HOTELS NEAR MIAMI CRUISE PORT
Hotels Near Port of Miami (2025 Guide for Cruise Travelers)
Planning a cruise from Miami? You’re not alone, PortMiami is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, welcoming millions of passengers every year…
For many travelers, the journey starts the night before departure.
Our team specializes in cruise travel planning and reviews feedback from platforms like Tripadvisor, Booking.com, Google, and CruiseCritic. This guide combines independent research with real traveler insights to help you choose the best Port of Miami hotel.
Choosing the right hotel near Miami cruise port can make your trip smoother, whether you want to avoid early-morning stress, enjoy a night in the downtown area, or take advantage of shuttle services directly to the terminals.
In this guide, we cover every type of accommodation close to Port of Miami. You’ll find walking-distance hotels for maximum convenience, shuttle hotels that take you straight to your ship, and options without where a quick Uber or taxi will do the trick.
We’ll also highlight budget-friendly choices, luxury properties, and airport hotels with cruise packages that combine parking, transfers, and overnight stays.
Unlike booking sites, this is an independent guide created for cruise travelers. Our goal is to give you clear, practical information so you can easily compare your options and pick the hotel that fits your travel style and budget.
Whether you’re looking for comfort, affordability, or a bit of luxury before setting sail, you’ll find a complete overview of Port of Miami hotels right here.
Jump ahead to:
1. Hotels Within Walking Distance of PortMiami
Technically, no hotel is located inside Port of Miami itself. All cruise terminals are on Dodge Island, across the causeway from Downtown Miami.
However, a handful of downtown properties are close enough that some passengers consider them “walking distance.” These hotels are generally within 1–1.5 miles of the terminals.
While fit travelers with light luggage could walk, most cruisers recommend a short taxi or Uber for comfort, especially given Miami’s heat, traffic, and the practical challenge of rolling bags across a busy causeway.
That said, staying in this area has major advantages. Hotels put you just minutes from the port while also keeping you close to Bayside Marketplace, Bayfront Park, and plenty of restaurants and nightlife. It’s a lively, convenient spot to spend the night before sailing.
Hotels Near Port of Miami (Short Ride or Walkable):
- Holiday Inn Port of Miami-Downtown – Located directly across from Bayside Marketplace, about 1.3 miles (2 km) from the cruise terminals.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: 5–7 minutes, around $15. - InterContinental Miami – Upscale option in Downtown, about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from PortMiami.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: 6–8 minutes, around $15–18. - YVE Hotel Miami – Boutique-style property near Bayfront Park, roughly 1.4 miles (2.2 km) from the port.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: 6–7 minutes, around $15. - CitizenM Miami Worldcenter – Stylish, modern hotel with compact but cleverly designed rooms and a lively rooftop pool. Located about 1.6 miles (2.5 km) from PortMiami in the new Worldcenter district, it’s close to downtown attractions and public transport.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: 7–9 minutes, around $15–18.
Our Take & Guest Feedback – Holiday Inn Port of Miami-Downtown
On our last visit to the Holiday Inn Downtown, we loved the unbeatable location right across from Bayside Marketplace. Shops, dining, and entertainment are just steps away, which makes it an easy choice for a short stay before a cruise. Rooms are basic but functional, exactly what most cruise passengers need for one night.
👍 What travelers liked
- Excellent location across from Bayside Marketplace
- Affordable compared to nearby upscale hotels
- Easy 5–7 minute taxi or Uber to Miami port
⚠️ Common downsides
- Rooms and interiors feel dated
- Service can be inconsistent during busy cruise weekends
- Some guests mention street noise from downtown traffic
💬 Quote
“Perfect spot for one night before cruising — you can walk to restaurants and shops.”
📝 Sources
Based on recent guest reviews on Google and Tripadvisor.
#Tip for cruisers
- Walking is technically possible from some hotels, but most travelers prefer a short taxi/Uber with luggage.
- Expect to pay around $15–20 for a 5–10 minute ride to the terminals.
- Staying downtown also gives you easy access to Bayside Marketplace, dining, and entertainment.
- No need to rush. With the port only a few minutes away, you can enjoy breakfast or sightseeing before boarding.
2. Closest Hotels by Terminal
Miami cruise port is home to multiple cruise terminals (A Royal Caribbean, AA MSC, through J), each serving different cruise lines. While no hotels are located directly inside the port itself, several Downtown and Brickell properties sit just across the causeway. These are the closest realistic options for cruise passengers, all within a 5–10 minute taxi or Uber ride.
Distances are short, but comfort and safety make a car ride the best choice when traveling with luggage.
Depending on which cruise line you’re sailing with, you may want to know which hotels are closest to your specific terminal. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Terminals A–AA (Royal Caribbean, MSC)
- Holiday Inn Port of Miami-Downtown – One of the closest and most budget-friendly downtown hotels, about 2.6 miles from the A and AA cruise terminals.
- InterContinental Miami – Upscale bayfront property, ~2.8 miles away.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: about 7-14 minutes. Fares from both hotels typically range from $11–18 depending on traffic and whether you take Uber or a traditional taxi.
Terminals B to F (Norwegian, Carnival)
- YVE Hotel – Boutique-style property near Bayfront Park with easy access to shopping and dining. About 1.9 miles from Port of Miami.
- citizenM Miami Worldcenter – Modern lifestyle hotel with compact but stylish rooms and a vibrant lobby atmosphere. Roughly 1.8 miles from the cruise port.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: 5–8 minutes, usually $11–14. Prices vary slightly between ride-share and regular cabs, and may increase during rush hour.
Terminals G-V (Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages)
- YOTEL Miami – Sleek, modern hotel near Bayfront Park with compact “smart” rooms and a rooftop pool. About 2.1 miles from Virgin Voyages terminal V.
- The Elser Hotel Miami – An All-Suite Hotel – Spacious suites with kitchens and balconies, ideal for families or longer stays. Roughly 1.8 miles from the terminal.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: around 5–12 minutes. Expect to pay about $11–18 depending on the time of day and service chosen.
Terminal J (Luxury lines & smaller ships)
- JW Marriott Marquis Miami – High-end property in Brickell, ~1.7 miles from the port.
- Kimpton EPIC Hotel by IHG – Modern luxury with rooftop pools and great views, ~1.7 miles from PortMiami.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: around 5–10 minutes. Fares usually fall between $13–20, depending on traffic.
#Tips for Cruisers
Even the “closest” hotels are separated from the port by a bridge. Walking is technically possible from downtown, but nearly all travelers recommend a short ride for safety and convenience.
3. Hotels Offering Shuttle Options (Quick Overview)
For many cruise passengers, convenience is everything. Hotels that provide direct shuttle service to Port of Miami are a popular choice because they eliminate the hassle of arranging taxis or ride-shares on embarkation day.
Some hotels include the service as a free perk, while others charge a modest fee (usually $10–15 per person).
Airport hotels, in particular, often combine free airport transfers with optional cruise shuttles, making them attractive for both flyers and drivers.
Here are a few hotels frequently recommended by cruisers:
- Comfort Suites Miami Airport North – One of the most popular pre-cruise hotels. Offers free airport transfers and complimentary shuttles to Miami cruise port. Return costs $10/adult and $5/child. Breakfast is included, adding to its value.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Miami Airport East – Includes free airport shuttle. Transfers to the cruise port are available at a reasonable cost; a good choice for budget-conscious travelers.
#Tips for Cruisers
- Confirm details at check-in as schedules and fees vary by hotel; always double-check on arrival.
- Seats can fill up quickly on embarkation mornings, so reserve early.
- If your hotel doesn’t offer this service, a quick taxi/Uber is often faster and less stressful.
👉 For a complete overview, see our dedicated guide to Port of Miami hotels with shuttle service.
4. Downtown & Brickell Hotels Near Port of Miami (Taxi & Uber Options)
Not every hotel near PortMiami provides a cruise shuttle, but that doesn’t mean they’re inconvenient. In fact, some of the city’s best and most centrally located properties fall into this category.
These hotels are in Downtown Miami or Brickell, just across the causeway from the port, and are perfect if you don’t mind arranging your own transport.
A short taxi or Uber ride — usually 5–10 minutes and around $15–20 — will get you directly to your cruise terminal. For many travelers, this option is faster and more reliable than waiting for a hotel shuttle, especially on busy embarkation mornings.
Plus, staying downtown puts you close to Bayside Marketplace, restaurants, and nightlife.
Here are some recommended hotels:
- The Grayson Hotel Miami Downtown – Stylish, modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool. Located about 1.6 miles from PortMiami.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: usually 6–10 minutes. Rides cost about $12–18 on average, with small differences between Uber and yellow cabs. Heavy traffic can add a few dollars. - citizenM Miami Brickell – Trendy lifestyle hotel with compact “smart” rooms, a rooftop pool, and vibrant design. About 1.5 miles from the port.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: roughly 5–9 minutes. Expect to pay in the $11–16 range. Prices are lower outside peak hours and slightly higher during rush hour. - Novotel Miami Brickell – Contemporary property in the Brickell district, offering a rooftop bar and pool. Roughly 3 miles from cruise terminals.
🚕 Taxi/Uber: typically 10–20 minutes. Fares are around $18–25, with higher costs possible during heavy traffic.
Our Take & Guest Feedback – citizenM Miami Brickell
When we visited citizenM Miami Brickell, we loved the modern design and high-tech check-in, which made the whole arrival process super quick. Rooms are compact but cleverly laid out, with floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable beds. The rooftop pool and bar create a lively vibe, perfect for enjoying Miami the night before a cruise.
👍 What travelers liked
- Smart, space-efficient rooms with high-tech features
- Vibrant lobby and rooftop pool area
- Central Brickell location close to dining and nightlife
⚠️ Common downsides
- Rooms are small, best suited for solo travelers or couples
- No full-service restaurant, limited on-site dining options
- Self check-in kiosks can feel impersonal for some guests
💬 Quote
“Rooms are tiny but super functional — perfect for one night before the cruise.”
📝 Sources
Summarized from traveler feedback on Expedia and Tripadvisor.
Tips for Cruisers
- Don’t be discouraged if your hotel doesn’t offer a transfer, rideshares are quick, affordable, and flexible.
- Downtown/Brickell hotels often deliver better views, nightlife, and dining than airport properties.
- Factor in ~$15–20 for a taxi/Uber ride to the terminals when comparing total cost.
- Good for comfort seekers. These hotels often have larger rooms or luxury amenities, even if they don’t provide shuttle service.
5. Luxury Hotels Near Miami Cruise Port (Quick Picks)
If you’d like to start your cruise in true Miami style, there are several luxury hotels just minutes from Port of Miami that combine convenience with world-class comfort. These properties are especially popular with travelers who want to extend their vacation by enjoying Miami’s fine dining, nightlife, and waterfront views before boarding their ship.
While luxury hotels usually don’t provide shuttle service to the port, a quick taxi or Uber ride (typically 5–10 minutes, $15–20) will get you directly to your terminal.
Here are some of the top-rated luxury hotels close to the cruise port:
- Four Seasons Hotel Miami – Located in the Brickell district, this five-star property offers spacious suites, two outdoor pools with cabanas, and a renowned spa. It’s about a 10-minute drive to PortMiami.
- Kimpton EPIC Hotel by IHG – A chic high-rise downtown with stylish rooms, rooftop pools, and trendy bars. Guests love the sweeping views of the Miami River and Biscayne Bay. Taxi time to the port is around 7–8 minutes.
- EAST Miami – A modern luxury hotel at Brickell City Centre, featuring sleek rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop bar, and multiple pools. It’s roughly 2 miles from the cruise terminals.
Our Take & Guest Feedback – EAST Miami
When we stayed at EAST Miami, the modern design and central location inside Brickell City Centre stood out immediately. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with incredible skyline and bay views, and the multiple pools (including a lap pool and hot tub) make it easy to relax before a cruise. The rooftop bar Sugar is a highlight, perfect for a sunset cocktail.
👍 What travelers liked
- Stylish design with panoramic views
- Rooftop bar and multiple pools
- Prime location in Brickell City Centre (shopping & dining on the doorstep)
⚠️ Common downsides
- Higher nightly rates than airport or downtown budget hotels
- Lively vibe not ideal for travelers seeking quiet
- Compact “lifestyle” rooms may feel small for families with lots of luggage
💬 Quote
“The rooftop pool made our pre-cruise stay feel like part of the vacation.”
📝 Sources
Drawn from guest impressions across Booking, Tripadvisor, and Google reviews.
#Tips for Cruisers
- Luxury hotels near the port rarely include shuttle service, plan on a quick Uber or taxi for embarkation day.
- If you want bay views, choose InterContinental Miami; for nightlife and a trendy vibe, EAST Miami or Kimpton EPIC are better fits.
- Families often prefer the larger suites at the Four Seasons, while couples enjoy the rooftop bars and pools.
- Booking a luxury property can also be a smart option if you want to extend your stay in Miami for a few days before or after the cruise.
👉 Looking for a full list? Check our dedicated guide to Miami’s best luxury hotels near the cruise port
6. Budget-Friendly Hotels for Cruise Passengers
Not every cruiser wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a hotel room the night before sailing. Fortunately, Miami offers several affordable options that provide comfort and convenience without the luxury price tag.
Many budget hotels are located near Miami International Airport rather than downtown, where room rates are significantly higher. With free airport shuttles and optional transfers to PortMiami, these properties are popular among travelers looking to save money while still starting their trip stress-free.
Here are some budget hotels frequently chosen by cruise passengers:
- Sleep Inn Miami Airport – One of the most affordable and reliable options. Guests enjoy free breakfast and a free airport shuttle. A simple and convenient choice for an overnight stay before your cruise.
- Red Roof PLUS Miami Airport – Simple and convenient, this property includes a complimentary airport shuttle. Reaching the port takes about 20–25 minutes by taxi or Uber, costing around $25–30.
- Comfort Inn & Suites Miami International Airport – A newer property offering great value, with breakfast included and cruise transfer packages available.
- Days Inn by Wyndham Miami Airport North – Basic rooms at very low prices. Shuttle services are available, though schedules can be limited, so always confirm before booking.
🚕 Taxi/Uber from Miami Airport area budget hotels to PortMiami:
Expect about 20–25 minutes of travel time, with rides typically costing $25–35. During peak cruise mornings, surge pricing on Uber/Lyft can push fares closer to $40.
Our Take & Guest Feedback – Red Roof PLUS+ Miami Airport
When we checked out Red Roof PLUS+ Miami Airport, it delivered exactly what most budget travelers expect: basic rooms, clean enough for a short overnight, and very close to Miami International Airport. The free airport shuttle was handy, and check-in was straightforward.
👍 What travelers liked
- Affordable pre-cruise option
- Close to the airport (MIA)
- Free breakfast included
⚠️ Common downsides
- Dated rooms
- Plane noise and thin walls
- Basic stay (not for longer vacations)
💬 Quote
“Not a place for luxury, but it does the job for one night before heading to the cruise port.”
📝 Sources
Collected from reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, and CruiseCritic forums.
#Tips for Cruisers
- Expect the basics – Budget hotels near the airport are usually simple and functional, ideal for one night before a cruise, but not designed for long stays.
- Factor in transport costs – Even with a cheaper nightly rate, add ~$25–30 for a taxi or Uber to PortMiami when comparing total cost.
- Book early – Budget-friendly hotels fill up quickly during cruise season (especially weekends), so it’s smart to reserve in advance.
- Good for flyers – If you’re arriving at Miami International Airport, these hotels are convenient since most include free airport transfers.
7. Miami Airport Hotels With Cruise Packages
For many cruise travelers, especially those flying into Miami or driving from out of state, staying near Miami International Airport is the most practical option.
Room rates are usually lower than in downtown, and many airport hotels cater specifically to cruisers with “Park & Cruise” or “Stay & Cruise” packages. These deals often include free airport shuttles, overnight accommodation, and optional transfers to PortMiami.
Some packages even allow you to leave your car parked at the hotel for the duration of your cruise, saving money compared to official port parking.
Here are some airport hotels frequently chosen by cruisers:
- Hilton Garden Inn Miami Airport West – Comfortable airport hotel offering modern rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to Miami International Airport. A Park and Cruise package is available, which includes parking and transfer options for cruise passengers.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Airport South/Blue Lagoon – Popular with cruisers and air travelers alike, this hotel offers a Park, Stay & Go Package that includes parking for up to 7 nights and round-trip shuttle service to Miami International Airport. The package covers one vehicle per room and airport shuttle service for each registered guest.
- Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon – Resort-style property set on a scenic lagoon, with a large outdoor pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options. The hotel offers free airport shuttle and transfers to the port (included within a package).
🚕 Taxi/Uber from Miami Airport hotels to the port:
Most airport hotels are 7–10 miles (11–16 km) from the cruise terminals. Rides usually take 20–25 minutes and cost about $25–35. During busy cruise mornings, Uber/Lyft surge pricing may raise fares closer to $40.
📍 From Doral or West Airport hotels, expect longer rides of 25–35 minutes, with fares often in the $35–45 range depending on traffic.
#Tips for Cruisers
- Best for drivers – Park & Cruise or Stay & Cruise packages are ideal if you need long-term parking. For those driving to Miami, Park & Cruise packages can save $100 or more compared to parking directly at the port.
- Check shuttle details – Airport hotels usually include free airport shuttles, but cruise transfers may be extra or limited.
- Weigh cost vs. convenience – Packages save money on parking, but it’s still a 20–25 min / $25–30 ride to PortMiami.
- If you arrive on a late-night flight – staying near the airport is often easier than heading downtown.
Traveler Reviews & Experiences
Based on aggregated feedback from popular review sites, here’s a summary of what guests typically mention about Port of Miami hotels:
Shuttle Hotels – Traveler Reviews
✅ Guests highlight the convenience of staying at hotels with cruise shuttles, especially properties near Miami Airport such as Comfort Suites Miami Airport North.
❌ Many reviews mention free airport transfers as a plus, but note that cruise trasnfers can become crowded during peak embarkation mornings. Travelers recommend reserving a time slot early.
💡 Some reviews also point out that while this service is practical, a quick Uber can sometimes be faster if you’re on a tight schedule.
“The free airport transfer was great, but the cruise shuttle filled up quickly.”
Downtown / Walking Distance Hotels – Guest Experiences
✅ Hotels near Bayside Marketplace, like the Holiday Inn Downtown and InterContinental Miami, earn positive reviews for location. Passengers enjoy being able to shop, dine, and sightsee before boarding.
❌ Multiple reviews note that while the port is technically walkable, most travelers prefer a short taxi or Uber with luggage.
💡 Travelers liked having shops and dining nearby, even if hotels were more expensive.
“Great spot to explore Miami before the cruise — we still took an Uber to the port.”
Miami Airport Hotels with Cruise Packages – Reviews from Drivers
✅ Travelers who drive to Miami often leave positive feedback about airport hotels offering Park & Cruise or Stay & Cruise deals.
❌ Some note that shuttle times vary, advising others to confirm schedules directly with the hotel.
💡 Many travelers found airport hotels quieter and less hectic than downtown properties.
“Free breakfast and parking made it worth staying by the airport before the cruise.”
Upscale Hotels Near Port of Miami – Guest Impressions
✅ Luxury properties like EAST Miami, InterContinental, and Kimpton EPIC receive excellent reviews for their spacious rooms, bay views, and high service standards.
❌ The higher cost is the main drawback, but many reviewers describe the experience as the perfect way to begin a special cruise vacation.
💡 While they don’t usually include cruise shuttles, reviewers say the quick taxi ride to PortMiami is stress-free.
“The rooftop pool made our pre-cruise stay feel like part of the vacation.”
This overview is based on aggregated guest feedback from Tripadvisor, Booking.com, Google, and CruiseCritic, summarized to highlight the most common themes mentioned by cruise travelers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hotel Near Miami Cruise Port
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly overnight stay, a luxury property with waterfront views, or a practical airport hotel with cruise packages, Miami offers plenty of options for every type of traveler. The key is deciding what matters most: location, price, shuttle convenience, or extra perks like free breakfast and parking.
If you want maximum convenience, consider one of the Downtown hotels closest to the port. For value, airport hotels with Park & Cruise packages are hard to beat. And if comfort is your top priority, luxury properties in Brickell or along Biscayne Bay deliver a memorable start to your vacation.
- 1. Do you need a shuttle?
If convenience is key, pick a hotel that offers a cruise transfer. But don’t overlook hotels without, a short Uber or taxi can often be faster and more reliable. - 2. Budget or luxury?
Downtown and Brickell have many upscale properties, while airport hotels usually offer more affordable rates. Decide whether you want to save money or start your cruise in style. - 3. Driving to the Port?
Look for airport hotels that offer “Park & Cruise” packages with parking included. This is often cheaper than paying for port parking. - 4. Flying into Miami?
If you arrive late, an airport hotel might be the most convenient. For daytime arrivals, staying downtown gives you easy access to restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. - 5. Departure time matters
If your cruise leaves early in the morning, staying closer to the port may save you stress on embarkation day.
Final Tip: Always confirm hotel policies directly before booking. Parking, transfer options, and fees can change. It’s best to double-check in advance.
Map & Location Overview
FAQ
- 1. Are there hotels within walking distance of the cruise port?
While some Downtown hotels are less than 2 miles away, walking with luggage is not practical. Most cruise passengers take a short taxi or Uber. - 2. Which hotel is closest to the Port of Miami cruise terminals?
The Holiday Inn Port of Miami-Downtown and the InterContinental Miami are among the closest options, about 1–1.5 miles from the port. Both are just a short taxi ride away. - 3. Is it cheaper to stay near Miami Airport or near the cruise port?
Airport hotels are usually more affordable, but you’ll need a shuttle or taxi to the port. Downtown hotels are closer to the terminals but often come with higher room rates. - How much does a taxi or Uber from Downtown Miami to PortMiami cost?
Expect to pay around $12–20 for a 5–10 minute ride from most Downtown or Brickell hotels. From the Miami Airport area, the ride usually takes 20–25 minutes and costs $25–35. - 5. When is the best time to book a hotel before a Miami cruise?
Cruise season weekends (December–April) sell out quickly, so booking your hotel several months in advance is recommended for the best rates and availability. - 6. Which hotels near the Port of Miami do travelers recommend most?
Based on guest reviews, Holiday Inn Downtown and InterContinental Miami are often praised for location and views, while Comfort Suites Miami Airport North is popular for its value and included breakfast.
Disclaimer
(Latest update September 21st 2025)
Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we earn a small commission if you click through and make a reservation.
Our Promise: All recommendations are independent and unbiased, hotels cannot pay to be featured. We select properties based on traveler feedback, location, and cruise-friendly services.
Experience & Research: Our team has covered cruise travel for over 15 years and reviews feedback from sources such as Tripadvisor, Booking.com, Google Reviews, and CruiseCritic. We summarize trends and common guest experiences to give cruise travelers practical advice, not marketing copy.
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