South Beach isn’t exactly known for subtlety. Neon lights, bass-heavy clubs and velvet-rope chaos are par for the course along Ocean Drive. But tucked right into the heart of the action—without feeling like it’s part of the scene—is The Betsy, a refined, art-forward boutique hotel with a whole lot of class but just enough edge to keep it rooted in the neighborhood.
Built in 1942, The Betsy is one of the last remaining examples of Florida-Georgian architecture in the area, standing in bold contrast to the candy-colored Art Deco buildings surrounding it. It could easily be mistaken for Savannah, but this genteel charm is exactly the draw if you want to be part of the South Beach energy while easily being able to retreat from it. Inside is a spacious world of art and relaxation, a perfect respite from the Ocean Drive action.
Why stay at The Betsy Hotel?
If you’re over the South Beach party scene—but not quite ready to retire from it—The Betsy strikes a near-perfect balance. At the quieter end of Ocean Drive, The Betsy is just steps from the sand and close to the action, but removed enough to breathe. You get all the perks of the location, but inside, it’s calm, collected and downright serene.
You can spend hours inside browsing the art collection, unwinding at the pools, sipping an espresso or lounging in the library and other public spaces. There’s a renowned jazz program in the bar, a destination restaurant and a cool courtyard oasis. But once you’re ready to live it up in SoBe, just step outside to hit the beach or walk the streets. It’s comfort amidst the chaos, and you’re in charge.
What are the rooms like?
The Betsy has 130 rooms and suites, ranging from competitively-priced, entry-level rooms to the finely-appointed Royal Ocean View Suite and Skyline Penthouse. Sizes vary, with the entry-level ‘classic’ rooms being on the cozier side. Guests can expect walnut floors, shutters, four-poster beds, Simmons mattresses, marble-tiled bathrooms, MALIN + GOETZ amenities, mini libraries and other luxurious touches.
However, given that The Betsy is a historic building, certain rooms still have some older quirks like awkward layouts and inconveniently-located outlets. If you need to do some work, request a room that has a decent-sized desk. Trying to fit a laptop on a ledge built into the wall—one that also housed a coffee maker, lamp and table-top mirror—was a challenge, and the issue was graciously rectified with a larger room.
The hotel is also exceptionally dog-friendly (keep an eye out for Betsy, the well-loved hotel dog), and visiting canines get their own beds, treats and even a curated list of pet-friendly activities in the area.
What is the food and drink like?
LT Steak & Seafood, helmed by Chef Laurent Tourondel, anchors the lobby with casually elegant New American fare. It’s a legit dining destination popular with locals, thanks in part to the legendary oversized popovers. The steaks are solid, and so are the seafood and lighter menu options. Opt for one of the popular sidewalk tables and you can observe the action while enjoying attentive service and a great meal.
Beyond LT, there’s The Alley (reopening Fall 2025), a trattoria-style cafe serving hand-stretched Neapolitan pizzas, crostinis, salads and more. You can grab a soft-serve ice cream from the walkup window whenever the mood strikes. The Piano Bar exudes old Havana vibes, and features live jazz most nights (it’s the longest-running live music series on Miami Beach). Oh, and the cocktails are top notch, mixed by friendly, skilled bartenders.
On the Collins Avenue side of the property, the Carlton Room is like a home away from home, serving local Panther Coffee and light bites in a comfortable, art-filled room.
What’s the service like?
Service at The Betsy is polished but not stuffy. Staff are personable and responsive—eager to assist and offer recommendations. At busy times you may encounter an extended wait for housekeeping or the valet, but if you need something the staff at The Betsy has you covered.
What are the pools and gym like?
There are two pools at The Betsy, a rooftop pool and a courtyard pool. The rooftop one has panoramic views, lounge chairs, bar service and a relaxed, casual vibe. It’s where you go to chill and catch great sunsets. The courtyard pool is more private and shaded, great for a quiet dip or reading session. While you may not catch many rays, it’s a serene spot to unwind.
If you’re looking to fit in a workout, the hotel has squeezed in a compact but well-equipped fitness room. It’s got modern cardio and weight machines, Peloton bikes, free weights and mats. Don’t miss the sunrise yoga classes on the roofdeck—a rejuvenating way to start the day after a big night out on the town.
What’s the property like?
Architecturally, The Betsy is unique. It’s made up of two buildings—the original colonial-style structure and a newer Art Deco wing. They were joined to form a larger hotel rather than building up. Internally, they’re connected by a bridge, but step outside and from the street you’ll see the two buildings fused by a giant work of art dubbed ‘The Orb’.
It’s interesting, but it’s far from the only work of art. The hallways, staircases and elevators are all lined with artworks of all types, and the hotel hosts writers-in-residence, rotating art exhibits, poetry readings and photography pop-ups. Catch it at the right time and it feels like a cultural salon posing as a hotel.
You can wander the halls for hours, finding new discoveries each time. The historic nature of the two buildings comes into play here again, however, and getting between the two buildings can be confusing at times. But at least you have nice things to look at if you get turned around.
Outside the hotel, Lummus Park is just across the street. It’s a cool spot to lounge on the grass, and the park regularly hosts live music on a stage in the early evenings. The beach is a short walk away, and guests can take advantage of The Betsy’s designated area, where hotel staff can set you up with loungers, towels and beach umbrellas.
Why you should book a stay at The Betsy Hotel
This exceptionally versatile hotel offers something different in the midst of flashy South Beach. It’s historic, not trendy, but with a timeless quality that still results in a solidly good time. If you want the South Beach experience without the chaos, The Betsy is the place to be. It’s stylish but unpretentious, artistic but not snobby, luxurious but not cold. It offers a lively place to enjoy your stay in Miami, not just a place to sleep at night. You’ll leave feeling rested and perhaps a little inspired.
Address: 1440 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Price per night: Starting at around $200 a night plus a $45 resort fee
Closest transport: Miami International Airport is a 12 mile drive from the hotel (30 minutes or more depending on traffic). The citywide Free Trolley is just steps away.
Book now: via Booking.com
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