Most would-be travelers imagine Miami as a place where people in expensive clothes party the night away at exclusive, beachside nightclubs.  True, anyone (who meets the dress code and has the cash) can party on South Beach, but Miami is not known as a budget destination.

But there are actually plenty of cheaper offerings in this city of sun and sand.  Travelers just have to know where to look.

There are a number of hostels with shared rooms located near central locations.  These rooms might have to be shared with as few as two or as many as ten other travelers.  But a bed can be had for only $10 or $20 dollars per night.  South Beach Hostel and Jazz on South Beach are two such venues that will put you within shouting distance of the party scene without relieving you of all your cash.

Choosing to stay away from the beach, even a few blocks, can lead to cheaper rates.  The Continental Downtown Bayside, for example, has plenty of rooms under $100 per night.

The good thing about Miami is that one of the biggest attractions is people watching.  Whether that means heading to the beach to check out the fit bodies or wandering through the city’s vibrant Cuban neighborhoods, it costs nothing to stroll and check out local life up close.

Heading away from the tourist spots will lead to plenty of good, cheap local eating and drinking spots.  Little Havana is a great place to find meals with good value.  The Cuban neighborhood is also a good spot to find a party on the weekend.  Sometimes the dancing and music spill out onto the street in the form of local concerts and block parties.

There are also natural attractions.  Hiking and biking around the Everglades can be enjoyable, though for only $15, you can find an hour-long boat tour that will undoubtedly include some alligator viewing.