Miami Beach on a Budget

Miami Beach tends to be synonymous with swanky nightlife, colorful beaches lined with luxury homes, high-end shops and endless international cocktail and dining establishments along the way. This doesn’t necessarily have to be the case for summer vacationers. Even on a budget, bring the family on a summer getaway and enjoy all the day-to-night fun the beach town has to offer.

Getting Around

For starters, this small, but stocked island city is surprisingly walkable. Save some cash on taxis and car rentals while walking to and from the beach, restaurants, the hotel and anywhere in between, all along pedestrian-friendly streets. Check with your hotel about bike rentals and various non-motorized offerings, as the city is easily traversed by bike and complimentary beach trolleys.

Where to Stay

As any savvy traveler knows, summer is a great time to take advantage of special deals and promotions. Check out hotels you normally wouldn’t spring for with the entire family, like Miami Beach’s Nobu Hotel. Check out the luxury name in Japanese-inspired fare and accommodations, with a beach house twist, with a variety of summer promotions. Earn resort credit with a three-night stay, which mom and dad can take to Esencia Wellness Spa, or share with the kids and reserve a cabana for the whole crew. The hotel also offers AAA and AARP specials.

You’re already in the playground of models and celebrities, so you might as well stay like one at the W, South Beach. Luxury suites with private balconies, and stunning guestrooms with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean are on sale. Families receive 20 percent off booking prices and earn points toward future Marriott International stays.

For something with that iconic Art Deco design, but with updated amenities and services, the Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club is an oceanfront hotel with something to offer. Boasting more than stylish digs and idyllic views, the Cadillac is offering a special Family Night package for your post-beach experience, including one in-room movie, two wood-fired pizzas, non-alcoholic beverages and a big bucket of popcorn for the whole family, and a bottle of house red, white or rosé for mom and dad.