Esmé Miami Beach

Esmé Miami Beach is a boutique hotel set along historic Española Way in South Beach. The hotel describes itself as designed as a village within the city, which gives a stay here a more intimate, neighbourhood feel than the big beachfront hotels.

The rooftop is the main amenity, with a pool and lounge deck that is reserved for hotel guests during the day, and a rooftop space called The Roof. Food and drink come from a group of dining partners, including a sushi bar, The Joyce, Tropezon and Oh Mexico, so you can choose between several styles of meal without leaving the street.

Esmé suits couples, solo travellers and friends who want a stylish, walkable base in South Beach without staying on Ocean Drive itself. The street location means you are close to bars and restaurants, so expect some evening activity outside, and ask for a quieter room when you book if you are a light sleeper. Families may find the rooftop and central position useful, but the hotel is more geared to adults.

As with many boutique hotels in older buildings, read the room descriptions carefully before you book and contact the hotel if you need a particular layout or accessible room. Rates are mid to upper range for South Beach, and booking direct can give you more flexibility.

Because the rooftop pool is reserved for hotel guests during the day, it can be a welcome retreat from the busier public beaches. In the evening, the street's restaurants make it easy to eat well without planning far ahead, although popular tables at weekends are still worth booking. The hotel's dining partners each have their own menus and hours, so check them on the hotel website before you go. Española Way is also pleasant for an evening stroll, so even guests at other hotels may enjoy a meal there.

Española Way is in the heart of South Beach, so you can walk to the beach, Lincoln Road, the Wolfsonian-FIU on Washington Avenue and the Art Deco district. The Miami Beach trolley serves Washington Avenue if you want to go further. Contact details and booking are on the hotel's website.