The Fastest, Cheapest Way To Get to South Beach from MIA Airport: The Airport Flyer Bus

The Points Guy had an interesting blog post the other day deciding on whether to take an Uber or a taxi from MIA airport to South Beach (Miami Beach).

Having taken both, I wanted to take a look at what I believe is the best way to go from the airport to the hip, trendy South Beach area – and it’s neither Uber or a taxi. It’s the route 150 airport flyer bus!

The bus leaves every half hour from the airport bus station, which is accessible via a short tram ride to the terminals. Once there, find the sign marked “150,” and wait for the bus. Onboard, you’ll pay $3.65 (cash only) to the driver. I noticed when riding this bus that most people end up bringing only four $1 bills, so it seems like the transit company is making extra money well knowing people won’t have $.0.65 in change…

The bus leaves MIA Airport and travels along Highway 195 to South Beach, making stops along Indian Creek Drive (where the Four Points by Sheraton property is), then down to Lincoln Rd. (where the Surfcomber, Ritz Carlton and Hyatt Centric is), and then down to South Point and Collins Ave., below where the trendy Ocean Dr. is. It’s a convenient route for many of the hotels in the area, and at less than $4, provides a cheaper alternative than a taxi or Uber, which is likely to hit the same traffic the bus will hit, if there is any.

You can find full details on the route and map here.

I really like taking this bus, as it’s a great way to save money on what would ordinarily cost $30-50 depending on what other mode of transportation you take. Though it can be crowded, I still find it worth it as a cost saving measure – use your saved costs to take yourself out to dinner on the beach!

Bringing luggage on board is not an issue, either. The in-bus storage is perfect for my Tumi Alpha 2 backpack, and the front-of-the-bus racks stow my Rimowa suitcase without any issue.

But wait!

If you’ve never used Uber before, your best and fastest way to get between the airport and South Beach, is going to be Uber… because it will pick you up at baggage claim and drop you right at your hotel or destination. The reason I say this is only good for first time users is because by signing up for Uber here, you’ll get a $20 free coupon on your first ride. Most fares between the airport and South Beach hover in the $20 range. So, if it’s your first Uber ride, you’ll get this ride for free or nearly free, which you can’t get on the bus. To sign up for Uber and get this $20 coupon, click here.