Tourists have been traveling to South Beach, Fla., a Miami enclave, since the 1930s to enjoy the sunshine, beach and diverse culture. The community is renowned for its high-end shopping, dining, nightclubs and accommodations. The town's smaller boutique hotels offer a more intimate lodging experience compared to the larger area resorts. Whether seeking a hotel with historical pedigree, a trendy flair, a quieter experience or a location off the main strip that still sees a lot of the area's action, there likely is a South Beach boutique hotel that will fill your needs.
The original neon blue Colony Hotel sign is one of the most photographed South Beach hotel signs. Built in 1939, the hotel is on the list of the National Register of Historic Places. Rooms at the renovated hotel are equipped with hardwood floors, flat-screen plasma televisions, custom Art Deco furniture and hardwood floors. The Colony is located on South Beach's Ocean Drive, across the street from the beach and ocean. Valet parking and wireless Internet are available. On-site dining includes a restaurant and a lounge.
The Colony Hotel
738 Ocean Dr.
Miami Beach, Fl 33139
305-673-0088
colonymiami.com
The Clinton Hotel and Spa South Beach has 88 rooms that feature ultra-contemporary design and décor. Balcony rooms feature water views that open either to the pool area or to a reflective pool. Upper tier Spa and Loft Suites feature an in room or balcony spa and bath butler services are available for an additional fee. Spa treatments at the onsite Purple Room Spa include massages, skin care, manicures and pedicures. The pool area features private cabanas and a 24-hour bar. Additional hotel amenities include a fitness center and a French/Mediterranean inspired restaurant.
Clinton Hotel and Spa South Beach
825 Washington Ave.
South Beach, FL 33139
305-938-4040
clintonsouthbeach.com
The Penguin Hotel is located on a quieter section of Ocean Drive and sits directly across from the beach. Built in 1948 and originally known as the Golden Dawn Hotel, the building's design is an example of the Late Art Deco style. Renovated in 2006, the Penguin Hotel boasts 44 condo-style rooms. No two rooms are alike and each has one wall decorated with a different flower or nature theme. Room amenities include refrigerator, 300-thread-count sheets, flat-screen televisions and Czechoslovakian chandeliers.
Penguin Hotel
1418 Ocean Dr.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
305-534-9334
penguinhotel.com
One block from the beach, the Albion Hotel is situated in the Lincoln Road Mall area, known for its nightlife, shopping and restaurants. Renovated in 2008, the 100-room hotel still contains features from its original 1939 nautical design. Rooms contain modern amenities, cucumber-scented toiletries, minimalist decor, designer textiles, custom wood furniture and free Wi-Fi. Both smoking and nonsmoking rooms are available. Original artwork from the Rubell Family art collection decorate the penthouses. A pool, fitness center and banquet facilities are all on site, along with indoor and outdoor dining options.
Albion Hotel South Beach
1650 James Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33139
305-913-3000
rubellhotels.com
