From sun seekers and club hoppers, Miami attracts tourists who enjoy daylight beach bathing and nightlife partying. Offering upscale accommodations to more than 12 million visitors a year, according to Miami Tourism, the hospitality industry thrives, as Miami remains a premium tourist destination. Within Miami, hotels along Collins Avenue and Ocean Drive offer classic oceanfront views that have become synonymous with this bustling Florida city.
As one of Miami's most recognizable landmarks, the Sherry Frontenac Oceanfront Hotel welcomed its first guests in 1947. Since then, the hotel's twin towers exterior and vintage interior have maintained the original art deco design. Despite its historic designation, the Sherry Frontenac features modern amenities like a fitness facility, outdoor pool and exclusive access to a private beach. Half of the hotel's 269 rooms and suites boast panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, while the other half feature clear city views. For the business traveler, each room provides free high-speed Internet access. For budget-conscious travelers, the Crew Lounge on the lobby floor serves daily complimentary continental breakfast. Other on-site services include a spa, hair salon, game room, sports bar and restaurant.
Sherry Frontenac Oceanfront Hotel
6565 Collins Ave.
Miami, FL 33141
305-866-2122
sherryfrontenac.net
One mile south of the Sherry Frontenac, the Castle Hotel features similar art deco architecture. Built in 1966, this hotel also has fitness center, an outdoor heated pool with a large tanning deck and private beach access. Rooms come with standard air conditioning and twin or queen-size bed positioned to provide idyllic ocean views. Guests in Miami on business can also access free wireless Internet from the lobby floor and a private business center open 24 hours.
The Castle Hotel
5445 Collins Ave.
Miami, FL 33140
786-323-8604
thecastlebeach.com
Further south along Miami Beach, the Marriott Courtyard features panoramic views of the oceanfront from east-facing guest rooms, most with balconies. All suites at this smoke-free hotel come with complimentary high-speed Internet, refrigerator, microwave, DVD player and plasma television. Ground-level ocean views provide an idyllic backdrop for the outdoor Olympic-size pool and adjoining area for sunbathers. A short walk from the hotel, the Port of Miami offers multiple shopping and dining options. Last-minute travelers may want to take advantage of the Marriott's weekend deals offering discounted rates as of 2010.
Courtyard Miami Beach
3925 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33140
305-538-3373
marriott.com
Nestled within the pristine oceanfront and trendy nightlife of South Beach, the Beacon Hotel displays the modern art deco architecture that's common to south Miami. Built in 1937, this historic hotel underwent a complete interior and exterior renovation from 2004 to 2009. With 73 guest rooms and two luxury suites, the Beacon boasts many of the same amenities as bigger hotels in the area, such as turn-down service, luxury linens, in-room mini-bar, complimentary high-speed Internet access and valet laundry services. Adjacent to the lobby, the Place Restaurant serves fresh international cuisine and locally harvested seafood.
Beacon Hotel South Beach
720 Ocean Drive
Miami Beach, FL 33129
305-674-8200
mybeaconhotel.com
