Blue Moon Hotel, Autograph Collection

The Blue Moon — which is actually two buildings connected by an arched breezeway — offers a homey, vintage feel that makes for a welcoming vibe. Simple adobe tiles adorn the tiny lobby, which leads to an intimate seating area in a beachy palette of cream, sand, and blue. The inviting design continues in the adjacent lounge and restaurant, which features wood plank flooring, exposed brick, and a thick stone slab bar. A pretty, shaded patio with bubbling fountain offers a serene spot where guests can often be found decompressing with a meal or cocktail from the bar.

Located on Collins Avenue in the middle of the Art Deco District, the Blue Moon is close enough to walk to Ocean Drive's hottest bars and clubs, but not so close that partying throngs disturb the (relative) quiet. The beach is a three-minute walk away, and the legendary Versace mansion is two blocks north. Miami International Airport is a 20-minute drive or longer from the hotel, depending on traffic.

Spotless rooms have a modern, airy feel, but are tight on space. The furnishings — which include a small work desk — have the sleek, simple look of mid-century modern. A recessed niche houses drawer space and the flat-screen TV. In 2015, the hotel livened up the rooms by painting over the murals behind the beds with blue paint. Rooms are quiet for the most part, with just a few guest complaints of noise.

Bathrooms feature striking stone tile floors, pedestal sinks, and modern, glass-enclosed showers with good water pressure. However, space is an issue, as they are quite cramped and offer just a narrow shelf below the mirror to place toiletries.

A lovely, shaded patio with a charming fountain and small tables and chairs scattered throughout is a definite highlight, but the adjacent pool is barely bigger than a postage stamp. The Blue Moon also offers a computer and printer for guest use, which is tucked away in a tiny space under the wrought-iron staircase leading to the hotel's second level. Handicap-accessible features include a wheelchair ramp and motorized stair lift in the lobby.

The on-site restaurant, Fix, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, although guests report that the "classic American" fare is just "okay." However, the friendly bartender's skill with a cocktail shaker gets rave reviews.

Nightly black-and-white films on the terrace are a nice touch, but expensive valet parking and a daily amenities fee make some guests feel as though they are being nickel-and-dimed.