Suites on South Beach

There isn't much to the Suites on South Beach Miami, a former two-story apartment building with units that have exterior entries along shared walkways. It's more like a motel with contemporary rooms than a full hotel. The narrow patio runs the length of the building to access ground-floor rooms, with stairs leading to a second-story walkway on either end. The tiny lobby fits a pair of black couches next to a white reception desk with green accent lighting that matches the glow of the exit sign above the front door. It lacks the trendy atmosphere of South Beach, but its affordable rates and prime location give it excellent value.

Suites on South Beach Miami is located about three blocks south of the swankiest part of Collins Avenue, in the Art Deco district. The beach is a three-minute walk away down the block, and across a narrow strip of green space called Lummus Park. Popular Ocean Drive is just two blocks away, while the numerous restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and shops lining the Lincoln Road pedestrian mall are within a 15- to 20-minute walk. The Miami Beach Convention Center is also within a 20-minute walk in the same direction. Expect a 25-minute drive to Miami International Airport. 

The 19 suites have a sharp, contemporary design of dark wood furnishings, sleek wood floors, beige and olive-green walls, and pops of bright red in throw pillows and bedside lamps. The views over the shared exterior walkway and neighboring building aren't great and rooms toward the front may get some traffic noise. Standard studios have double or queen beds in a large space with sitting areas that have tables for two, and dark leather armchairs. The kitchenettes are equipped with full-size refrigerators, microwaves, and coffeemakers, alongside cabinets stocked with dishware. Flat-screen TVs and iPod docks come standard, and Wi-Fi is included in the resort fee. Upgraded studios add sofa beds. There's also a one-bedroom suite with a full kitchen, including a stainless steel oven with a four-burner stove, and a dishwasher. Large walk-in closets have ironing facilities, hairdryers, and safes. Blue-tiled bathrooms have shower/tub combos and basic toiletries. 

Originally an apartment building, this property is unsurprisingly slim on facilities. The small front desk can supply beach towels (covered in the resort fee along with Wi-Fi), and there's an internet corner with a computer and a printer.