24 hours in Miami: a solo female traveller’s guide

If you have been searching for answers, whether a 24 hour (or little less) layover in Miami is worth it, this blog post is for you. It is definitely worth it, and I will share my tips and insights on how to do it/what to plan with. In my opinion, unless you go to Miami for something specific, like visiting Disneyland or art exhibition, 24 hours is enough just to get a feel of the city and explore a little.

My visit to Miami started in the evening, as I landed at the airport around 9pm. If you are only in the city for so short I would definitely recommend taking an Uber to your accommodation. It is very affordable, and definitely saves you some time, which is important if you only have 24hrs or so.

Speaking of accommodation, given it's only one night, I would highly recommend booking something in Miami Beach. The most beautiful beaches will be just at your doorstep, without having to take another Uber. This island feels very safe and comfortable to explore and walk around, especially as a solo female traveller.

I guess the structure of your trip will depend on whether you're arriving in the evening, during the day or in the morning. Either way, I would start by checking in/leaving your backpack/suitcase at your accommodation, so that you can explore freely. I would recommend taking a tote bag or smaller backpack with you, so that you can pack your bikini/swimwear and a towel for the beach later.

Once you can explore lighter, you can either walk (Miami Beach is very walkable), or rent a local bicycle and explore the city that way. I would highly recommend doing this, as it is a budget friendly option to see more of the city. Head to the Art Deco Historic District in the South Beach area, for the most picturesque of streets for some photos and to grab something to eat in the area.

By travelling to the North part of the island you can also visit some, luxury waterfront houses that are very unique. You also have to make sure you fit some time in for the beach, you decide whether you like the North or the South beach more. To me South beach seemed more vibrant and lively, and North beach a bit more laid-back and residential. You choose your vibe. What I liked in the whole of Miami Beach is that it's full of people doing different sports whether it is beach yoga or a running club, it felt very alive and healthy wherever I went. Spending just about 24hrs there felt like a mini retreat, long beach walks, nutritious food and time spent outdoors.

Another fun thing, given that lots of TV series and movies are set in Miami/Miami Beach, and something I personally could not resist, is visiting a location that appears in your favourite TV show. In my case that is Jane the Virgin. There is nothing quite like visiting places in real life that you only saw in movies. I did this a few times in Europe too (in that case, it was about visiting GoT locations), and it is something I would recommend doing in Miami too. Most of us know this picturesque city from movies and TV series; it feels equally epic and surreal to walk down the same streets as movie stars do.

Another thing I wanted to talk about was budgeting. I am going to be transparent, Miami isn't really a budget-friendly destination, so I think spending just about a day there is a great way to experience it without breaking the bank. The good news is, except for dining out and renting a bike, everything else I did in Miami was free. Also, if you opt for hostels you can keep your spendings at a low. I think if you have always wanted to see Miami, but you don't want to spend too much on it, one day will give you some insights. I am going to be honest with you, I went to Mexico (Cancun, Tulum and Playa del Carmen) afterwards, and the beaches are just as beautiful, if not better, than in Miami, but the costs are way less. So, if you want epic beaches, keep your Miami trip short, and opt for a destination where your money goes further.

Last, but not least the nightlife. Miami definitely has a lot to offer on this front, even if you just stay at a hostel (like I did), there are lots of events and live music going on on a daily basis. So, even if you don't feel like venturing out alone in the evening, there will be options for you to socialise and enjoy various events.

So, is 24 hours in Miami worth it? Absolutely. With just a day, you can soak up the sunshine. Miami is vibrant, diverse, and full of energy — and even a short visit gives you a taste of what makes the city so special. If you’re planning a layover or a quick stop, use this guide as your blueprint to make the most of every hour. And who knows? Your 24 hours might just inspire you to come back for more.

I hope you enjoyed this post or found it useful for your next adventure (or layover). And if you’re looking for a way to feel more grounded while travelling, don’t forget to grab my free Travel Wellness Routine Builder. It’s packed with simple tools like a printable checklist, self-care prompts, and mini rituals to help you feel more at home—wherever the journey takes you.