Tipping in Miami: What To Know Before You Eat, Drink, or Take a Taxi

Tipping guidelines in Miami

If you’re planning a vacation in Miami, you’ll quickly notice something that can throw travelers off: the world of tipping. Whether you’re sipping mojitos on Ocean Drive, hopping in a taxi to South Beach, or joining a guided tour, you’ll want to know how much to tip—and when. Tipping in the United States is more than just polite; it’s part of the culture, especially here in Miami.

As a Miami local and tour company owner, I’ve seen it all: from visitors who tip generously to those who accidentally double-tip, to one guy who left an actual coconut on the table as “payment” (true story, but the waiter wasn’t amused).

So let’s break it down—fun facts, weird stories, and all.

Why tipping matters in the United States

• In the U.S., tipping isn’t just a “thank you”—it’s how many service workers make a living. Minimum wage laws for tipped employees are lower than for other jobs.
• Servers, bartenders, and drivers often rely on tips to make up the bulk of their income. Skipping out on gratuity is like not paying for part of your meal.
• In Miami, where hospitality is king, tipping is considered part of the social contract.

💰 How much to tip in Miami

Here are the standard guidelines you’ll want to keep in your back pocket:

• Restaurants: 15–20% of the bill before tax. If service is outstanding, 22–25% is a nice way to show appreciation.
• Bars: $1–2 per drink, or 20% of the tab if you’re keeping a running bill.
• Taxis & Rideshares: 15–20% of the fare. Round up for short trips.
• Hotel Staff:
  • Bellhops: $2–$5 per bag
  • Housekeeping: $2–$5 per night (leave it daily, as staff rotates)
  • Concierge: $5–$20, depending on the service (tickets to a sold-out show deserve more than directions to the pool).
• Tour Guides and Drivers: 10–20% of the tour cost, depending on service and length.
• Spas and Salons: 18–20%.

🚨 The secret Miami waiters don't want you to know

Here’s where Miami likes to keep you on your toes: in Miami Beach, many restaurants automatically include an 18–20% service charge.

• Always check your bill before adding a tip—you don’t want to double up.
• The fine print sometimes labels it “service charge,” “gratuity,” or “autograt.”
• Pro tip: If it’s already included, you can still add extra cash for great service, but it’s not required.

Weird quirks & fun facts about tipping

• The word “TIP” is often said to stand for “To Insure Promptness.” That’s more legend than fact, but it’s catchy enough that it stuck.
• Tipping actually started in Europe, but Americans took it to the next level after the Civil War when wealthy travelers brought the practice back from abroad.
• Not all countries tip. In Japan, tipping can be seen as rude. In Australia, it’s optional. In Miami, not tipping will earn you some serious side-eye.
• One Miami Beach bar once made headlines because tourists kept walking out without tipping—so the owner started adding an automatic 25% gratuity. It worked, but people weren’t happy.

Things you might want to know before you sail or stay

• Many cruise passengers ask me if tipping is different when they’re on shore in Miami. Answer: No—the same U.S. rules apply.
• At casual spots like food trucks or coffee counters, a tip jar is often front and center. Even tossing in $1 is appreciated.
• Using a card? Most payment tablets now spin around asking for a tip—15%, 20%, or “custom.” It can feel awkward, but it’s expected in Miami.

Quick do’s and don’ts of tipping in Miami

Do:

• Always carry small bills for bellhops, valet, and quick services.
• Tip more generously for exceptional service.
• Double-check if gratuity is already included before adding extra.

Don’t:

• Assume tipping is optional—it’s expected.
• Leave coins (except at a coffee counter).
• Forget that tour guides and drivers work just as hard as servers.

Why knowing tipping rules saves you stress

Learning how much to tip in Miami can feel tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll blend in like a local. Plus, good tipping not only makes someone’s day, it often means better service for you—bartenders remember who tips well, and so do bellhops.

Think of it as part of the Miami experience: sun, sand… and gratuity.

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