Forget South Beach—I'm All About Downtown Miami's Kimpton EPIC Hotel

The rooms at the EPIC are large and gorgeous, and they boast views with a capital "V."

During my first stay, I enjoyed a king room that features plenty of space and a balcony with a view of the water and the surrounding high-rises. And then for my second stay, I opted for a one-bedroom water-view suite. Both are lovely, but you should certainly go with a suite if that's an option for you.

The bedroom features floor to ceiling windows with amazing views of Miami's waterways. The bed is big and comfy. And though I don't have a TV in my bedroom at home, it is nice to enjoy a little pre-bed Law & Order: SVU while under the covers in my Kimpton bathrobe.

The living room is also extra large, featuring a pull-out couch where two of my friends slept. Naturally, a balcony sits right off of the living room, perfect for a nightcap while enjoying the Miami breeze.

Don't even get me started on the bathroom. The suite bathroom is enormous, with double mirrors and sinks (a huge help for someone who has a partner that takes forever to get ready in the morning). And the shower is huge and sexy (with plenty of room for two, if that's your sort of thing; or if, like me, you have a partner who really takes forever to get ready in the morning).

My first stop after dropping my bags in the room is always the EPIC's outdoor pool. The lounge/swim area is located on the 16th floor, meaning you get even more views while you relax and take a dip.

I absolutely made sure to snag a lounge chair (don't stress, there are more than enough) and order a glass of bubbly from the friendly cocktail server.

And while you're on the 16th floor...

Be sure to visit Area 31, mere steps from the pool area. The lounge/restaurant/bar features ample seating, stellar cocktails and yummy bites to enjoy for lunch.

Before my evening activities, I returned to Area 31 for a drink and believe me when I say the place was hopping. It's a fun and lively nightlife spot, with great music and comfortable lounge areas. Fortunately, I got there in time for golden hour and the EPIC's Social Hour, featuring happy hour pricing and a DJ on Fridays and Saturdays.

Of course, I made sure to take advantage of the free wine happy hour in the lobby each day. It's a great way to mix and mingle with fellow travelers.

Allow me to also recommend catching a delicious brunch mere blocks away from the EPIC at Cafe Bastille. The food and service are top notch. 10/10 would recommend—I went on both of my visits.

There's also a Whole Foods a block from the hotel if you want to grab a few groceries.

And best of all, the EPIC is situated only minutes from the cruise port, meaning my cab rides were super fast in the morning, helping to alleviate that cruise-day stress.

Without question, the Kimpton EPIC Hotel is a great place to lay your head, relax by the pool, enjoy a delicious bite and set up home base during any trip to Miami.