Miami Cruise and Stay: A Perfect Blend of City Charm and Island Bliss

From the lush greenery of Coconut Grove to the sparkling waters of the Caribbean, this trip was an ideal destination to visit in February.

A Night in Miami’s Coconut Grove

The trip began in Miami, staying in the vibrant and historic neighbourhood of Coconut Grove. Tucked away from the bustling city centre, Coconut Grove offers a more relaxed, bohemian vibe with its lush surroundings and unique charm.

For our pre-cruise stay, I chose the Mayfair House Hotel & Garden, a boutique gem that combines timeless elegance with tropical luxury. From the moment I stepped into the hotel, I was captivated by the architecture, serene garden courtyards, and unique design touches. The room was spacious, modern, and had a touch of Miami flair, making it the perfect place to ease into the start of our trip.

The evening was spent exploring Coconut Grove’s quaint streets, indulging in some local cuisine, and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.

Setting Sail with Royal Caribbean

The next morning, we made our way to the Port of Miami to embark on a 5-day Royal Caribbean cruise, This was my third cruise with Royal Caribbean, having previously sailed with them when my children were younger. Back then, we enjoyed the family-friendly activities, kid-focused entertainment, and relaxed meals in the Windjammer. This time, it was just me and my husband, and we took the opportunity to experience things at a slower pace. From lounging by the pool to indulging in fine dining and enjoying walks along the ship’s decks.

Day 1:Departure

Leaving Miami, we enjoyed looking at the stunning skyline as we set sail into the open ocean. The cruise ship is spacious, complete with pools, delicious dining options, live entertainment, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

Day 2: At Sea

The first full day at sea was all about unwinding. We lounged by the pool, enjoyed refreshing cocktails, and tried out a few onboard activities, from trivia games to fitness classes. It was the perfect balance of relaxation and fun.

Day 3: Jamaica

Our first stop was Jamaica, where we soaked up the island vibes. From the warm welcome of the locals to the stunning beaches. We joined an excursion to the Green Grotto Caves, an awe-inspiring natural wonder filled with fascinating limestone formations and crystal-clear waters. I definitely recommend doing this, however, there are stairs and narrow passages that may be challenging for people with mobility issues, or those who are not physically fit.

Day 4: Grand Cayman

Next up was Grand Cayman, the crystal-clear waters were stunning. We spent some time exploring the island’s beaches, starting with Seven Mile Beach, known for its soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters. We enjoyed lunch and then headed back to the ship. In the evening we watched the performance of Grease in the theatre, it was an excellent show that was worthy of a Broadway musical.

Day 5: At Sea

Our final day at sea was a chance to reflect on the trip while enjoying the ship’s luxurious amenities one last time. From relaxing on board to enjoying dinner in a speciality restaurant, it was the perfect end to our cruise.

Returning to Miami: A Night in Coral Gables

After disembarking from the cruise, we spent our final night in the elegant neighbourhood of Coral Gables, staying at the stunning Loews Coral Gables Hotel. This luxurious property perfectly captured the timeless charm of the area, with its sleek design, impeccable service, and sophisticated ambience.

The hotel’s location made it easy to explore Coral Gables, and we took full advantage. Wandering along the famous Miracle Mile, browsing boutique shops and soaking up the atmosphere. For dinner, we enjoyed a delicious meal at Merrick Park one of the local shopping districts, sampling the neighbourhood’s renowned culinary scene.

The next morning, we indulged in a leisurely breakfast before taking a peaceful stroll through the area’s lush, tree-lined streets. Coral Gables provided the perfect finale to the trip, combining relaxation, style, and a touch of Miami’s vibrant culture.

More to Explore

While I thoroughly enjoyed Coconut Grove and Coral Gables, it left me eager to return to Miami to explore its other iconic districts. From the colourful art deco vibes of South Beach to the artistic hub of Wynwood and the bustling energy of Brickell, there’s so much more of Miami to discover.

Additionally, the Port of Miami is a gateway to countless cruise destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of the Eastern Caribbean, the Bahamas, or even a journey through the Panama Canal, there’s no shortage of adventures that begin here

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a getaway that offers a mix of culture, luxury, and tropical paradise, I highly recommend pairing a Miami stay with a cruise.

Tip: Don’t forget to consider February as your travel window to enjoy the best weather and avoid the Spring Break crowds.

The weather was warm and pleasant, hovering around 24–26°C (75–79°F), with plenty of sunshine and low humidity. It’s also the ideal time to enjoy the city before the chaos of Spring Break which begins in March.

Have you explored Miami or cruised through the Caribbean? Share your experiences in the comments – I’d love to hear your stories!