Accommodation to Book in Miami Beach for the Savvy Traveler

Beach hotels don’t mean sandy lobbies or casual restaurants at the Plymouth. This elegant Art Deco gem on Collins Avenue is moments from the beach, but still seriously sophisticated. Guests can be whisked to the hotel’s private beach by golf cart to enjoy jet ski rental, morning bootcamps or sunset yoga classes. Head back afterwards for sundowners by the chic 1940s pool before world-renowned sushi in the Blue Ribbon.

A mile from bustling South Beach in Miami Beach’s so-called Millionaire’s Row, this sprawling 20-acre (8ha) oceanfront property is a must-see destination in its own right. Renovated to the tune of $1b, the 1950s resort is equally adored by families, party animals and celebrities who love its meandering pool complex, glistening lobby, lavish spa and club-of-the-moment LIV, which hosts superstar DJs like Calvin Harris. Foodies are in for a treat too with restaurants including Scott Conant’s award-winning Scarpetta and London’s Hakkasan.

This Florida institution opened in the 1940s and retains its laid-back allure with colorful decor, immaculate tropical gardens and direct beach access. The nightlife and restaurants of Miami Beach are close by but it’s easy to stay put by making the most of the Palms’ own breezy restaurant with a covered terrace, lagoon-style pool, AVEDA spa and beach-yoga classes. Families will also love the kids’ play area, friendly staff and easy-going atmosphere.

Expect discreet luxury from the moment you check in to the Setai, an exclusive enclave close to Collins Park. Teak and black granite-clad rooms are laden with goodies including Acqua di Parma amenities, Nespresso machines and Samsung sound bars, while the sleek spa specializes in high-end Swiss anti-aging skincare. Don’t miss the lavish Sunday brunch for free-flowing champagne, carving stations and a dessert section to die for.

There’s room for everyone at 1 Hotel. Spanning an entire beachfront city block on Collins Avenue, this hotel is a family favorite with its serious eco-credentials, healthy lobby café and excellent kids club. Adults are just as pampered with a rooftop pool for over-21s, a Bamford spa and wellness center offering everything from personal training to meditation. Dining options include the high-end Habitat, handmade sushi by the pool and an outdoor seafood restaurant with daybeds under palm trees.

Miami glamour gets a fun gloss-up at the EDITION, a surprising collaboration between the Marriott group and boutique hotelier Ian Schrager. This glossy property north of South Beach goes all out to guarantee a good time. There’s a gold punch fountain in the lobby, beach movie screenings and a poolside restaurant serving lobster rolls and organic popsicles. And if you really want to be wowed, head to the nightclub in the basement, complete with neon-lit bowling alley and ice-skating rink.

You’ll feel like a new person on check-out from this adults-only haven, close to Miami Beach but on a glorious island in the bay. Everything from paddleboarding to astrology sessions are on offer in the spa, but even the pool area offers a complimentary mud lounge, arctic plunge pool and waterfall hot tub. Dine on Mediterranean delights at the Lido Bayside Grill, where clean-living guests are as likely to down metabolic lemonade and immunity shots as the hotel’s signature frosé.

Desperate for a prime location but don’t want to blow the budget? The Generator is a hip, design-led solution right on Collins Avenue and just 100ft (30m) from the beach. Rooms include same and mixed-sex dorms, private twins and doubles and even luxury suites – but all have sleek styling, en-suite bathrooms and USB charging stations. Rent a bike or skateboard to explore the city, hang out at the pool with a cocktail or dine at Jim & Neesie for unmissable homemade pasta.