By: Kara Franker
How to hail a cab in Miami.
If a taxicab is your preferred method of transportation, here are some tips to help you plan your trip.
In general, it’s important to make sure you hire a licensed taxi service. In Miami, unlicensed taxis are illegal. Check for the word “taxi” or “cab” displayed on the vehicle, as well as a prominently advertised telephone number. The taxi’s license number, driver’s license number and the driver’s rate card must also be displayed.
As far as rates go, most taxi drivers run a meter, which displays the fare you are expected to pay. The rate in Miami starts at $2.50 for the first 1/6 mile and $.40 for each additional 1/6 mile. Waiting time is $.40 per minute. You’ll also be responsible for any tolls during your trip. Additionally, most drivers expect a tip for good service (usually 15 to 20 percent).
Most Miami cabs have a credit card reader, but it’s important to double check with the driver. If you prefer to pay with plastic, make sure you inquire before you hop in.
Miami Taxi Companies:
USA Taxi: (305) 897-3333
Super E-Z Taxi: (305)885-5555
Airport Taxi: (305) 556-6666
Central Cab: (305) 532-5555
Yellow Cab: (305) 444-4444
KB Village Taxi (servicing Key Biscayne): (305) 361-3111
Taxis at Miami International Airport
If you decide to hail a cab from Miami International Airport, you’ll need to head down to the lower-level curb, outside of the baggage claim area, where uniformed airport employees will help you at a designated taxi stand.
Taxis from the airport operate on a flat rate. Here is an estimated cost per trip from the airport to the following destinations (rate includes airport origination fee and any applicable highway tolls):
Airport Area Hotels: $13-$17
Coconut Grove: $22
Coral Gables: $17-22
Downtown Miami: $22
Port of Miami: $27
Key Biscayne: $44
South Beach: $35-$40
Bal Harbour: $46
Sunny Isles Beach: $55
Doral: $33
Kendall: $41-44
Homestead: $66-89
Fort Lauderdale Airport: $72
Metered fares from the airport are as follows: $4.50 for the first 1/6 mile (includes the $2.00 airport origination fee) and $.40 each additional 1/6 mile which equals to $6.90 for the first mile and $2.40 for each additional mile. Waiting time is $.40 per minute.
Water Taxi in Miami
Miami water taxis are a fun and easy way to get around Miami and see the sights at the same time. Water Taxi Miami offers a daily “yellow route” that costs $15 per person, one way.
The schedule is as follows:
Stop 1: Bayside Marketplace in Downtown (401 Biscayne Blvd.) Water taxi leaves at: 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Stop 2: Miami Beach Marina (300 Alton Road), Water taxi leaves at: 11:45 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 5:45 p.m.
Stop 3: Only available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Sea Isle Marina (1635 N Bayshore Drive) Water taxi leaves at 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6 p.m.
There’s also a more expensive “green route” ($20 per person, one way) that’s only available upon request and includes stops at the Miami Beach Marina, Virginia Key, Bayside Marketplace and Hyatt Miami.
See also: How to Use Uber, Lyft and Private Car Services in Miami.