For folks in North America who are stuck in the freezing temperatures in winter (like me), Florida may also be on your list for winter getaways or “snowbird” migrations, and Miami definitely stands out as one of the top winter destinations. ☀️
I managed to squeeze in a weekend getaway right before things became crazy between Canada and the US, and I’m so glad that I did. While most Miami guides focus on South Beach and Downtown, I chose to stay in Hollywood – a ‘strategic’ location between Fort Lauderdale Airport and Miami Downtown. Plus, my hotel was steps away from Hollywood Beach 🏖️, one of Florida’s top beaches known for its its white sand, clear water, and the famous Boardwalk.
If you also plan to visit Miami, Hollywood, or South Florida in general, here are some travel tips you should know:
🏖️ Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit South Florida is between November and April when the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 21-24°C (70-75°F). Avoid visiting during June – October (summer months) unless you really love humidity and afternoon thunderstorms.
Travel Tip: December to February are the peak months with the lowest rainfall and humidity levels. While hotel prices may be higher, you’ll enjoy perfect beach weather with minimal chance of rain. Spring (March-April) offers a sweet spot of good weather and slightly lower prices.
🏨 Where to Stay
For folks planning for winter getaways, we all wish to get a luxury experience while keeping it within the budget. Areas around Miami Downtown or South Beach can be a bit costly. If you are like me who’s travelling through Fort Lauderdale Airport, Hollywood may be a great area to look for affordable 4-star hotels, because it’s in the middle of the airport and Miami.
I stayed at The Circ Hotel and highly recommend it. It’s an apartment-style hotel that’s modern and clean, with a gorgeous rooftop pool and dining area. It’s only steps away from Hollywood Beach, has a Publix grocery store right downstairs, and is surrounded by restaurants & bars. Perfect for winter getaways, digital nomads, snowbirds, or anyone looking for that beach vacation vibe without Miami Beach prices.
🚗 Getting Around
RENT A CAR IF YOU CAN! Although I managed without one, public transportation can be… very challenging. Renting a car might seem costly, but it’s worth every penny for the time you’ll save. While the buses here are air-conditioned, they run on “Florida time” – meaning they can be 30-60 minutes behind schedule.
If you don’t drive (like me), here are your options:
Hollywood/Broward County:
- BCT (Broward County Transit): $2 per ride with a $5 daily cap. You can get their bus pass through the mobile app (I got the 3-day pass for $12 – pretty good deal). Remember to download their app (it can be a bit clunky) and activate your QR code for each ride.
- Holly-Go Shuttle: Free local service in Hollywood, the coverage is however limited.
Miami Transportation Options:
- Metrobus: Your main public transit option.
- Miami Trolley: Free service with 10 different routes, running 7 days a week – just don’t rely on their schedules.
- Brightline: Efficient choice for traveling between Miami, Fort Lauderdale (25-30 mins), and West Palm Beach.
- Freebee: Free electric vehicle service covering Miami Beach and South Beach areas.
My Experience: I mainly used BCT in Hollywood and Metrobus for the Miami day trip. While I saved money, I spent A LOT OF TIME waiting for buses. If you’re staying for more than a few days or planning to explore more areas, consider renting a car!
🥪 Must Eat Local Cuisine
- Cuban sandwich – a Florida staple that’s way better than what we get in Toronto.
- Alligator meat – sounds scary but tastes like a cross between chicken and fish! Try the gator nuggets if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Stone crabs – if you’re visiting during season from October to May.
- Fresh seafood – you’re by the ocean so of course!
Travel Tip: If you are a foodie and can handle the summer heat, consider visiting during Miami Spice (August-September). This annual event offers amazing deals at Miami’s top restaurants.
📸 Must-See Spots
- Hollywood Beach Broadwalk – 2.5-mile promenade perfect for walking, biking, or people-watching.
- Downtown Hollywood – great restaurants and Instagramable street arts.
- Miami South Beach – iconic Art Deco buildings and beach views.
- Little Havana – for authentic Cuban culture and amazing food.
- Wynwood Walls: Miami’s famous outdoor museum.
- Bayside Marketplace: Waterfront shopping and dining.
- Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Perfect for history buffs.
🎒 Things to Pack
- Sunscreen 🧴, sunglasses 🕶️, hat 🧢
- Bathing suit 🩳👙
- Water bottle to stay hydrated 💦
🙀 Culture Shock Moments
- Buses are never arrive on time; the bus schedule is more of a ‘suggestion’.
- Spanish is everywhere – it’s basically the first language in many areas.
- Tipping starts at 20%, higher than Toronto.
- People are actually very nice here! At least during the time I visited, I had locals helping me skip bus tickets and offering advice about buses and restaurants.
📅 Special Events Calendar
- Las Olas Art Fair (January)
- South Beach Wine & Food Festival (February)
- Ultra Music Festival (March) – massive electronic music festival
- Miami Film Festival (March)
- Jazz in the Gardens (March)
- Miami Beach Pride (April)
- Art Basel (December) – world-famous art fair
- Hollywood Candy Cane Parade (December)
Have you been to Florida or any other winter vacation places? Share your experiences in the comments below! And if you’re planning a trip, feel free to ask any questions – I’m happy to help! 😊
