Waterside Hotel

Waterside Hotel is a mid-century motel that was given a complete overhaul in 2016. Gutted from the inside out, the property now shines with colorful, retro decor touches in public spaces and contemporary rooms with a subtle beach theme. Rooms with cheerfully painted doors surround the courtyard pool, which is one of the few amenities offered at this simple property. Most people here keep to themselves, though the atmosphere is not exclusive. During city events, there can be noise and the crowd can be rowdier due to the lower price point. All in all, this is a cheerful, budget-friendly spot that is one of the area's best bargains, though travelers are a 20-minute drive from South Beach and Downtown hotspots. . 

This small hotel is located on the corner of Harding Avenue and 73rd street in the North Beach area of Miami. Visitors are just two blocks from the beach, which is more relaxed and quiet than South Beach. This area is heavy with street traffic, and there are several options for both free and metered street parking. The main drag of Collins Avenue is one block away, giving guests several restaurants such as a steakhouse and Denny's, shops, bars, and chain pharmacies within walking distance. South Beach and Downtown Miami can both be reached in about 20 minutes by car. Miami International Airport is about 20 minutes away by car, while Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is a 25-minute drive.

The 47 rooms at the Waterside Hotel are all done in a beachy contemporary style with blue bed runners, throw pillows, and sea life-patterned curtains. Queen Queen Rooms have two comfortable beds with vinyl-leather headboards, gray wood-style tile floors, and wooden blinds that can be covered with drapes for extra coverage. Dim rooms and floors that could use a good mopping were downsides, though the separate kitchenette areas are modern and convenient. Kitchenettes have wet bars stocked with microwaves, mini-fridges, blenders, portable electric burners, and pots and pans. The One Queen Rooms are much smaller and feel snug. Standard amenities consist of coffeemakers (but no coffee), flat-screen TVs, iHome stereo systems, and bath products with eco-friendly packaging. Each room has a set of retro-style clamshell patio chairs and a small table outside facing the pool. 

Part of the 2016 renovations brought back the hotel's courtyard pool. It's nothing special, but it's clean and sports a chairlift for ADA guests. During the day it's a popular place for guests to cool off from the Florida heat, which can soak into the handful of vinyl padded loungers set up around the perimeter. Upstairs, there's a free cooler of ice water, an ice machine, free electric barbecue grill, and empty mini-fridge for guests to store drinks. 

One big perk to this property is its free happy hour at the Oceanside Hotel, one of the Waterside's local sister properties a five-minute drive away. Guests have to make their own way there, but receive an hour of free well drinks on the house. 

There is a resort fee at this property, as is typical for hotels in Miami. It includes free Wi-Fi, pool and beach towels, and free folding beach chairs for guests. There are six parking spots available for guests on-site, though they are on a first-come, first-served basis. Reception is staffed 24/7.