The lobby at the Hotel St. Augustine. Photo courtesy of the hotel.
Stay on a budget in South Beach
By Jodi Mailander Farrell
It may seem like an oxymoron, but a sweet deal in South Beach is still possible. Here's proof that you don't need a platinum card to be a part of it:
The Clay's Hostel
One of the coolest hostels on the planet, this 140-bed place to lay your backpack shares a 1920s building with an affordable hotel by the same name on picturesque Espanola Way. The street is a Mediterranean-style block of cafes and shops where the first and last episodes of the Miami Vice TV show were filmed. There are male and female dorms, with suite-style shared bathrooms, as well as private single and double rooms with private baths. A common kitchen is open 6 a.m.-midnight. Walk to clubs, shops, cafes and the beach. From $34 a night.
1438 Washington Ave., South Beach; 305-534-2988.
The Tropics Hotel & Hostel
Close to the scene, but far enough away to muffle the thumping bass lines of the SoBe party scene, this less well-known hostel has shared dorms and private rooms, plus a kitchen. Walk to Lincoln Road, Espanola Way and the beach; stagger home from the Delano, the Raleigh or SET. The biggest perk: An Olympic-sized pool beloved by the young, international crowd that stays here. From $34 a night.
1550 Collins Ave., South Beach; 305-531-0361.
Crest Hotel Suites
You'll find the original terrazzo on the floor of this 1939 restored boutique hotel. In the heart of the Art Deco Historic District, it has 43 rooms and 23 one-bedroom suites, plus a small pool in an interior courtyard. Rooms are stark, modern and small, but who's complaining when you can dabble in the Deco experience at such a deep discount? From $155 a night.
1670 James Ave., South Beach; 305-531-0321.
Hotel St. Augustine
A 1937 Art Deco landmark with 24 loft-style guest rooms, this sexy hotel works the spa chic angle, with steam and sauna settings in the oversized marble bathrooms. Long maplewood counters in the "individual spas" are stocked with aromatherapy products, lotions and candles. Better yet, it's in the red-hot South of Fifth district, close by Prime One Twelve, Love Hate Lounge and other trendy destinations. Walk to the Third Street Beach and Joe's Stone Crab. From $139 a night depending on the season and availability.
347 Washington Ave., South Beach; 800-310-7717.
Indian Creek Hotel
Maybe it's the steamer trunks stacked for effect in the lobby, but there's a distinct film noir feel to this restored 1930s Pueblo Deco charmer. Its updated 61 rooms are on the edge of South Beach, but close enough to feel like you're still a part of it. There's a small pool for afternoon dips and a stellar in-house restaurant. Billed as an "affordable boutique hotel," it packs loads of personality, starting at $89 a night depending on the season and availability.
2727 Indian Creek Dr., Miami Beach; 305-531-2727.
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Very benefical story....hotels down at the beach can get pricey!
Posted by: vianna on Fri, 2008-06-20 11:28