The Hotel Guru
20 Best Hotels in South Beach

20 Best Hotels in South Beach

Miami’s South Beach is the lower portion of the Miami Beach area, the bit with the very best Art Deco architecture, the best beaches, the best shopping and the best scene after dark. So it’s an obvious pick if you're planning to visit the city. And when you see the range of hotels (from chic little boutiques to all-singing-all-dancing no-need-to-leave resorts) and room rates on our Gurus' list of the best hotels in South Beach you’ll probably never want to stay anywhere else!

For a Special Occasion

HEADLINE: The Villa Casa Casuarina used to be Versace’s home. Yes, it is possible for you to stay in the former home of one of the boldest designers of our time. This is an absolute treasure trove of handmade furniture, fabrics, tiling and details. The mosaic pool with its fountains and palm trees is especially fabulous. But all the details are. There are just ten unique rooms. Wow is an understatement.
The Plymouth was an Art Deco masterpiece of a hotel, but has been given a contemporary make over and now benefits from the best of both worlds — all the mod. cons. but with chic retro detailing. The pool is suitably glamorous, and so is the Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar.

For Beach Access

The Betsy is on Ocean Drive, just across the road from the beach, a grand, elegant white facade, concealing a beautiful hotel with Miami’s only open-air rooftop spa. The Betsy has 61 rooms and suites, featuring hardwood flooring, marble bathrooms, original art and fresh flowers. The pool is in a central internal courtyard, and the restaurant is a highly acclaimed steakhouse.
Surfcomber is another hotel with design and decor drawing from Miami’s Art Deco heyday, and the 186 rooms and suites have the feel of modern luxury — the suites are very well equipped, and the whole atmosphere is genuinely welcoming. The direct beach access means you can run between the ocean and the heated pool with its cocktail bar, sun loungers and cabanas. If you want to make the most of your holiday there’s a 24 hour gym and fitness centre, and if you want to relax there’s complimentary wine in the lounge bar every evening.

For Ocean Views

The Setai is also on Ocean Drive, right opposite the beach, and the rooms at the front of the hotel overlook the beautiful palm-lined pools, then the sand and ocean. There are 130 rooms and suites in all, decorated with elements of Asian design, and unfussy details. The spa and gym are impressive, and there are four restaurants and bars to choose from. This is a stylish, grown up choice.
The Nautilus is as cool as it sounds, a mid-century build with big windows to let in the sea views, marble floors and lots of natural light. There’s a heated outdoor pool lined with cabanas, and a gym, a spa and a fabulous restaurant known for its local produce and Mediterranean flavours.

For a Short Beach Break

1 Hotel South Beach is a big resort hotel in a prime spot, set just back from the palm trees, sand and ocean. The decor and design of 1 Hotel is inspired by nature, in a Scandi-minimalist way, featuring plenty of natural wood, neutral colours and lots of natural light. This is one of the best hotels in South Beach for families because of the excellent facilities, including a kids club, and there’s a choice of pools and restaurants, including one major award-winner. Catching a view from the rooftop bar and terraces is an essential part of any stay.
The Hotel Victor is a hip hotel with a friendly atmosphere centred around the hotel pool. The 91 rooms and suites are decorated with a neutral colour palette, cool details and industrial accents. But the main appeal is the huge windows and the ocean views though them. Other hotel perks include a Turkish hammam and a sushi restaurant. And you’re right next door to the Versace mansion hotel.

For a Resort Break

You might not think a full sized, full-facility beach resort could fit into Miami, but it can, and it’s the W South Beach. With direct beach access complete wth a beach club, a choice of lagoon pools, a choice of great restaurants, rooftop tennis, a sanctuary spa, and 345 rooms and suites, this really is a proper resort hotel.

For a Hip Stay

The Miami area is known for its historic architecture, and Urbanica The Meridien has been created from the conversion of a cool 1930s block in the trendy area South of Fifth — or the bottom part of the ‘island’ of Miami Beach. The hotel is trendy too, with 70 rooms and suites decorated in wood and white, with chic chevron patterned bathrooms. The hotel’s cocktail bar is popular with the locals too, which make this feel like a lively, friendly place to be. And it’s inexpensive too.

For Romance

The Gale South Beach is a return to the Art Deco days of Miami, with a nostalgic eye for details and really beautiful period features. The 87 rooms and suites feature lots of white, accented by black and white photography and shades of grey. The perennially sunny rooftop bar, pool and restaurant — or your private terrace — are the place to come for the best views And the cocktail club is very chic.

For Families

One of the best hotels in South Beach for families, the Mondrian South Beach is right on the water overlooking Biscayne Bay, which faces the rest of Miami, so the views of the city are fantastic — especially from the huge, tropical pool terrace, and the balconies of the rooms on this side of the hotel. Inside this is a cool hotel, its 205 rooms and suites fitted with custom designed furniture, much of it monochrome. There’s a chic spa and restaurant serving American cuisine, sushi and cocktails. The suites all have kitchenettes, and there’s a kids’ pool and sandpit.
The National is a brilliant, towering example of Miami’s Art Deco ocean-front area. Built in 1940 it was tall for its day, and it’s recently been refurbished to the original specifications, with some beautiful antique furnishings and chrome and dark wood accents. The atmospheric restaurant serves French cuisine beautifully. The original specifications gave this hotel Miami’s longest pool: over 200 feet long, and it’s still just as impressive. They also have a gym and spa now.

For Beach Fun

Dream Miami South Beach is designed for fun, the decor is colourful and eclectic, the location is perfect for the beach, for the shops, and the hottest restaurants, bars and clubs in South Beach. And the hotel has its own cool Mexican restaurant. Its also inexpensive and eco-friendly.

For Great Value

The Hotel of South Beach is another hotel our Gurus think really epitomises South Beach with its original, white Art Deco exterior and sympathetic interior designs. It has 53 rooms and suites, in a range of shapes and styles, but all feature the bold, custom designed prints that bring this hotel together. The views from the rooftop pool and bar are wonderful, and while there’s no restaurant there is a cafe. Perfect if you’re looking for somewhere cool and relaxed.
The Angler's is a cool place to stay; from its roof terrace pool and bar to its spa treatments, this hotel epitomises the buzz of South Beach. And to help you feel at home guests get VIP passes to a number of South Beach nightclubs. There are 85 rooms, suites and studios, arranged into a hotel high enough to see the ocean over the low-rise historic buildings on the front. The decor is heavy on natural wood and white and blue, and rooms have lots of natural night and plenty of space. The studios have private balconies.

Still not sure which to book?

You could browse our recommendations for all the best places to stay in Miami
or refine your search to our articles on the best beachfront hotels in Miami, famous Miami hotels, the best party hotels in Miami, or the best Art Deco hotels in Miami
You could expand your search to include ALL the best places to stay in Florida
Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- The Meridian Miami (South Beach) 70 rooms from AU$123
  
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  Local exploring  -  Whilst the hotel is located in South Beach, hotel guides can offer local knowledge and secret spots ensuring an authentic stay
  Foodies  -  Easy access to South of the Fifth where you can find great restaurants including the iconic Joe's Stone Crab
  Value chic  -  Chic city style offered at very reasonable rates
  Restaurant  -  Reginas Grocery- serves freshly made salads and hot and cold sandwiches
  
  An affordable 1930s-renovated modern hotel located in the trendy area of South of the Fifth. White and wooden furnished rooms with chevron-patterned tiled bathroom. The hotel's cocktail bar is a neighbourhood staple and ensures a great deal of fun with the locals. A friendly and authentic stay. See More
  
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- The Angler's Miami (South Beach) 85 rooms from AU$345
  
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  Spa  -  Spa treatments offered in-room and by the pool
  Restaurant  -  fresh local seafood and pastas
  Swimming Pool  -  Year-round outdoor pool
  Outstanding location
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  This Mediterranean revival hotel, a bastion of old Miami architecture, offers a breath of fresh air, discretion and supreme comfort, a sanctuary just a few minutes' walk from the buzz of downtown South Beach. Restaurant, pool, bar, spa treatments. Interiors with light fabrics and natural woods. See More
  
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- The Hotel of South Beach Miami (South Beach) 53 rooms from AU$235
  
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  Designer  -  Interiors by American fashion designer Todd Oldham
  Views  -  Some rooms have views of the ocean
  Swimming Pool  -  Year-round rooftop outdoor pool
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  
  Drawing inspiration from the neon lights of South Beach and the breathtaking Atlantic sunsets, bright patterns in defiantly saturated hues and custom-designed motifs adorn the interiors of this property. Rooms are welcoming and simple, and the rooftop pool and bar is a haven for open-air relaxation. See More
  
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- Mondrian South Beach Miami (South Beach) 205 rooms from AU$311
  
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  Spa  -  Six treatment rooms and private garden terrace. Milk and honey treatments particularly notable.
  Views  -  Views of the garden or Biscayne Bay from each room
  Designer  -  Designed by renowned designer Marcel Wanders
  Restaurant  -  Serving modern American cuisine and sushi.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Custom-designed furnishings. Spa. Restaurant. On the waterfront of Biscayne Bay. Black and white decor. Outdoor pool and verdant tropical gardens with hammocks. The Restaurant at Mondrian South Beach serves modern American cuisine and sushi with artisanal cocktails and views of electric blue. See More
  
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- The Villa Casa Casuarina Miami (South Beach) 10 rooms from AU$1163
  
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  City Style  -  You can't get more stylish than Versace's house, turned chic hotel on Miami Beach
  Four poster beds  -  For romantics.
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Versace's home turned luxury boutique on the famed Ocean Drive, Miami Beach. This is a treasure trove of remarkable handmade furniture, stained glass windows, murals, exuberant design and over-the-top everything! Not to mention the gold mosaic pool and ornate restaurant dining room. Spectacular! See More
  
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- The Betsy Hotel Miami (South Beach) 61 rooms from AU$330
  
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  Restaurant  -  BLT Steak, an American steakhosue which won Miami Steakhosue of the Year 2014
  Outstanding location  -  Located directly on Ocean Drive in Miami's South Beach district
  Swimming Pool  -  Secluded outdoor swimming pool, year-round.
  On the beach  -  Direct beach access
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Small Luxury Hotels
  
  Hardwood floors, marble bathrooms, original art and fresh flowers create a low-key, refined aura for this beachside hotel. Miami's only open-air rooftop spa, a sheltered outdoor pool, and exclusive and highly-acclaimed BLT steakhouse make your stay memorable - just don't forget to explore Miami too! See More
  
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- The National Hotel Miami (South Beach) 151 rooms from AU$301
  
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  Restaurant  -  Tamara Bistro is a popular restaurant Miami, known for fine French fare and seafood
  Swimming Pool  -  Miami's longest pool, over 200 feet long
  Restrictions on children  -  This is an adult-only property
  Spa  -  Poolside cabana spa
  
  A 1940s landmark of Miami's Art Deco ocean-front area, with the longest pool in Miami. Lovingly restored to the original specifications with antique pieces of furniture and authentic accents in chrome and dark woods. The atmospheric restaurant serves carefully prepared French cuisine. Gym, spa, bar. See More
  
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- W South Beach Miami (South Beach) 345 rooms from AU$1088
  
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  Foodies  -  The number of upscale and innovative restaurants in Miami Beach is almost unparalled the world over, starting with the hotel
  Beach Life  -  Spend days at the idyllic beach club; enjoy miles of white sand, blue ocean, attentive service & a trendy food truck
  Close to nightlife  -  Start a night on the town at the hotel's on-trend nightclub before heading into the Miami Beach after-dark madness
  Groups  -  The perfect place to come with a group of friends looking for a good time (and limited sleep)
  
  Party like the jet-set at this impressive luxury ocean-front resort. Whatever you want, they've got: world-class dining, banging beach club, spa sanctuary, rooftop tennis, palm-fringed pool & cool in-house nightclub. Contemporary rooms channel tasteful glamour & maximize sea views. Fun guaranteed. See More
  
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- The Setai Miami (South Beach) 130 rooms from AU$966
  
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  Outstanding location  -  On Ocean Drive right by the beach in the centre of Miami's nightlife and shopping district
  Restaurant  -  4 on-site restaurants
  Swimming Pool  -  Three swimming pools
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Luxury oceanfront hotel in vibrant Miami Beach neighbourhood. Spectacular suites feature rainfall showers, Asian-inspired design and views of the city and the sea. Outdoor pool, spa, massage, gym. Enjoy an unrivalled fine dining experience at any one of the four restaurants and bars, notably Asian. See More
  
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- Nautilus Miami (South Beach) 250 rooms from AU$806
  
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  Outdoor dining
  Restaurant  -  The Driftwood Room under culinary direction of China Grill, offers Mediterranean cuisine with fresh Floridian ingredients
  Swimming Pool  -  Palm-fringed heated saltwater outdoor pool
  On the beach  -  Direct beach access
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  1950s style hotel designed with comfort in mind. Interiors exude casual elegance with marble floors and much natural light. Restaurant serves freshly prepared local food inspired by Mediterranean flavours. Cabanas by the freshwater heated outdoor pool serve snacks and drinks. Gym, spa, sea views. See More
  
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- 1 Hotel South Beach Miami (South Beach) 426 rooms from AU$1268
  
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  Families  -  Kids club on site for the little ones aged 4-12
  Kids Club  -  Kids Club focussed on fun activities centered around learning about nature e.g. nature walks, seashell art and bird feeders
  Restaurant  -  Two on-site restaurants: Beachcraft and The Sand Box
  Swimming Pool  -  Four pools including rooftop pool
  
  Nature-inspired beachside retreat. Bright, airy rooms with natural woods and a neutral colour palette provide the perfect space to unwind away from the excitement of the city. Rooftop bar to watch the Miami skyline, award-winning restaurant, spectacular sea vistas, gym, spa. See More
  
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- Dream South Beach Miami (South Beach) 108 rooms from AU$174
  
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  City Style  -  Steps from the hottest clubs, restaurants and famed shopping of Lincoln Road, Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue
  Beach Life  -  Less than 50 metres from a pristine stretch of Miami Beach shoreline
  Spa  -  The spa provides treatments encompassing the mind, body, and soul using a harmonious balance of natural, plant-based ingredients
  Swimming Pool  -  Our rooftop pool comes with chaises, cabanas, towel service and poolside dining, drinks and ocean views
  
  A fun hotel suited to young couples in search of a lively atmosphere, who want to be close to the nightlife of South Beach. Chic modern rooms have Moroccan inspired details and luxurious bathrooms feature rain showers. The restaurant serves delicious casual Mexican food. An all-round hit. See More
  
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- Hotel Victor Miami (South Beach) 91 rooms from AU$233
  
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  Restaurant  -  Enjoy Japanese cuisine at Sushi Couture or indulge your sweet tooth at the Sugar Factory, which also serves pizza and burgers.
  Private Hot Tub  -  Book the Victor or Victoria Penthouse Suite for a private garden terrace with hot tub
  Sights nearby  -  Adjacent to the Versace mansion and within 5 minutes' walk of the Art Deco District
  Whirlpool Bathtub  -  The King Suite comes with huge infinity edge jetted tub
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A youthful, trendy property with poolside lifestyle. Interiors offer a neutral colour palette, sun-bleached woods, glass and metal accents, and big windows for a naturally-lit beach-chic vibe. Snack on sushi at Sushi Couture or join the Miami glitterati at the playful Sugar Factory Brasserie. See More
  
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- Gale South Beach Miami (South Beach) 87 rooms from AU$257
  
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  Swimming Pool  -  Rooftop outdoor pool which enjoys unobstructed all-day sunshine
  Lively area  -  In the thick of the action.
  Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  
  Return to Art Deco glory days in this fine Miami Beach property, replete with elegantly balanced monochrome furnishings, plush Italian sheets, and a nostalgic eye for design. Enjoy views of Miami and its shoreline from the rooftop bar, pool and restaurant or soak up the rays on a private terrace. See More
  
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- Surfcomber Miami (South Beach) 186 rooms from AU$271
  
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  Families  -  The hotel offers a range of activities for all ages from face painting to soccer skills and sandcastle building!
  Restaurant  -  The Social Club serves seafood and regionally inspired dishes
  On the beach  -  Direct access to the sands of South Beach
  Swimming Pool  -  Heated outdoor pool
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Oceanfront property with class and character. Interiors draw inspiration from Miami's art deco heritage and have modern luxe appeal, with stylish clean lines and colourful accents. Suites are inviting and fully-equipped. Two bars and a restaurant cater to all tastes with regional seafood cuisine. See More
  
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- The Plymouth Miami (South Beach) 109 rooms from AU$493
  
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  Beach Life  -  Miami Beach life- poolside lounging, killer cocktails, a Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar and private beach space
  Great walks  -  Miami Beach’s Botanical Gardens are just down the road and well worth checking out
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels, Tablet
  
  An Art-Deco Miami masterpiece, given a modern facelift by world renowned designer Fernando Santangelo. This vintage gem offers stylish suites with free standing in room tubs, Juliette balconies and muted white on pastel tones. The Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar is a show stopper as is the sun-kissed pool. See More
  
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