Where I Stay Before a Cruise: Pre-Cruise Hotels in Miami
My go-to pre-cruise hotels in Miami for comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury
Whether I’m sailing out of PortMiami or Port Everglades, I always arrive a day early—and that means finding the perfect hotel. Over the years, I’ve stayed at several properties in the Fort Lauderdale–Miami area that offer great value, walkability, and easy access to cruise terminals. I also have some luxury stays in the mix. Here’s my personal roundup:
Hyatt Regency Miami
Location: Downtown Miami
Why I Stay: This is my tried-and-true pick when sailing out of PortMiami. It’s walkable to restaurants, Whole Foods, Bayside Marketplace, and even the Frost Science Museum. The waterfront path is one of my favorite spots to unwind before embarkation.
Food Highlights:
French toast with lemon mascarpone (a must!)
Greek salad from the deli café—huge and surprisingly affordable
Guava and cheese pastries I can never resist
👉 Read my full Hyatt Regency Miami review
Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port
Location: Dania Beach
Why I Stay: Ideal for late arrivals or early flights. It’s close to both the airport and Port Everglades, with free shuttle service from the airport and spacious rooms.
Perks:
Free breakfast
Reliable airport/cruise port shuttle
Budget-friendly without sacrificing comfort
👉 Read my full review of Hyatt Place Dania Beach
Dreams South Beach
Location: South Beach, Miami. Why I Stay: If you’re looking for a stylish, boutique experience just steps from the beach, Dreams South Beach delivers. It’s nestled between Collins Avenue and Ocean Drive, making it perfect for pre-cruise relaxation with a splash of Miami glam. The Art Deco vibe, rooftop pool, and walkability to South Beach hotspots make it a standout.
Perks:
Rooftop pool with ocean views
Quick walk to the beach, restaurants, and nightlife
Chic rooms with modern touches
Great for couples or solo travelers looking to soak in Miami before sailing
👉 Read my full review of Dreams South Beach
Hyatt Centric South Beach Miami
Location: Collins Avenue, South Beach
Why I Stay: For a modern, boutique vibe in the heart of South Beach, Hyatt Centric is a favorite. It’s steps from the beach, surrounded by shops and restaurants, and ideal for cruisers who want to soak in Miami’s energy before embarkation. The rooms are sleek, the rooftop deck is a great place to unwind, and the location is hard to beat.
Perks:
Direct beach access across the street
Rooftop lounge and sundeck
Walkable to Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road, and Española Way
Stylish rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows
👉 Read my full review South Beach Miami Hyatt Centric
Hilton Bentley South Beach
Location: Ocean Drive, South Beach Miami
Why I Stay: For a luxurious, beachfront experience with direct ocean access, Hilton Bentley South Beach is a standout. It’s located at the quieter southern tip of South Beach, offering a more relaxed vibe while still being close to the action. If you’re celebrating a milestone or just want to treat yourself before a cruise, this hotel delivers.
Perks:
Direct beach access with loungers and umbrellas
Spacious suites with kitchenettes—great for families or longer stays
On-site restaurants including Santorini by Georgios (Greek cuisine with ocean views)
Walkable to South Pointe Park, Joe’s Stone Crab, and the Miami Beach Marina
👉 Full review coming soon
Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale
Location: Downtown Fort Lauderdale
Why I Stay: This modern, centrally located hotel is a fantastic option for cruisers sailing out of Port Everglades. It’s stylish, walkable to Las Olas Boulevard’s restaurants and shops, and just a short ride to the cruise terminal. The rooftop pool and skyline views give it a boutique-luxury feel without the South Beach price tag.
Perks:
Rooftop pool with panoramic city views
On-site restaurant and bar
Walkable to Las Olas dining, shopping, and nightlife
Quick drive to Port Everglades and Fort Lauderdale Beach
👉 Full review coming soon
✈️ Bonus Tip: Book with Points & Perks
I often use points, casino offers, or travel hacking strategies to book these stays for free or at a steep discount. If you’re planning a cruise, arriving early and staying smart can make all the difference. Check out my Cruise Guide
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