Coconut Grove Vacation Rental house

We dug The Mission. It seriously feels like you're just going to your own beach/vacation house as everything you might think to put in such a home is provided--full kitchen, towels, bedding, books, miami guidebooks, games, take-out menus, movies, satellite TV, washer/dryer, computer/printer w/ internet, etc. (...but no wireless, though?) Paul and Alan are totally low-key, too, so you don't have to worry about them getting in your way. Plus it's got major character: Paul is a primo painter and has pieces hanging throughout the house. Alan is...well, I'm not sure what you call it, but "he's good with lights!" ...like, ambient lights. The house and backyard has tons of thoughtful lighting to set the mood just right. The hosts definitely won't bother you, though. We just spent a bit more time with them because we had a lot in common and they are very knowledgeable about the area.

This not a beach house, per se, as you can't walk out the door and be on the beach. I would recommend this more for someone looking to explore Miami or simply as a getaway home. The beach is VERY close, but is a drive rather than a walk. We went to the beach three-ish days of our week-long trip + South Beach, Key West, Vizcaya, Children's Museum, Little Havana. We did have two small children (1 yr-old & 2 y-old) at the place which didn't prove too difficult, but we had to keep an eye on them (I say this as the uncle--their parents may have thought otherwise :).

The neighborhood may sketch out some people on first sight, but it is really fine. My bro-in-law ran all through it a couple mornings, and we walked all along Calle Ocho multiple times. And there's a sweet bakery right on the corner (literally about 50 ft. away).

Overall, this was a totally unique and comfortable place that makes for a good jumping off point for anything in/around Miami. We really enjoyed our stay!!!