As Hurricane Irma neared Florida, the New York Post published an article on South Beach partiers reacting to the impending storm: shouting expletives, beers held high, gleefully defiant. That should give you one impression of the tempo and spirit of South Beach, also known as SoBe, a neighborhood in Miami Beach. It’s a destination thriving with not only sweet daytime sunshine, but a seriously hefty amount of nightlife, eateries and shopping. Before it became a wealthy, glamorous destination, South Beach was also the filming locale for many early episodes of Miami Vice — a stylish precursor to the neighborhood’s current popularity and cool factor.
We’ve selected five properties for you in South Beach, whether you’re coming to party or to relax. These affordably-priced properties are close to or within the neighborhood, keeping in mind past customer ratings to ensure our choices are dependable when it comes to quality.
From $69/ night
The Stardust Hotel lives among the buzz of South Beach: it’s a five minute walk to the oceanfront, less than two miles from the Convention Center, and close to the Art Deco District. That should give you plenty of areas to explore outside the hotel, but you might want to know the amenities that come with your lodging: each room is equipped with a microwave, cable TV, small fridge and plenty of space to kick back after a day on the beach.
From $106/ night
This property sports a chic ambiance that’s perfect for South Beach: brightly colored walls, minimal decor and tasteful feng shui. The atmosphere should energize you enough to go for a walk —maybe to the beach, which is only five minutes by foot. The Art Deco District and Lincoln Road Mall are other options nearby, both within a mile of the hotel. If you need more fuel, a light breakfast is served every morning. And when you’re done soaking up sun, you can veg out on your laptop and enjoy the free wifi. (Parking on-site, however, will incur some additional charges.)
From $99/ night
This hotel has amassed plenty of reviews —more than 2,100, to be more exact— but it’s maintained a high rating from guests. This elegantly decorated property is one block from the beaches, and also near the food, shopping and nightlife of Ocean Drive. Each room sports dark wood flooring and neutral-colored bedding —the perfect remedy of calm after you’ve spent too much time partying. The morning after, chase away that post-party stupor with a free continental breakfast.
From $79/ night
The beach is close to this hotel — a five-minute walk will land you at the white sands of Miami Beach. (Also close is the Miami Beach Convention Center, standing a mere 1,650 feet away). Inside the property, you’ll find posh, clean decor for a relaxing seaside vibe. Rooms come with a flatscreen TV, coffeemaker, and private bathroom. Want some breakfast before taking a dip in the ocean’s crystalline blue? You can enjoy a morning continental starting at 7:30 am (9:00 am on Saturday and Sunday).
From $97/ night
All the best South Beach hotels are within walking distance of the water —and Riviera Suites certainly fulfills that criterion, located only two minutes (by foot) from the surf and sands. To enhance the already tropical feel, this property offers a luxe courtyard pool. If your muscles get tired from all the swimming, you can arrange for a massage, or get groceries delivered for an additional charge. All this comfort might make you want to stay in your room, but don’t forget to indulge the local attractions. Two options for even the most sedentary travelers are the Bass Museum of Art (a three-minute walk) and the Miami Beach Botanical Garden (only 2,650 feet away).
