South Beach Budget Hotels

Staying in South Beach doesn't have to be pricey. These hotel gems will leave you with enough extra cash to snag a $20 mojito at Skybar.

Photo: Gregory Castillo / Miami Herald

2/10/2012

It may seem like an oxymoron, but a sweet deal in South Beach is still possible. Here's proof that you don't need a platinum card to be a part of it:

Freehand Miami
Maybe it's the steamer trunks stacked for effect in the lobby, but there's a distinct film noir feel to this restored 1930s Pueblo Deco charmer. Its updated 61 rooms are on the edge of South Beach, but close enough to feel like you're still a part of it. There's a small pool for afternoon dips and the Broken Shaker, an on-site craft cocktail bar that draws regulars and industry folks regularly. Billed as an "affordable boutique hotel," it packs loads of personality, starting at $33 a night depending on the season and availability. The same developers of New York’s NoMad and Ace hotels.
2727 Indian Creek Dr., Miami Beach; 305-531-2727.

The Clay Hotel
One of the coolest hostels on the planet, this 140-bed place to lay your backpack shares a 1920s building with an affordable hotel by the same name on picturesque Espanola Way. The street is a Mediterranean-style block of cafes and shops where the first and last episodes of the Miami Vice TV show were filmed. There are male and female dorms, with suite-style shared bathrooms, as well as private single and double rooms with private baths. A common kitchen is open 6 a.m.-midnight. Walk to clubs, shops, cafes and the beach. From $60 a night.
1438 Washington Ave., South Beach; 305-534-2988.

The Tropics Hotel & Hostel
Close to the scene, but far enough away to muffle the thumping bass lines of the SoBe party scene, this less well-known hostel has shared dorms and private rooms, plus a kitchen. Walk to Lincoln Road, Espanola Way and the beach; stagger home from the Delano, the Raleigh or SET. The biggest perk: An Olympic-sized pool beloved by the young, international crowd that stays here. From $59 a night for a private room, $20 per person for a shared room.
1550 Collins Ave., South Beach; 305-531-0361.

Crest Hotel Suites
You'll find the original terrazzo on the floor of this 1939 restored boutique hotel. In the heart of the Art Deco Historic District, it has 43 rooms and 23 one-bedroom suites, plus a small pool in an interior courtyard. Rooms are stark, modern and small, but who's complaining when you can dabble in the Deco experience at such a deep discount? From $95 a night during off season, $155 a night during peak season.
1670 James Ave., South Beach; 305-531-0321.