If you're trying to get around Miami and Miami Beach without renting a car, it's easier than ever with public transport. Miami-Dade Transit remains one of the biggest systems in the US (and the largest in Florida), with buses, Metrorail, the free Metromover downtown, and more. Here's an up-to-date guide to navigating it all—perfect for visitors or new residents.
Getting around Miami Beach is easy thanks to a variety of public transportation options.
The free City of Miami Beach trolley system loops around South Beach (with North Beach, Middle Beach, and South Beach routes) from roughly 8am–11pm daily, running every 15–20 minutes on average. It's a lifesaver for zipping around SoBe's compact area without melting in the heat—used by locals and tourists alike. Track it via the Miami Beach app or website for live locations. View the trolley map
Freebee is a free, on-demand transportation service available to both residents and visitors in the City of Miami Beach. Call (855) 918-3733, download the app, or hail a Freebee vehicle curbside within the service area.
Miami Beach visitors and residents can take advantage of special Citi Bike free rental incentives. You just download the app to unlock a bike.
Several Miami-Dade Transit routes provide direct service between Miami Beach and the mainland, including connections to Downtown Miami, the Omni Transit Hub, and Metrorail stations.
Metro bus runs across Miami-Dade County 365 days a year, covering everywhere from Miami Beach and Key Biscayne to West Miami-Dade, north into Broward County, and south to Homestead, Florida City, and parts of the Middle Keys. Over 95 routes exist, with some operating 24 hours a day (including overnight service on select lines through South Beach areas).
A single ride costs $2.25—pay with exact change (coins or $1 bills; no pennies, no change given for larger bills) via the onboard farebox, or better yet, use contactless payment (credit/debit card, phone wallet), an EASY Card, or the GO Miami-Dade Transit app. The real win? Fare capping at $5.65 per day for unlimited Metrobus/Metrorail rides once you hit that amount on the same payment method. Check routes and schedules on the official Miami-Dade Transit site or app.
The 150 bus is still the cheapest way to and from Miami International Airport (MIA) to South Beach—just $2.25 each way. It runs every 30 minutes or so from the MIA area (connect via MIA Mover to the Metrorail station nearby), with luggage racks and a direct path to Collins Ave hotels through South Beach, ending at South Pointe. Quick, reliable, and far better than a pricey cab or rideshare for budget travelers. See current schedules on the Miami-Dade Transit site.
Miami Beach is launching a free weekday commuter water taxi service connecting Miami Beach with Downtown Miami, offering a scenic and sustainable alternative to driving across Biscayne Bay. The taxi operates 7 AM to 7 PM. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes. See the schedule
The Miami Beach boarding location is at the south side of Maurice Gibb Memorial Park, located at 18th Street & Purdy Avenue. The Miami boarding location is at Venetian Marina & Yacht Club (Sea Isle Marina), located at 1635 N Bayshore Drive.
Metrorail is straightforward: one north–south line with 22 stops, running 5am–midnight daily. It offers free Wi-Fi and connects key areas like downtown, but skips the airport (use MIA Mover link), South Beach, and many beach hotspots—mostly a locals' commute tool. Fares are $2.25 per trip (no cash at gates—use EASY Card, contactless, or app). Same daily cap of $5.65 applies for heavy use. Check routes and schedules online.
The Metromover is that free, driverless elevated people-mover gliding over downtown Miami and Brickell. It links to Metrorail/bus stations and hits big spots like the Kaseya Center (formerly American Airlines Arena), Bayside Marketplace, Miami-Dade College, and more. Cars arrive frequently, and since it's completely free, you might share space with a colorful mix of folks—just keep hand sanitizer handy for peace of mind. It's brilliant for quick downtown hops. More info on the official site.
Tri-Rail is the commuter train linking Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach (one main north–south line). Access it in Miami via the Metrorail transfer station or airport connections. For vacationers heading to beach hotels, it's not the most convenient—stations are inland—so it's better for longer trips up the coast. Fares are zone-based (roughly $2.50–$8.75 one-way, depending on distance; weekends often have flat rates). Use EASY Card or buy tickets online/app. Tri-Rail info available on their site.
Buses accept cash (exact change only), but Metrorail and best practices push contactless. The EASY Card (reloadable plastic card) is the way to go—tap to pay, autoload passes online, and enjoy fare capping. Buy one for $2 at stations, the app, or outlets; load value or passes (1-Day $5.65, 7-Day ~$29.25, Monthly $112.50+). For short stays, the paper EASY Ticket works similarly (free to get, load up to $40 cash value, expires after 60 days)—though mobile passes via the GO app are increasingly popular and auto-activate.
Give it a whirl on your next visit—you'll likely be pleasantly surprised at how smoothly you can navigate Miami.
Editor’s Note: Originally published February 16, 2012. Updated in 2026 with new details, while preserving Jess Matlin's experience living in Miami.
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