Miami Beach in Florida

Miami Beach: A Perfect Slow Travel Vacation for Retirees and Independent Travellers

What a destination for another slow budget travel adventure.
Miami Beach, Florida, offers the perfect blend of sunshine, culture, and relaxation for retirees, independent travellers, and senior explorers.

The best part about visiting a “hip and happening” place like Miami Beach?
You don’t need to be hip yourself to enjoy it.
We have taken full advantage of the world-class amenities, restaurants, and beaches — without ever feeling out of place.

Our Budget Slow Travel Experience in Miami Beach

We have visited Miami Beach three times, each for a weeklong slow travel stay.
Each trip has been wonderfully affordable, relaxing, and filled with new discoveries.

Even after three visits, we haven’t come close to seeing and doing everything.
There is always something new to experience — both within Miami Beach and in the surrounding areas.

If you’re a senior explorer or a retiree traveller who enjoys taking your time, Miami Beach offers endless possibilities at a budget-friendly pace.

Best Times of Year for a Budget-Friendly Stay

We recommend visiting Miami Beach in April, May, or November.

The weather is typically beautiful — sunny skies with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, sometimes reaching the 90s.
The beaches are less crowded compared to peak season.
Hotels offer better rates, making it easier for budget slow travellers to find great accommodation deals.
Museums, tours, and activities are quieter, letting you explore at a relaxed pace.

January to March is high season, driven by winter vacations, cruises, and spring break crowds.
Hotels are full, and prices are high.

Summer (June to September) is another busy (and hot) period — and it’s also hurricane season until the end of October.

Tip for retirees and senior explorers:
For better prices, fewer crowds, and cooler evenings, aim for the shoulder seasons — spring and late fall.

Safety and Comfort for Senior Travellers

We have always felt very safe during our slow travel stays in Miami Beach.
Especially in the off-season, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the crowds are manageable.

The people you meet are happy, welcoming, and friendly.
That makes it a particularly good destination for retirees and independent travellers who appreciate community and connection.

As always, basic travel precautions apply:

Avoid seedy neighbourhoods after dark.
Stick to well-lit streets and busy areas.
Be aware of your surroundings, as you would anywhere in the world.

With these simple precautions, we feel completely safe exploring Miami Beach — and we believe most budget slow travellers and senior explorers will feel the same.

What it Cost for our Week - $990

Read how we were able to live it up in Miami Beach on a cheap budget vacation for just $70 each per day.

Ultimate Guide for Miami Beach

Top Things To Do in Miami Beach

1. The Beach

The Best Beaches to Explore in Miami Beach for Slow Travellers and Retirees

The beach is the number one attraction in Miami Beach.
With its turquoise waters and soft white sand stretching over 20 miles, there is truly a beach for every taste and travel style.

Whether you are a budget slow traveller, an independent explorer, or a retiree looking for relaxation, Miami Beach has the perfect spot for you.

South Beach: Energy, Activity, and People-Watching

If you love a lively atmosphere, South Beach is the place to be.

South Beach extends for two miles from the southern tip of Miami Beach.
It’s famous for people-watching, art deco architecture, and a vibrant social scene.
Slow travellers and senior explorers who enjoy energy and activity will find plenty to see here — even without joining the party.

Mid and North Beaches: Relaxed and Perfect for Walking

Moving north from South Beach, you’ll find Mid-Beach and North Beach.

These beaches are quieter, making them ideal for retirees and independent travellers.
The firmer sand makes them perfect for long walks or casual jogging.
Budget travellers will love the relaxed pace and wide-open spaces.

Surfside Beach and Bal Harbour: Small Town Charm and a Unique Surprise

Keep heading north and you’ll reach Surfside Beach.

This beach has a small-town feel with a welcoming, laid-back vibe.
It’s a great place to unwind, stroll, and enjoy simple pleasures.
Further north, you will find Bal Harbour, home to Haulover Beach — Florida’s oldest recognized nudist beach.

Tip for senior travellers and slow explorers:
Haulover Beach has clothing-optional sections, but also standard beach areas — clearly marked and easy to navigate.

Sunny Isles Beach: The Florida Riviera

Beyond Bal Harbour lies Sunny Isles Beach, often called the Florida Riviera.

The area is lined with large, luxurious resorts and beautiful, well-maintained beaches.
Many of the major hotels offer day passes, typically ranging from $25 to $100, allowing you access to pools, lounges, and beachfront facilities.

Travel Tip for budget slow travellers:
A hotel day pass is a fantastic way to enjoy luxury without the cost of an overnight stay.

Final Thoughts: Beaches for Every Style of Traveller

Whether you seek vibrant energy, peaceful solitude, or seaside luxury, Miami Beach offers it all.

As retirees, independent travellers, and budget-conscious explorers, you can find the beach that fits your pace, your style, and your perfect day in the sun.

Where to Stay in Miami Beach

Planning your Miami Beach getaway?
Whether you’re looking for a boutique hotel, beachfront resort, or a private condo, there are plenty of great options for retirees, slow travellers, and independent explorers seeking comfort at a smart price.

Here are trusted platforms to find your perfect stay in Miami Beach:

Booking.com – Explore top-rated hotels and unique stays across Miami Beach: Browse accommodations on Booking.com
Expedia – Compare hotel deals, reviews, and flexible booking options: Find Miami Beach hotels on Expedia
Hotels.com – Book Miami Beach hotels and earn free nights with Hotels.com Rewards: Search stays on Hotels.com
VRBO – Discover beachfront condos, vacation homes, and longer-stay rentals: See Miami Beach rentals on VRBO

Travel Tip for slow travellers and retirees:
Look for stays near South Beach, Mid-Beach, or the Art Deco Historic District for easy access to beaches, boardwalks, shopping, and dining — all without needing a car.

👉 Book early, especially during winter and spring seasons, to get the best rates and availability!

A Scenic Walk: The Miami Beach Boardwalk

One of our favourite daily routines in Miami Beach is walking the Miami Beach Boardwalk.
This is a 4-mile stretch that currently runs from 5th Street to 45th Street.
Eventually, it will be extended all the way north to 95th Street.

The boardwalk is wide, scenic, and shaded in many parts, making it perfect for:

Retirees looking for a gentle and scenic walk
Independent travellers who love to explore on foot
Budget slow travellers who enjoy free and active experiences

We often start our day with a stroll along the boardwalk, watching the sunrise or people going about their day.

Easy Access with the Free Miami Beach Trolley

One of the best parts about staying in Miami Beach is the free trolley service.
There’s a pickup point just minutes from anywhere along the boardwalk, making it easy to hop on or off at any point.

Travel Tip:
Use the trolley to start your walk in one direction and ride it back after you’re done — ideal for longer strolls without doubling back.

Whether you’re walking for fitness, people-watching, or simply soaking in the ocean breeze, the Miami Beach Boardwalk is a must-do for every slow traveller.

2. Miami Beach Architecture

Exploring the Art Deco Architecture of Miami Beach

If you love architecture, Miami Beach is an absolute wonder.
Few places in the world offer such a vibrant, walkable showcase of preserved Art Deco design.

The Miami Beach Art Deco Historic District — located in South Beach between 5th and 23rd Streets — contains over 800 Art Deco buildings.
It’s one of the largest collections of Art Deco architecture in the world.

A Living Museum of Colour and Design

Originally, most buildings in the district were painted white.
During the preservation era, a new pastel colour palette was introduced — with soft blues, pinks, vibrant oranges, greens, and yellows.

Walk the streets and you’ll see:

Porthole windows
Shiny curves and chrome accents
Glass blocks and rounded corners
Interior motifs of tropical plants and exotic animals

These buildings were constructed between 1923 and 1943 — the golden age of Art Deco design.

From Neglect to National Treasure

By the 1970s, the district had fallen into decline.
Developers were eager to demolish the area to build high-rise condos.

Barbara Capitman, a passionate preservationist, founded the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) and led the charge to save the district.
Her advocacy drew national attention and brought in architects, artists, and developers committed to restoring these historic buildings.

Thanks to her efforts, the Art Deco District became a model for architectural preservation.

How to Visit the Art Deco Historic District

The Miami Design Preservation League now operates a Welcome Center with a small museum and gift shop, located on Ocean Drive.

They offer several ways to explore the district:

Daily Guided Tours at 10:30 AM
- $25 for adults
- $20 for seniors (65+), students, and military
- Free for children 12 and under
Self-Guided Audio Tour for $15

Travel Tip for retirees and slow travellers:
We highly recommend the guided tour.
The guides add personal stories, insights, and humour that bring the buildings to life in ways audio tours cannot.

Architecture lovers, history buffs, and design enthusiasts alike will find Miami Beach’s Art Deco District to be a true highlight of any visit.
Take your time, walk slowly, and let the details unfold around you — it’s a visual experience like no other.

3. Miami Beach Botanical Gardens

A Peaceful Escape: Miami Beach Botanical Garden

If you’re looking for a free and peaceful attraction in Miami Beach, the Miami Beach Botanical Garden is a perfect slow travel stop.

Located at 2000 Convention Center Drive, just two blocks from The Bass Museum, this beautiful public garden offers a relaxing retreat from the beach crowds and bustle of Collins Avenue.

What You’ll Find at the Botanical Garden

Thousands of plant species, including many rare and beautiful palm trees
A collection of vibrant orchids in bloom year-round
A tranquil Japanese garden with peaceful walking paths and shaded benches
Snacks and drinks available for purchase — great for a quiet sit-down break

It’s a wonderful spot for retirees, independent travellers, and anyone who enjoys walking, photography, or quiet moments in nature.

Travel Tip:
The gardens are compact but packed with detail, so take your time.
We recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light and cooler temperatures.

👉 Click here to learn more and plan your visit to the Miami Beach Botanical Garden

4. The Bass Museum of Art

Discover Art and Culture at The Bass

Located in Collins Park at 2100 Collins Avenue, The Bass is one of Miami Beach’s best cultural attractions for slow travellers and retirees who enjoy art and architecture.

This beautiful museum features large, airy exhibit rooms, perfect for exploring at a relaxed pace.

What You’ll See at The Bass

Travelling exhibitions of contemporary art, often featuring international artists
A permanent collection of Old Masters and modernist works, donated by the Bass family
A small on-site café with excellent coffee and light meals — perfect for a mid-day break

Admission and Discounts

$15 for adults
$8 for seniors, students, and children
Free for children aged 6 and under
Free admission on the last Sunday of every month (except December)

Travel Tip for senior explorers:
Visit on free Sunday for fewer crowds and a relaxed museum experience — ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

👉 Click here for more information about The Bass Museum

5. Jewish Museum of Florida

Discover 250 Years of Jewish History in Florida

Located at 310 Washington Avenue, the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU offers a rich and thought-provoking experience for retirees, cultural travellers, and history lovers alike.

This small but powerful museum is dedicated to Jewish history, art, culture, and values, with both permanent and rotating exhibits.

Exhibits and Experiences

Jewish cultural and educational exhibits spanning 250 years of Florida’s Jewish heritage
A Collections and Research Center with a searchable archive — a unique resource for researchers and history buffs
A 3-hour Jewish Food Walking Tour departing at 11 a.m., combining culinary delight with cultural storytelling

This museum offers a slower, more reflective travel experience — ideal for independent travellers and senior explorers who want to connect with the past.

Admission and Visitor Info

$12 for adults
$8 for seniors and students
$24 for families
Free admission on Saturdays

Travel Tip for slow travellers:
Visit on Saturday for a quieter experience and free entry — a great way to balance your travel budget with meaningful exploration.

👉 Click here for more information about Jewish Museum exhibits and tours

Where to Stay in Miami Beach

Here are trusted platforms to find your perfect stay in Miami Beach:

Booking.com – Explore top-rated hotels and unique stays across Miami Beach: Browse accommodations on Booking.com
Expedia – Compare hotel deals, reviews, and flexible booking options: Find Miami Beach hotels on Expedia
Hotels.com – Book Miami Beach hotels and earn free nights with Hotels.com Rewards: Search stays on Hotels.com
VRBO – Discover beachfront condos, vacation homes, and longer-stay rentals: See Miami Beach rentals on VRBO

👉 Book early, especially during winter and spring seasons, to get the best rates and availability!

6. New World Symphony Miami Beach

Experience World-Class Classical Music at the New World Center

Located in the heart of South Beach at 500 17th Street, the New World Center is a world-class performance venue designed by the legendary Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry.

This remarkable facility is home to the New World Symphony, an orchestra that makes classical music accessible to everyone, including retirees, slow travellers, and cultural explorers visiting Miami Beach.

Inside and Outside: A Dual Experience

The indoor performance hall has 756 seats and state-of-the-art acoustics.
Outside, you’ll find a beautiful, tree-lined open-air plaza with a 7,000-square-foot projection wall.

During select events, the New World Symphony projects live concerts onto the wall with world-class sound and visuals — a truly unforgettable experience.

Free WALLCAST® Concerts for All

The WALLCAST Concerts are a signature experience in Miami Beach. These free outdoor concerts are open to all and require no ticket.

Concerts are projected live on the plaza wall
Sound and visuals are cinematic-quality
Fellows from the New World Symphony offer free pre-concert talks as part of their education program

Travel Tip for retirees and budget travellers:
Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and arrive early for a good spot.
You’ll be surrounded by locals and visitors alike, all enjoying world-class music under the stars.

Cinematic Events When Concerts Aren’t Playing

When concerts aren’t scheduled, the projection wall is used for film screenings, creating an open-air cinema experience.

Events happen rain or shine
Ideal for independent travellers seeking low-cost cultural activities

Whether you’re a classical music fan or just looking for something magical and free to do in Miami Beach, the New World Center and its WALLCAST Concerts offer a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t forget.

👉 Click here for upcoming concerts and visitor info from the New World Symphony

7. Miami Beach Boats

Boat and Yacht Watching in Miami Beach

If you love boats, Miami Beach is one of the best places in the world to see them — and it doesn’t cost a thing.

There are hundreds of luxury boats and yachts across the Miami-Dade area, from compact sailboats to multi-million-dollar mega-yachts.

Where to See the Boats

You’ll find them:

Lined along scenic canals
Moored in front of waterfront mansions
Docked at public piers and exclusive marinas
Cruising along Biscayne Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway

For slow travellers and retirees, boat watching is a leisurely, relaxing activity — perfect for a morning stroll or afternoon outing.

Travel Tip for Independent Explorers

For the best views, visit:

South Pointe Park Pier
Sunset Harbour Marina
Indian Creek Drive and Collins Avenue canals

Bring a camera or a pair of binoculars — you never know when a celebrity yacht or vintage classic might float by.

Whether you’re a nautical enthusiast or just appreciate the elegance of well-designed boats, Miami Beach offers a constantly changing show — and it’s absolutely free.

8. Miami Beach Cars

Exotic Car Watching in Miami Beach

If you love exotic cars, Miami Beach is one of the best places in the world to see them up close.

You’ll spot an incredible lineup of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, McLarens, Bugattis, Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, Aston Martins, Maseratis, Jaguars, Porsches, and Corvettes — all within a few city blocks.

Ocean Drive: The Ultimate Car Parade

For slow travellers, retirees, and car enthusiasts, there’s no better evening activity than strolling along Ocean Drive.

Ocean Drive is the place to cruise — and to be seen cruising — in an exotic car.
At night, the strip becomes a non-stop procession of luxury vehicles, music, and lights.
You don’t need a ticket or reservation — just a good place to walk or sit and watch.

Get Even Closer: Showrooms and Dealerships

Miami Beach also boasts many luxury car dealerships and display galleries, where you can:

Admire exotic vehicles up close
Photograph dream cars
Get inspiration for your ultimate bucket list

Visiting the showrooms is free — a perfect slow travel activity for budget-conscious travellers who still want a taste of luxury.

Rent Your Dream Car (If You Dare)

For those seeking a bucket list experience, exotic car rentals are available throughout Miami Beach.

Porsches start around $399 per day
Ferraris and Lamborghinis can cost upwards of $1,299 per day

Travel Tip for senior explorers:
Even if you don’t rent, it’s worth visiting the rental offices to see the cars — many display fleets that feel more like small museums!

Whether you are a serious car lover or just enjoy a glimpse of the high life, Miami Beach delivers an unforgettable automotive show — every day and night.

Miami Beach Restaurants

How We Choose Where to Eat in Miami Beach

With over 7,800 restaurants listed in the Miami area on OpenTable alone, choosing where to eat can feel overwhelming.

Some restaurants are fantastic.
Some are average.
And restaurants in Miami are always changing — even favourites can shift from year to year.

Our Slow Travel Approach to Dining

As slow travellers and retirees, we don’t make a habit of eating out every day.
When we do, we want it to be a special meal — great food, good atmosphere, and good value.

Here’s how we approach dining in Miami Beach:

We research carefully — checking food bloggers, review sites, and asking locals for recommendations.
We prioritize mid-range restaurants — places with good vibes and excellent food without the sky-high prices.
We pace ourselves — typically eating one evening meal out per week and two or three lunches.

Travel Tip for budget-conscious travellers:
We seldom go out for breakfast unless it’s a special brunch at a reasonable price.

Using Groupon for Dining Deals

Sometimes, we use Groupon coupons for restaurants — but we do so carefully.

Be cautious: Some restaurants on Groupon are mediocre or have underlying problems they are trying to recover from.
Watch for new gems: Sometimes a new restaurant uses Groupon to build a customer base — and it’s a great opportunity to save while discovering a hidden gem.

Tip for independent explorers:
Always check recent reviews outside of Groupon before booking. A little research can mean the difference between a disappointing meal and a memorable one.

Browse Restaurants in Miami Beach

Click on the map below to browse some of the many restaurant options in Miami Beach.
Take your time, compare reviews, and remember: the best meals often come from a little slow travel research and local advice.

Where to Stay in Miami Beach

Here are trusted platforms to find your perfect stay in Miami Beach:

Booking.com – Explore top-rated hotels and unique stays across Miami Beach: Browse accommodations on Booking.com
Expedia – Compare hotel deals, reviews, and flexible booking options: Find Miami Beach hotels on Expedia
Hotels.com – Book Miami Beach hotels and earn free nights with Hotels.com Rewards: Search stays on Hotels.com
VRBO – Discover beachfront condos, vacation homes, and longer-stay rentals: See Miami Beach rentals on VRBO

👉 Book early, especially during winter and spring seasons, to get the best rates and availability!

Check out these Miami Beach Restaurants

How to Have a Cheap Vacation in Miami Beach

Flying to Florida: How We Saved Big on Our Trip

Our week in Miami Beach was part of a larger budget slow travel vacation across Florida.
One of the smartest decisions we made was flying into Orlando instead of Miami.

Why We Flew Into Orlando

Flights from Calgary to Orlando were much cheaper than flying directly to Miami.
The amount we saved covered our rental car and gas for the entire week.

Even better, the Orlando flight was direct, while the Miami flight required a connection in Denver.
Choosing Orlando saved us seven hours of travel time — and made the trip smoother and easier.

Budget Tip: Big Savings on Flights

We scored an incredible deal:

Two return tickets from Calgary to Orlando for only $300 total!

Travel Tip for retirees and slow travellers:
Always check nearby airports when booking flights.
The savings can be significant — and sometimes direct flights offer a better overall experience.

Saving money on flights means more funds for great meals, special experiences, and longer slow travel adventures.
A little flexibility in your travel plans can make a big difference.

Renting a Budget-Friendly Car in Florida

Renting a car is always part of our cheap budget slow travel vacations.
This trip, we chose Sixt Car Rental — and we were very impressed.

Why We Loved Renting from Sixt

It was our first time renting from Sixt, and it definitely won’t be the last.
The professional service and excellent selection of German vehicles stood out right away.
They offer Mercedes, BMWs, Audis, and other luxury brands at surprisingly affordable rates.

Our Amazing Car Rental Deal

We were given a luxurious Audi Q5 for only $180 for 8 days.
That worked out to just $23 per day — an incredible value for a car that drove like a dream.

Travel Tip for retirees and budget slow travellers:
Spending a little more for a well-maintained, comfortable vehicle can make a huge difference on long road trips — and sometimes, luxury is within reach on a budget!

Book your Hot Rate® Car from as low as $11.99 a day!

A Week in Key Largo: Gateway to the Keys and Everglades

After arriving in Florida, we drove to Key Largo, where we spent a full week exploring the Florida Keys and the Everglades at a slow, relaxed pace.

Key Largo is the perfect base for retirees, independent travellers, and budget slow travellers looking to experience the best of nature, beaches, and scenic drives.

Easy Car Rental Drop-Off After Arrival

Once we checked into our hotel in Miami, we returned our rental car — just around the corner from where we stayed.

Sixt Car Rental charged only a $28 one-way drop-off fee.
This was much cheaper than the fees quoted by other rental companies we researched.

Travel Tip for budget slow travellers:
Always compare one-way rental drop-off fees carefully.
A small extra charge with the right company can save you hundreds of dollars over using a more expensive agency.

Key Largo gave us the perfect slow start to our Florida adventure — beaches, seafood, Everglades airboat rides, and that laid-back Keys atmosphere.

Where We Stayed in Miami Beach

Riveria Suites South Beach

Our Stay at Riveria Suites: A South Beach Slow Travel Gem

For our week in South Beach, we booked a hotel on Hotwire and scored an amazing deal at Riveria Suites Miami Beach — just a few blocks from Ocean Drive and the beach.

Early Check-In and a Little Travel Magic

We arrived around noon, a bit early for check-in.
The front desk asked us to return in two hours, so we enjoyed a relaxing lunch nearby and came back ready to settle in.

Riveria Suites consists of three buildings.

Our King bedroom was ready — but the pool for our building was under repair.
The desk clerk mentioned we could use the pool across the road, but those rooms were part of their larger suite collection and usually cost more.

How We Got a Free Upgrade

I decided to ask if we could move to the other building, explaining:

It was our wedding anniversary.
We were spending a week in Miami Beach before our first cruise.
We planned to spend a lot of time at the pool.

The clerk smiled, made a call, and returned with good news:
They upgraded us to a suite for no extra charge.

Our Gorgeous Suite for the Week

Walking into the suite, we were ecstatic:

A separate sitting room perfect for relaxing
A galley kitchen for quick breakfasts and snacks
A large washroom and a separate king bedroom
Beautiful decor and a peaceful vibe — perfect for a slow travel stay

Daily Pool Time and Happy Hour Delights

Each afternoon, we spent several hours by the pool before heading to Happy Hour.

Often, we had the entire courtyard pool to ourselves.
A private bartender crafted delicious organic drinks just for us.
Happy Hour lasted two hours, featuring flowing drinks and hot appetizers brought out regularly.

The experience was made even better by a live band playing Latin and modern Cuban music.
The band was professional and tight, creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere that fit our style perfectly.

Final Thoughts: A Fantastic Week at Riveria Suites

Riveria Suites exceeded our expectations — not just for the great value, but for the hospitality, atmosphere, and luxury touches that made the week unforgettable.

Travel Tip for budget slow travellers and retirees:
Don’t be shy about politely asking for an upgrade — sometimes a kind request and a good story can make all the difference.

Our Awesome Suite

How we spent our time in Miami Beach

A Perfect Day in Miami Beach for Slow Travellers and Retirees

Our days in Miami Beach followed a wonderful rhythm — blending relaxation, exercise, exploration, and culture.
Each day felt full and satisfying, yet never rushed — the perfect slow travel experience.

Morning Routine: Walks, Coffee, and People-Watching

We started each day with coffee and breakfast in our suite at Riveria Suites.
By around 10 a.m., we were ready to head out and explore.

Most mornings, we would:

Walk or bike for a couple of hours
Stroll the Miami Beach Boardwalk — the dedicated path for walkers and bikers
Explore the beaches to the north, where the hard-packed sand makes for excellent walking

Travel Tip:
The boardwalk is lively in the morning with locals and visitors alike exercising — a great way to start the day feeling connected and energized.

After our walk, we would stop at a sidewalk café for:

A hot beverage
A pastry
And a little people-watching — one of the best free activities in Miami Beach!

Afternoon Adventures: Shopping, Museums, and Local Events

In the afternoon, we often mixed structured activities with spontaneous discoveries.

Typical afternoon activities included:

Shopping along Lincoln Road
Visiting a museum or cultural centre
Attending a special event — food festivals, music performances, or local markets

How We Found Local Events:

Picked up the local newspaper
Grabbed the free “What’s Happening” flyer
Checked posters in shop windows and on lamp posts

Travel Tip for independent travellers:
Many of the best events aren’t heavily advertised online. Watch the streets — that’s where you’ll find true local life.

By 3 or 4 p.m., we would wind down our activities and relax at the hotel pool.

The pool at Riveria Suites was the perfect afternoon retreat:

Often empty, feeling like our private oasis
Secluded daybeds for lounging and reading
A friendly bartender serving organic cocktails

Evenings: Happy Hour, Dining Deals, and Entertainment

Each evening began at Happy Hour at Riveria Suites — from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m..

Free flowing drinks
Hot appetizers brought out regularly
Live Latin and Cuban music by a tight, professional band
Old black-and-white movies projected onto the courtyard wall

Travel Tip for budget travellers:
Happy Hours like this stretch your travel dollars while giving you an authentic Miami Beach experience.

Affordable Dinners and Cultural Evenings

Some nights, we used Groupon deals to enjoy dinner out after Happy Hour.

One highlight:

Dinner at the Shore Club, using a two-for-one coupon
A romantic setting with candlelight, glowing pools, and soft music
Excellent food and professional service — truly money well spent

Another night:

We dined at a restaurant on Ocean Drive.
While not memorable, the meal was good, and we enjoyed two full dinners with wine for under $50.

After dinner, our evenings varied:

Attending a local theatre play
Enjoying a music-in-the-park event
Walking along Ocean Drive, popping into bars with live music

Each day was full of activities, relaxation, and connection with the vibrant Miami Beach culture.

Final Thoughts: Slow Travel Dreams in Miami Beach

A week in Miami Beach felt perfect — but two weeks would be even better.

With so much art, music, culture, and local events happening constantly, Miami Beach is a destination that invites longer, deeper exploration.

Travel Tip for slow travellers and retirees:
If you can, stay for a month — renting a small apartment can make it even more affordable, and you’ll truly experience Miami Beach like a local.

Spending a full month in Miami Beach is now high on our slow travel wish list — and we know it will be worth every moment.

Travel Gear You Might Need for Your Trip to Miami Beach

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Cheap Flights to Miami Beach

Hotwire Will Find Your Perfect Accommodation

There are hundreds of places to stay in Miami Beach. I find the best prices through Hotwire. We have been using them for years and have saved $1000s of dollars. I like that you can choose how many stars you want your hotel to have – we always pick 4 and 5 star hotels; and you pick the area that you want. We have always been more than pleased with the hotel that we get from Hotwire. Just click on the Hotwire logo below to get up to 60% off 4 and 5 Star hotels. You will be pleasantly surprised at the prices.

Search All Booking Sites For The Best Rates

Personal Tours

Tours by Locals

For those of you who prefer personal tours with a driver and a guide, we highly recommend Tours by Locals. There are over 70 personal tours for Miami Beach and area. Click on the link to see the variety of tours and choose the one that best fits your needs.