Vibrant culture, sun-drenched beaches, and a pulsating nightlife create an irresistible energy that defines this iconic coastal metropolis. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Miami based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Miami: The Vagabond Hotel
Best boutique hotel in Miami: The Betsy South Beach
Best luxury hotel in Miami: Four Seasons at The Surf Club
Best hostel in Miami: Hostel Freehand
Best eco-friendly hotel in Miami: Circa 39
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
Freehand Miami is a clever reinvention of the historic Indian Creek Hotel, a classic 1930s Art Deco building in Mid-Beach. Developed by Andrew Zobler and designed by the renowned firm Roman & Williams, the property breathes new life into a cluster of vintage buildings. It was thoughtfully transformed into a modern, eclectic space that prioritizes community and comfort over the stuffiness of traditional resorts.
Telegraph + 1 more“This hip hotel-hostel with both private and shared rooms anchored by Broken Shaker, Miami Beach’s most popular cocktail bar, is something of an anomaly; at once one of Miami’s trendiest and most affordable hotels. There is a lush, inviting courtyard and pool courting Miami Beach locals, as well as 27 Restaurant.”
Esmé Miami Beach is a beautifully reimagined "Spanish village" located right in the heart of the historic Española Way. Originally built in 1925, this collection of eight Mediterranean-style buildings once served as a bohemian artist colony and was famously a hideaway for Al Capone during the Prohibition era.
CN Traveler + 2 more“A funky boutique hotel with Jazz Age roots and a neo-Spanish-Mediterranean vibe, there’s excellent food and drink here and a lovely rooftop pool and lounge.”
The Vagabond Hotel, located on Biscayne Boulevard, is a beautifully restored 1953 treasure that serves as the crown jewel of Miami’s historic MiMo (Miami Modern) District. Originally designed by the renowned architect B. Robert Swartburg, this boutique property is a stunning example of mid-century "motor hotel" architecture, complete with geometric designs, overhanging rooflines, and an iconic neon sign that once greeted travelers arriving by car.
New York Times“If you don’t need to be within walking distance of the sand and surf, consider the mainland’s Vagabond Hotel, a 1950s roadside inn given a retro-chic overhaul.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Miami.
The Balfour Hotel is a beautifully restored Art Deco gem located on Miami’s iconic Ocean Drive. Originally designed in 1940 by the noted architect Anton Skislewicz, the property consists of two distinct buildings connected by a lush, palm-lined courtyard. It perfectly captures the glamour of mid-century Miami while offering a more refined, intimate atmosphere compared to the high-energy resorts nearby.
New York Times + 1 more“Despite the stylish décor and classy location, the Lord Balfour is low on stuffiness. Service is friendly. Glitz is minimal. Clientele was composed mainly of what looked to be upper-middle-class families and couples rather than the jet-setters who frequent the five-star palaces farther up South Beach. If you don’t demand pomp or pampering, Lord Balfour is a charming host.”
THesis Hotel Miami, located in the heart of Coral Gables, is a modern lifestyle property that opened in 2020. As part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, the hotel is designed as a centerpiece for community connection, featuring an "Urban Living Room"—an open, inviting public space on the ground floor meant to bridge the gap between guests, students from the adjacent University of Miami, and local residents.
New York Times“The THesis Hotel Miami, at the intersection of the Coral Gables and Coconut Grove neighborhoods, offers some distance from the crowds in South Beach and downtown without being too far away. The hotel has a rooftop pool and an idyllic terrace.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Miami.
The Eurostars Langford Hotel in Downtown Miami is a stunning example of 1925 Beaux-Arts architecture. Originally constructed as the Miami National Bank, the building has been carefully preserved, blending its historical roots with modern luxury. Guests can still spot fascinating period details, such as the original mail chute that spans the height of the building and gear-like dials above the elevator doors.
Lonely Planet“Set in a beautifully restored 1925 beaux-arts high-rise, the Langford opened to much fanfare in 2016. Its 126 rooms blend comfort and nostalgia, with elegant fixtures and vintage details, including white oak flooring and glass-encased rain showers.”
Hotel Croydon, located in Miami Beach’s vibrant Mid-Beach neighborhood, is a classic boutique property that captures the spirit of a bygone era. Originally built in 1937, the hotel serves as a beautifully restored example of the area’s signature Art Deco architecture, offering a refined, peaceful escape that feels worlds away from the frenetic energy of nearby South Beach.
New York Times“The Hotel Croydon is a reasonably priced, convenient and comfortable option with perks that make choosing it worthwhile. Two selling points are the outdoor spaces: the pool on the ground floor and the spacious roof deck, which offers views of the ocean and the surrounding city.”
The Mayfair House Hotel & Garden in Coconut Grove is a true Miami icon, originally designed by visionary architect Kenneth Treister in 1985. Known for its distinctive biophilic design and sculpted copper façade, the building was created to feel like a lush, organic extension of nature. Its maximalist aesthetic remains as magical today as it was at its inception.
New York Times + 1 more“The Mayfair House in Coconut Grove reopened in 2022 after a $50 million renovation, highlighting its 1980s-style hanging-garden courtyard. Coconut Grove is close to the highways yet remains one of the most walkable Miami neighborhoods, with the open-air mall CocoWalk, local boutiques, Panther Coffee and two one-star Michelin restaurants, Ariete and Los Félix.”
The Nautilus in Miami Beach is a true icon of the city's golden age. Originally built in the 1950s, the property was designed by the legendary Morris Lapidus, often called the "Architect of Joy." His signature style, which helped define the MiMo (Miami Modern) aesthetic, brought a sense of theatrical flair and optimistic elegance to this oceanfront gem on Collins Avenue.
New York Times + 1 more“The recently restored Nautilus, on Collins Avenue, was originally built in the 1950s by the neo-Baroque architect Morris Lapidus. Its contemporary lobby features nods to the era, with semicircular velvet sofas and gilded accents. Behind it is a saltwater pool with a garden leading straight to the beach.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Miami.
Soho Beach House, located on Collins Avenue in the Mid-Beach area, is a chic oceanfront retreat that occupies a beautifully restored 1940s Art Deco building. The property blends historical architecture with a design aesthetic inspired by the glamour of Old Havana. Inside, you’ll find reclaimed timber, vintage furniture, and a faded color palette that pays homage to Cuba’s maritime history.
CNN + 1 more“A 50-room hotel tower annexed to the grounds of a members-only club, Soho Beach House offers a quiet, intimate take on the best of Miami experience. With the exception of the courtyard restaurant Cecconi’s, on-site amenities here are off-limits to the general public.”
EAST Miami is a sleek, design-forward hotel that marked Swire Hotels’ North American debut when it opened its doors in 2016. Perched atop the massive Brickell City Centre, this urban retreat perfectly blends the fast-paced energy of Miami’s financial district with a serene, tropical atmosphere.
New York Times + 2 more“For those opting out of South Beach there’s East, Miami in Brickell with eye-catching geometric lines designed by the local architecture firm Arquitectonica. Billed as a lifestyle hotel, it houses a series of dining venues, including a coffee shop, an Asian-themed rooftop bar and a fifth-floor restaurant called Quinto La Huella, the first international outpost of Uruguay’s renowned La Huella seaside grill.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Miami.
The Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables is a true South Florida icon, opening in 1926 as the centerpiece of George Merrick’s "City Beautiful" vision. Designed by the architectural firm Schultze and Weaver, the hotel is a stunning example of Mediterranean Revival style. Its most striking feature is the central tower, which was inspired by the Giralda, the famous bell tower of the cathedral in Seville, Spain.
Frommers + 3 more“The imposing neo-Spanish-colonial pile, rising regally over a 150-acre Coral Gables spread and dating back to city founder George Merrick’s original plan in 1926, has seen a lot of history since, to this day regularly hosting heads of states, CEOs, and celebrities.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Miami.
The Betsy Hotel, situated on Ocean Drive, is a landmark that feels more like a cultural foundation than a typical resort. Originally opened in 1942 as The Betsy Ross, the hotel is unique for being the area's sole surviving example of Florida-Georgian architecture. Designed by architect L. Murray Dixon, it famously served as a sanctuary for soldiers during World War II before evolving into the stylish retreat it is today.
Lonely Planet + 3 more“One of South Beach’s finest hotels, the Betsy has a classy vibe with excellent service and first-rate amenities. The historic gem has two wings, with rooms set in either a colonial style or an art-deco aesthetic.”
Opened in 1954, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is a true icon of mid-century modern design. Architect Morris Lapidus famously described his creation as an "architecture of joy," featuring sweeping curves and dramatic, theatrical spaces that redefined luxury hospitality. It was built on the former estate of Harvey Firestone, quickly becoming the go-to destination for the glitterati and A-list celebrities.
Fodors + 4 more“Vegas meets art deco at this colossal classic, deemed Miami’s biggest hotel after its $1 billion reinvention, which spawned more than 1,500 rooms, 12 renowned restaurants and lounges, LIV nightclub, several sumptuous pools with cabana islands, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a 40,000-square-foot spa.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Miami.
The Shelborne, located on Miami Beach’s famous Collins Avenue, is a beautifully preserved landmark that first opened its doors in 1940. Originally designed by architects Igor Polevitzky and Thomas Triplett Russell, it served as a glamorous escape during the city’s Art Deco golden age. In the 1950s, the iconic architect Morris Lapidus—famed for his work on the Fontainebleau—added his signature flair, introducing the sweeping curves and pool deck cabanas that helped define the Miami Modern (MiMo) style.
New York Times + 2 more“The Shelborne by Proper, an Art Deco gem just north of the bustle of South Beach, reopened this year after a $100 million upgrade. The hotel has a relaxed pool (with a historic diving board preserved in the renovation) and beach bed set ups.”
The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club in Surfside is a masterclass in blending historic grandeur with modern sophistication. Originally founded in 1930 as a private social club by tire magnate Harvey Firestone, the property was designed by architect Russell Pancoast. It quickly became the playground of the elite, hosting iconic figures like Winston Churchill, Elizabeth Taylor, and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.
CN Traveler + 1 more“If you’re looking for seclusion and don’t mind paying top dollar for it, The Surf Club is a wonderful option, and more centrally located than the many luxury resorts you’ll find in Sunny Isles Beach.”
Recommended by:
Telegraph, New York Times
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
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Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
New York Times
Recommended by:
New York Times, CN Traveler
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Lonely Planet, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Forbes, CNN, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, CN Traveler, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, Forbes
Miami is a global city located at the southeastern U.S. state of Florida. The city is home to the famous South Beach and is renowned for trendsetting nightclubs, surfside hotels, white sand, and colorful art deco buildings.
Some of the best neighborhoods in Miami are:
Brickell
Brickell is a neighborhood that is the financial district of the city and also has a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. The neighborhood is home to many pubs and bars such as Blackbird Ordinary, Sidebar, La Moon, El Tucan, among others. The neighborhood has shopping centers such as Pandora, Lululemon Athletica, Chopard, AllSaints, and Agent Provocateur.
Coconut Grove
Coconut Grove is a neighborhood that is home to several great restaurants such as Sky Lounge, Panorama Restaurant, Plant Food + Wine, and Peacock Garden Café. The restaurants offer great margarita and seafood and gives out romantic and laid-back vibes.
Coral Gables
Coral Gables is a neighborhood that is full of lush greenery filled with flowers, trees, and other natural elements that renders it a garden type of look. The area features old Spanish architecture and several restaurants, bars, pubs, cafes, bookstores, and many more places.
Downtown Miami
Downtown Miami is a neighborhood that is located near waterfront. The neighborhood is the home to several landmarks such as Olympia Theater that is the city’s historic performing arts center, The Moth that is a live event where people come on stage to tell stories, Fratelli Milano that is a romantic and quaint restaurant and Jar + Fork a healthy restaurant that serves cold-pressed juices, delicious wraps, and salmon curry bowls.
Also check out our guide about the best areas to stay in Miami.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Miami, then book The Vagabond Hotel. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Miami.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in Miami, you should check out The Betsy South Beach. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Miami, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Miami, then go for Four Seasons at The Surf Club. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it.
Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Miami, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a great hostel in Miami, then you should check out Hostel Freehand. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it's in a good location. Also check out our guide about the best hostels in Miami.
Looking for a great view while having a drink? Try Hotel East or Eurostars Langford Hotel, both excellent rooftop bars with views of Miami.
Staying in Miami Beach isn't cheap. For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $160 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $300 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Miami Beach hotel then you can expect to pay around $550 per night.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try Hotel East or Hotel Mandarin Oriental. Both offer amazing views of Miami according to recent customer reviews.
Speedboat Sightseeing Tour of Miami. Cruise the Miami coastline 'Miami Vice-style' on this speedboat cruise. Settle in to your plush seat as your expert captain pilots the speedboat down the sandy shoreline, where you can view Fisher Island and Star Island's collection of multi-millionaire and celebrity homes. Price: $40.
Everglades National Park Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show. Experience South Florida's premier Everglades and alligator adventure. Take an educational and exciting airboat tour of the National Park. See a wildlife show with the opportunity to hold a baby gator. Price: $19.
Miami Combo Tour: City Sightseeing, Biscayne Bay Cruise and Everglades Airboat Ride. Escape to the wilderness of the Florida Everglades and see Miami by bus and boat on this guided, full-day, city sightseeing adventure. This exciting full-day combo package includes a coach tour around downtown Miami and beyond, plus a cruise on the crystal clear waters of Biscayne Bay. Price: $68.
More things to do in Miami
Miami is a city defined by its vibrant paradoxes, where deep-rooted history meets a future-facing, neon-lit skyline. Originally a swampy settlement known to the indigenous Tequesta people, the region underwent a radical transformation in the late nineteenth century. It was famously chartered in 1896, largely due to the influence of Julia Tuttle, the only woman to found a major American city, who convinced railroad magnate Henry Flagler to extend his tracks south. From these humble beginnings as a quiet coastal outpost, it evolved into a bustling winter resort, eventually becoming the gateway to the Americas and a crucial crossroads for international trade, culture, and migration.
Today, Miami stands as a global epicenter of style, finance, and cultural fusion. It is arguably the most international city in the United States, serving as a melting pot where Latin American influences harmonize with American ambition. The city is defined by its Art Deco district, the pulsing energy of its nightlife, and a rapidly maturing arts scene that draws elite collectors and creators from across the globe. It is a place that celebrates vitality and excess, standing as a proud, sun-drenched symbol of reinvention and persistent growth in a changing climate.
Despite its fame, Miami hides intriguing secrets behind its polished exterior. Many are unaware that the city’s iconic Art Deco architecture was intentionally preserved in the 1970s not just for aesthetics, but to stave off complete demolition, creating the historic district that now defines South Beach. Furthermore, while it is celebrated for its pristine beaches, most of its sand was not naturally deposited there; it was dredged from offshore and brought in to nourish the shoreline. Additionally, Miami holds the distinction of being the only major U.S. city founded by a woman, a testament to its unique, trailblazing spirit that continues to shape its identity as a daring, unconventional metropolis.
Please do read our guide on where to stay in Miami, so you get an even better idea about the city.
If you like our list of accommodations and hotels in Miami, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Buenos Aires or the best hotels in Hawaii.