1

By far the most popular beach is the South Beach section of the city of Miami Beach. The beaches of Miami Beach are many miles long though. South Beach (SoBe) is just across the causeway from Miami.

There are lots of good choices in SoBe to stay. My suggestion would be to visit TripAdvisor and do a Google search to look at reviews and find the place that's right for you.

Just FYI - you don't need a car for the whole time you're in Miami, especially if you choose to stay in SoBe. I'd rent the car for the first five or so days to see the things you'll need a car for and then turn it in to save money.

There is a zoo in Miami although I've not been there. There's also a monkey park, but the real draw is Everglades National Park. You could also visit the Keys.

Have a great trip.

2

The Tropic and Clay are mentioned here often.

2 weeks in Miami sounds like misery to me.

Everglades are not a "zoo" but you'll see plenty of (wild) animals.
Pennekamp State Park and Biscayne National Park are good for snorkeling/diving.

3

I would second the Everglades National Park. You can drive out to Shark Valley just west of MIA and there is bike rentals or walk or take a tram ride. The loop is about 15 miles. Pack a lunch and picnic about 1/2 way on the trail if you bike.

4

thanks to all that responded bzookaj---'2 WEEKS IN MIAMI SOUNDS LIKE LIKE MISERY TO ME" expend on that please, want to know the difficult as well as the good. !!! you cracked me up!! (HA) mrj