Here's how to enjoy Miami Beach on a budget

It's natural this time of year to yearn for a weekend getaway to Miami Beach. But when everyone has the same idea, vacation rates rise and the goal isn't so attainable on a limited budget.

Instead of paying premium winter airfares and hotel rates, book a spring trip now. An April warm-up in (affordable) Miami Beach sounds pretty good.

According to a recent search on Kayak.com, airfares drop from an average of about $350 in February and March to about $250 in April, and hotel rates also decline. Book a Saturday-to-Monday trip instead of Friday to Sunday, and you can save up to $50 more. Hotel rates are also usually less expensive.

Once you've made it (with a little extra cash in your pocket,) here are some other ways to save:

If you'd like to hobnob with the crowd from the stylish Delano but don't want to pay $400 or more a night, stay nearby at Hotel18 (230 18th St., 305-672-2789) for about $150 a night. Rooms and suites surround a quiet courtyard just one block from the beach.

Also just one block off the beach is The Kent (1131 Collins Ave., 305-604-5068), where rooms cost about $150 a night. The building still offers a 1930s Art Deco atmosphere, and you'll still be near plenty of bars, restaurants and shopping along Collins Avenue.

If you want something with a little livelier South Beach flavor, walk two blocks west of Ocean Drive to the Hotel Chelsea (944 Washington Ave., 305-534-4069). Trendy rooms in the 1936 Art Deco building cost about $200 per night. There's a nonstop DJ in the lobby, a complimentary happy hour for guests and many of the clubs are a short walk away.

For a great morning wake-up, sit down for an al fresco coffee and generous plate of granola pancakes at the Front Porch Café (1458 Ocean Dr., 305-531-8300). Located in the Z Hotel, the restaurant offers relaxing seaside dining at a quieter end of Ocean Drive.

Walk up to the casual takeout window at La Sandwicherie (229 14th St., 305-532-8934) for a satisfying sandwich or fresh salad - don't forget the French vinaigrette. You can eat at the outdoor bar or take the food to go for a beach picnic.

Any time of day, sample authentic Cuban cooking at Puerto Sagua (700 Collins Ave., 305-673-1115). Feast on a meal of oxtail stew or shrimp in garlic sauce.

Don't miss the open-air pedestrian strip known as Lincoln Road, between 16th and 17th streets. Grab a treat at a café, shop at the first-rate boutiques or just people-watch as you stroll.

Finally, take a walking tour of Miami Beach's Art Deco architecture. Print out a list of sites at every trail.com, or get the app for $1.99.

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