Part of our Florida guide.
Getting around Florida often means planning around ferries, theme parks, and the occasional hidden gem. This guide answers the most common questions travelers ask. The Fisher Island Ferry ride takes about 15 minutes each way, and the Miami-to-Bimini ferry runs roughly two hours. Below, we’ve gathered our Florida coverage into one page, with each section answering a specific question directly.
Related travel guides: What It Costs In Florida and The Ultimate Guide To South Beach, Miami In A Weekend.
How Long Is The Fisher Island Ferry Ride
The Fisher Island Ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes one way, connecting Miami Beach to Fisher Island, an exclusive residential enclave off the coast of Miami. The ferry departs from the MacArthur Causeway and arrives at Fisher Island’s private terminal, offering views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. The ride is the only public access to the island, which is closed to non-residents without a verified invitation or property ownership. The ferry operates around the clock, with departures every 15 to 30 minutes during peak hours and less frequently overnight. The ride is a scenic prelude to the island’s manicured beaches and private golf course, though access is restricted to residents, their guests, and those with business there.
How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Miami To Bimini
The ferry from Miami to Bimini takes about two hours, depending on sea conditions and the vessel. The primary operator, Balearia Caribbean, runs a high-speed catamaran that departs from the Port of Miami’s Terminal J and arrives at Bimini’s harbor in the Bahamas. The ride covers roughly 50 nautical miles across the Gulf Stream; expect swell on rougher days, though the boat has indoor and outdoor seating and a snack bar. Ferries run several times per week, with schedules varying by season. During peak winter and spring months, daily departures are common, while off-season schedules may reduce to three or four days per week. The return trip takes the same two hours, and customs and immigration are handled on arrival in Bimini, so factor in about 30 minutes for that process. If you’re prone to seasickness, the open Atlantic leg can be choppy, so plan accordingly with medication or motion-sickness bands.
Busy Bee Gas Station Bathrooms - Florida
The Busy Bee Gas Station in Florida has earned a reputation for its exceptionally clean and well-stocked bathrooms. Located off a main highway in the central part of the state, this family-run station offers air-conditioned facilities with fresh flowers, hand soap, and paper towels restocked multiple times a day. The station also has a small deli counter serving fresh sandwiches and coffee. The bathrooms close for cleaning from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m., but the station itself stays open around the clock, and staff will unlock the restrooms for overnight travelers on request. Regulars say the owner checks the bathrooms every hour, a practice that keeps them consistently spotless. If you’re driving between Miami and Orlando, it’s worth the detour off the interstate.
How Long Is The Ferry Ride To Caladesi Island
The ferry ride to Caladesi Island takes about 20 minutes from Honeymoon Island State Park, departing from the park’s marina in Dunedin, Florida. The ferry operates daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), with the last return trip leaving Caladesi at 5:30 p.m. Off-season, hours shorten to 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the ferry runs on a reduced schedule—typically every 30 minutes during the morning and early afternoon. The ride crosses St. Joseph Sound, and dolphins are commonly spotted along the way. Once you arrive, you’ll have access to Caladesi Island State Park’s three miles of beaches, nature trails, and a concession stand. The ferry fare is $16 per adult round-trip, $8 for children aged 4-12, and free for kids under 4, with a separate parking fee of $8 per vehicle at Honeymoon Island State Park. To avoid crowds, take the first ferry of the morning—you’ll have the beach almost to yourself for the first hour.
How Far Is Dockside Inn From Universal Studios
Dockside Inn is located approximately 4.5 miles from Universal Studios, a 10- to 15-minute drive depending on traffic. The hotel sits on International Drive, which connects directly to Universal’s main entrance on Universal Boulevard. If driving, take I-4 East to the Kirkman Road exit, then follow signs to the theme park’s parking garages. For those without a car, the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle every 30 minutes starting at 7 a.m., with the last return trip leaving Universal at 11 p.m. on late nights. The shuttle drops you at the main entrance next to the security checkpoint, saving the $25 parking fee. On busy days, traffic on I-4 can add 10 to 15 minutes, so leave an extra 15 minutes early if you have a reservation at an on-site restaurant like Mythos or Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. A free trolley stop outside the hotel connects to the I-Ride Trolley system for access to other attractions.
How To Get Into Disney Without A Reservation
Getting into Disney World without a reservation requires flexibility and a few specific strategies. As of 2024, Disney’s park reservation system remains in effect for the four main theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—but workarounds exist. First, check the My Disney Experience app for same-day availability; Disney releases a limited number of reservations at 7 a.m. daily, and cancellations from other guests often open up throughout the day. Second, with a park-hopper ticket, you can enter the first park with a reservation, then after 2 p.m. visit a second park without a separate reservation, subject to capacity. Third, consider booking a table-service dining reservation at a park restaurant—those often come with the option to add a park reservation as part of the dining package, though this is not guaranteed. Fourth, if you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, your room key acts as a park reservation for the first day of your stay. Finally, you can try entering after 6 p.m. on select nights during after-hours events, which are sold separately and do not require a day reservation. During peak holiday periods—Christmas, New Year’s, and spring break—same-day availability is extremely rare, so plan ahead for those times.
Busch Gardens In Tampa Bay - Florida's Wild Theme Park
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a 335-acre theme park that combines roller coasters with a 200-acre animal park. The park is home to more than 200 species, including African elephants, giraffes, and cheetahs, and participates in conservation programs for several endangered species. Coasters include SheiKra, a dive coaster with a 200-foot drop, and Montu, a suspended coaster reaching 60 mph. The park also features Congo River Rapids and a train that circles the park, offering a safari-like view of the animals. The Sesame Street Safari of Fun area has gentle rides and character meet-and-greets for kids. The park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the off-season, with extended hours until 10 p.m. during summer and the Howl-O-Scream Halloween event in October. Single-day admission starts at $99, but multi-day and seasonal passes often provide better value—check the official website for current deals. Parking costs $30 per car, and a free shuttle runs every 15 minutes from several off-site lots, including 10165 McKinley Drive.
How To Get A Reservation At Laser Wolf
Laser Wolf, in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami, serves Middle Eastern small plates and has a rooftop bar. Reservations are released exactly 30 days in advance on the first of each month at 10 a.m. Eastern Time. Book through the restaurant’s website or the Resy app; log in a few minutes early and have your credit card ready—tables for prime times (7 p.m. to 9 p.m.) sell out within minutes. If you can’t get a reservation, the restaurant holds a few tables for walk-ins at the bar area, typically requiring a 30- to 60-minute wait. Another option is a late lunch (after 2 p.m.) on weekdays, which is easier to secure and offers the same menu at slightly lower prices. For groups of six or more, a $50-per-person deposit is required and credited toward your final bill. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; no-shows are charged $25 per person. The signature dish is the salatim platter—a selection of small salads served with warm pita, enough for two as a starter. For the best experience, book a table on the rooftop terrace during sunset, when the Miami skyline provides a dramatic backdrop.
How To Get A Reservation At Be Our Guest
Be Our Guest, the Beauty and the Beast-themed restaurant inside Magic Kingdom, requires a reservation for both lunch and dinner, and slots are among the most competitive in Disney World. Reservations open 60 days in advance at 6 a.m. Eastern Time and typically sell out within minutes. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you can book up to 60 days before your check-in date and add up to 10 days’ worth of reservations for your entire stay—this is the single best way to secure a table. For those who miss the initial window, use the My Disney Experience app to set a “dining availability alert” for your desired date and time. Check for cancellations 24 to 48 hours in advance, as many guests cancel to avoid the $10-per-person no-show fee. Consider a late lunch (after 2 p.m.) or an early dinner (before 5 p.m.)—these times are less popular and sometimes have last-minute availability. The restaurant serves a prix-fixe menu at lunch ($58 per adult, $34 per child) and dinner ($62 per adult, $36 per child), with the “Beast’s Castle” ambiance and a meet-and-greet with the Beast included. During party seasons (Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Very Merry Christmas Party), the restaurant offers a special party menu that can be booked separately, and these events often have more availability.
