The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Miami

Tucked just off South Beach on buzzing Ocean Drive, this Art Deco boutique hotel has been in business since 1940. Inside, historic meets hip and classic meets modern in rooms and suites that combine classic tropical design – think wood furnishings, ceiling fans and muted khaki shades – with rainfall showers, plush beds and Lavazza coffeemakers. The U-shaped property hugs a peaceful inner courtyard where you can relax by the pool while nibbling Latin-inspired coastal dishes.

Located in Miami’s affluent South of Fifth neighborhood, just blocks from the beach, this adults-only boutique hotel boasts elegant interior design, original artwork and 20ft (6m) ceilings. From shopping on Lincoln Road to strolling through the 17-acre (7ha) South Pointe Park, there’s plenty to keep you occupied within walking distance – though you’ll have to tear yourself away from the hotel’s cheese-and-wine happy hour first.

Flanked by the clear waters of Biscayne Bay in upscale Coconut Grove, 5mi (8km) from Downtown Miami, this boutique hotel will draw you in with its lush landscaping and stunning sailing bays. After an adrenaline-filled day of boating and water sports just steps from the hotel, enjoy some well-earned yuca fries and seafood paella at Table 14 Bar and Restaurant or cook up your catch of the day in your suite’s full kitchen.

Wrapped in leafy vines, Hotel St. Michel will have you stopping for a photo before you realize it’s where you’re spending the night. Once you’ve checked in, head to the Peloton-powered gym for an energizing workout or make a beeline for Zucca, where you can indulge in regional Italian cuisine – from delicate, cheese-stuffed zucchini blossoms to succulent grilled meats – with over 2,000 wine pairings to choose from.

Views of Biscayne Bay and the Coconut Grove skyline surround this tranquil oasis. The exterior resembles a cruise ship – a theme that continues inside with a breathtaking nautical motif by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio and rooms with white-railed terraces and pothole windows. Head to the sun-splashed rooftop pool deck, where you can dig into Italian antipasti and paninis as you enjoy the view.

Sitting along the prestigious Indian Creek Waterway, this boutique hotel in Miami Beach blends beachy boho elements – pastel hues, nautical stripes, mix-and-match antique furnishings, leafy plants – with apartment-style amenities like kitchenettes. When you’re not sipping cocktails by the outdoor pool, take advantage of the complimentary Beach Butler service to transport your umbrella, chair and towel to and from your favorite local beach spot.

Old Spanish mosaic tiles, woven mahogany chests and black-and-white photographs transport you to a Havana of yore at this boutique hotel in Little Havana. Make new friends at the hotel’s charming Cuban cafe or sociable rooftop bar before venturing out to nearby Ball and Chain for nightly live music or Tower Theater to catch an indie flick. When you want to explore further afield, Wynwood and Downtown are only a short drive away.

Think of the Gale as that swanky speakeasy hundreds of partygoers would be desperate to get into. Its classic-meets-cool cocktail bar is open nightly for both guests and Miamians, and regularly invites local jazz musicians to play into the early-morning hours. Its celebrated Italian restaurant, Dolce, pairs rustic Mediterranean food with an unbeatable daily happy hour. In the rooms, you’re guaranteed some peace and quiet, with cozy bathrobes and soft Italian linens welcoming you in for a restful night’s sleep. Located along Collins Avenue, this hotel offers convenient access to Miami Beach nightlife.