Hotel recommendations

Question

Hi all

We are coming in to take a cruise from FL but i have 5 days after id like to stay in either miami or fl , ive been to miami before but it was many years ago and stayed in Sunny Isles.

So i like really nice hotels and have been looking at the Ritz Carlton hotels but location for beach views, great restaurants and shopping is key and as safe as Miami could be.

Ive seen areas like bal harbour . coral gables and bricknell , i remember being in bal harbour that was nice .

Where would you suggest to be and where for safety issues if any to avoid.

Id like a big resort hotel with a feature of a fab view even if i have to pay extra for it.

We are from the UK so will not have a car. this is primary a drop and flop part of the trip but poss a organized tour to key west. So we will be walking out a bit in the day and night for food and sight seeing etc.

Also does it make any sense to stay the night pre cruise in miami or just head down to FL.

Many thanks in Advance.

Answer

Miami offers a range of luxury hotel options with excellent views, dining, and shopping, and choosing the right neighborhood can make a big difference in terms of convenience, safety, and overall experience, especially since you won’t have a car.

Best Areas for Luxury and Safety:

Bal Harbour: Known for its upscale resorts and exclusive shopping, Bal Harbour is very safe and peaceful. Many Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis properties offer oceanfront rooms with stunning views. The area is quieter at night but perfect for luxury beach relaxation and high-end dining. Walking access to Bal Harbour Shops provides some of the best shopping in Miami.
Brickell: Miami’s financial district is more urban and bustling. Luxury hotels here often have rooftop pools and bars, and you’re close to a variety of restaurants and nightlife. Brickell is generally safe, but it’s more city-like than a beachfront resort vibe. Great for walking to restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls.
Coral Gables: A leafy, elegant neighborhood with Mediterranean-style architecture, fine dining, and boutique shopping. It’s safe and offers a more tranquil, local experience. Not directly on the beach, but a short taxi or ride-share can take you to Miami Beach. Hotels here may have golf, spa, and garden views rather than direct ocean views.
Miami Beach / South Beach: Offers the classic beachfront resort experience with walking access to the ocean, restaurants, and nightlife. Popular luxury hotels like the Ritz-Carlton South Beach or 1 Hotel South Beach provide excellent service, beach views, and pools. South Beach can be busier and more touristy, but it’s generally safe in hotel areas.

Hotel Recommendations with Ocean Views:

Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour – Excellent oceanfront rooms, luxury amenities, and direct access to Bal Harbour Shops.
St. Regis Bal Harbour – Top-tier luxury, private beach area, and exceptional service.
Ritz-Carlton South Beach – Classic luxury with beachfront pool, spa, and iconic South Beach atmosphere.
1 Hotel South Beach – Eco-luxury, ocean views, rooftop bar, and a great pool area.
Four Seasons Hotel Miami (Brickell) – City views, rooftop pool, and easy access to restaurants and shopping.

Getting Around Without a Car:

Bal Harbour: Mostly walking for shops and dining; taxis or ride-share for other areas like South Beach or Brickell.
South Beach: Very walkable, and public transport, scooters, or ride-share is convenient for longer distances.
Brickell & Coral Gables: Walking in neighborhoods is safe; taxis or ride-share for beach access.

Pre-Cruise Night:

Staying one night in Miami before a cruise can make sense, especially if your flight arrives late or you want to avoid stress on embarkation day. Hotels near PortMiami, like the InterContinental Miami or Kimpton EPIC in Brickell, offer easy access to the port via a short ride. If your schedule allows, staying in a beachfront resort for a few days post-cruise or pre-cruise gives you time to relax and enjoy the city.

Summary: For a luxury, safe, and walkable stay with ocean views, Bal Harbour is ideal for a quieter, upscale beach experience, South Beach if you want more action and nightlife, and Brickell or Coral Gables for a city-luxury feel with access to fine dining and shopping. A pre-cruise night is recommended to reduce stress and enjoy the city a little.

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