Miami: Duck Tour of Miami and South Beach

Thinking about adding something lively and different to your Miami itinerary? The Duck Tour of Miami and South Beach might just be what you’re after. It’s a 90-minute adventure that takes you on a journey through the city’s vibrant streets and then splashes into Biscayne Bay for some fantastic waterfront views. From the comfort of an amphibious vehicle, you’ll get a taste of Miami’s famous art deco architecture, mega-mansions, and the city’s sparkling skyline.

What really draws people in is the balance of land and water sightseeing — it’s a quick snapshot of Miami’s highlights, delivered with humor and local knowledge. Plus, the price point of $48 per person makes it accessible for most travelers looking for a fun, engaging activity without breaking the bank. The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a solid 4.5 out of 5 from nearly 700 reviews, pointing to a consistently enjoyable experience.

That said, it’s good to remember some practical details. The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get to the starting point on your own. Also, it’s a fairly quick trip — 1.5 hours — so if you’re after a deep dive into Miami’s history or extensive sightseeing, this might not cover everything. Still, for those wanting a memorable, light-hearted overview, it hits the mark nicely. It’s especially suited for first-timers, families, or anyone looking for a fun, scenic break in South Beach.

Key Points

• Unique amphibious experience combining land and water sightseeing
• Expert guides keep the commentary lively, funny, and informative
• Affordable price offers good value for a 90-minute tour
• Stunning views of Miami’s skyline and Millionaire’s Row mansions
• No bathroom facilities on board, so plan accordingly
• Departure from South Beach with no hotel transfers included

The Miami Duck Tour is designed to be straightforward and fun. Your adventure starts at the Duck Tours South Beach ticket office, where you check in and receive your boarding passes. It’s a simple process, but arriving early helps avoid lines, especially during peak times.

Once on board, your guide kicks off the tour with a mix of entertaining stories, interesting facts, and playful jokes. The vehicle itself is a classic amphibious craft, which means you’ll be comfortably seated and ready for a 90-minute ride that covers the best bits of South Beach and Biscayne Bay.

Your journey begins on land, weaving through the iconic Art Deco district of South Beach. Here, the brightly colored buildings and their unique architectural style are a feast for the eyes. Your guide points out notable landmarks and shares stories about Miami’s history and celebrity residents, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an experience filled with local flavor.

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South Beach and the Art Deco District

As the vehicle cruises past the pastel-colored facades of South Beach, you’ll quickly notice how lively and photogenic this area is. The guides generally do a good job of blending facts with humor, keeping everyone engaged. Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable and personable the guides are—many praise their ability to make history fun.

One reviewer noted: “Our guide was enthusiastic and informative. Touring the South Beach area with fun music, unique architecture, and tales about glamorous stars was fascinating.” This encapsulates the overall vibe—an upbeat, lighthearted look at Miami’s famous neighborhoods.

Millionaire’s Row and Biscayne Bay Splashdown

After exploring South Beach, the vehicle makes a dramatic splash into Biscayne Bay for the water part of the tour. This is where you’ll see the homes of the rich and famous along “Millionaire’s Row,” a stretch of shoreline lined with opulent mansions and luxury yachts.

Many reviews highlight the stunning views of the Miami skyline from the water and the chance to see Fisher Island and the impressive homes of celebrities and billionaires. As one reviewer put it, “The homes of the rich and famous was fabulous,” emphasizing how this part of the tour offers some eye-opening sights.

While the splashdown is a fun twist, some travelers note that the sound system can be muffled, especially if you’re sitting in the back. This minor issue doesn’t seem to detract much from the overall experience, especially given the engaging commentary and beautiful views.

There are a few aspects that really make this Duck Tour special. First, the combination of land and water provides a 360-degree perspective of Miami’s most famous sights. Whether you’re admiring the pastel art deco buildings or floating past millionaire mansions, you get a comprehensive snapshot in just 90 minutes.

Second, the guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and humor. Many reviews mention how guides kept the tour lively with jokes and their storytelling skills. For example, one reviewer said, “Rick was hilarious and very knowledgeable. Loved every minute!”

Third, for the price, the experience offers good value. You’re paying around $48, which covers both the land and water components, plus the entertaining commentary. Considering the views, the fun factor, and the ease of the trip, most agree it’s worth the cost.

The tour is typically available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, giving you flexibility depending on your plans. It’s a group experience, often with a friendly, lively crowd, which adds to the fun vibe. The vehicle is Coast Guard-certified, and flotation devices are provided—your safety is taken seriously.

While the tour includes the guide and the vehicle, it does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. So, plan to meet at the ticket office, which is straightforward but worth noting if you’re staying further out in Miami.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: 1.5 hours (good for a quick, engaging activity)
• Price: $48 per person (a reasonable price for a guided tour with both land and water views)
• Meeting Point: At the Duck Tours South Beach ticket office
• Facilities: No bathrooms on board, so go beforehand
• Accessibility: All captains are Coast Guard-certified, and flotation devices are provided, but check for specific needs
• Weather: Since part of the tour is outdoors and on water, consider weather conditions before booking. One reviewer noted rain can dampen the experience, literally, so check the forecast

This is a great choice for first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of Miami’s highlights. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun, relaxed activity. If you enjoy guides who are personable and knowledgeable, you’ll appreciate the entertaining commentary.

It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in seeing the famous mansions of Millionaire’s Row or want to explore South Beach’s art deco architecture without spending the entire day sightseeing.

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Limitations and Downsides

While it’s generally well-loved, some travelers mention that the sound system can be muffled, especially in the back seats. The lack of restrooms might be inconvenient for longer stays or for some travelers with specific needs. Since it’s a fairly short tour, those looking for an in-depth exploration might want to supplement with other activities.

The Miami Duck Tour offers a fun, lighthearted way to see some of Miami’s most iconic sights. It’s a well-reviewed, reasonably priced activity that combines education with entertainment. If you’re after a memorable taste of Miami’s famous neighborhoods and waterfront, this tour hits those marks.

It’s particularly suited to first-timers and those with limited time who want a quick but engaging overview of South Beach and Biscayne Bay. The guides’ lively personalities and the stunning views are what many travelers remember most, making it a solid choice for a family outing or a solo adventure.

While it’s not a deep dive into Miami’s history or culture, it’s a great way to kick off your trip or enjoy a fun afternoon. Keep an eye on the weather, and you’re set for a cheerful, scenic ride.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you need to meet at the ticket office in South Beach as hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of the package.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect activity if you’re short on time but want to see a lot.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather. Since part of the tour is outdoors and on water, bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. No specific dress code is required.

Are there facilities on board?
No, there are no bathrooms on the vehicle, so plan accordingly before the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the fun, lively guides and engaging content can be suitable for kids. However, consider the length and the fact there are no facilities on board.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

In the end, if you’re looking for a fun, informative, and scenic way to experience Miami, the Duck Tour offers a memorable snapshot. It’s a playful way to see the city’s highlights and enjoy some laughs along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: