Where to stay in Miami

Dear Friends

Have just booked a cruise next summer With RCCL Allure of the Seas. Since we travel all the way from Norway, we want enjoy some days in Miami before the cruise.

Any good tips for hotel ? We are 3 adults and 3 kids... would like to stay close to the beach, and preferably in walking distance to where the sights are...

If you look on the Florida Departures board, here:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=495

you will see many discussions on where to stay and what to do.

O, Miami is the port city and Miami Beach is the barrier island with beaches just outside your hotel door. South Beach area is just across a block long bridge from port area, 5th street. Pull up a Google map .Hotels are on Ocean Drive or Collins Avenue from 1st to 20th with all the restaurants and tourist facilities.Beautiful boardwalk along the sea runs for miles.

Thanks. I have now done some checking. Found a hotell with good References:

The Shepley ; Close to Ocean drive and the Beach. Have anyone any experience with this hotel ?