The Ritz-Carlton, South BeachvsFreehand Miami
Both hotels are rated highly by expert writers. On balance, The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach ranks significantly higher than Freehand Miami. The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach scores 87 with accolades from 15 publications like Time Out, Oyster and Afar Magazine.
The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach Show All Reviews
1 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL 33139
From $339/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Laundry Service
Concierge
"A showstopper resort that's a bold step away from the Federal-style-and-Oriental-rug look of its sister properties."
Oyster
Upscale
"A huge (though relaxed) beachfront resort with reliable service, a great pool, a top-notch spa, and a modern fitness center, the Ritz offers more for the money." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"Just steps away from a surfeit of dining, shopping, and entertainment choices, this Ritz-Carlton is located directly on the beach."
Star Service
"Located on a prized stretch of sand next to the stylized Sagamore, the Ritz-Carlton, South Beach remains the most interesting of Ritz-Carlton's contrasting Miami triumvirate." Full review
Gayot
"In a neighborhood teeming with monuments to 1950s architecture, this new take on an old favorite surpasses its competitors when it comes to savvy style."
BlackBook
"No other Ritz in the world has a tricked-out poolside DJ who looks as if he stepped straight out of Studio 54 circa 1978."
Zagat
4.0
""Everyone should stay here at least once" rave devotees of this "elegant", "indulgent" oceanfront "icon" that is "well located near restaurants and shops."
Forbes Travel Guide
Recommended
"This landmark property, originally designed by legendary Miami architect Morris Lapidus, boasts an ideal location — at the foot of South Beach’s Lincoln Road Mall on the Atlantic Ocean." Full review
Fodor's
"There are all the usual high-level draws the Ritz is known for, that is, attentive service, a kids' club, a club level with five food presentations a day, and high-end restaurants." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"You can't ask for much more at the Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, a 375-key oceanfront spot." Full review
i
You can't ask for much more at the Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, a 375-key oceanfront spot.
Freehand Miami Show All Reviews
2727 Indian Creek Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33140
From $24/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Free Breakfast
- Concierge
- Restaurant
BlackBook
"It's all about cheap charm. The reimagined Indian Creek Hotel becomes a traditional art deco hostel."
Gayot
"Just two blocks from the beach, the Freehand Miami has repurposed the 1930s Indian Creek Hotel with outstanding results."
Oyster
3.0
"A hostel for sophisticated young travelers who care about style, atmosphere, and a good party." Full review
Afar Magazine
"Room decor includes vividly colorful modern art and Mexican blankets, and free Wi-Fi is available. There are also private rooms that come with work desks and flat-screen TVs." Full review
Lonely Planet
"Get your room key – attached to a plastic alligator – and walk through the old Miami lobby, spruced up with souvenir-stand schlock, to your comfortable, earthy-warm digs." Full review
Jetsetter
"A hip Miami Beach hostel with designer interiors and plenty of buzz from prestigious travel publications." Full review
The Telegraph
8.0
"At once one of Miami’s trendiest and most affordable hotels. There is a lush, inviting courtyard and pool." Full review
Mr & Mrs Smith
"Freehand Miami is a hip hostel-esque stay for sociable millennials." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"The Freehand isn't your only choice of an inexpensive stay in South Beach, but it's absolutely the best one." Full review
i
There’s also a guest kitchen, which is open from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. Just make sure you remembered to bring your own food and don’t try to steal someone else’s.
Time Out
"Small, intimate and quirky, the Freehand has more character than many of its South Beach competitors." Full review
i
It is technically a hostel, so you can choose from shared rooms for four or eight or private rooms for two.