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Hotels Overview

Does Miami have the hottest hotel scene in the world? Dubai, Paris, Las Vegas -- there's stiff competition for sure. But for a beach scene in the continental United States, there's no doubt that this radically transformed landscape of glamour, luxury, and skyrocketing costs is king. Miami's hotel scene is all about fabulosity, whether you're referring to the anything-goes design philosophy (jellyfish in the lobby? Lucite furniture?) or the celebrities canoodling in the cabanas. For sheer style, you can't beat South Beach; if you're looking for a megaresort (or a retro palace like the Fontainebleau or the Eden Roc), head a bit farther north or downtown.

When deciding where to stay, take into account the different personalities of Miami's neighborhoods. If this is a stay-up-all-night, I'm-only-going-to-be-here-once vacation, reserve a room on South Beach's Ocean Drive or Collins Avenue and expect the party atmosphere to keep you up past your bedtime. If you're here for business, a hotel downtown or in Coral Gables will put you close to the business centers. If you'd prefer access to the ocean minus the frenzy of South Beach, consider Key Biscayne or Sunny Isles, where half a dozen high-rise hotels promote a relaxed, family-oriented destination. If being on the ocean isn't a priority, but being close to the action is, rooms in funky Coconut Grove are your best bet.