The 1930s-era hotel is typical of its SoBe brethren: unique, funky and oh-so-Miami Beach. The Hotel still sports its 1939 edifice and original terrazzo floors. Bright Florida sunshine baths the jewel-toned lobby through original Deco windows. An egg-shaped banquette in green velvet and a mosaic-glass mirror in shades of gold add more special touches.

The Hotel features one of the area's few rooftop pools where guests will get jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Cabanas line the area, where sun worshippers also can pamper themselves with massages, drinks and food. Within short walks or driving distances from the Hotel, they can find tennis, windsurfing, golf, and helicopter and airplane "flightseeing."

Wish, the Hotel's restaurant, dazzles patrons with fresh haute cuisine with Asian influences. Wish was one of 50 restaurants named by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine on the "Hot Tables List" and one of the "world's most exciting restaurants." Fans dine in a romantic outdoor garden or in a Persian- inspired bar, where glass lamps in blues and purples highlight high tables and "electronic" cocktails glow with neon ice cubes. No wonder Mick Jagger, Susan Sarandon and Madonna came here for dinner.

Even in the hallways, gem-inspired lights glow with room numbers. The rooms feature Italian Frette bedding with satin pillows, tie-dyed bathrobes, hand-painted bathroom tiles, and fancy bath amenities by White Company of London.

The Hotel of South Beach, which combines the best of Art-Deco luxury with 21st century comforts, is a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Historic Hotels of America.