Early birds, rejoice! Your time is now. No longer will you be shunned for waking up at the crack of dawn and going out into the world full of verve and splendor. You're built different, and that's cause for celebration. Thankfully, if you're visiting Miami this year, there are a ton of things to do before the clock strikes 12. This guide is all about the best things to do in Miami in the morning so you can make the most of your awakeness. So leave the losers to sleep in and get out there! Below, we'll discuss:
- Beautiful sunrises
- A hearty breakfast
- Big bus tours
- Exhilarating snorkeling trips
- and much more!
What time is morning rush hour in Miami?
If you want to beat the worst of the traffic, you'll need to know when Miami's rush hour is. Typically, that's between 7AM and 9AM, so avoid the roads around then if possible. Major highways suck around then, so stay away like the plague. Thankfully, most of our recommendations take place after the dreaded rush, so we've got you covered! Alternatively, if you can get to any of them by foot, happy days!
When is the sunrise in Miami?
No morning in Miami is complete without experiencing its legendary sunrise. Head to South Pointe Park or Miami Beach early to watch the sky come alive with oranges, pinks, and golds. A synth wave album cover comes to life; nothing quite compares. Phone cameras at the ready, people. This is no drill. It's synth wave. Sorry.
Breakfast of champions
If you ever considered starting your morning without a hearty breakfast, how dare you...close the door on your way out. Okay, now they're gone, let's talk about the best breakfast spots in the city!
Caracas Bakery Biscayne
Caracas Bakery Biscayne
Miami has long had close ties to South American culture, so it's no surprise that Caracas Bakery is a top pick for locals. This Venezuelan eatery offers magnifique croissants and a creative menu featuring favorites like Merguez toast with lamb sausage and soft scrambled eggs. Add coffee into the mix, and you'll be unstoppable.
El Bagel
El Bagel
Miami's pretty big on the holed hoagie, and if you share in that enthusiasm, hit up El Bagel for some divine toasted goodness. They offer the typical fare alongside unique choices such as the Lox Supreme with locally smoked lox and cream cheese, or the King Guava featuring guava marmalade and potato stix. And hell, when in Miami, do as the Miamians do, right?
Sagrado Cafe
Sagrado Cafe
For some Brazilian-themed delights, your one and only stop is Sagrado Cafe. Brazilian favorites like cheese bread, tapioca crepes, and pastels - similar to samosas - absolutely steal the show here. Plus, if the weather's nice, which it should be, you can enjoy it all on their outdoor terrace!
Right, now that you're full of energy, let's explore the best things to do in Miami in the morning!
Explore Miami on the Big Bus
Explore Miami on the Big Bus
If you're only in town for a few days, you need to make the most of your time. And, since you're up early, why not get your sightseeing out of the way early doors? Thankfully, this Big Bus Miami Tour kicks off at 9AM, and lets you see all of the city's best bits in one fell swoop!
Keep an eye out for the iconic Art Deco on Ocean Drive, which is used in myriad movies, the Cuban delights of Little Havana, and the green splendor of Barnacle Historic State Park!
Your ticket lasts the whole day, and you can get off whenever you want to explore whichever stop takes your fancy. Then, when you've explored every inch, simply hop on the next bus and continue your journey. Flexible and fun, it's one of the best things to do in Miami in the morning!
Cruise Along Millionaire's Row
Cruise Along Millionaire's Row
Or, see the city from another perspective on this Island Queen Millionaire's Row Sightseeing Cruise.
Kicking off at 10AM, it sails along Biscayne Bay while taking in views of luxurious waterfront mansions, the Miami skyline, and iconic landmarks like Fisher Island. Have you ever wondered how the ultra-rich live? Wonder no longer, and may you ever be envious - and slightly angry.
This guided cruise is in both English and Spanish, so it appeals to most visitors, and the boat itself is the lap of luxury.
With free drinks for all, and an air-conditioned lower deck if you venture forth on a particularly stifling morning, it's a small taste of the millionaire lifestyle before you head back to mundanity!
Cycle Through Miami Beach
Cycle Through Miami Beach
If you like to keep active when you wake up, why not explore Miami Beach on a rented bike?
See the sights at your own pace, all while keeping your heart rate elevated. And what sights! Keep an eye out for Ocean Drive, Española Way, and the serene South Pointe Park Pier. Sun, sand, and pedal to the metal - the ingredients for a perfect morning in Miami!
And, if you dabble with history, why not stop off at the Botanical Garden and Holocaust Memorial to soak up some culture?
Dive into the Ocean in Ft. Lauderdale
Dive into the Ocean in Ft. Lauderdale
If you've had a particularly sweltering night, why not cool off in Ft. Lauderdale? Sure, it's a short drive from Miami, but this Glass Bottom Boat and Snorkeling Trip kicks off at 10.15AM, so any driving should be well after Miami's bleak rush hour madness.
This thrilling trip lets you explore the vibrant underwater world near the Gulf Stream. How does snorkeling among colorful coral reefs sound? Good, right?
If not, then the water-adverse among you can enjoy the sights from the boat, thanks to its glass bottom. Sure, you might be a coward, but you're a satisfied coward.
Family Fun at Gatorland
Family Fun at Gatorland
Of course, no trip to Miami should be bereft of alligators. They are definitely terrifying, but so what? See them from a safe distance at Gatorland!
Doors open at 10AM, giving you a couple of hours of gator fun before the dreaded midday bell. So, what can you expect? Well, Gatorland is a 100-acre park dedicated to these dinos from another age. Every ride, every exhibit, and every attraction is dedicated to them. Kids will love shows like Gator Jumparoo and Gator Wrestlin', and there's even a petting zoo. Why is there a petting zoo?! Don't worry, it's definitely safe.
So yeah, why not check it out and see what Florida's spirit animal is all about?
And those were the best things to do in Miami in the morning! Of course, those were just some of the best Miami attractions on offer. If you want to fill out your itinerary beyond the morning, check out Go City. With a Miami pass, you can see all of the city's best bits for one low price!
