- You are here:
- Home »
- Blog »
- North America »
- 5 BEST Neighborhoods in Miami [December 2024!]
5 BEST Neighborhoods in Miami [December 2024!]
Stunning views, gorgeous sunshine, lush vegetation, colourful streets, exciting food, and lively parties that last all night long: Miami is a city that has it all! But with so many things to see and do, Miami can be a hard city to navigate, and some areas can be a bit dangerous. That’s why we wrote this insider guide for where to stay in Miami! Put together by our expert travel writers, this behind the scenes guide will help you find the perfect, fun and safe place to stay in Miami. This guide is designed to show you the hidden gems of Miami, and will help you find an awesome neighborhood – quickly! Get excited – some of the neighbourhoods in this where to stay in Miami guide just might surprise you… Additional reading – Check out 15 Best Things to Do in Miami, and the 17 Best Hotels in Miami, Florida PS Have you checked out our other awesome guides to American cities? Plus, it’s well worth checking out our top 55 things do do in the USA!
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in Miami
- Miami’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- Neighborhood #1 - Miami Beach
- (Where to stay in Miami first time)
- Top Things to Do in Miami Beach
- Where to Stay in Miami Beach
- Neighborhood #2 - Little Haiti
- (Where to stay in Miami on a budget)
- Top Things to Do in Little Haiti
- Where to Stay in Little Haiti
- Neighborhood #3 - Brickell
- (Best area to stay in Miami for nightlife)
- Top Things to Do in Brickell
- Where to Stay in Brickell
- Neighborhood #4 - Coconut Grove
- (Coolest place to stay in Miami)
- Top Things to Do in Coconut Grove
- Where to Stay in Coconut Grove
- Neighborhood #5 - Downtown Miami
- (Best neighbourhood in Miami for families)
- Top Things to Do in Downtown Miami
- Where to Stay in Downtown Miami
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Miami
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Miami
At A Glance: Where To Stay In MIAMI
Where to Stay in Miami
| WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI | |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
BEST Air BnBBEST Air BnBMiley’s BnB |
|
Book on Air BnB → |
|
BEST Budget HotelBEST Budget HotelMiami Hostel Miami Beach |
|
Book on Booking.com → |
|
BEST Mid-RangeBEST Mid-RangeThe Mutiny Luxury Suites Hotel |
|
Book on Booking.com → |
|
BEST Luxury HotelBEST Luxury HotelME Miami By Melia |
|
Book on Booking.com → |
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Miami.
Best Air BnB in Miami – Miley’s BnB
Miley’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Miami
While vacationing in Flordia, you might as well only stay in the best Air BnB in Miami! This luxurious penthouse offers its guests sweeping views of the beaches and ocean from its balcony! Putting you minutes away from the downtown and the sea, you will be just a few steps away from all the best sites in Miami!
Best Budget Hotel in Miami – Miami Hostel Miami Beach
Miami Hostel Miami Beach is the best budget hotel in Miami
For shoestring travellers heading to Miami, Miami Hostel is a fantastic place to stay. Helping to keep you on budget and at the heart of the action at Miami Beach, it doesn’t get much better than this. Dorms are cosy and comfortable, the shared bathrooms are clean and the staff super laid back.
Clubbers assemble! These are the coolest clubs in Miami!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Miami – The Mutiny Luxury Suites Hotel
The Mutiny Luxury Suites Hotel is the best mid-range hotel in Miami
The Mutiny offers a luxurious environment with an affordable price tag in swanky Coconut Grove. Guests can kick back and relax at the outdoor pool, in the Jacuzzi or in the steamy sauna. The suites all come with fully equipped kitchens and a cosy lounge area. There is an in-house restaurant too.
Love to cruise? Check out the 10 best cruises from Miami!
Best Luxury Hotel in Miami – ME Miami by Melia
ME Miami by Melia is the best luxury hotel in Miami
ME Miami is a wonderfully luxurious hotel in Downtown Miami. Within an easy walking distance of the city’s best bars and clubs, as well as a heap of beautiful boutiques, ME Miami is a gem. For a 4-star hotel, ME Miami is rather affordable. You can stay in style whatever your budget in Miami!
Not yet booked? Take a look at our favorite hotels in Downtown Miami!
Miami Neighbourhoods Guide
Miami Neighbourhoods Guide
Miami, Florida
Miami is a culturally rich, vibrant city on the south coast of Florida. A real melting pot of nationalities you will find Haitian, Cuban, and American communities here. That’s just the start.
This open-minded and open-hearted city welcomes visitors from across the globe throughout the year. Offering something for everyone from city slickers to laid-back beach bums, from suited and booted business travellers to the budget backpacker on the lookout for a bargain, Miami is incredibly versatile.
This versatility is something to celebrate although it does make things a little tricky. Travellers are totally spoiled for choice when it comes to where to stay in Miami. You can head over the bridge to the glitz and glamour of Miami Beach, you can play it cool in Brickell or live like a local in Little Haiti.
Hotel Jules Insider Tip
Miami’s metro system is average. Admittley it all seems a bit confusing at first and even locals have a love-hate relationship with the public transport networks. If you can dish out a bit of extra money, we recommend using Uber or Lyft.
With so much to see, do and explore in Miami you’d be a fool to stick to just one neighbourhood. Get in the Miami state of mind visit as many neighbourhood as you can. You won’t regret it!
Florida is big! You’ll have to prioritize which places to visit when you go!
Miami’s 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Now let’s take a look, in greater detail, at the best neighbourhoods to stay in Miami. Each is a little different to the last so be sure to check out which is right for you!
Neighborhood #1 - Miami Beach
Neighborhood #1 - Miami Beach
(Where to stay in Miami first time)
Miami Beach is our pick for where to stay in Miami for your first time
Miami Beach is the most popular tourist destination in Miami, it’s not hard to see why. If you time your visit right you never know who you might bump in to. Everyone from international superstar singers to sports heroes hangout at Miami Beach.
Travellers who are coming to Miami for the first time really should spend some time at Miami just getting in flow with the Floridian feel of the place. Pitch up at a laid-back beach bar and spend the day sipping on cocktails and watching the world go by.
You can take a stroll down the main boardwalk and admire the luxurious yachts that have come in to dock. Pick out which you would take on your adventure around the world.
Spend your days hopping from beach bar to beach bar along Ocean Drive, stopping only to nip down to the beach for a quick dip in the balmy Caribbean Sea.
Top Things to Do in Miami Beach
- Shop ’til you drop on Lincoln Road. Drop by the art galleries and grab a moment’s respite at one of the fancy cafes.
- Sunbathe, swim and play on the soft sands of Miami Beach
- Be on celeb-spot along Ocean Drive. Bring your selfie A-game!
- Get fit with the locals at Lummus Park; join in with workouts, jogging groups and the skater kids.
- Pay your respects at the Holocaust Memorial of the Greater Miami Jewish Foundation
- Blush and giggle your way around the World Erotic Art Museum – not suitable for children!
Where to Stay in Miami Beach
Best Air BnB in Miami Beach – Shane & Maru’s BnB
Shane & Maru’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Miami Beach
AT this stunning BnB you will not only get breathtaking views of the crystal clear waters of Miami Beach from your 14th-floor balcony, but you will also be getting a luxury stay unlike any other! If staying right on top of the beach wasn’t enough this BnB will win you over with its onsite pool, bar, and even a fitness center!
Best Budget Hotel in Miami Beach – Miami Hostel Miami Beach
Miami Hostel Miami Beach is the best budget hotel in Miami Beach
As cheap and cheerful accommodation goes it seldom gets better than Miami Hostel. Offering a great selection of shared dormitories there is a home for everyone here. The staff are super laid back but do keep the place clean and tidy. Guests can chill out in the garden or lounge area.
Interested in Miami? Read up on the history of Miami!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Miami Beach – Casa Faena Miami Beach
Casa Faena Miami Beach is the best mid-range hotel in Miami Beach
Casa Faena is a luxury hotel with really reasonable rates. They offer valet parking and a limousine service. Guests are welcome to workout in the fitness centre or relax at the bar. They have a tour and travel desk where you can make your Miami travel dreams come true!
Try a boutique hotel! The boutique hotels in Miami are so cool!
Best Luxury Hotel in Miami Beach – COMO Metropolitan Miami Beach
COMO Metropolitan Miami Beach is the best luxury Hhotel in Miami Beach
COMO Metropolitan is a whitewashed, modern hotel right in the heart of Miami Beach. They have an incredible outdoor swimming pool and a pretty great fitness centre. Guests can book into either a deluxe room or splash out on a suite. The COMO Shambala Juice Bar helps your skin to glow!
Like good weather? These are the best times to visit Miami!
Neighborhood #2 - Little Haiti
Neighborhood #2 - Little Haiti
(Where to stay in Miami on a budget)
Little Haiti is our pick for where to stay in Miami on a budget
Having lived past lives as Edison, Lemon City, and Little River, in 2018 this tiny neighbourhood is called Little Haiti. Oozing charm and historical character, Little Haiti certainly packs a punch. If you are looking for value for money in a neighbourhood, Little Haiti delivers time after time.
Although the accommodation options are not as vast as that you would find in Miami Beach, Little Haiti gives visitors everything they could need. A warm welcome, wonderful food and affordable accommodation.
If you have ever wanted to travel to the Caribbean Islands you can get a taste of the action here in Little Haiti. You will find a wonderful array of Haitian-owned businesses in this neighbourhood. Everything from art galleries selling work of local immigrant artists, to restaurants serving up authentic rice and beans.
For travellers keen to expand their minds while travelling, to learn about other cultures and embrace a new community, Little Haiti is the place.
Top Things to Do in Little Haiti
- Have a kick about with the local kids at Little Haiti Soccer Park. Bring your A-game, they’re pretty good!
- Learn about Haitian value, art, food and more at the Little Haiti Cultural Center.
- Visit the Notre Dame d’Haiti Catholic Church, attend a sermon if you follow the faith. Open to all.
- Dance to local bands and have a round of pool at Churchill’s Pub.
- Enjoy the contemporary sculptures and installations from grassroots artists at de la Cruz Collection.
- Be inspired by the incredible collections at the Haitian Heritage Museum.
Where to Stay in Little Haiti
Best Air BnB in Little Hati – Veronica’s BnB
Veronica’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Little Hati
Putting you away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this cozy cottage is nestled right into a suburban part of Little Hati. With its boutique quirky vibes, you will be feeling right at home in this warm bungalow. Located just a few minutes away from the beach, you will be feeling just like a local in Miami!
Best Budget Hotel in Little Haiti – Sinbad Motel
Sinbad Motel is the best budget hotel in Little Haiti
Sinbad Motel is a great budget accommodation option in Little Haiti. Although the rooms are basic in terms of decor they have everything you could need. All rooms have a work desk, bedside tables and an ensuite bathroom. The beds are comfortable and there is WiFi throughout the hotel.
MUST READ – There are some incredible day trips from Miami you should know about!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Little Haiti – Carl’s Motel El Padre
Carl’s Motel El Padre is the best mid-range hotel in Little Haiti
This is an ideal place for unfussy travellers in Little Haiti. The rooms have rather dated decor but are clean and comfortable. Guests can make themselves snacks using the microwave in the room and store food in the mini fridge. There is free WiFi and all rooms have air-conditioning.
Best Luxury Hotel in Little Haiti – New Yorker Boutique Hotel
New Yorker Boutique Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Little Haiti
Easily the most up-market hotel in Little Haiti, New Yorker Boutique Hotel offers all the amenities you could need and more. Guests can make use of the fitness centre or relax by the outdoor pool. The BBQ terrace is charming and colourful. All rooms are spacious and bright, all have air-conditioning.
Take a vacation! Let local tour guides in Miami do the planning for you!
Neighborhood #3 - Brickell
Neighborhood #3 - Brickell
(Best area to stay in Miami for nightlife)
Brickell is our pick for best area to stay in Miami for nightlife
If you fancy yourself as a bit of city slicker and a bit of a night owl then there is a perfect neighbourhood in Miami for you. Brickell is where the cool kids come to play.
Being the main business hub in Miami, Brickell is home to the skyscrapers and towering office blocks filled with overworked employees who are ever-eager to let off some steam. As such, there is a heap of chic cocktail bars in this neighbourhood.
A neighbourhood that is largely uninteresting to travellers during the daytime, Brickell comes alive when the clock strikes five. Perhaps that is unfair, there is a lot to keep you busy during your days in Brickell but with Miami Beach just over the bridge, it would be hard to resist the temptation to get the pre-drinking started at a rustic beach bar, right?
Art lovers will feel overwhelmed with the number of galleries and creative spaces to explore in Brickell. Nestled between the banking high rises you will find dozens of inspirational art galleries just waiting to be discovered.
Top Things to Do in Brickell
- Learn about the local art scene at The Brickellian Gallery, showcasing temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
- Look out at Point View and breath in the sea air.
- Sip cocktails and nibble on Spanish tapas and Italian antipasti at local favourite Crazy About You bar.
- Find a shady spot in Simpson Park to catch up on the travel journal or laze in a hammock.
- Enjoy an outstanding performance at Flamingo Theatre.
- Dine overlooking the ocean at LOL ON THE BAY.
Where to Stay in Brickell
Best Air BnB in Brickell – Rodolfo’s BnB
Rodolfo’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Brickell
At this stunning BnB putting you right in the center of Brickwell, you will get to enjoy so much more than just a sunny luxury apartment! This complex is pretty much a 5-star hotel with its swimming pool, spa, and even a fitness center! When watching the sunrise over the sea every morning from your balcony, you will know you are home!
Best Budget Hotel in Brickell – Aloft Miami – Brickell
Aloft Miami – Brickell is the best budget hotel in Brickell
Aloft is a modern and neon-inspired hotel in the centre of Brickell. Offering budget-friendly rooms with a cool design there is a lot to love about Aloft. Guests can hang out at the in-house bar before heading out into Brickell of an evening. Breakfast is included.
Miami is beautiful! These are the best places to visit in all of Miami!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Brickell – Habitat Residence
Habitat Residence is the best mid-range hotel in Brickell
If you want to feel like a local in Brickell then Habitat Residence is the place to stay. This chic and stylish apartment rental is a real home from home, ideal for families, digital nomads or business travellers. There is a fully equipped kitchen including a luxury coffee machine.
Best Luxury Hotel in Brickell – Four Seasons Hotel
Four Seasons Hotel is the best luxury hotel in Brickell
Offering 5-star service from start to finish, Four Seasons Miami is a truly luxurious accommodation option. Their in-house restaurant, Edge, serves a mean steak and great cocktails. Guests can relax in the wellness centre, unwind in the Turkish steam bath or work up a sweat in the gym.
Neighborhood #4 - Coconut Grove
Neighborhood #4 - Coconut Grove
(Coolest place to stay in Miami)
Coconut Grove is our pick for the coolest place to stay in Miami
Despite being the oldest neighbourhood in Miami, Coconut Grove keeps up with the times. A district that has undergone near-constant rejuvenation, the evolution of Coconut Grove has meant that it is the coolest place to stay in Miami; and always will be.
Featuring everything that travellers seek in a trip to Miami, nightlife, beaches and laid-back vibes, Coconut Grove ticks all the right boxes. Despite being right on the ocean front there are no sandy shores at Coconut Grove. Instead, the ocean is met by jetties, piers and upmarket boardwalks. Dining oceanfront in Coconut Grove has never been better than it is right now. There are dozens of swanky bars and restaurants secretly competing to be number one in the neighbourhood. Monty’s Raw Bar has become something of an institution and has been around since 1969.
Home to locals while catering in full to the influx of tourists, there is a harmony to Coconut Grove that serves to prove the authenticity of the neighbourhood.
Top Things to Do in Coconut Grove
- Sip on happy hour cocktails and dance to live jams at Monty’s Raw Bar.
- Get fit in Peacock Park, join in with a game of basketball with local youngsters.
- Shop for the finer things in life at CocoWalk shopping mall.
- Enjoy oceanfront views and incredible sunsets at Panorama Restaurant & Sky Lounge.
- Relax in the sun beneath the verdant foliage at The Kampong, National Tropical Botanical Garden.
- Feel right at home with a coffee and a book at Greenstreet Cafe.
Where to Stay in Coconut Grove
Best Air BnB in Coconut Grove – Roni’s BnB
Roni’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Coconut Grove
Rather than having you stay in yet another highrise luxury apartment, let’s mix things up a bit by booking you into this cozy urban cottage! Surrounded by a lush garden, this homey stay is your oasis in the middle of the big city! Complete with a pond and a swimming pool, you will have everything you need right at your fingertips!
Best Budget Hotel in Coconut Grove – Residence Inn Miami Coconut Grove
Residence Inn Miami Coconut Grove is the best budget hotel in Coconut Grove
Set in the heart of Coconut Grove Residence Inn offers great service and budget prices. As the best budget hotel in Coconut Grove they offer guests access to the fitness centre, swimming pool and community BBQ deck. Each room has a kitchenette and ensuite bathroom. Family rooms are available.
Need specifics? We also have our TOP hotels near Miami Airport!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Coconut Grove – The Mutiny Luxury Suites Hotel
The Mutiny Luxury Suites Hotel is the best mid-range hotel in Coconut Grove
The Mutiny is the best mid-range hotel in Coconut Grove and offers a little bit of affordable luxury to all who stay. There is an outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a sauna too, guests can use these as much as they like. The suites all feature a modern, fully equipped kitchen.
Best Luxury Hotel in Coconut Grove – The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove
The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove is the best luxury hotel in Coconut Grove
The best luxury hotel in Coconut Grove is The Ritz-Carlton, offering 5-star service from start to finish. The whole hotel exhibits elegant and stylish decor and the amenities are fantastic. Guest can dine at the in-house restaurant, Bizcaya, or order room service. There is a gym and golf course too.
Love to tan? Check out the 21 best beaches in Miami!
Neighborhood #5 - Downtown Miami
Neighborhood #5 - Downtown Miami
(Best neighbourhood in Miami for families)
Downtown Miami is our pick for best neighbourhood in Miami for families
Downtown Miami is the best place to stay in Miami for families as there is just so much to do! There is never a dull moment in Downtown Miami and thanks to its super safe nature it is great for families too. Did you know that crime in Downtown Miami is 28% lower than the national average?
With safety sorted you and the gang can get out and about, exploring this wonderful seaside city. Downtown Miami puts you right at the heart of the action so the relaxed parks of Coconut Grove are only a short walk away, cultural hubs of Little Haiti and Little Havana are only a short drive away too. Then there’s Miami Beach!
Being the main hub of Miami there are heaps off accommodation options in Downtown that cater to every kind of traveller. Family travels to Miami made easy, right?!
One of the best things to do in Downtown Miami is to explore Bayside Marketplace. Home to high street stores, luxury brands and a few independent boutiques as well, there is some serious spending to be done here.
Top Things to Do in Downtown Miami
- Take an afternoon to explore Bayside Marketplace, bring your spending money!
- Crossover Venetian Way and explore South Beach, there’s so much space to run and play.
- Explore the amazing array of birdlife at Jungle Island.
- Step in the footsteps of the stars at the Calle Ocho Walk of Fame.
- Snap a selfie next to iconic Miami Tower.
- Catch a show at Olympia Theater
Where to Stay in Downtown Miami
Best Air BnB in Downtown Miami – Natalia’s BnB
Natalia’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Downtown Miami
This artsy and trendy BnB will have you staying right around the corner from the Olympia Theatre and Le Chat Noir. When you are not out exploring Miami, this apartment will have everything you need to kick back and relax! With its modern art and stunning views, there is no better place to base yourself out of downtown!
Best Budget Hotel in Downtown Miami – Holiday Inn Port of Miami
Holiday Inn Port of Miami is the best budget hotel in Downtown Miami
Offering 3-stars and family-friendly facilities, Holiday Inn is the best budget hotel in Downtown Miami. Family rooms are available, as are inter-connecting rooms. Holiday Inn also provides babysitting services on request. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre. There is an in-house tour agent too.
Not trying to go 100mph? The top museums in Miami are great places to slow down and appreciate the city!
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Downtown Miami – Eurostars Langford
Eurostars Langford is the best mid-range hotel in Downtown Miami
Boasting 4-stars and an affordable room rate, Eurostars Langford is the best mid-range hotel in Downtown Miami. The rooms have a boutique feel and all have an ensuite bathroom. Guests are welcome to work out at the hotel’s gym or relax on the fairy-lit outdoor terrace.
Best Luxury Hotel in Downtown Miami – ME Miami by Melia
ME Miami by Melia is the best luxury hotel in Downtown Miami
Boutique in feel and in an art deco theme, ME Miami by Melia is the best luxury hotel in Downtown Miami for sure. The rooms are minimalist, modern and offer impressive levels of comfort. There is an in-house spa complex with an excellent treatment menu. Family rooms are available.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Miami
Miami is a lively and vibrant city full of arts, culture, food and fun. With incredible views, pristine beaches and glitz and glamour around every corner, there’s something for everyone in this Florida metropolis.
Just to recap; our top choice for where to stay in Miami is Coconut Grove, The oldest neighbourhood in the city, this district is also one of the coolest thanks to its vibrant nightlife, swanky bars, laid-back vibes and epic views. You definitely won’t be bored in Coconut Grove.
Our recommendation for the best hotel is The Mutiny Luxury Suites Hotel because it offers absolute luxury at an affordable price.
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments.
*** Some of the links on Hotel Jules are affiliate links, which means if you do make a purchase, we may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you.) Thank you for using our links! Your support keeps the site going 🙂 ***
About the Author Aaron Hovanesian
Born in Los Angeles, Aaron Hovanesian is one of the original staff writers for Hotel Jules. Having backpacked the world as a young man, Aaron now prefers to travel the world in luxury, proudly staying in the world's most amazing hotels and properties. When Aaron is not traveling he lives in Western Colorado he can be found brewing his own beer (probably an IPA) or spending time with his two amazing golden retrievers.