Renovations can be exciting until you have to figure out where to live while the work is happening. If you want to stay close to Brickell Key, you have unique rules, limited lodging on the island, and some ongoing construction to plan around. This guide walks you through legal options, nearby places to stay, daily logistics, and costs so you can keep life moving while your home gets its upgrade. Let’s dive in.
What to expect on Brickell Key now
Brickell Key is a 44-acre, primarily residential island just east of Brickell and Downtown Miami, connected by a single bridge and framed by a mile-long baywalk. You can review its history and island context in the overview of Brickell Key.
The island is managed by the Brickell Key Master Association (BKMA), which maintains common areas, sets baywalk hours, and oversees vehicle and delivery procedures. Guests and non-residents should expect posted rules and occasional checks. You can see BKMA’s public guidance on island rules and access.
There are active projects that affect access. The Mandarin Oriental site at the island’s southern tip closed in 2025 for redevelopment, and the City of Miami is rehabilitating the Brickell Key bridge in phases. Expect intermittent noise, lane or sidewalk changes, and temporary baywalk restrictions. Check updates on the bridge work and Mandarin project.
Can you stay on Brickell Key during work?
Staying on the island as a non-resident is challenging. Brickell Key is mostly residential towers and, with the Mandarin site closed for redevelopment, hotel inventory on the island is limited. The practical move for most households is to stay in Brickell or Downtown nearby.
If you consider a condo stay, Brickell Key properties often have strict short-term rules. The City of Miami requires specific approvals and licensing for short-term lodging conversions. Always verify whether a unit and building are permitted for transient use and whether the condo association allows it. Review the city’s short-term rental procedures and request a written HOA letter before you book.
Best nearby stay options
Brickell and Downtown hotels
Full-service hotels in Brickell and adjacent Downtown offer daily housekeeping, valet, and concierge support, which makes deliveries and contractor coordination simpler. Examples include upscale properties like the Four Seasons Hotel Miami and other hotels near Brickell City Centre. For real-time rates, use booking tools and confirm parking and package policies.
Serviced apartments and corporate housing
For multi-week or multi-month renovations, a serviced apartment can be more comfortable and cost-effective. Providers such as Sonder, Blueground, Oakwood, and National Corporate Housing operate in the Miami market with furnished units, kitchens, and flexible terms. Sonder has expanded its Florida footprint, as noted in this company update. Ask about lease length options, included utilities, cleaning, and parking.
Short-term leases on mainland Brickell
Month-to-month leases in Brickell can offer space and kitchens without navigating condo rules for nightly stays. If you go this route, get clarity on the building’s guest registration, contractor access, and any move-in fees.
Logistics checklist for a smooth stay
Before you book
- Get a written condo or HOA statement if you plan to rent a unit, especially on Brickell Key. Use the City of Miami’s short-term rental guidance to confirm legal use.
- Check BKMA and City notices for any scheduled bridge or baywalk closures that overlap with your stay. See BKMA’s public rules and updates.
Access, deliveries, and parking
- Coordinate contractor parking and delivery staging in advance. BKMA logs certain vehicle entries and has delivery procedures you must follow. Review BKMA’s vehicle and access info.
- Confirm where packages can be received. Hotels typically accept deliveries. Policies for serviced apartments vary.
Daily life and services
- Brickell is walkable and transit connected. The Metromover and Metrorail serve the area, including the Brickell City Centre station.
- Groceries, pharmacies, and dining are a short walk or quick ride from the Key, with options throughout Brickell and Mary Brickell Village.
Noise and work hours
- Expect daytime construction noise. Ask your contractor to group loud tasks into set windows. Bring white noise or earplugs and request a quiet-facing room or unit when possible.
Budgeting your temporary move
Every renovation budget should include a line item for temporary housing.
- Hotels in Miami range widely by season and property class. Recent industry reporting shows average nightly rates often around 150 to 300 dollars or more in major markets, with Brickell-area upscale properties trending higher. For context, see this hotel rate overview.
- Serviced apartments and corporate housing often price monthly and can be more economical for multi-week stays. Many U.S. city listings range roughly from 2,000 to 6,000 dollars per month or more depending on unit size and location. Get all-in quotes for utilities, Wi-Fi, cleaning, and parking. See this serviced apartment cost guide.
- Do not forget valet or garage fees, rideshare costs, and extra dining if you do not have a kitchen.
Work with a local advisor
If you want to stay close to Brickell Key while you renovate, a local team can help you compare options, confirm building rules, and secure the right short-term solution. From luxury rentals to furnished corporate housing and property management support, you can lean on our hands-on experience with renovations and relocations. When you are ready, connect with The Kotelsky Group to map a plan that keeps you near your project and on schedule.
FAQs
Can I book an Airbnb on Brickell Key if my home is being renovated?
- Maybe, but only if the condo allows it, the unit is properly registered for short-term use with the City of Miami, and building or BKMA access rules permit it. Get a written HOA letter and verify city compliance before booking.
Is the Brickell Key baywalk open to the public while I am staying nearby?
- Generally yes between 5:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m., with residents only overnight. Sections may close temporarily due to construction, so check posted notices before you go.
Will the bridge and Mandarin redevelopment make it hard to access the island?
- You can still get around, but expect intermittent lane or sidewalk changes, noise, and added security during certain phases. Plan for extra time and follow local advisories.
What is usually cheaper for a 2 to 3 month renovation, a hotel or a serviced apartment?
- Serviced apartments or corporate housing are often more cost-effective over multiple weeks, especially when you factor in kitchen access and included utilities. Always compare all-in pricing.
Are hotels or serviced apartments better if I need frequent contractor deliveries?
- Hotels simplify package handling and guest access, while serviced apartments offer more space and kitchens. Confirm delivery policies, parking, and any registration steps with the property before you decide.
