A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. South Lake Tahoe for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and South Lake Tahoe can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Miami travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. The famous beauty of South Lake Tahoe is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Miami and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Miami. Although Miami and South Lake Tahoe are popular destinations, Miami has more sights and attractions for tourists. Miami is very popular for its food, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while South Lake Tahoe attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than South Lake Tahoe and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also well known for South Beach. South Lake Tahoe is famous for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting.

How is Miami different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between South Lake Tahoe and Miami. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is well known for winter skiing. However, Miami is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Miami is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

South Lake Tahoe offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Miami or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Miami is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Miami and South Lake Tahoe.

Miami has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

South Lake Tahoe is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.


Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Music?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its live music scene. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Miami Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

South Lake Tahoe is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its resorts. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

In South Lake Tahoe, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Beaches?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for the beach. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.


Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Miami is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit South Lake Tahoe specifically for its hiking. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami is an amazing beach city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Miami make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe More Beautiful?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of South Lake Tahoe is one of the main draws. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

South Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, South Lake Tahoe has plenty to offer. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Miami is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami and South Lake Tahoe are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Miami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.


Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Students?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami is a nice place to visit for students. However, South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

Miami is a good beach city to visit for students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Miami has a few public transit options. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Is Miami or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

Miami
South Lake Tahoe

Miami and South Lake Tahoe both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

South Lake Tahoe is a very walkable beach city. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or Miami?

How long in Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Miami or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Miami because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 3-5 days is enough time in South Lake Tahoe.

Families should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Miami. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in South Lake Tahoe, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe than Miami. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in South Lake Tahoe that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than South Lake Tahoe if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Miami.


  • How many days in Miami or South Lake Tahoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5

One day in Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

People visit Miami because there is so much to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In South Lake Tahoe, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this idyllic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

People visit Miami because there is so much to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in South Lake Tahoe. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

Miami is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

South Lake Tahoe is a fun place to experience. In South Lake Tahoe, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

Miami is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the breathtaking destination of South Lake Tahoe. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, South Lake Tahoe or Miami?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Miami Prices
    USA Prices
    South Lake Tahoe Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Miami $258
    South Lake Tahoe $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $258, while the average daily cost in South Lake Tahoe is $146. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Miami and South Lake Tahoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $154
    South Lake Tahoe $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $308
    South Lake Tahoe $108
Compare Hotels in Miami and South Lake Tahoe

Looking for a hotel in Miami or South Lake Tahoe? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Miami


Hotels in South Lake Tahoe


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Miami Hotel Prices and South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    South Lake Tahoe $24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • MIA Airport One-Way Private Transfer to Miami Port: $22
  • MIA Airport Private Transfer to Miami or Miami Beach: $22
  • Miami Private Transfers: Airport, Cruise, Point-to-Point.: $33
  • Private Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel or Port of Miami: $35
  • Private Transfer to Miami Airport (MIA): $36
  • Private Transfer From Miami Airport (MIA): $36
  • Privat Transfer from Miami Airport (MIA) to Cruise Port of Miami: $37
  • Private Airport Transfer to/from Airport & Hotel: $39
  • Miami MIA Airport to Fort Lauderdale | Hollywood Private Transfer: $39
  • From Everglades Wildlife Show, Airboat & Bus Transfer: $40
  • MIA Airport RoundTrip Transfer to Miami City/Beach: $44
  • Everglades Alligator Airboat Tour with Bus transfer from Miami: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

Prices for flights to both South Lake Tahoe and Miami change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Miami $72
    South Lake Tahoe $66
Typical Food Prices in Miami

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Miami:


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Miami.

  • Historical Walking Food Tour in Calle 8 : $50
  • Wynwood Street Art, Culture, Donuts & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Little Havana Ultimate Food Tour : $67
  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $67
  • Little Havana Street Food Tour with Enthusiastic Guide: $69
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • A Taste of South Beach Food Tour: $75
  • Miami Mosaic Signature Food Tour: $75
  • Guided Small Group Little Havana Food Tour: $91
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100
  • Ukrainian cooking class in Miami: $150

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in South Lake Tahoe

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in South Lake Tahoe.

  • Persian Cooking Class with Private Chef: $120
  • Lake Tahoe Evening Dinner Cruise: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    South Lake Tahoe $56

Tours and Activities in Miami

Here are a few actual costs in Miami for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bus & Boat Ultimate Sightseeing Combo Tour: $6.16
  • Little Havana Smartphone guided Audio App Solo Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Private and Exclusive Jet Car Experience: $8.25
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Miami by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Tubing Ride Experience: $11
  • Jet Ski Miami : Experience the Ultimate Water Fun !: $11
  • Miami Sunset and Skyline Cruise: $11
  • MIA Moonlit ATV Adventure:ParkAdmission,ATVRentalFee Not Included: $12
  • Miami Biscayne Bay: Sunset Boat Cruise & Millionaire Homes: $12
  • Wynwood Walls Skip-the-Line Ticket: $13
  • Miami Skyline Millionaire Cruise & Bus Tour 5 stops & Coffee: $14
  • Miami ATV & Buggy Adventure- 5 Star Rated: $15

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour From Incline Village to South Lake Tahoe: $12
  • Self-Guided Driving Tour from Lake Tahoe to Virginia City: $15
  • Self-Guided Driving Tour from Tahoe City to Donner Summit: $15
  • Ultimate Lake Tahoe Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Public Sauna Experience at Tahoe Vista Recreation Area: $40
  • Lake Tahoe: Full Day Self-Guided Bike Tour: $69
  • Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley: $70
  • Guided Tour of Historic Virginia City and Carson City from South Lake Tahoe: $70
  • Sunset Kayak Experience in South Lake Tahoe: $75
  • Sunset Kayak Tour in Tahoe City: $75
  • Lake Tahoe's West Shore Best Shore Kayak Tour: $80
  • Virginia City Day Tour From Lake Tahoe with Train Ride: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    South Lake Tahoe $34
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • Miami Florida Bar Crawl: $15
  • #1 Miami Pub Crawl + Clubbing Experience: $19
  • Guided Pub Crawl Miami and Club Entry Wynwood: $21
  • Miami Bar Crawl: $29
  • Guided Bar Crawl with Drinks Discounts and Club Entry: $29
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Miami Bachelorette Bar Crawl: $40
  • Pedal Pub Art District Party Bike Pub Crawl: $41
  • Ultimate South Beach Bar Crawl in Miami: $59
  • Small-Group Brewery Golf Cart Tour of Wynwood with a Local Guide: $59
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100

Sample the Local Flavors in South Lake Tahoe

Also in South Lake Tahoe, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Scavenger Adventure and Lake Tahoe Bar Crawl: $15
  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Miami and South Lake Tahoe, we can see that Miami is more expensive. And not only is South Lake Tahoe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to South Lake Tahoe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in South Lake Tahoe and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami than you might in South Lake Tahoe.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Miami Expensive? and Is South Lake Tahoe Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Miami or South Lake Tahoe?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of Miami and South Lake Tahoe, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.