I have reservations at the Essex House. Some web sites have given it bad reviews lately. The Blue Moon seems to have more consistent ratings. Has anyone been to these lately. What about noise. I asked them which would be the quietest-their reply was that all three of their properties have double paned
windows and are all quiet. I have my doubts.
Would apprecitate any info on what we must see in Miami area. Love snorkeling, shopping, museums and good food. Thanks and happy traveling! Barb

I stayed at the Essex House, but looked at Blue Moon while I was in South Beach. I would say that the Blue Moon is a nicer looking property. As far as quiet goes, I was in a corner room facing the street . I would not say it was very noisy, but I believe most rooms at the Blue Moon don't face the street. They both have a pool. I was not impressed with the continental breakfast served at the Essex House. As a matter of fact, we went out for breakfast every day. If I had to do it over again. I would stay at the Blue Moon.

I stood at the Blue Moon last summer. Very nice property and extremely quiet. The pool is nothing to write home about, about 5 x 5. I had a view of the wall of the hotel next door, but it was quiet, comfortable and nicely decorated. I would stay there again, and I think I saw a special for it on Travelzoo.com, something like $69 a night with the 4th night free.

As for shopping and good food, there is not shortage of that on South Beach, just do a search on here for plenty of suggestions!!

I stayed at the Essex last October. I had heard a lot of horror stories about some of the SoBe hotels so didn't expect much.

I didn't have any complaints but I would say it's an average hotel. The rooms were an okay size (well by SoBe art deco hotel standards I suppose) and reasonable well decorated, if a bit worn looking. The staff was helpful if we needed anything.

I never had the breakfast but heard other people say it wasn't up too much.

I can't compare it with the Blue Moon but I would say the thing that I was most pleased with the Essex for was its location - on 10th and Collins.

Thanks for your responses. I got a rate of $89.OO per night at Essex. That seemed reasonable. I booked directly with the hotel. I guess if I am not pleased I can always see about changing locations when I get there. I was going to post another question about when I should book my airline tickets. I live near Portland, OR. The fares are about
$430.00. Is this reasonable. I know they were much cheaper a few months ago. Do I take my chances and book-or will they go down.....?
Thanks.

I haven't spent much time in South Beach, but our first trip we stayed at Essex House, and most recently at Blue Moon. We had an upgraded room at Essex House. Definitely was quiet, but I preferred the Blue Moon, even though the room was smaller.

Both properties are on Collins, don't think location is a big factor. If the price is close, I'd go with Blue Moon.

Jean