clevelander hotel south beach

Question

My daughter and some friends in their mid-twenties are staying at the Clevelander next week. The reviews here are great, but when she contacted a club promoter in Miami he told the Clevelander was not that great and that there are significant security issues nearby.

That seems like a stretch to me, as security issues in south beach are everywhere.

Can someone share a local view on this?

Thanks

Answer

The Clevelander Hotel in South Beach is a well-known and iconic spot, especially popular with younger crowds and those looking for a lively, party atmosphere. It’s right on Ocean Drive, one of the most popular areas in Miami Beach, and it's surrounded by restaurants, bars, clubs, and beach access. As for your daughter’s concerns, I understand your hesitation about the promoter’s comments, so let me share a more balanced view of the area and the Clevelander itself.

First, it’s true that South Beach, like many popular tourist destinations, has its share of security concerns. However, the Clevelander Hotel is located in one of the busiest, most well-patrolled parts of the area. Miami Beach Police are regularly present in the district, especially along Ocean Drive, given its popularity with both tourists and locals. While no area is completely immune to issues, the Clevelander’s location is typically safe for guests, especially those who are aware of their surroundings and follow general safety precautions. It's a popular venue with a good reputation, and the hotel itself maintains security measures like ID checks, staff presence, and security cameras, which helps ensure safety for guests.

As for the promoter’s claims about security issues nearby, it’s not uncommon for people in the nightclub or club promotion industry to downplay certain hotels or areas to steer business towards their preferred venues. This could be a case of personal bias or an attempt to promote a competing venue. While there are some areas in Miami Beach that might have a higher concentration of incidents, the Clevelander's vicinity is generally considered safe, particularly when compared to areas that are further off the beaten path. That said, as with any major tourist destination, it's always important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night, and keep your belongings secure.

Here are a few tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in South Beach:

Stay on Main Streets: Stick to Ocean Drive and the surrounding main streets, especially at night. These are the areas with the most foot traffic and visible police presence, which makes them safer. Avoid walking down quieter side streets, especially after dark.
Use Ride-sharing Services: If you're going out at night, consider using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to avoid walking through less crowded areas, particularly after dark.
Don’t Flash Valuables: As with any busy tourist spot, it’s always a good idea to avoid drawing attention to valuables such as expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash when out and about.
Be Cautious Late at Night: Like many urban areas, South Beach can have its share of nightlife-related incidents, especially in the early hours of the morning. If your daughter and her friends plan to stay out late, encourage them to stick together and be mindful of their surroundings.

In summary, while there may be occasional security issues in South Beach, this is true of most major cities with a heavy tourism focus. The Clevelander itself is a reputable hotel with good security measures and is located in a well-patrolled area. As long as your daughter and her friends follow basic safety precautions, they should have a fun and safe time in South Beach. The Clevelander is a great choice for young travelers looking for an energetic, lively hotel with easy access to all the action in Miami Beach.