One of the questions we receive most frequently is from travelers requesting information on the “best hotels on the beach.” We usually answer these queries with a brief explanation listing criteria such as location, price ranges, and amenities, but now we’ve decided to dedicate this section especially to those visitors looking for the best oceanfront hotels arranged into three relative price categories.
It’s important to keep in mind that room rates in South Beach vary greatly depending on the time of year, where January 15 thru April 15 is the peak season, and by day of the week, where Friday and Saturday are usually the most expensive by far. Room rates can literally double within those periods.
Faena
One of South Beach’s most elegant new properties, Faena Hotel is an upscale resort and spa featuring dramatic contemporary art, breathtaking seaside views and award-winning eateries helmed by globally renowned, celebrity chefs. Conceived as a “cultural corridor” in the mid-Beach area from 32 to 36 Streets along famed Collins Avenue, the property incorporates designer shopping, opulent hotel rooms and suites plus an ornate cabaret-style theater.
W South
Playful and energetic, the beachfront W South Beach hotel offers contemporary elegance in the center of the haute South Beach scene. Combining artful dining and lounge options, two oceanfront pools and rooftop basketball and tennis courts, the W South Beach is ready for action whenever you are. Host to the pampering magic that is the Bliss Spa and engineered so that every guest room has a truly inspiring view of the Atlantic coastline, this beachfront resort is designed to dazzle, delight and surprise.
Setai
Possibly the most elegantly appointed beach resorts in town, the Setai’s Asian-influenced design inspires a sense of peace and serenity at every turn. Simple lines, a soft color palette, and streamlined Art Deco motifs create an atmosphere that embraces the past but feels completely timeless. Guests enjoy a choice of dining options from fine cuisine to poolside snacks, a well-appointed spa and three swimming pools overlooking a vast stretch of Atlantic surf.
Soho Beach House
Soho Beach House is a private members club that joins the group of luxe, London-based gathering spots for those in film, media and the creative arts. Access to the posh spa, pool and beach club is restricted to members and those lucky travelers who reserve a room at the new 16-story Sovereign Hotel Tower which houses 50 rooms overlooking the pool, gardens and romantic dining terrace at Cecconi’s Italian Restaurant.