Are you dreaming of a vacation to Miami but don’t have the budget for it? Miami is one of my favorite cities in the US! there are sooo many things to do and not to mention, the incredible beaches in cuisine. Miami is among one of the 10 most expensive cities in Miami, so it can be quite pricey when visiting.

Don’t worry – with some careful planning and smart spending, you can still enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer without breaking the bank. From finding affordable accommodations to taking advantage of free activities, there are plenty of ways to explore Miami on a budget. In this blog post, we’ll give you some tips and tricks for visiting Miami without going over your travel budget. So grab your sunscreen and get ready for an unforgettable trip!

How much would a trip to Miami cost?

A trip to Miami can vary in cost depending on the length of your visit and what activities you’d like to participate in while there. Generally, a short one-week trip could cost anywhere from $600 – $1,200 per person. This would cover your accommodations, flights, meals, and some fun activities.

For those who are visiting Miami on a budget and want to spend as little money as possible during their stay, there are still plenty of ways to have an enjoyable vacation. For instance, if you plan ahead and book your flight months in advance or during low peak season times (like winter or early spring) you may be able to score a round-trip flight for a really great price.

Additionally, trying to find accommodations outside of the city center will often help keep prices down; Airbnb rentals tend to offer great deals and there are also plenty of budget-friendly hotels/motels located throughout the area that may be more affordable than more high-end hotels.

On average, budgeting around $50 -$75 per day for food is usually enough as long as you’re selective about where you eat. When it comes to activities/sights – luckily one of the best parts about Miami is that many beaches and parks don’t cost anything!

There are also plenty of free museums and cultural sites that can give you a better understanding of the cities history without having to break your bank account. Plus there are always fun activities like kayaking or paddle boarding available along various beach fronts which usually only cost around $30 -$100 depending on the vendor/length of rental time etc.

Ultimately how much your trip will cost depends on what type of experiences you’re looking for during your vacation – but rest assured with some careful planning it’s definitely possible to create an amazing Miami experience with a reasonable budget.

What month is the cheapest to visit Miami?

When you are planning any trip, the month you visit will really alter your budget!! especially cities like Miami. My recommendation is, to try to avoid spring break and summertime! Miami is always the busiest and more expensive from April – August! it is also incredibly warm and rainy.

Don’t worry! Miami is pretty warm all year round, so you will be able to enjoy the beach for the rest of the months. I recommend visiting Miami September – November and January – February. I know these are not the most common time to visit, but you will avoid the hurricane season and the big college crowds in the summer.

Can you visit Miami on a budget?

Absolutely! Miami may be one of the most expensive cities in the US, but with careful planning and smart spending, you can still have an amazing time in this city.

To make sure you follow the budget, try to plan out where you will eat and your daily activities! this will not only help you organize a great itinerary but also limit your spending.

Free things to do in Miami

In Miami, there are many things you can do without spending a dime! Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, the city has a few free activities that will make sure you have a great time!

Beaches

Visiting the beaches of Miami is a perfect budget-friendly activity you can do during your trip. Not only is it free, but the white sand beaches and sparkling waters will make any day spent here an incredible experience. Miami has some of the most beautiful beaches in the US! You can go to Miami Beach or Sunny Isles.

Lincoln Road

Oh, Lincoln Road. It’s like the heartbeat of Miami. Everyone goes there, from tourists to locals. You can find anything and everything on that street, from budget-friendly bites to high-end boutiques. But let’s be real, Miami can get pretty expensive.

Thankfully, Lincoln Road has something for everyone, even for those on a tight budget. Trust me, I’ve been there. So, whether you’re looking to treat yourself or just want to window shop, Lincoln Road is the place to be. Besides, who doesn’t love feeling like a baller without breaking the bank?

Wynwood Walls

Visiting Wynwood Walls in Miami is a great budget-friendly activity for your trip. Located in the Wynwood Arts District, it features over 50 different colorful murals and street art pieces from renowned local and international artists that are sure to wow you. It’s free of charge to admire this outdoor gallery and will definitely be a memorable outing.

Brickell City Center

Visiting Brickell City Center in Miami is a great budget-friendly activity for your trip. Although it is a fun shopping experience, it is great for some entertainment! this shopping center has a lot to see and a great selection of stores. This is close to a variety of restaurants and fun bars for you to have a great time and unwind to end the day.

Bayside

Bayside is a waterfront entertainment and shopping complex located in downtown Miami. It’s the perfect spot for tourists looking to experience all that Miami has to offer without spending too much money. Bayside offers plenty of free activities like outdoor concerts, street performers, boating and fishing excursions, as well as delicious restaurants with outdoor seating.

Calle Ocho

 Calle Ocho is a well-known street located in Miami, Florida. It is one of the great options in Miami if you’re in search of the world’s best cheap eats in town. If you’re planning a drive to Miami, make sure to allocate some travel costs for the restaurants in Miami that are located on Calle Ocho.

Fortunately, Calle Ocho also offers budget-friendly options, which means that you can enjoy a variety of foods without splurging too much. The area is a perfect destination for those who want to experience authentic Latin American cuisine.

You can try different dishes while admiring the colorful street art in the area. Plus, having a car in Miami makes it easier to explore Calle Ocho and its surroundings. So, don’t miss out on a visit to Calle Ocho – a must-see spot for foodies and culture enthusiasts in Miami. 

Budget-friendly things to do in Miami

Although there are a few places to visit that are completely free in Miami! there are a few others that are worth going to and only have a small fee!

Pamm Museum

If you are an art fanatic, the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is a great way to experience Miami art and history. Located in downtown Miami, the museum is home to a wide variety of contemporary works from local and international artists. It also features rotating exhibitions that offer insight into the city’s unique cultural heritage.

Admission to the museum is $16! But, they do offer free admissions on certain days of the month.

Kayak Rental

Kayak rental is always a fun activity! My favorite is going to Oleta Park to rent a Kayak or canoe. This is a great budget-friendly and unique activity for your trip to Miami. Located along the stunning Biscayne Bay, Oleta Park offers an array of exciting water activities for visitors to enjoy. With kayak rentals starting at just $15 an hour, it’s a great bargain!

you can even go to a nearby island and enjoy the beach. I recommend you bring your own water and snacks!

Bike ride in Miami Beach

Miami Beach is one of the top destinations in the United States, and biking around it is a great way to explore for those on a budget. Not only is it an eco-friendly activity, but it’s also incredibly affordable – with most bike rental outlets charging around $15 per hour for bikes.

Paddle board rental

Miami Beach paddle board rental is a great budget-friendly activity for your trip to Miami. Paddleboarding has become an increasingly popular activity in recent years, and Miami Beach offers some of the best locations for this water sport.

Everglades National Park

Miami Everglades National Park is an incredible budget-friendly activity for your trip to Miami. Spanning over 1.5 million acres, the park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Florida panther and American crocodile. Visitors can explore by airboat, and take guided tours.

Miami Seaquarium

The Miami Seaquarium is an iconic attraction that’s been around for over 60 years, offering marine life experiences and interactive educational programming. From swimming with dolphins and interacting with sea lions to watching wildlife shows and learning all about the different aquatic creatures – the Miami Seaquarium has something for everyone!

Visit the outlet malls

The Dolphin Mall in Miami is a great activity for your trip and one of the city’s top shopping destinations. With over 240 retail stores, more than 15 restaurants, and a wide variety of entertainment options, the mall offers an array of activities for budget-conscious travelers who are looking to experience a bit of shopping.

Cheap places to eat in Miami

Miami has a variety of amazing restaurants! you will be able to find sooo many great places and a huge variety. The trick will be finding a great restaurant on a budget! here are some of my recommendations:

Coyo Taco

This is by far my favorite Mexican restaurant! As someone that has spent a lot of time in Mexico, trust me! this is a great authentic cuisine. The price is really reasonable and they have a few great locations! You can enjoy some tacos and amazing margaritas to end your night or have a great lunch! you will definitely want to come back again.

The salty donut

For those with a huge sweet tooth! these are the best donuts you can find. Not only are they really yummy, but they also come with soo many different and even random selections. If you are looking for a sweet snack, this is a great spot.

offerdalphs

One of my favorite places to grab a quick, healthy, and inexpensive meal. If you are downtown and are looking for a good place to have lunch, this is definitely a good stop. They offer a great selection of healthy options and it is a nice and simple meal.

Luca Osteria

Who doesn’t love Italian food? Luca Osteria is a really great Italian restaurant that offers really delicious plates. If you want a nice dinner, consider stopping at this location. It is a bit pricier than the others but is worth the price.

El Toro Loco

If you are a huge meat lover and want to find a great place at a reasonable price, stop by El Toro Loco. They have a big selection of different meat cuts and amazing sides as well! they have locations in different areas, so I recommend stopping at least once. If you are traveling with a big group, they offer a lot of plates that you can share and try it all.

Flanigans

Is a seafood Bar & Grill that is only located in south Florida. Their burgers are really good! they have really big portions and all at a great price. If you are looking for typical US dishes, you will enjoy Flanigans.

Where to stay on a budget in Miami

The first step to planning a budget-friendly trip to Miami is finding affordable accommodations. You don’t have to stay at one of the upscale resorts if you’re looking to save some money – there are plenty of cheap and cheerful hotels in Miami that offer great value for your money.

The trick to staying in inexpensive accommodation in Miami is to come during the off-season and avoid expensive areas. Miami Beach and Brickell are really expensive, so the hotels here will be really pricey for the night. I do recommend staying close to those areas for the attractions!

Always try to stay in the following neighborhoods for a better price:

Doral

Located about 20 minutes from downtown! this is a great place to stay with a lot of nightlife and fun activities during the day. Hotels and Airbnb will be cheaper than staying at Miami Beach or Brickell. You will need to rent a car if you stay here or pretty much anywhere you stay in Miami.

Aventura

Also, a great place to stay and only 30 minutes away from Miami Beach! what is great about Aventura it is actually near the beach, so you can enjoy many attractions nearby. There is also great nightlife and you will also find some of the biggest shopping centers in Miami.

Fort Lauderdale

This is a great alternative from Miami. It is 40 minutes away, but it has great nightlife, beaches, and soo many things to enjoy. Ft Lauderdale is like Miami, but just a bit smaller! Definitely will be cheaper than staying in Miami Beach! but again, you will need a car.

How to get around Miami

Miami is a large city that does not have a lot of public transportation options. Renting a car or using Uber is recommended. But,  you can also get around using the following public transportation:

Omni Loop

This is a metro mover! it is a free metro that can take you through downtown, from Brickell to the PAMM.

Brightline

this is a train that takes you from FT, Lauderdale – Aventura – Brickell. It is a more expensive option, but it is a great alternative if you need to get to Brickell from Fort Lauderdale Airport.

Tri-Rail

This is also a paid option, but it is really inexpensive. This will take you from Ft. Lauderdale all the way down to Miami airport. Although this is a great inexpensive option, it will take longer and if you are not familiar with the area it can get confusing.

The cheapest way to get to Miami

If you are coming from outside of Florida, usually it is cheaper to take a flight to Miami or Ft. Lauderdale. I always recommend looking for options in both airports as there has always been a big price difference for me. If you live in Florida, there are different transportations that you can use to visit Miami!

There are plenty of options to visit Miami and can all be at a great price, especially if purchased ahead of time.

Planning a trip to Miami on a budget FAQs:

When is the best time of year to visit Miami?

 Miami is a top travel destination, offering something for everyone from beach lovers to foodies. To fully enjoy the Miami experience, it is important to pick the best time to visit the city. The peak time to plan a trip for visiting Miami is from December to May when the weather is sunny, but not too warm.

 This period can be considered peak season! usually, although summer is still the busiest and most expensive. However, the city has many budget accommodation options, such as hotels and Airbnbs located in North Beach, Aventura, Doral, etc. This beachfront location offers breathtaking sunset views and is close to several must-see attractions, including Ocean Drive.

On this street, visitors can enjoy Cuban restaurants, cafes, art deco architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Other recommended activities in Miami include taking a drive to the Everglades, visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, and enjoying the beaches. Overall, Miami travel can be an unforgettable experience, but choosing the best time to visit and the right accommodation can make all the difference. 

What is considered off-season in Miami?

 Miami is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all around the globe. The city boasts of its sandy beaches, nightlife, and warm climate all year round. The high season in Miami is from December to April when tourists flock to the city in large numbers.

The off-season in Miami is primarily from May to November, excluding the months of July and August when families travel due to school summer holidays. During the off-season, visitors can get cheap flights to Miami International Airport and take advantage of budget tips for visiting Miami. The South Beach area tends to be less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy a more relaxing experience.

In addition, many hotels and resorts offer discounted rates and special packages during this time. Visiting Miami during the off-season can be a perfect opportunity to enjoy a dream vacation without breaking the bank. 

What is better South Beach or Miami Beach?

 South Beach and Miami Beach are both popular tourist destinations in Florida, but which one is better depends largely on your travel style and interests. South Beach is famous for its Art Deco Historic District, which features colorful buildings. Visitors can take walking tours to learn about the architecture and history of the area.

Miami Beach, on the other hand, is all about the beach boardwalk. Tourists can soak up the sun on sandy shores, swim in the Atlantic Ocean, or ride bikes along the boardwalk. Both areas offer a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, but South Beach tends to be more upscale and trendy, while Miami Beach is generally more laid-back and family-friendly.

Ultimately, the choice between South Beach and Miami Beach depends on the type of experience you’re looking for, but either option is sure to provide a fun and memorable vacation in the vibrant city of Miami. 

Is Miami Beach or South Beach more popular?

 Miami Beach and South Beach are both extremely popular destinations for travelers visiting Miami. However, when it comes to popularity, South Beach is definitely the bigger draw. Its vibrant nightlife, trendy restaurants and bars, and iconic Art Deco architecture make it the go-to spot for tourists wanting to experience the city’s glamorous side. It’s also renowned for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.

On the other hand, Miami Beach offers more budget-friendly options for travelers looking to save money in Miami. There are many great restaurants and shops, and the beach is just as beautiful as South Beach. If you’re planning a visit to Miami, a good guide to Miami will help you choose the best of both worlds.

Both beaches are only a short drive away from each other, so it’s possible to spend the day at one and then head over to the other for a meal in Miami. Whether you have money in Miami or you’re on a tight budget, there is a beach in Miami that will appeal to everyone. 

Is downtown Miami better than South Beach?

When it comes to choosing between downtown Miami and South Beach, it ultimately depends on your preferences and interests. Downtown Miami offers a diverse range of options, including the vibrant Little Havana neighborhood, where you can indulge in a delicious Cuban sandwich and experience the city’s rich Latin culture.

It also has a variety of restaurants, from upscale dining to casual happy hour spots. Plus, it’s a great option for budget travel, with plenty of affordable accommodation choices. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more beach-centric vacation, South Beach might be the better choice for you. It boasts world-renowned beaches, high-end shopping, and an energetic nightlife scene.

Ultimately, whether you choose downtown Miami or South Beach, it’s important to plan your trip, so you can make the most of all the amazing options Miami has to offer. 

Planning a trip to Miami on a budget

Visiting Miami on a budget doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right planning and research, you can find great deals on accommodations, food, attractions, and transportation that will fit your budget. Miami has soo many fun activities to visit! from a great beach break, kayaking, or visiting some of our local animals! there is definitely something for everyone.

Miami also has incredible cuisine from Coyo Taco for Mexican cuisine to El Toro Loco for meat lovers or Flanigan’s Bar & Grill if you’re looking for classic American dishes – there is something in Miami for everyone no matter what their price range may be! To plan a budget-friendly trip, take advantage of discounts offered by airlines and hotels ahead of time – with some creativity and proactivity anyone can enjoy all that sunny Florida has to offer without spending a ton!