Art Basel Miami Beach takes place December 4–7, and while that may sound far away, it’s coming up sooner than you realize, and the time to book accommodations is now. But where to stay, you ask? While they might all look the same (palm trees, glistening blue swimming pools), the hotels typically frequented by fair-goers have personalities as distinct as the array of fairs themselves.
If you’re a serious, all-business type committed to that AM wake-up call, or perhaps you’re just trying to keep it to a dull roar this year, we recommend Loews, a trusty establishment known for its almost conspicuous lack of nighttime noise.
For those desiring an experience on the other side of the spectrum, we suggest the Delano Hotel, whose nightlife atmosphere is storied within the art world. Last year, its sumptuous rooftop was the backdrop for a party thrown by Beth Rudin DeWoody that boasted a remarkably star-studded guest list. In a similar camp is the James Royal Palm, a lavish playground for adults that’s also been home to some memorable evenings.
Other highlights? The SLS Hotel, the decor of which is either really cool or really creepy, depending on the eye of the beholder, and the W Hotel, with its infamous pool and nightclub and swarms of rich people.