The fare is $2.25 each way, making it a budget-friendly option.
• Other Routes: Miami-Dade Transit operates numerous bus routes connecting various neighborhoods. Schedules and routes can be found on the Miami-Dade Transit website.

Metrorail

• Orange Line: Connects MIA to downtown Miami and other key areas. The fare is $2.25 per ride.
• Future Fare Increase: As of September 2025, Miami-Dade County is considering a fare increase to $2.75 per ride, the first hike since 2013. This proposal is part of the 2025 budget and is still under review.

Free ride options

• MetroConnect: A free ride-share service designed to connect riders in transit deserts to Metrorail and Metrobus stations. However, its future is uncertain due to budget considerations.
• Miami Beach Freebee: A free electric shuttle service operating within Miami Beach. To arrange a pick-up, call (305) 409-6636.

🚕 Average taxi fares to popular places in Miami

Here are some typical fares you can expect to pay when traveling by taxi in Miami. These amounts are averages and will vary with traffic, tolls, and exact addresses:

• Miami International Airport (MIA) to South Beach (below 28th Street): Flat rate of about $35.
• MIA to Ocean Drive, South Beach: Usually between $50 and $65.
• MIA to Wynwood: Around $30 to $45.
• Miami Beach Convention Center to American Airlines Arena (Downtown Miami): About $17 to $20.
• Miami Beach Convention Center to Downtown Miami / Brickell: Roughly $29 to $32.
• Miami Beach Convention Center to Key Biscayne: About $50 to $55.
• Miami Beach Convention Center to Zoo Miami: Typically $80 to $105.

Further reading on getting around town

• Miami Airport Taxi Information
• Miami-Dade Transit Airport Express Details (Route 150)
• Uber Fare Estimate Tool

Navigating Miami's transportation options doesn't have to be daunting. Whether you choose a classic taxi, a convenient ride-share, or the city's public transit, there's an option to suit every traveler. Remember to plan ahead, stay informed, and most importantly, enjoy your time in this vibrant city. Safe travels!

💡 If you found this post helpful, don't miss our 14 Must-Know Travel Tips to do Miami like local.