Before you go · Miami & Miami Beach
Miami essentials
The practical things worth knowing before you arrive, so you can spend your time on the beach and in the city.
Updated October 2026
Entry: visas and ESTA
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries, including the UK and most EU countries, can visit the United States for up to 90 days without a visa but must have an approved ESTA before they travel. Apply only on the official site, esta.cbp.dhs.gov; other sites charge extra. Everyone else needs a visa. Rules change, so check the US government’s official pages before you book.
Money, prices and tipping
The currency is the US dollar. Cards, including contactless and phone payments, are accepted almost everywhere. Prices in shops and restaurants usually exclude sales tax, which is added at the till. Tipping is expected: 18–20% of the bill at table-service restaurants, a dollar or two per drink at bars, and something for hotel staff and drivers.
Arriving and getting around
Miami International Airport (MIA) is the main gateway. The MIA Mover links the terminal to the Miami Intermodal Center for Metrorail, Tri-Rail and the Rental Car Center; Uber and Lyft pick up on Levels 1 and 2, and taxis run on the meter. Fort Lauderdale (FLL), about 30 miles north, has a Brightline connector shuttle.
Downtown and Brickell are linked by the Metromover, which has no fare; Miami Beach runs its own trolley routes, also with no fare. Drive on the right; turning right on red after a full stop is allowed unless signs say otherwise.
Miami and Miami Beach
Miami Beach is a separate city on a barrier island across Biscayne Bay, linked to Miami by causeways. South Beach, Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue and Lincoln Road are all in Miami Beach; Brickell, downtown, Wynwood, the Design District and Little Havana are in the City of Miami.
Hurricane season
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from 1 June to 30 November, with the greatest risk usually from August to October. If you travel then, buy travel insurance that covers storms, follow the National Hurricane Center’s forecasts and the instructions of Miami-Dade County Emergency Management, and leave if an evacuation is ordered for your area.
Beach safety
Swim near lifeguards, obey the warning flags and watch for rip currents. Use plenty of sun protection and drink water; the sun is strong all year.
Health and insurance
Medical care in the US is excellent but expensive: make sure your travel insurance covers medical treatment. Mount Sinai Medical Center is the main hospital on Miami Beach, and Jackson Memorial and UHealth Tower are in Miami’s Health District; for an emergency, call 911.
Questions and answers
Is Miami Beach the same as Miami?
No. Miami Beach is a separate city across Biscayne Bay, home to South Beach, Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road.
Which airport is closest to South Beach?
Miami International Airport (MIA). Fort Lauderdale (FLL) is about 30 miles north and can be a good alternative.
When is hurricane season in Miami?
From 1 June to 30 November, with the highest risk usually between August and October.
Entry rules, fees and taxes change. Always check official government sources before you travel.