While Greater Miami & Miami Beach offers impressive resorts with extravagant guest rooms and pools practically as long as football fields, there’s also the option to stay at smaller boutique hotels with big personalities.

Filled with charm and character, storied history, rich architecture and lush gardens, there are beautiful boutique hotels for every taste. Many of them boast a prime location near Miami’s must-see places and activities. These boutique gems not only promise an intimate experience, but some even offer unique programming that immerses guests in everything from wellness to the arts.

Miami Beach’s famous Ocean Drive is lined with many of these boutique gems. The grand white dame, The Betsy - South Beach, presents daily programming with offerings ranging from jazz to poetry readings, as well as a standout art collection. Down the street, you’ll discover the iconic Cardozo Hotel, owned by Miami’s musical duo Gloria and Emilio Estefan, and the recently renovated Art Deco charmer, The Balfour Hotel, which offers a peaceful haven.

For an adults-only retreat, head to the Greystone Miami Beach on Collins Avenue and enjoy a personalized getaway with all the amenities of a large resort. A bit farther north, Circa 39 Hotel feels a like a hidden oasis.

On the mainland, visitors can head to the Novotel Miami Brickell to enjoy a rooftop pool and views of the Downtown Miami skyline.

There are big reasons to think small when it comes to staying at one of Greater Miami & Miami Beach’s boutique hotels.