Best Pool Hotels in Miami Beach

Although it only opened its doors in 2012, The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort has made a lasting impression on Miami Beach visitors. Travelers describe their experiences here as phenomenal, primarily due to the property's attentive staff and prime location. Overlooking the Atlantic from its seat in Bal Harbour (about 8 miles north of South Beach), this member of the St. Regis Hotels family provides a less frenzied setting much appreciated by couples and travelers with children. Guest rooms are spacious and feature pastel hues and private furnished balconies, as well as high-tech amenities like 46-inch flat-screen TVs with Blu-ray players and iPod docking stations. When you're not bedding down, you can pass the time at one of two outdoor pools, the 14,000-square-foot Remède Spa or the adjacent 1,000-foot beach. The resort also features four on-site restaurants, including one with a wine vault. And because The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort resides under the Marriott hotel family, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.

Formerly The Perry, South Beach (and the Gansevoort Miami Beach before that), this property completed a $500 million renovation in March 2015. And, according to recent visitors, if you stayed at the hotel during its previous ownership, you likely won't recognize it now. Because it's under the helm of the 1 Hotel brand, the entire property is eco-friendly. Rooms feature tree trunk coffee tables, organic cotton sheets, hemp-blend mattresses and salvaged driftwood decorations. 1 Hotel South Beach even helps travelers maintain their own green habits with amenities like a five-minute shower timer and an eco ionic hair dryer. Recent guests were wowed by the room interiors and described them as a "breath of fresh air" thanks to their airy design and cool aesthetics. Visitors also appreciated the in-room technology; accommodations are equipped with free Wi-Fi access and a 55-inch flat-screen TV. Aside from the rooms, recent lodgers were also impressed with the direct beach access the hotel affords, plus its four pools, one of which sits on the roof. When you're not sipping cocktails, sampling tapas and admiring the view from the rooftop, grab a meal at Habitat, the on-site restaurant by homegrown chef Jose Mendin. Reviewers said the food is as impressive as the service, but 1 Hotel South Beach isn't without a few downsides, according to recent visitors. Many lamented the $40 daily resort fee (typical to many Miami Beach properties), which covers the use of beach loungers, sports equipment (like boogie boards and Frisbees), and more.

The National Hotel has an early 20th century charm that recent guests love: The property is reminiscent of the 1930s and '40s with art deco architecture and period design elements. And the property's location is tough to top: This hotel sits along Miami Beach's illustrious Collins Avenue within spitting distance of many of the area's most exciting activities. Guest rooms are comfortable with entertainment console centers, walk-in closets and flat-screen TVs; however, some travelers lament a lack of in-suite creature comforts – particularly coffee makers. The room size and the views offered also vary greatly, so keep in mind that the Cabana Wing rooms tend to be larger but the Tower rooms will give you a view of the ocean. While staying here, Miami Beach visitors have access to the hotel's massage services and two pools, as well as the French cuisine served up at Tamara's Bistro. Pool service is also available from the Aqua Club.

The Setai, Miami Beach blatantly spurns Miami Beach's neon reputation in favor of a classier ambiance, and recent guests appreciate it. Rather than funky decor and bright colors, the art deco era property is filled with classy Asian-inspired design elements. Meanwhile, guest rooms house a muted beige and brown color palette and are outfitted with amenities like Frette linens, flat-screen LED TVs and rainfall showers. Although The Setai's environment may induce relaxation on the spot, previous guests highly recommend a visit to the in-house spa, which offers a wide array of massages and skin treatments and houses a private bath, a steam room and a fitness center. Also on the property, you'll have access to not one, but three infinity pools, as well as gourmet Mediterranean or Asian cuisine at The Setai's three restaurants. But don't plan on spending all your time at the hotel: Travelers praise The Setai for its prime location near South Beach and the The Bass. And Leaders Club members are in luck – as part of The Leading Hotels of the World, this property grants perks like welcome gifts and upgrades.

Fontainebleau Miami Beach once hosted big wigs like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley. Now its swanky, cabana-corralled pool is studded with the likes of Katy Perry and Rihanna. What do today's celebs get when they check-in? The luxe Lapis spa (with age-defying facials and mineral water pools) and a choice of seven restaurants. Plus, the 22 acres of guest rooms and suites have iMacs, flat-screen TVs, bathrobes and private bars. But even with all the flashy perks and celeb spotting, Fontainebleau's recent guests seem the most impressed with the staff. Travelers describe the customer service here as out of this world. Maintaining its reputation as the playground of the stars, Fontainebleau also boasts its own nightlife scene with the BleauLive and LIV nightclubs. If you're hoping for a more relaxing Miami Beach stay, consider booking elsewhere.

You should have no problem securing a spot at this Collins Avenue property; it's one of the largest in South Beach with nearly 800 rooms. But travelers say that the Loews Miami Beach Hotel is far from a last-resort pick. According to guests, the service is top-notch, the location is convenient (we did say Collins Avenue, right?) and the rooms – though there are many – are fairly large. In addition to offering plenty of space, these rooms feature Frette duvets, Keurig coffee makers, flat-screen smart TVs and minibars. This is also one of the best options for families, as there are day camps for kids as well as a rec room with toys and video games for teens. Even your four-legged friends will be comfortable here thanks to available pet amenities like beds and bowls. The Loews Miami Beach Hotel also houses multiple eateries, a massive pool area and the exhale Spa. Additional amenities, such as the use of nonmotorized water sports equipment and beach chairs, are covered by the property's daily $26 resort fee. 

Your experience at this Preferred Lifestyle resort will be just as indulgent as you might think. Here, you'll have 360 guest rooms and suites to choose from, all of which feature flat-screen TVs, pillow-top mattresses, desks, wet bars and private balconies. Travelers praise everything from the customer service to the lovely pool area (perfect for lounging). While here, you can also take advantage of the in-house spa and salon, which offers a variety of treatments ranging from massages to nail care. Meanwhile, this expansive property also boasts several on-site dining options; guests highly recommend the contemporary American cuisine served at Neomi's. However, according to some visitors, be prepared to drop a lot of dough; a stay here isn't cheap. You'll find the Trump International Beach Resort Miami in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, about 13 miles north of Miami Beach's busy South Beach area.

The Grand Beach Hotel offers affordable luxury directly on the Atlantic Ocean, stretched across 200 feet of Miami Beach sands. Guest suites here earn praise from recent visitors for the amount of space they provide; accommodations also feature two 42-inch flat-screen TVs, coffee makers and wet bars. What's more, most come with two bathrooms and private balconies. When you're not enjoying your plush digs, recent guests suggest taking advantage of the hotel's beach locale. Or, make use of the two beachfront pools. After some fun in the sun, stop by the Chez Gaston Restaurant, grab something lighter at the Espresso Gelato Bar or visit any one of the three bars and lounges on-site. Though they are mostly pleased with lodging here, some travelers say that the customer service could use some work. Some guests also say that those looking for a more lively atmosphere should book elsewhere, as the hotel is very quiet.

This Ritz is a frontrunner among South Beach hotels; recent guests say it's hard for other hotels of this caliber to compete with The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach's location and luxury. Situated on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach's Art Deco District, the hotel provides a comfortable home base if you want to experience SoBe's vibrant scene, including the shops and restaurants found at the Lincoln Road Mall. Aside from its prime location, this property also boasts a spa, three restaurants, a bars, an oceanfront pool and a $2 million art collection. Guests say the rooms are equally impressive. Rooms feature city or ocean vistas; iPod docking stations; and spacious bathrooms. The hotel's daily resort fee also covers Wi-Fi access throughout the property, plus participation in fitness classes and use of the hotel's bikes. And for a little extra R&R, travelers suggest making an appointment at the spa, which offers an array of ESPA treatments. Plus, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points by staying here.

Recent guests said the Villa Bagatelle felt like a home away from home, describing the spacious suites as more like apartments than guest rooms. Suites are appointed with kitchens or kitchenettes, sitting areas with couches and flat-screen TVs and spacious marble bathrooms with C.O. Bigelow toiletries. Those staying in standard, deluxe and luxury suites will also find washers and dryers. If you ever decide to leave your room, the beach is only one block east, where the hotel provides umbrellas and lounge chairs for guests (included in the $33.90 daily resort fee). The fee also includes room service breakfast for two. If you'd rather stay put, the property also features a fitness center, a rooftop sun deck with a pool and whirlpool surrounded by cabana beds and an outdoor courtyard for quieter relaxation. In the evenings, stop by the Dry de Luxe blow-dry lounge to prep for a night out on the town before enjoying dinner at the upscale (and highly praised) Bagatelle Bistro, which features a French Mediterranean menu and also serves a popular champagne brunch party. Along with its amenities, recent guests said the accommodating staff was a primary reason for a return visit. 

This spa resort doesn't take any of its five stars for granted, particularly when it comes to delivering first-rate customer service. Recent guests can't help but keep the compliments coming: Travelers say that the resort staff took extra care to personalize each experience. One problem you might face, however, is exclusivity. The Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach only has 98 guest rooms and suites, so be sure to book early for an upcoming trip to Sunny Isles Beach. The rooms come with flat-screen TVs and private balconies, as well as double sinks and glass-enclosed showers. Meanwhile, the property also features three in-house eateries, four pools, a spa and beach amenities. What's more, the hotel is part of The Leading Hotels of the World, meaning Leaders Club members have access to perks here. You'll find the Acqualina Resort & Spa in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, about 11 miles north of Miami Beach.

Carillon Miami caters to those seeking more of a wellness retreat than a simple vacation. At this northern Miami Beach beach property, you'll find a mind-boggling array of spa treatments and intense fitness classes offered in the 70,000-square-foot spa, plus many nutritionists and physicians on staff. But despite its location on the bustling Collins Avenue, guests say Carillon Miami has all the makings of a good night's sleep. The resort's accommodations feature top-notch amenities, such as espresso machines, high-definition TVs and bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and walk-in showers. Suites are also outfitted with kitchens equipped with granite countertops and KitchenAid and Miele appliances, but recent guests raved about the beach service and nearby eateries so much that you might not even use this part of your suite. One thing guests couldn't stop talking about was the incredible service, with many saying it was one thing that made their stay truly unforgettable. Part of The Leading Hotels of the World portfolio, the resort welcomes Leaders Club members with various additional perks.

You'll have to adjust your expectations when staying at the The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami. This isn't where you book if you want to stay in the nucleus of South Beach activity to shop all day and party every night. Rather, this is where you come for a little R&R with a taste of luxury. The deluxe and standard rooms at this Ritz-Carlton outpost boast 42-inch flat-screen TVs and Bose surround sound systems, while suites bump you up to two flat-screens TVs and fully equipped kitchens. The hotel also features a 10,000-square-foot spa, a heated outdoor pool and the Artisan Beach House restaurant. Some guests said the food and service was superb, while others were disappointed in the food quality and high prices. And if you couldn't tell from its name, this hotel sits in Bal Harbour, just 13 miles northeast of downtown Miami and a little less than 10 miles north of South Beach. This hotel participates in the Marriott Bonvoy program.

Perhaps there's no hotel in South Beach that's more renowned than this one. This Collins Avenue hotel started it all; it's the property that made Miami Beach hotels places to be seen, not just places to stay. Luckily, travelers say that you will get a first-class lodging experience here as well. The stark white-on-white guest rooms might be hip, but they're also comfortable thanks to amenities like 300-thread-count linens, Ciel Reserve bath products and showers with rainfall heads. And the pool might be swanky, but it's also still a good place for swimming. On the other hand, most of the people who like the Delano South Beach knew what they were in for before they arrived – plenty of party time, plenty of glamour and glitz and plenty of cash shelled out once the final room bill comes. Keep in mind that there are many hotels in Miami Beach that are more affordable and more relaxing. But if you are into "the scene," then you can't miss Delano South Beach stops like the Rose Bar or The Florida Room. The Delano also houses three restaurants: Leynia serves Argentinian food, UMI Sushi and Sake Bar showcases innovative sushi dishes and the Delano Beach Club offers casual bites by the pool and beach.

This swanky Miami Beach hotel at the northern end of Collins Avenue offers 49 coveted bedrooms, all of which are uniquely decorated and feature traditional-yet-sleek decor. Recent guests loved the style of the hotel: In addition to the design, past travelers praised the Soho Beach House staff members for their friendly demeanors and dedication to providing personalized service. Meanwhile, guest rooms start at 350 square feet and feature views of the ocean, Biscayne Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway or the Miami skyline. The hotel also offers a rooftop plunge pool, a 100-foot-long pool and a beach (for members only), a spa, a library and a fully equipped fitness center. For food, guests can dine at the rooftop taqueria, Ocho, or grab some Cuban fare at the Club Bar. There is also a movie theater on-site for private screenings. The Soho Beach House is located 12 miles northeast of Miami International Airport.

Nestled on the hopping Collins Avenue by South Beach, the Dream South Beach stands out for its quintessentially Miami Beach art deco design and unique ambient lighting found throughout the hotel. Rooms are the swankiest of swanky, featuring chrome and glass decor, cascading chandeliers, minibars and flat-screen TVs. Despite its cool interiors, some guests complained of the small size of the rooms, while others found that the thin walls limited privacy. But what all guests could agree on was how ridiculously delicious Naked Taco is. After you've gotten your fill of classic Mexican cuisine, consider heading to the chic (but small) rooftop infinity pool for some R&R or indulge at the on-site Shala Spa. Recent guests praised the hotel's prime location, noting that the greatest nightlife venues, shops and restaurants are only a few blocks away.

Those who have stayed at the Z Ocean Hotel South Beach were wowed by the hotel's pleasant staff and the outstanding ambience. For many recent guests, it was the vistas that made a stay here memorable. To enjoy the view overlooking Ocean Drive and the ocean, many suggest you book one of the rooftop terrace suites. In addition to the superb vistas, you'll have a hot tub and plenty of space to lounge. If you're not in the mood to splurge, recent guests said the standard suites are just as luxurious, with rain showers, espresso machines, wet bars and oversized, furnished balconies. Recent lodgers also raved about the on-site restaurant, the Front Porch Café, saying that the food is as excellent as the service. Note that you'll be within walking distance of the beach, but the hotel isn't directly on the sand. However, some previous guests said that you'll have to pay a pretty penny for a room at this central Miami Beach location.

Set about 5 miles north of South Beach, the Hilton Cabana Miami Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still showcasing the modern art deco style the area is known for. You can soak up the sun on the nearby beach (literally steps away) or lounge in cabanas with poolside service by one of the two outdoor pools. When you work up an appetite, head on over to the Salinity Restaurant & Terrace, which serves farm-to-table cuisine and dishes that highlight sustainable local seafood. When it's time to bed down, you'll find rooms that feature 42-inch flat-screen TVs, Cuisinart coffee makers and work desks with ergonomic chairs. Guests praise the ocean views in upgraded rooms and applaud the personable and knowledgeable staff. However, visitors caution that those considering a stay here should be aware of the daily resort fee, which covers amenities like in-room Wi-Fi and use of two beach chairs per day. As part of the Hilton brand, Hilton Honors program members can cash in points for room upgrades or free stays. 

The Shelborne is retro heaven for those looking for a quintessential Miami Beach lodging experience, in case the hotel's location right on South Beach isn't enough. Situated in the city's Art Deco District, the Shelborne South Beach was built in the '40s and features vintage decor throughout, while still making room for modern amenities. The Shelborne's 200 rooms feature GUYandGIRL toiletries, 300-thread-count linens and complimentary Wi-Fi access, with decor and furnishings inspired by 1950s automobiles. Along with the impressive (albeit small) interiors, guests loved the lively atmosphere of the property (especially the chic Drawing Room restaurant) and the staff, with some guests saying it was the best service they've ever experienced at a hotel. The pool is also a stunner, featuring lounge chairs, cabanas, a pool bar and an old-fashioned diving board (which is just for show) surrounded almost entirely by palm trees. But guests say the hotel's location (just steps from the beach) is its best asset. After you've had some fun in the sun and sand, refuel at one of (or all) three on-site eateries. Business travelers take note: the Miami Beach Convention Center is two blocks away.

With rooms and suites outfitted in modern decor and filled with coveted amenities like 42-inch flat-screen TVs, leather headboards and C.O. Bigelow bath amenities, the Riviera Hotel South Beach is a lot more opulent than other Miami Beach hotels. But its dark, distinctive look can be an off-putting contrast from airy, bright and sunny Miami Beach. And the food served isn't the remarkable fare that you'd find at some other luxury hotels. However, top-notch perks like evening cocktail hours, poolside fitness classes and personal training sessions, beach chairs and shuttle services between the hotel and Miami International Airport are covered by the property's daily $18 resort fee. Previous guests are also fond of the staff here, saying that everyone from the front desk attendants to the wait staff at Moreno's Cuba restaurant was extremely friendly and helpful. The Riviera Hotel sits within walking distance of Collins Avenue, the Miami Beach Convention Center and the beach.

Many recent guests say The Raleigh Miami Beach embodies a cool, vintage persona. Playing on the old-school glamour of South Beach, this art deco-style retreat is a guest favorite, mostly because of its famous pool. Shrouded by lush palm trees, the pool is iconic not only for its unique shape and design, but also because it played a primary role in many of Esther Williams' films. The rooms aren't too shabby either: They feature 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets, Ciel Spa products and minibars. And if you want to live like the "Million Dollar Mermaid" herself, consider a stay in The Esther Williams Suite. The spacious, 990-square-foot suite boasts direct pool views, a large marble bathroom, a king-sized bed and a living room. Along with its homage to Williams, The Raleigh also features an on-site restaurant and three bars, including a coffee bar. Located in the Art Deco District along Collins Avenue, The Raleigh is also convenient to some of Miami Beach's best nightlife and shopping. 

The Shore Club South Beach is the go-to hotel for many frequent Miami Beach visitors. The resplendent rooftop spa is certainly a one-of-a-kind setting, the hip Skybar is a fun environment (decked out in vibrant red and orange hues), and the on-site Terrazza restaurant offers top-notch Italian fare in a casual indoor-outdoor venue. But still, there are some visitors who say that this is one of those South Beach properties that is just too-cool-for-school but not down-to-earth enough to excel at the basics. According to some, the rooms appear dated despite the bright decor, rain showers and MALIN+GOETZ bath products. Still, guests say that the customer service here is truly excellent, especially the attentive beach staff. And with its perfect placement along Collins Avenue, the Shore Club South Beach can boast that many of its rooms provide an ocean view. Plus, the two bungalow-strewn infinity pools are some of the prettiest in all of South Beach.

Located at the southern tip of South Beach, the Hilton Bentley Miami/South Beach offers a prime location in Miami Beach that's close enough to the action but still a fair distance from the party scene. You won't get the flash of some of the more central hotels, and you'll miss out on some of the hip features found in the area's boutique properties, but you're bound to appreciate the high-class furnishings and wellness facilities, including a fitness center and Spa 101. Guest rooms and suites here are spacious and comfortable with feather pillows and 250-threat-count sheets, kitchenettes and 42-inch flat-screen TVs. Meanwhile, travelers praise this Hilton's personable staff, describing them as friendly and helpful. But visitors can't get enough of the property's great location, just steps away from the beach. If you're a Hilton Honors member, you can earn or redeem points here.

Marenas Beach Resort is a modern beach resort sitting on another stretch of Collins Avenue in the northern Miami Beach suburb of Sunny Isles Beach. Rooms here are predominately suites with the exception of the classic guest rooms, which are a mere 200 square feet. But that doesn't mean amenities are few and far between. All rooms feature Gilchrist & Soames bath products, Keurig coffee makers, iHome radios and balconies with bay or ocean panoramas, while suites include kitchens and washers and dryers. The stretch of Miami Beach is also equally spectacular, and the resort will distribute towels and lounge chairs. For kids, the property boasts a game room and a pool. Meanwhile, Caracol Restaurant serves up fresh seafood with Mediterranean flavors, and the in-house spa offers a wide array of massages and skin treatments. Also note that from Marenas, you're about a 5-mile drive from the Bal Harbour Shops, making this a good home base for those looking to do some shopping.

If you're looking for a laid-back hotel and don't mind walking to the beach, you should consider staying at the Hyatt Centric South Beach Miami. One of the first locations to debut under Hyatt's new lifestyle Hyatt Centric brand, the property feels more like a boutique outpost than a chain, past guests said. Situated on Collins Avenue, the hotel is within a block of Ocean Drive and just a block west of South Beach's famous sand. Aside from the prime location, this Hyatt Centric outpost received praise from former lodgers for its rooms. Though reviewers did note that the rooms are on the small side, they compliment the modern amenities, which include 47-inch flat-screen TVs, comfy Hyatt Grand Beds, floor-to-ceiling windows and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Visitors also appreciated the free beach amenities (covered by the daily resort fee), which include use of two chaise lounge beach chairs, towels and the hotel's bicycles. If you need a break from the sand, you can also lounge by the rooftop pool. And though the hotel's central location makes it easy to enjoy the South Beach dining scene, lodgers recommend sampling a meal or two at the on-site DECK Sixteen restaurant, which serves up a menu of Spanish-Mediterranean dishes. Or, cut costs by taking advantage of the daily happy hour specials at the bar. Another way to make a stay here more affordable? By cashing in Hyatt rewards program points.