The hype
Guests love the space and the Trader Joe's convenience but are divided on the 'ghost hotel' service model.
Sonder | 17West
$150-300/ night
Book this if You want a spacious, modern apartment with a full kitchen and in-unit laundry above a Trader Joe's, and you don't need a front desk to hold your hand.
Why People Love It
- Living above a Trader Joe's makes grocery runs dangerously easy
- Apartments are huge compared to standard South Beach hotel rooms
- Rooftop pool deck is a surprisingly chill escape from the street noise
Quick Take: It's basically a high-end dorm for adults who know how to use an app to check in and don't mind hearing the city hum through the walls.
Reviewed by @sooomuchdust: I honestly couldn't believe how much space I had here. The freestanding tub was my favorite spot to unwind, and having a full kitchen made my mornings so much more relaxed than a standard hotel stay. Perfect for a quiet Miami escape.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'noise-free guestroom cannot be guaranteed' disclaimer is real—light sleepers often complain about thin walls and street traffic.
- You prefer cooking your own healthy meals over eating out every night
- You need a washer/dryer in your room for a longer stay
- You hate making small talk with receptionists
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: No daily service. You arrive to a clean room, but maintaining it is on you unless you pay for a refresh.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally sparkling upon arrival, though grout lines in some older units show minor wear.
- Maintenance: Modern and functional, but occasional reports of broken blinds or slow drains.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and plentiful on arrival. You'll need to request more via the app if you run out.
- Odors & scents: Usually neutral and fresh, though hallway carpets can sometimes hold onto humidity or food smells.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Traffic from 17th Street and Alton Road
- Footsteps from neighbors above (hardwood floors)
- Construction noise from nearby roadworks
Before you book
Good to know
- Download the Sonder app immediately after booking; you literally cannot get in without it
- Luggage lockers are available for a fee if you arrive before 4 PM
- There is no cable TV, only Chromecast, so bring your streaming logins
What to pack
- Your own HDMI cable if you want to connect a laptop to the TV
- White noise machine or earplugs
- Pool slides for the unheated rooftop deck
Room Genie
Best picks
- Top-floor units for the least amount of overhead noise
- Balcony units facing away from 17th Street for slightly less traffic roar
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor units with 'direct pool access' if you value privacy over convenience
- Units directly facing the main intersection if you are a light sleeper
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a unit on the highest possible floor, facing away from 17th Street to minimize road noise. If available, a corner unit would be ideal.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is a garage on the 3rd floor, but it's paid (approx. $30/night) and must be booked via the Sonder app. The entrance can be tricky due to roadworks.
Is the pool heated?
No, the rooftop pool is unheated. It's refreshing in July, but brisk in January.
How far is the beach?
It's about a 15-20 minute walk to the sand. Not beachfront, but a pleasant walk past Lincoln Road.
Can I get early check-in?
Maybe. You can request it via the app for a fee, but it's subject to availability and often not confirmed until the last minute.
Is there a resort fee?
No, Sonder typically does not charge a resort fee, which is a rarity in Miami Beach. However, check your specific booking for cleaning fees.
Is it safe?
Yes, the building is secure with code access, and the neighborhood is busy and well-lit. However, always be aware of your surroundings in South Beach.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The garage entrance is to the left of Trader Joe's, but roadworks often block the direct approach—approach from the north side if possible.
- ✨
You can buy alcohol at the Trader Joe's downstairs, which is much cheaper than any nearby liquor store.
- ✨
The 'virtual concierge' is actually quite responsive via text if you need extra towels or coffee pods.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevator ride with your luggage often involves dodging locals with grocery bags from Trader Joe's.
💡The 'Peloton bikes' in the gym are great, but you need your own login to use them effectively.
💡There is no daily housekeeping unless you pay extra, so you'll be taking out your own trash.
💡The bathroom lighting is excellent for makeup but the water pressure can be hit-or-miss on upper floors.
💡You might smell your neighbor's dinner (or other recreational activities) in the hallway.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Sonder | 17West is located and what's nearby.