Miami in a shoestring– Tips to make your Miami holidays cheaper

Perhaps better known for the rich, famous and beautiful Miami is a hotspot for young and old alike. There are plenty of attractions that will let you have a wonderful Miami vacation without paying through the nose and there are plenty of choices you can make when it comes to hotel and attractions that will help you save money and still enjoy all Miami has to offer.

The first area where you can save is in acommodation. Miami’s peak seasons are winter and fall. When the weather is cold in other parts of the country, Miami tourism increases, as do the prices on airfare and hotels. It is the time during which the so called “snowbirds” flock to South Florida looking for that mild weather and enjoyable sunshine.On the other hand, during the hotter summer months you can save up to 30 percent on most hotel rooms, and you may even be able to stay at a better quality hotel.

South Beach, one of Miami’s hottest destinations, is also its most expensive. But you can still find some great deals in this area if you know where to look. Hotel Nash, New Clinton Hotel and Spa, Indian Creek Hotel, Clay Hotel and Boulevard Hotel all have affordable rates year round. Some are part of Hostelling International, a network of budget hostels located around the world. It is also a good idea to spend some time looking for those great online deals that are available.

The best part is that most South Beach hotels, even the inexpensive ones, are within walking distance to major attractions. You can save lots of money on transportation by researching and finding a cheap South Beach hotel that allows you to walk wherever you need to go.

Even though the heat can be intense during the spring and summer, Miami has a lot to offer during these months. There are several festivals that take place during this time of year that allow you to experience life in Miami at a low, low price. During July, the International Mango Festival and the Miami Reggae Festival are great events to experience.

Besides your hotel costs, you can also save money with the type of attractions you visit. Although it sounds like a no brainer, the beach is sometimes overlooked as a destination. During hot months, make sure to get to the beach early to avoid the heat and wear plenty of sunscreen. The sun is the brightest between 10 am and 2 pm so keep this in mind while visiting. The beaches are free, so why not take advantage of them?

You can also visit the Venetian Pool for a small admission. This pool was created from a rock quarry in 1923. It’s filled with natural spring water and surrounded by waterfalls. The Venetian Pool is an affordable and fun way to cool off during the hot Miami summer.

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is another natural wonder that is relatively inexpensive. It’s a national historical landmark and has 10 acres of gardens for you to explore. You can spend all day there for one low price.

If animals are more your style, you can view manatees in the wild from several different places around Miami. You can visit one of several Miami harbors or canals. Black Point Marina and Oleta River State Park have been noted for their frequency of manatee sightings.

Head South towards the Keys and I95 crosses the Everglades, where you can also enjoy some walks along elevated pathways that will get you close and personal with aligators.

Finally, there’s the nightlife that you cannot miss. Sure, most of the clubs cost plenty, drinks are not cheap and valet parking is out of the question. But the good news is that some of the best and most famous bars don’t have a cover fee, as is the case of the Clevelander or Mango’s, both icons of Miami’s nightlife. Sip a beer and enjoy the action around you, and if you fancy checking other places there are several nearby where you can also have dinner at fair prices. If you’re not in a hurry you will find a spot for your car somewhere along Ocean Drive or Collins Avenue- I assume you don’t mind walking. And finally, once you’ve had your share of fun don’t forget to take a stroll along the waterfront as it will be a great way of wraping up your night.

So there you go! As you see there are plenty of things you can do in Miami that will keep your budget under control, so pack your bikini or boarshorts and make your way to the sunshine state!

Have you been in Miami? If you know of any inexpensive palces that are worth visiting please add them below, and if you liked this post don’t forget to comment and share it!