Miami Shore Excursions 101: Top Cruise Port Adventures

Get set for an adventure-packed pit stop before or after your cruise! With Shore Excursions Group, you can unleash the magic of Miami’s hotspots. From salsa-filled streets to breathtaking beachfronts, our excursions are your passport to the city’s best-kept secrets. Get hyped for a dose of fun, culture, and unforgettable moments with our tailored tours.

Miami: The Cruise Capital of the World

Miami is one of the world’s leading cruise port destinations, thanks to its strategic location providing easy access to popular cruise routes in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico. The city’s status as a hub for cruise line headquarters ensures a wide range of ships, cruise options, and conveniences for passengers, cementing its reputation as a premier cruise port destination.

And it’s not just the modern terminals that woo cruise travelers to Miami; the city’s year-round warm weather, cultural diversity, lively neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, entertainment, world-class cuisine, and renowned nightlife make for a great pre or post-cruise experience.

Welcome to the Magic City

Also known as the Magic City, Miami — a vibrant metropolis on the southeastern tip of Florida — is a virtual melting pot of various ethnicities that are reflected in its eclectic neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. From the colorful murals of Wynwood to the historic architecture of Coral Gables, Miami offers a visual feast for those seeking cultural immersion. The city’s pulsating energy is evident in its lively atmosphere, with an abundance of nightlife options, world-class dining, and a thriving arts scene.

One of Miami’s greatest draws is its stunning shoreline, beckoning visitors and locals alike to play in the refreshing waters. Shore excursions, both before and after the cruise, become a crucial aspect of maximizing your Miami adventure.

Pre-cruise, visitors can explore the iconic South Beach, basking on the soft sand and enjoying the lively beachfront scene. Post-cruise, the city offers a plethora of activities, from exploring the trendy shops and cafes of Coconut Grove to admiring the Art Deco on Ocean Drive. These shore excursions not only complement the cruise experience but also allow you to more thoroughly experience all that Miami has to offer while you’re in town. At Shore Excursions Group, Miami is in our backyard, a distinctive position that enables us to curate and offer you unparalleled Miami experiences.

Top Picks for Miami Attractions

From thrilling water sports to cultural journeys, there is no shortage of things to do in Miami. The Magic City offers a wide range of exciting activities, from city and bicycle tours to water adventures like deep-sea fishing and yacht cruises. Discover the Art Deco charm of South Beach or dive into the vibrant rhythms and flavors of Little Havana.

Must Stops: Little Havana, Miami Beach and Art Deco

Little Havana

ttle Havana is THE neighborhood to go to if you want to fully experience the Cuban culture, history, and traditions within the city. Many Cubans fled to Miami with the rise of Fidel Castro in 1959, and today the area serves as a vital hub for the Cuban-American community.

Stroll through the streets of Little Havana and be immersed in a spirited atmosphere filled with colorful murals, Latin music, and the tempting aroma of authentic Cuban cuisine; it’s the next best thing to being in Cuba! Calle Ocho, the main thoroughfare, is lined with cafes, cigar shops, and is known for its festivals. Stop to watch men play checkers at the park, and try some classic dishes such as Cuban sandwiches, empanadas (meat pies), pollo a la plancha (grilled chicken), followed by some creamy flan (custard) or tres leches (cake). Oh, and don’t forget to have a shot of Cuban coffee while you are here.

Miami Beach and Art Deco

In contrast, Miami Beach is renowned for its iconic Art Deco architecture, especially in the historic district of South Beach. The pastel-colored buildings adorned with neon lights along Ocean Drive are simply mesmerizing, and harken back to a simpler time. Beyond the architecture, South Beach offers beautiful beaches, trendy boutiques, a blocks-long open-air mall, and a sizzling nightlife scene.

Art Deco enthusiasts and architecture buffs will marvel at the well-preserved structures dating back to the 1930s and 1940s. Miami Beach has the largest collection of Art Deco architecture in the world, with a unique blend of streamlined design, geometric patterns, and tropical motifs — so be sure to bring your camera.
While on the Beach, take part in the local culture with a lively salsa dancing session. Begin the experience with an enticing rum mojito, then find a dance partner for an evening filled with salsa and bachata. An experienced instructor will lead you through a sequence of synchronized steps, spins, and turns, while you allow the contagious rhythm to effortlessly guide you across the dance floor.

From the Untamed Everglades to the Charms of Key West

Discover the Everglades

The Everglades, affectionately known as the River of Grass, is one of Florida’s most unique and ecologically significant landscapes. Stretching across approximately 1.5 million acres in southern Florida, it is a vast wetland ecosystem that boasts diverse wildlife, tropical hardwood hammocks, and cypress swamps. Explore this natural wonder and gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance that sustains the Everglades, as well as the ongoing conservation efforts to preserve this invaluable portion of land.

Once at Everglades National Park, board an airboat for a thrilling, one-of-a-kind boat tour that will have you skimming along the sawgrass at high speeds. You’ll feel like you are worlds away as you marvel at the solitude to be found in the freshwater marsh… only to then realize the wetland is alive — the sounds of birds, the manatees lumbering along in the water, and the splashes of alligators nearby, reminding you that, although you are away from the throngs in Miami, you are not really alone.

Day Tripping in Key West

Heading further south to Key West offers you a completely different yet equally fascinating experience. Known for its vibrant art, historical charm, and stunning sunsets, this large island is the word “chill” personified. Driving down through the 42-bridge chain of islands known as the Overseas Highway to Key West, with the Atlantic Ocean on your left and the Gulf of Mexico on your right, is an amazing experience in and of itself.
Duval Street, the island’s main thoroughfare, is lined with colorful Victorian houses, lively bars, art galleries, and unique shops. Here, you can explore iconic landmarks like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous writer once lived — and where the six-toed descendants of his beloved cats live today. A walk up the Key West Lighthouse rewards you with magnificent views, as well as your cardio for the day. Be sure to stop by the Southernmost Point Buoy to pose for that quintessential photo op, marking your presence at the southernmost tip of the continental U.S.

Hidden Gems and Exclusive Insights

While Miami is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and diverse cultural scene, it also harbors a trove of hidden gems that provide a unique and exclusive experience for those in the know.

Venture beyond the busy tourist spots and discover tucked-away art galleries showcasing local talent, secret speakeasies serving craft cocktails in a retro ambiance, and quaint neighborhoods with mouthwatering ethnic cuisine.

Head to the Wynwood Arts District where you’ll find colorful street art and avant-garde galleries, or escape to Little Havana for a taste of traditional Cuban culture. The exclusive insights lie in the intimate knowledge of these hidden gems, offering a glimpse into the soul of Miami beyond the glitz and glamor often associated with the city. Bonus: they are some of the more fun things to do in Miami.

By Boat

Take a morning cruise around Biscayne Bay, exploring the city skyline from the water as you pass by notable sites around downtown Miami and the port. You’ll see the exclusive Fisher Island, a secluded haven reachable only by boat or ferry, and marvel at the opulent waterfront residences lining the renowned Millionaire’s Row.
Once back on shore, spend some time in the lively atmosphere of Bayfront Marketplace. This two-story, open-air mall offers a mix of shops, restaurants, and bars that cater to every taste. Take your time to wander, indulge in some retail therapy, or snag some unique Miami souvenirs.

By Bus

This hop-on, hop-off bus tour is just the ticket to exploring Miami and the surrounding areas on your own terms. No need to rent a car or hassle with traffic; just climb aboard, put in your earbuds, and listen to the guides explaining what you are seeing as you soak in the views.

This open-air bus takes you to all the hotspots: South Beach, Little Havana, Wynwood, Downtown Miami, and the Art Deco District — passing by notable landmarks such as the Freedom Tower and the Wynwood Walls. With buses available every 30 to 45 minutes, you have the flexibility to spend as much or as little time at each stop as you like — giving you the option to sit down for a great meal or spend some time at the beach along the way.

By Castle

Die hard locals and savvy visitors will know all about Miami’s mysterious Coral Castle. This limestone structure and garden was carved out of 1,100 pounds of coral rock — by only one man and his hand tools! Legend has it the sculptor labored 28 years on this passion project as a testament to lost love.

Some question if he had supernatural powers; others say he applied the secrets of the building of the pyramids. However he managed to do it, you’ll be amazed at what you see, including the 9-ton stone gate that opens at the push of your finger.

By Mansion

Nestled in Coconut Grove just minutes from downtown is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a stunning Italian Renaissance-style villa built in the early 20th century as a winter residence for the industrialist James Deering. Today you can view the art and opulence of this mansion-turned-museum, including the indoor pool. The extensive gardens will wow you with their statues and ornamentals. Before leaving, make sure to head to the shoreline to see the impressive boat-shaped stone breakwater adorned with mermaids.

Tips and Tricks on How to Survive in Miami

Surviving and thriving in Miami requires some savvy tips and tricks to make the most of your time here. First and foremost, pack light clothes suitable for the warm and tropical climate. Miami’s weather is often hot and humid, so breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are your best friends. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are absolute musts, and don’t forget your swimsuit for those spontaneous beach moments.

Staying hydrated is crucial in Miami’s heat, so bring along a reusable water bottle to keep you hydrated, save money, and reduce plastic waste. Miami offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, so having a water bottle on hand will keep you energized and ready for all the adventures.

Miami is also a city of visual delights, so make sure to carry a charged portable charger for your devices. Whether you’re documenting your beach day or snapping pictures during shore excursions, having a reliable power source ensures that you will always be ready to capture the vibrant spirit of Miami.

In a Nutshell

Exploring Miami before or after a cruise is an exhilarating experience that blends urban exploration, outdoor adventures, and cultural immersions, creating unforgettable moments to complement your cruise adventure.

Are the Everglades calling your name? Want to experience Cuban culture in Little Havana? Are your feet itching to salsa dance on Miami Beach? Our travel experts are standing by to help make your next visit to Miami the best one yet. Give us a call today.