Miami is by far one of the most attractive cities in Florida. It is known for having gorgeous beaches, a hot nightlife scene, tasty cuisine, Latin influence, and warm weather. March has the potential to be one of the best months of the year to visit Miami due to having close to perfect weather conditions.
It is also one of the most popular destinations in Florida for spring break, so expect higher crowds of younger people, especially in the area of South Beach.
If you consider visiting later, make sure to read our complete guide to Miami in April.
Our two Miami locals have lived in the area for over 11 years and have put together everything you need to know and the best tips and tricks:
- Weather in March
- What to wear
- Beach tips and swimming temps
- How to avoid the spring break crowds
- Best things to do in March
Find all the information you need in this article to help you have the best possible vacation to Miami in March, despite the higher crowds and rates.
Tour Tips for March
We did each of these three activities and loved them all! The Everglades tour is unforgettable. We highly suggest booking in advance, but you are free to buy tickets later of course.
Is March a Good Time to Visit Miami?
While the crowds can be high at certain places, March is a good time to visit Miami if you are looking for a combination of both warm temperatures and waters. Miami is also a superb location to spend your spring break.
Whatever the reason for your visit, March has the potential for a great impression of the city.
Weather
Visiting Miami in March is a great idea if you are looking for warm or almost-perfect weather conditions. While it can be windy at times, the temperatures are ideal for spending time outdoors.
Additionally, there are some of the warmest water temperatures in the state.
The average high temperature during March is 78-81°F (25-27°C) in Miami. It is the middle of the dry season with little to no rainfall and warmer temperatures. This month tends to have higher winds than other months, and humidity levels are usually not an issue.
March in Miami | Average High Temperatures:
- Early March: 78°F (25°C)
- Mid-March: 80°F (26°C)
- Late March: 81°F (27°C)
Rainfall
March is in the middle of the dry season and is one of the driest months of the year in Miami. Rainfall is usually not a concern during this month, but be mindful that Florida’s weather can be a bit dramatic at times.
March tends to be a lot windier than other months in Miami. Winds tend to be higher in the evenings by the coastline and in the mornings. With the city having such high temperatures, the winds can be a blessing.
Heat/Humidity
Florida has high humidity levels all year around. During the month of March, however, they tend not to be too noticeable, especially by the coastline. This is an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities without the extreme humidity levels.
The morning hours tend to be the highest with a humidity level of 82%, dropping down to 56% by early afternoon. Although the humidity and wind levels are lower in the afternoon, the temperatures are much higher.
💡 Heat tip: While this is important for all visitors, it is especially for spring breakers and beachgoers. Be sure to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen many times throughout the day. The Miami sun is extremely powerful and it is not uncommon for visitors to have issues such as dehydration, due to extreme heat.
Daily Weather Progression
March tends to vary throughout the day when it comes to weather conditions. It is typically the hottest in the afternoons hours with higher winds in the evenings and early mornings.
Typical daily temperature progression:
- Early Morning (6 AM): 69°F
- Early Afternoon (1 PM): 80°F
- Evening (10 PM): 73°F
Mornings: Mornings are usually bright and filled with sunshine, with the temperature increasing on average by 5-10 degrees as the day goes on.
Evenings: Temperatures drop lower in the evening hours, and winds pick up by the coastline.
Water Temperature
March starts to bring warmer temperatures to the coastline of Miami. The average ocean temperature is 76°F (24°C). The water is pleasant enough for swimming and will continue to get warmer until the end of the month.
Since Miami is in the southern part of Florida, these waters are some of the warmest in the state.
Due to Miami having such warm waters, many students on spring break prefer to spend their week off here, instead of in the popular spot of the northern panhandle region. The ocean is warm enough on the southern beaches to swim, making it much more attractive.
What to Pack | What to Wear
One of the best things about Miami is seeing all of the vibrant and trendy styles all throughout the city. South Beach is known for having dramatic and flashy outfits or fashion choices and allows people to dress and be themselves. All styles in Miami are welcome!
How do people dress during this month?
Throughout Miami in March, a bathing suit and cover-up are all you’ll need in the morning hours while humidity levels are high. Shorts and t-shirts are ideal for an afternoon during peak temperatures. While it can get chilly in the evenings, opt for long pants or a sweater.
Essential packing list:
- Sandals/Sliders
- Shorts/Capris/Cargos
- Tanks & Cut-offs
- T-shirts & V-necks
- Sundresses
- Bathing Suit/Swim Trunks
- Bathing Suit Cover Up
- Light sweater or jacket (evenings)
- Long loose/flowy pants (evenings)
- Nice or trendy clothes for nightlife
Additional items to pack:
- Sunscreen
- Umbrella
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Water Bottle -stay hydrated!
- Small backpack or fanny pack
- Water shoes
- Any spring break necessities
Restaurant tip: When staying in Miami, we always keep a sweater or light jacket handy throughout the day for dining out in indoor restaurants. Since the temperature outdoors is mainly hot, the air conditioners are on full blast. If you get cold easily, this is a great tip to keep in mind.
Headache: When traveling in Miami it is best to be prepared for hot climates. The heat and humidity in Florida can really cause a damper on your vacation if you are not used to that type of weather condition.
Rates
The rates in Miami in March are going to be higher than average, especially around the coastline. Certain rates will really depend on which neighborhood you are in, but overall prices are high in March.
Miami is a big hot spot and tourist destination for spring breakers. Since not all schools break during the same week, the entire month is filled with visitors. Since the demand is so high, rates are increased in most accommodations, restaurants, and activities.
Depending on your preference and budget, you can find hostels starting at around $70 a night. Staying in an Airbnb starts around $165 a night (depending on the size), hotels average $135-$400 a night, and full home vacation rentals start at an average of $500 per night and go up from there.
3 Fantastic and Affordable Hotels in March
A night in Miami does not have to be outrageously expensive. There are numerous excellent but reasonably-priced hotels you can choose from for your March visit. We’ve put together a list of incredible but moderately priced accommodations. If you can’t find one right now, make sure to bookmark the top hotels in Miami with a price match guarantee by booking.com.
- The New Hotel (Location: North Beach/Miami Beach): This is a hidden gem! Actually, we don’t think you can find a more affordable hotel in March that is so good and so close to the beach. The rates per night start from ~ $120. The owner is just lovely and a super helpful lady. The top tip to avoid the crowds and visit Miami Beach in the mornings.
- Circa 39 Hotel (Location: Miami Beach): Another gorgeous boutique hotel with amazingly friendly staff and excellent rooms. The location is just perfect, as you can walk to Miami Beach within 3-4 minutes. One great detail: They offer free beach chairs and umbrellas. Ask the staff at the hut, and they set it up for a pleasant March afternoon.
- Life House (Location: Little Havana): An extraordinary place to experience Cuba’s atmosphere during November in December: Little Havana (Google Maps Location). The hotel is very close to Main Street, with a lovely rooftop bar and very friendly and helpful staff. We highly suggest this hotel for one or two nights in March.
Crowds | Spring Break
The city of Miami is one of the most attractive cities in the country. There will always be a high number of visitors most of the time, although some months are worse than others. March is one of those months.
March is considered to be one of the busiest and most crowded months in Miami, mainly because of spring break. During the month of March, classes break for a week, normally to celebrate Easter and the spring season, drawing in thousands of college kids every year.
Beach crowds: If relaxing on the beach is what you are most looking forward to on your vacation, March may not be the best time to visit since ‘spring breakers’ will be present the majority of the time.
💡 However, even in March, it’s possible to find less busy areas in Miami. Most spring break crowds are at South Beach and on Ocean Drive. That means North Beach and Mid Beach are the best areas if you want to dodge the heavy crowds.
Time of day: Spring breakers tend to sleep longer. That means the beaches are typically less busy until noon before the students flock to South Beach.
The crowds in March will be rather consistent the entire month since not all schools break at the same time. The coastline of Miami will stay congested most days during this time of year.
Easter: However, when Easter falls in March, the crowd levels increase a bit more at the end of the month.
Additionally, snowbirds are still present as temperatures in the north haven’t warmed up as much as in the southern state of Florida.
Places to Visit / Things to Do in March
There’s always something going on and Miami is a city where it is hard to ever be bored, especially during the month of March.
Between the various beaches, museums, restaurants, and shops, visitors have a never-ending list of things to do in Miami in March. Remember to take advantage of this time of year, with March being an ideal mixture of warm temperatures and water.
Beaches
You can’t call a visit to Miami complete without spending a day, or three, at the beach. Miami brings some of the warmest waters and most gorgeous coastlines in all of Florida. Depending on which type of beach you prefer, Miami has various different options for travelers. The two most popular beaches in the Miami area are South Beach and Miami Beach.
South Beach:
This is one of the most popular beaches in the country and is loaded with restaurants, attractions, shops, and sights. It is a very welcoming, energetic, and trendy/upbeat city, so visitors shouldn’t be surprised by anything. It is known for its thriving nightlife and abundance of bars and clubs on the strip.
Miami Beach:
For visitors wanting a more relaxing and peaceful vibe on the beach, head north to Miami Beach in March. This is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy their time in Miami, without all the spring break crowds and craziness at South Beach.
Festivals
Miami is the home to dozens of festivals throughout the year. The month of March is jam-packed with events going on for any type of traveler. For starters, it is Miami Health and Wellness Month, and it features a variety of events throughout the city revolving around staying fit. Miami is also host to the Miami Carnival Festival at the start of the month, followed by Miami Film Fest, Brew Miami, Asian Culture Festival, and the Miami Ultra Music Week/Festival.
Airplane / Heli Tours
This is an incredible experience to view Miami and Miami Beach from a breathtaking bird’s eye view. We did this one 3 times already! It makes you feel as if you are in my own private plane. We think it’s a must-do activity in March:
- Miami: 60-Minute Airplane Flight Tour (via GetYourGuide). Check the availability here:
We really loved this flight! The pilot brings confidence, humor, and experience. Felipe, the guide, is more than attentive and willing to coordinate everything perfectly and adjust to our needs and wishes 100%. An unforgettable experience and more than recommended.
You will see from above (it’s jaw-dropping):
- South Beach, North Beach, and Haulover Beach
- Biscayne Bay and its famous lighthouse
- Colorful Boca Chita and Elliot keys
- The Miami Seaquarium
- The Bayside cruise port
- Skyscrapers of downtown Miami
- Islands with celebrity homes
- The Art Deco District and Ocean Drive
- The incredible Everglades
- The Vizcaya Mansion and Gardens
- The Miami Marlins Stadium
- The Hard Rock Casino
- The American Airlines Arena and Bayfront Park
- Incredible Cayo Brickell
- The Venetian canal and islands
- Stiltsville homes hovering above the water
- Indian Creek Gulf Camp
- Hard Rock Stadium
Everglades
Everglades National Park is just a short 30-mile drive west of downtown Miami.
March is a great month because it’s mating season in the Everglades. So, be sure to keep an eye open for birds and other mating animals. The windy weather conditions also help keep away mosquitos and other annoying insects.
- Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show (via GetYourGuide): Make a reservation. It’s hassle-free and you get a voucher via phone (you can also print it if you like)
Boat Tours
The city of Miami, especially Biscayne Bay, is filled with various boat tour options you can choose from. Depending on your budget and interests, there is something for everyone. If boats aren’t your thing, jet skis (South Beach Jet Ski Rental) are also available as an alternative.
45-Minutes Speedboat Tour (reservation via GetYourGuide): Our personal tip and absolute favorite. What an adventure! We were blown away at how much fun this was. We did this one three times last year!
You can float by Millionaire Row and Celebrity Island for views of some of the most beautiful residences in Miami, owned by famous stars such as Shaquille O’Neal and P.Diddy. We highly suggest checking out this tour:
City Cruise to Millionaire’s Homes & Venetian Islands. The tour guides are amazing and the whole cruise is simply amazing.
There are also sunset tours, city tours, and boat tours all over the area of Biscayne Bay. Sunset tours are great for group or girls trips, and a superb way to end an evening of exploring:
Sunset Cruise through Biscayne Bay and South Beach: ‘Our guide was an amazing host, entertainer, and historian! The views of the sunset were stunning!’
Water Sports
The abundance of water sports available in Miami is unmatched. You can take part in kayaking/canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, kitesurfing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing all over the city of Miami.
Biscayne Bay Kayak or Paddleboard Rental: Perfect for explorers, as you can get to incredible places that are hard to reach with a car or motorized boat along the shores of Biscayne Bay.
Key Largo Marine Sanctuary has some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the whole country.
Great for beginners and seasoned SUP lovers as well, Crandon Park has calm waters and little distractions, and ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding.
Wynwood Arts District
A personal favorite activity of ours is the Wynwood Arts District, especially on a slightly cooler morning in March. This outdoor street museum is filled with street art, graffiti, and art installments that are unique, beautiful, and historical as well. There are guided tours available, which we highly recommend. The stories they tell and their knowledge is intriguing:
Wynwood Art District 1-Hour Street Art Tour by Golf Buggy: Even locals are doing this tour and recommend it as a fantastic experience!
It is also the ideal place to get the perfect new profile picture as there are dozens of backdrops available for creators.
Little Havana
This is a ‘must-see’ if you are a lover of food. Little Havana offers a little taste of Cuba right in the middle of Miami. It is a very walkable neighborhood, and there are fascinating guided walking tours daily as well.
Little Havana: Food & Cultural Walking Tour with Lunch: The tour guides are exceptional and the food on this tour is fantastic! This is a must-do!
While you are here, don’t forget to stop by Versailles restaurant; Miami’s most popular Cuban restaurant dating back to 1971.
Museums
Miami has a museum for every type of traveler. Depending on your interests, Miami is home to history, science, art, and interactive museums. This is a great activity for people of all ages, especially on a nippier March morning.
Special Tip: ‘Superblue Miami’ Immersive Art Experience Ticket
If you are a lover of music, head downtown to the Museum of Contemporary Art on Friday evenings for live music. If history is more your cup of tea, you may enjoy the Vizcaya museum and gardens, with history and facts dating back to the 19th century, and beautiful views.
Additionally, and great for kids, The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is not only a museum but also a planetarium and aquarium.
Bayside Marketplace
Located in the heart of downtown, the Bayside Marketplace is another one of our personal favorite places to spend an afternoon. Located on the Bay close to Miami’s port, visitors can enjoy an afternoon of shopping and snacking at the various stores and cafes at the marketplace. This is an ideal place to grab any last-minute gifts or souvenirs!