After its $1 billion facelift in 2008, the Fontainebleau's 1,504 new rooms, nine pools, phenomenal spa and gorgeous design are hard to top. Despite its sexy ads and nightclub, it's a relaxed property that attracts mostly families and convention goers. Its peacful Miami Beach location - next to the also snazzy Eden Roc hotel - is 30 blocks from the South Beach action.

High-up in Miami Beach -- $20 taxi to the South Beach action -- the only real draw to the location is the pricey wining and dining at the snazzy Fontainebleau resort next door. However, with three infinity pools, 631 comfortable rooms (all redone in 2009), and a wonderful spa, the Eden Roc is a cheaper (yet still high-quality) alternative for folks doing business at the Fontainebleau.

A clean, lively beachside resort in sleepy Miami Beach, the Palms takes style lessons from the hip boutiques -- think poolside house music, a fun tiki bar, updated rooms, and an Aveda spa. But for nightlife, revelers must head to South Beach, a five- to 10-minute taxi ride away.

More condo than hotel -- most rooms host permanent residents -- the Crown features huge suites with fully stocked kitchens, washers and dryers, and pull-out sofas. For families or small groups, it's a great option. But it's a strictly D.I.Y. experience -- don't expect any service or organized fun.

This clean, moderately priced beachfront hotel might look like a bargain, but the in-house facilities are meager -- just a small pool, a cramped fitness center and a deserted bar and restaurant. To find anything to do or eat, it's a 15-minute drive to South Beach ($10-15 each way by taxi).

Stranded about 35 blocks from the South Beach party scene, this beautiful beachside resort draws an older clientele. Its great service, large (though dated) rooms, small spa, and big pool might seem like a bargain, but the only food around is its own expensive fare.

With a Marriott, you can generally count on friendly, competent service and a clean, comfortable room, and this one doesn't disappoint. As a bonus, it's right on the beach and housed in a historic Art Deco building. All-around, it's an solid choice for the price.

Located on a relatively peaceful beach, the Holiday Inn is a quieter, more family-focused option 20 blocks outside the South Beach party scene. It has the basics -- pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi -- but the rooms, especially the bathrooms, are a bit worn, and the on-site food isn't great. Not too bad, for the price.

A midsize, midrange hotel in Miami Beach, the Four Points is middling in just about every sense. But it's on the beach, and you get a pool and free Wi-Fi. For the price, this is an OK option outside South Beach. Otherwise, go for the nearby Courtyard by Marriott Oceanfront.

A 284-room, Spanish-owned resort chain with kids zooming through the hallways, the Riu has a great pool and direct access to a lively beach. However, the rooms are dated by Miami standards, the beds are a bit squeaky, and there's not much to do in Miami Beach. Bars, restaurants, and high-end boutiques are in SoBe, a 10-minute drive away.