Miami is so Easy to Enjoy

Don't hate Miami because it's beautiful. Yes, cool people roam the streets and an occasional J.Lo, Shaq, or Will Smith sighting causes a stir. But Miami is a place anyone on even a modest budget can enjoy. Best of all, hotel rates sink to their lowest in August, making overnight stays handsomely affordable. So grab our guide to food, fun, and neighborhood flavor in South Beach.

Dining: Eat Your Heart Out

Embrace a multitude of delicious flavors here. Sample a few of the area's tasty selections.

Larios on the Beach: Dine alfresco to the beat of live Cuban music here. Their fried plantains, drizzled in flavorful garlic sauce, and delicious skirt steak keep your taste buds rocking. 820 Ocean Drive; (305) 532-9577.

Puerto Sagua: One of the oldest Cuban restaurants in South Beach, Puerto Sagua serves grilled Cuban sandwiches; shrimp in garlic sauce; meaty beef empanadas; and flour-dusted, deep-fried, crispy fish. Old hardwood tables and waiters that speak fluent Spanish as well as English add to its authenticity. 700 Collins Avenue; (305) 673-1115.

Nikki Beach Club: By day this trendy spot provides the perfect dining experience. Guests lounge across white bedlike cushions sectioned off by flowing drapes and nibble on flavorful mahi mahi sandwiches and fresh tropicalsalads. 1 Ocean Drive; (305) 538-1111 or http://www.nikkibeach.com/.

News Cafe: Open 24 hours a day, this celebrated, quintessential sidewalk cafe and newsstand is the perfect spot to people-watch. Folks fill up on everything from Mediterranean fare to spicy huevos rancheros and omelets, while celebrities and wannabes strut down the scenic stretch. 800 Ocean Drive; (305) 538-6397.

Taverna Opa: On a quiet section of Ocean Drive, this restaurant uses its tables for more than just dining. Both during and after dinner, the tables transform into mini dance floors where locals and waiters dance to the beat of Greek tunes. The oak-grilled snapper and homemade baklava will please your taste buds. 3640 Ocean Drive; (305) 673-6730.

Versailles Restaurant: Don't let the name fool you into thinking this is a French restaurant. No trip to little Havana is complete without an experience at this Cuban stop. So authentic they print both English and Spanish menus, this cafe offers everything from savory Cuban-style shredded beef to hand-rolled cigars. 3555 SW. Eighth Street; (305) 444-0240.

Lodging: The Inn Crowd

Cardozo Hotel: Owned by singer Gloria Estefan and her husband, Emilio, this property boasts hardwood floors, tasteful animal prints, and wrought iron furnishings in the rooms. It's a fun place to experience the South Beach scene. 1300 Ocean Drive; (305) 535-6500, 1-800-782-6500, or http://www.cardozohotel.com/.

The Hotel of South Beach: This unique Todd Oldham-designed property sports aqua blue-and-green beddingand funky mirrors. The fixtures are so cool, the hotel's gift shop sells them. Venture up to their swanky rooftop pool, and take in ocean views, or relax in their private cabanas. 801 Collins Avenue; (305) 531-2222 or http://www.thehotelofsouthbeach.com/.

Royal Palm Resort: This Art Deco-style building sits one block from the Lincoln Road pedestrian mall. Cheery yellow walls, casual decor, and breathtaking ocean views make it a sweet stop on any Miami trip. 1545 Collins Avenue; (305) 604-5700 or toll-free 1-866-821-5700.

The National Hotel: Marked by exquisite amenities and a friendly staff, The National is a hit with travelers. Contemporary rooms with old Holly-wood style make this a stellar stay. 1677 Collins Avenue; (305) 532-2311 or 1-800-327-8370.

Hotel Nash: Hats off to the Nash, whose glistening milk-white rooms with mini stereos and sepia-toned photos make it one cushy boutique find. The recently renovated, 54-room property brings designer style to the budget conscious. 1120 Collins Avenue; (305) 674-7800.