Miami Beach and Airbnb currently have a bit of a dicey relationship. The city has recently cracked down on illegal renters, increasing penalties from $500 to $20,000 for first-time violations, according to the Miami New Times. And in recent months the city levied $1.6 million in fines. Despite that, Miami is Airbnb’s fourth strongest market domestically, with guests drawn to authentic neighborhoods outside of the tourist zones like Little Havana, Little Haiti and Wynwood. The site offers visitors the chance to live like a local, whether they want to experience life in an oceanfront high-rise or a tropical bungalow in a quiet neighborhood. Here are 10 of our favorites.
1. Bungalow 443 2. Sleek penthouse 3. Guest cottage 4. South Beach apartment with a view 5. Funky apartment 6. Cozy bungalow 7. Studio rental 8. Guest house 9. South Beach apartment 10. Studio apartment.
Erica Jackson Curran is a former alt-weekly editor turned moonlight freelancer based in Richmond, Virginia.
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Known as Bungalow 443, this well-reviewed rental (131 positive reviews and counting) is in the MiMo (Miami Modern) District on the city's upper east side. Located behind Superhost Michael's home, the bungalow has access to a lush garden and a pool. The compact space has a kitchenette, full-sized bed with organic cotton sheets, and a spa-like bathroom. It's 15 minutes from the beach and walking distance to restaurants, bars and galleries.
Airbnb
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This sleek penthouse has views of the skyline and Brickell Bay. There's a full kitchen and a balcony, and a modern staircase leads to the loft-style bedroom. The building includes access to two pools, a gym and a spa, and there's a trolley station on the corner that will take riders around the city at no charge. Parking is also included in the rate.
Airbnb
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Hidden within a jungle-like garden in the historic Coconut Grove neighborhood, this sweet little guest cottage includes access to a private pool and koi pond. There's no kitchen, but there is a mini fridge and Nespresso machine, plus a bathroom with a large walk-in shower. Past guests describe the space as "secluded," "peaceful" and "paradise."
Airbnb
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Take in the water views from the balcony of this South Beach apartment, which has space for four guests (one king-sized bed and two singles). It includes access to the building's common spaces, including a gym. Popular thoroughfare Ocean Drive, with all of its glitzy restaurants and pastel hotels, is nearby.
Airbnb
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You shouldn't have too much trouble finding this funky apartment in the artsy Wynwood neighborhood—just look for the building covered in a mural with a rainbow and naked wood nymphs. There are two bedrooms, plus the couch is made from two twin beds, making space for six guests total. There's also a fully equipped, eat-in kitchen. Trendy restaurants and shopping are a quick walk away, and there's free parking. Several other apartments are available to rent in the building.
Airbnb
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Built in 1925, this cozy apartment gives guests a glimpse of Miami's Little Havana neighborhood. The studio has a large living room with a 50-inch HDTV and kitchen with a gas range and a stocked refrigerator, plus a new queen-sized bed separated by a privacy screen. The place is decorated with Florida-themed art from Miami-based artists. Superhost Veronica recommends nearby haunts like Azucar Ice Cream Shop and Hoy Como Ayer lounge. Biscayne Bay and Coconut Grove are a bike ride away.
Airbnb
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Take advantage of Superhost Michelle's bay-front backyard (and pool!) with this studio rental in North Beach, South Beach's slower paced sibling. With its own private entrance, the space has a king-sized bed, a full kitchen and a large bathroom. A shared deck overlooks the bay and downtown Miami.
Airbnb
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A log cabin in Miami? Yep, this unique guest house is part of one of the area's only log cabins built in 1933—if a log cabin can be nearly 3,000 square feet. The completely remodeled space includes access to a pool and hot tub housed in a gazebo as well as extensive gardens.
Airbnb
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Forget the car at this centrally located South Beach apartment, which offers two free folding bikes for guests, plus beach supplies like chairs, a cooler and umbrella, and towels. With two beds and a fold-out couch, it can accommodate up to five guests.
Airbnb
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This newly renovated studio apartment in Miami Beach has views of the ocean and free valet parking. There's a king-sized bed along with a sofa bed, plus a full kitchen. The building offers access to a beachfront pool, spa and tennis courts.
Airbnb