It's no secret that crime has been a major problem in Miami. A concerted campaign by local and state law-enforcement groups has made real progress in protecting tourists, and crime rates have dropped over the past few years. Maps are distributed by car rental agencies to show the safest routes. Signs have been put up on the expressways to guide visitors more effectively. A booklet of tips and warnings is given to each visitor, and intensive police surveillance around the airport has made a difference.
The tourist areas themselves—Bayside, Miami Beach, Coconut Grove and Coral Gables—are no more dangerous than tourist areas in any other large city. The popularity of South Beach is such that it has extended the "safe" tourist area into streets that were marginal (or perilous) a few years ago. Still, it's best not to stray into areas where you don't see crowds on the sidewalks. Use your common sense—take notice of your surroundings. Avoid wearing expensive (or expensive-looking) jewelry or watches on the street, and don't flash cash. Try to keep to the main streets when driving through certain areas of the city—the northwest section of town, east of the Palmetto Expressway and just west of South Miami. Ask your hotel's concierge or at the front desk for information about specific areas you'll be visiting.
Dos & Don'ts
Don't waste your time looking for a free parking spot in Miami Beach or Coconut Grove at night or on the weekend. Just use a pay lot (or valet parking).
Do turn on your headlights if you drive in the rain—it's required by state law.
Do make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent if you plan on exploring South Florida's great outdoors.
Don't disturb sea turtles if you're lucky enough to see them nesting along Atlantic beaches. Undisturbed nesting and egg laying are crucial to the survival of this endangered species.
Do use caution on the road. There are lots of elderly and international drivers in Miami, and that often means creative interpretations of traffic laws.
Do avoid MacArthur Causeway at rush hour, if at all possible.
