Escape Memorial Day Madness With 3 Super Simple Getaways

Ah, Memorial Day. The sign that summer has arrived, the year is nearing its halfway point, and a sweet, sweet three-day vacation. Also, for anyone who's local to the Dade area, it is known as some sort of overwhelming, tourist-ridden, relaxation-preventing vortex. Anyone who has been stuck in the city — or worse, on Miami Beach — for Memorial Day knows there is literally no better time to get the hell out of Dodge Dade. So we've rounded up the three best bets for having a great escape: A staycation, a weekend getaway, and a quick trip to paradise.

Leaving South Beach is a must, but leaving Miami isn't as imperative, which is why The Biltmore is a great option for anyone who needs a little break without getting in a car. For the weekend, The Biltmore is offering a three-night stay for the cost of two nights, and — get this — a complimentary Coral Gables-based car service, so you can be shuttled around without stressing over traffic. (The offer is only for us, however, Miami residents.) But with a lagoon pool, tennis, yoga, and 150 acres of gorgeous resort, why would you even bother leaving?
small>The Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; 305-445-1926. From $269 a night.

Maybe you've got an itch to travel, but time restraints won't let you go far. Have a true South Florida experience by packing up your car, your pals, and your pooch (we've found some great pet-friendly options) and heading west on the Tamiami to Marco Island. The quaint and picturesque place is a far cry from SoBe, and instead of partying, your evenings might be spent on the beach, watching boats dock, or sipping wine while walking along the Gulf.

Try an Everglades Airboat Tour for a tourist-y thrill or nosh on some lobster jambalaya at the Island Café or cod and chips at Lee Be Fish. Crowds will be relatively small, so expect to get in some major relaxation time, and try to get on Resident's Beach, if you don't have a car to park. Lastly, book a room at the inexpensive but charming Boat House Motel. It's got more quirk than the chain resorts, and is right on the docks, too. Depending on the size of your party, you can book a condo or gazebo as well, but the Motel is quiet, adorable, and pet-friendly!
The Boat House Motel, 1180 Edington Place, Marco Island; 239-642-2400.

Often overlooked for the more resort-friendly Nassau or The Grand Bahamas, Bimini is a mere 20 minute plane ride from Fort Lauderdale. Once you land, the island is a cinch to navigate — either by golf cart or by hotel shuttle. Chill out beachside, or vist the infamous End of the World Saloon, which is basically a shack serving conch and lobster pizza. You'll literally feel like you are teetering at the edge of the earth, surrounded by sand and sapphire blue water.

For accommodations, the easiest and most luxe resort is Bimini Bay Resort, which has infinity pools nestled right on the beach. The hotel will take you to and from the airport, and will help you organize Bahamian activities, like fishing, boating, or just taking a spa day. Bimini Bay Bahamas Resort & Marina, 25.42.6 N 79.18.6 W, 242-347-6000.