Miami, a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches, eclectic nightlife, and rich cultural tapestry, has always been a dream destination for me. This recent trip allowed me to immerse myself in the city’s luxurious hospitality scene, experiencing firsthand the grandeur of its finest hotels.
In this travelogue, I will share my detailed experiences and insights on one of the hotels I stayed at, and provide a comprehensive guide to five other top-rated hotels in Miami that promise an unforgettable stay.
My Stay at The Setai, Miami Beach
The Setai, Miami Beach is situated in the heart of the historic Art Deco District at 2001 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139. This prime location places it within walking distance of the famous South Beach, Lincoln Road Mall, and various cultural landmarks, making it an ideal base for exploring Miami.
Booking and Arrival
Booking a stay at The Setai was straightforward through their official website, where I found detailed information about the different room categories, packages, and exclusive offers. Additionally, several travel booking platforms like Expedia and Booking.com also provide reservation options with potential discounts.
Reaching The Setai from Miami International Airport is convenient, with a choice of taxis, rideshares like Uber or Lyft, and airport shuttles. The journey took approximately 20 minutes, offering a scenic introduction to the city’s lively streets.
Environment and Facilities
The Setai exudes a serene, Asian-inspired elegance, blending Art Deco with Far Eastern aesthetics. The lobby, with its dark teakwood, black granite, and soothing water features, immediately sets a tone of tranquility. The hotel boasts three infinity pools, each set at a different temperature, allowing guests to choose their preferred swimming environment.
Among the standout facilities are the state-of-the-art fitness center, the luxurious Setai Spa by Thémaé, and direct access to a pristine private beach. Dining options are equally impressive, with Jaya offering an exquisite Asian fusion menu, while The Ocean Grill provides a more casual, Mediterranean-inspired dining experience with stunning ocean views.
Room and Experience
My room was an Art Deco suite, a spacious haven of luxury with a perfect blend of modern comforts and historic charm. The room featured polished teak flooring, dark stone furnishings, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the bathroom was equipped with a rainfall shower and a deep soaking tub, complemented by premium Thémaé bath products.
Every detail, from the Nespresso coffee machine to the Bose sound system, added to the experience of comfort and convenience. The service was impeccable, with the staff anticipating my needs and providing personalized recommendations for dining and activities.
Rating
My stay at The Setai was nothing short of extraordinary. The combination of luxury, impeccable service, and prime location made it a perfect choice for experiencing the best of Miami. I would rate my stay a solid 9.5/10, deducting only a slight mark for the high cost, which, although justified by the exceptional experience, might be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers.
Other Top-Rated Hotels in Miami
1. Faena Hotel Miami Beach
The Faena Hotel Miami Beach is a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends opulence with artistic flair. Located at 3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140, this hotel is part of the larger Faena District, known for its vibrant art scene and cultural experiences.
Room Rates and Booking
Room rates at the Faena Hotel typically start from around $600 per night for a standard room, varying based on the season and availability. Reservations can be made through the hotel’s official website or through popular travel platforms like Booking.com and Expedia, which sometimes offer special deals and packages.
Facilities and Amenities
The Faena Hotel is renowned for its extravagant décor, inspired by the grandeur of Old Hollywood. The hotel features 169 rooms and suites, each uniquely designed with plush furnishings and bold colors.
Key amenities include the Faena Theater, which hosts live performances ranging from cabaret to jazz, and the Tierra Santa Healing House, a holistic spa offering an array of treatments. The pool area, surrounded by luxurious cabanas, provides a serene escape, while the direct beach access allows guests to enjoy the golden sands of Miami Beach.
Dining
Dining at the Faena Hotel is a culinary adventure. The hotel boasts several top-tier restaurants, including Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann, specializing in Argentine cuisine, and Pao by Paul Qui, offering innovative Asian fusion dishes. The Saxony Bar provides an elegant setting for cocktails and evening entertainment.
Nearby Attractions
The Faena District is home to numerous art installations and cultural attractions, such as the Faena Forum and the Faena Bazaar. The nearby Miami Beach Boardwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll, while the Bass Museum of Art and the Miami Beach Botanical Garden are just a short drive away.
Rating
The Faena Hotel Miami Beach offers a unique blend of luxury, culture, and artistry. Its high-end amenities and vibrant surroundings make it a top choice for travelers seeking a sophisticated and culturally enriched stay in Miami.
2. The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami is an island oasis located at 455 Grand Bay Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149. This five-star resort is nestled on a picturesque barrier island, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Miami’s urban core.
Room Rates and Booking
Room rates at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne start at approximately $500 per night for a standard room. Bookings can be made directly through the Ritz-Carlton website, as well as through travel sites like Expedia and Hotels.com, which occasionally offer promotional rates and packages.
Facilities and Amenities
The resort features 450 luxury rooms and suites, each with private balconies and stunning views of the ocean or lush gardens. The resort’s amenities include two outdoor pools, a world-class tennis center with 11 courts, and a comprehensive fitness center.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, while the Cliff Drysdale Tennis Program provides professional coaching for tennis enthusiasts. The resort’s beachfront location allows guests to enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
Dining
Dining at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is a delight, with multiple on-site restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences. Lightkeepers serves fresh, local seafood with panoramic ocean views, while Cantina Beach offers authentic Mexican cuisine in a relaxed beachfront setting. The Dune Burgers on the Beach provides a casual dining option with gourmet burgers and tropical cocktails.
Nearby Attractions
Key Biscayne is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, home to the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, offers hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities. Crandon Park features a golf course, tennis center, and family-friendly beaches. The Miami Seaquarium, located nearby, is a popular attraction for families.
Rating
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami is a perfect destination for those seeking a luxurious and tranquil retreat. Its high-end amenities, exceptional service, and scenic location make it a standout choice for an unforgettable Miami vacation.
3. The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables
The Biltmore Hotel, located at 1200 Anastasia Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134, is a historic luxury hotel known for its stunning architecture and timeless elegance. This National Historic Landmark offers a blend of classic charm and modern amenities.
Room Rates and Booking
Room rates at The Biltmore Hotel typically start from around $400 per night. Reservations can be made through the hotel’s official website, as well as through travel platforms like Booking.com and TripAdvisor, which sometimes feature special offers and packages.
Facilities and Amenities
The Biltmore Hotel features 271 guest rooms and suites, each elegantly decorated with European-inspired furnishings. The hotel’s amenities include a stunning 18-hole golf course, a large outdoor pool with private cabanas, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
The Biltmore Spa offers a range of luxurious treatments, while the hotel’s culinary academy provides cooking classes and demonstrations. The hotel’s grand ballrooms and lush gardens make it a popular venue for weddings and events.
Dining
Dining at The Biltmore Hotel is a gourmet experience, with several acclaimed restaurants on-site. Fontana, set in a romantic courtyard, offers Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Palme d’Or, a French restaurant, provides an elegant fine dining experience. The 19th Hole Bar & Grill and Cascade offer more casual dining options with beautiful views of the golf course and pool area.
Nearby Attractions
Coral Gables is known for its tree-lined streets and Mediterranean Revival architecture. The nearby Miracle Mile offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The Venetian Pool, a historic public swimming pool, is a must-visit. The Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, with its extensive plant collections and scenic walking paths, is also nearby.
Rating
The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and elegance. Its world-class amenities, exceptional dining, and beautiful surroundings make it an ideal choice for a refined and relaxing stay in Miami.
4. W South Beach
W South Beach, located at 2201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, is a modern and trendy hotel that combines luxury with a vibrant atmosphere. This beachfront hotel is known for its stylish design and upscale amenities.
Room Rates and Booking
Room rates at W South Beach start at approximately $600 per night. Bookings can be made through the hotel’s official website, as well as through travel sites like Expedia and Marriott Bonvoy, which often offer special deals and loyalty program benefits.
Facilities and Amenities
The W South Beach
features 350 guest rooms and suites, each with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies offering stunning ocean views. The hotel’s amenities include a rooftop tennis court, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and the Bliss Spa, which offers a range of rejuvenating treatments.
The hotel’s outdoor pool area, surrounded by lush gardens and private cabanas, provides a relaxing retreat. The beachfront location allows guests to enjoy a variety of water sports, from paddleboarding to jet skiing.
Dining
Dining at W South Beach is a culinary delight, with multiple on-site restaurants and bars. The Dutch, an American restaurant with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, offers a relaxed dining experience. Mr Chow, known for its upscale Chinese cuisine, provides a sophisticated setting. The Living Room Bar and Irma’s are perfect for cocktails and light bites, offering a chic and lively atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions
W South Beach is located in the heart of Miami Beach, close to many popular attractions. The Bass Museum of Art, Lincoln Road Mall, and the Miami Beach Botanical Garden are all within walking distance. The Art Deco Historic District, with its iconic architecture, is also nearby, providing a picturesque backdrop for exploring the area.
Rating
W South Beach is a perfect choice for travelers seeking a modern and luxurious stay in Miami Beach. Its stylish design, upscale amenities, and prime location make it a top choice for experiencing the best of Miami’s vibrant beach culture.
5. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort
The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, located at 9703 Collins Ave, Bal Harbour, FL 33154, is a prestigious oceanfront resort known for its unparalleled luxury and impeccable service. This five-star resort offers a sophisticated retreat with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Room Rates and Booking
Room rates at The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort start at around $800 per night. Reservations can be made through the hotel’s official website, as well as through travel platforms like Booking.com and Marriott Bonvoy, which sometimes offer special packages and discounts.
Facilities and Amenities
The resort features 216 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each with spacious balconies and panoramic ocean views. The St. Regis Bal Harbour is renowned for its luxurious amenities, including two infinity pools, private cabanas, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
The St. Regis Spa offers a range of indulgent treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. The resort also provides personal butler service, ensuring that every guest’s needs are meticulously attended to.
Dining
The St. Regis Bal Harbour offers exceptional dining experiences with several on-site restaurants. Atlantikós serves Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood, while BH Burger Bar offers gourmet burgers in a casual setting. The St. Regis Bar & Sushi Lounge provides a sophisticated atmosphere for cocktails and light bites, featuring live music and ocean views.
Nearby Attractions
Bal Harbour is an upscale enclave known for its luxury shopping and dining. The Bal Harbour Shops, located just across the street from the resort, is a premier shopping destination featuring high-end boutiques and designer stores. The nearby Haulover Park offers beautiful beaches, a marina, and opportunities for fishing and picnicking.
Rating
The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is the epitome of luxury and elegance. Its impeccable service, world-class amenities, and stunning location make it a perfect choice for discerning travelers seeking an extraordinary Miami vacation.
Miami’s hotel scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From the serene elegance of The Setai to the artistic flair of Faena Hotel Miami Beach, and the timeless charm of The Biltmore Hotel, there is something to suit every traveler’s taste. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil retreat on Key Biscayne or a vibrant stay in the heart of South Beach, these hotels offer exceptional experiences that promise to make your Miami trip unforgettable.