Miami is a hotspot for young and old alike. Although the area is sometimes associated with the rich and famous, you can have a wonderful Miami vacation without paying through the nose. There are many choices you can make when it comes to hotel and attractions that will help you save money and still enjoy all that Miami has to offer.



The first area where you can save is on your hotel costs. Miami's peak seasons are during the 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. 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, can also be 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 hostel locations around the U.S.

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.