Sticky, sultry August, when tourists are keeping their distance, brings a spate of bargains for locals vacationing at home. Here are some South Florida attractions that are offering free or discounted admission and a sampling of hotel deals.

• Admission to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is free on Sundays in August. Regular admission is $20 for adults, $10 for children. Among the highlights: On display in the garden are five massive sculptures, constructed primarily from industrial I-beams, by Mark di Suvero. 305-667-1651; www.fairchildgarden.org.

• Admission to Jungle Island is half-price for Miami-Dade and Broward residents through Aug. 16. That's $14.95 for adults, $11.95 for children 3-10. What's happening: Peanut and Pumpkin, rare twin orangutans, are moving into new quarters. 305- 400-7000; www.jungleisland.com.

• Flamingo Gardens in Davie is offering half-price admission in August and September. That's $8.50 for adults, $4.25 for kids. Wildlife shows, guided tours of the historic Wray Home, and horticultural displays. It's breeding season at the gardens, and birds are showing off their brightest plumage. 954- 473-2955; www.flamingogardens.org.

• Miami Spa Month, with $99 for certain treatments 7/8 about half the usual rate -- at 28 of the area's priciest spas -- has been extended through Aug. 31. www.miamispamonth.com.

• The Marquesa Hotel in Key West is offering free upgrades on its already discounted rates. Guests in standard rooms will be upgraded to a deluxe room, and guests booked in a deluxe room will be upgraded to a junior suite. The package is available Sunday-Thursday through Oct. 8, has a two-night minimum stay and includes free breakfast. Standard rooms from $190 per night, deluxe rooms from $240 7/8 about 40 percent off high-season rates. Add $50 per night to stay on a weekend. 305- 292-1919; www.marquesa.com.

• If you've been wanting to check out the Setai on South Beach, but couldn't handle its $1,000-plus room rates, the hotel is offering a 55 percent discount to Florida residents. The special rates start at $525 a night and include buffet breakfast and free overnight valet parking through Oct. 15. Proof of residency is required at check-in. 305-520-6110; www.setai.com.

• For hotel deals in Broward County, check out www.sunny.org/packyourbags.

-- MARJIE LAMBERT

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