You're standing at the baggage claim, checking your watch for the third time in five minutes. Outside, the Florida humidity is already prepping to wilt your clothes, and you’re wondering if you actually picked the right spot to land. Choosing what airport is close to Miami seems like a no-brainer—just pick the one with "Miami" in the name, right?
Well, it’s not always that simple. Honestly, if you're heading to a cruise at PortMiami or a music festival in Wynwood, the "closest" airport on a map might actually be your worst enemy during rush hour.
The Big One: Miami International Airport (MIA)
If we are talking strictly about geography, Miami International Airport (MIA) is the winner. It's basically sitting in the city's backyard. We are talking about 8 miles from Downtown and maybe 10 to 12 miles from the neon lights of South Beach.
On a good day? You’re at your hotel in 15 minutes. On a Friday at 5:00 PM? Godspeed.
MIA is a massive, sprawling beast. It’s the primary gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, which means it’s constantly buzzing with international energy. You’ve got the MIA Mover—a free automated train—that whisk you from the terminals to the Rental Car Center and the Metrorail. It’s efficient, but it involves a lot of walking. If you’re hauling three suitcases and a stroller, those "short" walks feel like a marathon.
The Smart Alternative: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL)
Here is where it gets interesting. A lot of seasoned travelers actually skip MIA and fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) instead.
Why? Because FLL is often significantly cheaper.
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It’s located about 28 miles north of Miami. In normal human terms, that’s a 35 to 45-minute drive. But here’s the kicker: FLL is way easier to navigate. It’s smaller, the security lines usually move faster, and it doesn’t feel like you’re trying to navigate a small country.
If you're staying in North Miami, Sunny Isles, or Aventura, FLL is actually just as convenient as MIA. Sometimes even better because you avoid the gridlock of the 836 Expressway.
The 2026 Factor: How Brightline Changed the Game
You can't talk about what airport is close to Miami without mentioning the Brightline. This high-speed rail has totally flipped the script on South Florida travel.
Before, if you landed at FLL, you were stuck with a $60 Uber or a clunky Tri-Rail commute. Now, you can grab a shuttle from FLL to the Fort Lauderdale Brightline station and be at MiamiCentral Station in about 30 minutes. It’s clean, it’s got Wi-Fi, and they serve drinks. It’s basically the "civilized" way to get into the city.
As of early 2026, the connectivity has only gotten smoother. There are now dedicated "Airport Connector" shuttles specifically for Brightline riders that bridge the gap between the terminals and the tracks for about $10-$12.
Private and Boutique Options
Maybe you aren't flying commercial. Or maybe you just hate crowds.
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- Miami Executive Airport (TMB): Located about 13 miles southwest of the city. This is the spot for private jets and corporate travel. If you're heading to the Everglades or the upper Keys, landing here saves you a massive headache.
- Opa-locka Executive Airport (OPF): Only 11 miles from Downtown. It’s the go-to for celebrities and athletes. It’s closer to the Hard Rock Stadium than MIA is, so keep that in mind if you're flying in for a Dolphins game or a big concert.
- North Perry Airport (HWO): Mostly for smaller, private props and flight training. It’s in Pembroke Pines, so it’s "close" but probably not where you’re landing unless you’re piloting your own Cessna.
The Cost vs. Convenience Math
Let's get real for a second. You need to do the math before you book.
If a flight to MIA is $300 and a flight to FLL is $220, you might think you’re saving $80. But an Uber from FLL to South Beach can easily run you $50 to $70. If you’re traveling solo, the savings vanish. If you’re a family of four? Now you’re talking.
Also, consider the airlines. MIA is an American Airlines fortress. If you’ve got status with them, you want MIA for the lounges. FLL is the land of Southwest and JetBlue. It’s scrappier, but often friendlier on the wallet.
Hidden Details You’ll Wish You Knew
Traffic in Miami isn't just "heavy"—it's a lifestyle.
If your flight lands at MIA at 8:30 AM on a Tuesday, do not expect to be at a 10:00 AM meeting in Brickell. The "8-mile" drive can easily take 45 minutes because of the way the interchanges bottleneck near the airport.
If you are heading to the Port of Miami for a cruise:
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- MIA is the closest. A taxi is a flat rate or a quick Uber ride.
- FLL is doable. Many cruise lines offer shuttles, or you can use shared van services like GO Airport Shuttle.
What about Palm Beach International (PBI)?
Look, unless the flight is practically free, PBI is too far. It’s 70 miles north. That’s a two-hour commitment once you factor in the inevitable I-95 construction. Only fly into PBI if your final destination is actually West Palm, or if you really, really love long train rides on the Tri-Rail.
Final Verdict on Proximity
If you want the absolute shortest distance to the beach, Miami International (MIA) is your answer. It's the literal definition of what airport is close to Miami.
But if you want a lower stress level and a potentially lower credit card bill, Fort Lauderdale (FLL) is the professional's choice.
Actionable Next Steps
Check the price difference between MIA and FLL for your specific dates. If the gap is less than $50, just stick with MIA—it's worth the convenience of being "right there." If the gap is over $100, book FLL and look into the Brightline schedule or a pre-booked shuttle service.
If you are flying private or for business in the southern suburbs, skip the big hubs entirely and look into Miami Executive (TMB). It’ll save you an hour of sitting in traffic on the Palmetto Expressway.
Map out your hotel's distance from both airports on a GPS app at the specific time of day you plan to land. Miami's "distance" isn't measured in miles; it's measured in minutes of sitting behind a white van in 90-degree heat.