With its waterfront location and contemporary interior design, this hotel is an island of calm in the middle of downtown Miami. Located on tiny Brickell Key, opposite the city center, this outpost of the Asian hotel group is favored for its skyline views, Azul restaurant and man-made white-sand beach. sign up for the hotel’s South Beach Experience, which includes transportation to South Beach, a private beach cabana and access to the pool and restaurant at the famed Casa Casuarina. After the beach, retreat to one of the luxurious guest rooms decorated in a contemporary Asian-influenced style with bamboo hardwood floors, simple furnishings and white fabrics.

Mandarin Oriental, Miami Amenities:

• 327 rooms. Pets accepted, some restrictions; fee. High-speed Internet access. Two restaurants, two bars. Fitness center. Spa. Beach. Outdoor pool, whirlpool. Airport transportation available. Business center.