Miami has been a tourist destination for beach combers and sun seekers from all over the world since it was first incorporated in the late 1800s, and the multicultural city has kept its profile high through frequent appearances in movies, television and song. Visiting Miami can be a luxurious foray into the opulence and style afforded to only the rich, but with a little searching, bargain motels can be found for travelers on a budget.
Located just a few blocks from the MacArthur Causeway and the Port Boulevard entrance to Dodge Island, The Miami Sun Hotel has been a fixture in the North Beach area of Miami since the 1920s. Well-trod attractions such as the Bayside marketplace, American Airlines Arena, and the area's famous diamond district are nearby and the beaches of the Bay are a little more than two blocks away. Furnishings in the smallish rooms are minimalist, with some rooms featuring microwave ovens and refrigerators. Onsite laundry facilities, a family restaurant, and a small convenience store allow busy travelers a chance to refresh between excursions. Family suites and handicapped-accessible rooms are available.
The Miami Sun Hotel
226 NE 1st Avenue
Miami, FL 33132
305-375-0786
themiamisunhotel.com
Nestled between Lake Joanne and Lake Mahar, the Homestead Studio Suites is just across Dolphin Expressway from Miami International Airport, making it a convenient location for cross-country travelers. Other nearby attractions include Doral Park Golf Club, Key Biscayne and the Mall of the Americas. The accommodations are designed to offer longer-term visitors the amenities they need, such as fully-equipped kitchens with refrigerator, microwave and stove; dining and cooking utensils; work stations with computer dataports and personalized voice mail system; and clothes iron with full-size ironing board. Onsite services include laundry and housekeeping, and pets are welcome in rooms for a small fee.
Homestead Studio Suites Miami/Airport - Blue Lagoon
6605 NW 7th St.
Miami, FL 33126
305-260-0085
homesteadhotels.com
The Miami Beach International Travelers Hostel is in the heart of the Ocean Drive Deco District of South Beach and just three blocks from Lummus Park, which was often featured in the '80s television series "Miami Vice" and more recent shows like USA Network's "Burn Notice. A more modern rendition of the classically-Spartan hostels of Europe, the Miami Beach version features modern stylings expressed in curved counters, sweeping arches and colorful mood lighting. Accommodations include free amenities such as breakfast, lunch and dinner; linens and towels; Wi-Fi access; and free drinks at weekly happy hour parties. Other events include movie nights with popcorn, free games tournaments, and free dance parties with live DJ music. Rooms are available as dormitories housing up to six people, plus private rooms are offered that can hold 1 to 4 people.
Miami Beach International Travelers Hostel
236 9th Street
South Beach Florida, 33139
305-534-0268
hostelmiamibeach.com
