Stay here if you're seeking an elegant, relaxed property away from the noise but still near South Beach. The Palms has an exceptional beach, an easy pace, and beautiful gardens with soaring palm trees and inviting hammocks. A 2008 renovation has left the rooms looking as fabulous as the grounds, and a 5,000-square-foot Aveda spa was in the works. There are more large palms inside the Great Room lounge just off the lobby and designer Patrick Kennedy used subtle, natural hues of ivory, green, and blue for the homey, well-lighted rooms. Pros: tropical garden; relaxed and quiet. Cons: no balconies; away from South Beach.
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