Tips on Avoiding Miami Beach Tourist Traps

Miami Beach Tourist Traps

Miami is a popular seaport city in Florida with plenty of beaches, a lively nightlife and fine restaurants. Like many port cities, it is also a major tourist destination riddled with traps to lure you into spending money. Take heed of a few warnings before heading out to explore the city.

South Beach Prices

Known as one of the hottest beach spots in Miami, South Beach is crowded and expensive. Instead of spending your money at such a packed location opt for a quieter locale where prices are considerably less. Keating Beach and the Bill Baggs Cape are two options.

Bar Covers

Cover charges for many of the bars and clubs are outrageous. Ask your hotel manager for free passes or VIP tickets to get your name on the list and avoid paying the extra fees to have fun.

Overpriced Shops

The main strip near the city center caters to tourists. The shops and restaurants along Cocowalk and Mayfair are overpriced. You should also avoid Ocean Drive and the Bayside Shopping Center. Many of the shops near the major hotels were built specifically to accommodate tourists, so you will pay more than if you meander along the side streets.

Tipping

Many restaurants in the Miami area will add a tip to the final bill. If you aren’t careful, you may end up leaving a tip and paying an additional tip on your bill.

Parking Signs

If you drive down one of the side streets to park and head to the beach, you might return to find your car towed. Be careful to look for no parking signs along the street, especially in residential areas. Some signs restrict the days and times you can park.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about tips on avoiding tourist traps in Miami.