The 15 Top Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Miami
Miami has evolved beyond its image as a mere beach vacation spot. In recent decades, it has transformed into a refined global hub and tech center, boasting world-class art, Michelin-starred dining, and vibrant cultural institutions throughout the city.
The hotel scene in Miami has also progressed, featuring luxury accommodations from cozy hideaways in modern skyscrapers to an expansive Ritz-Carlton by the beach. For Dinogo’s Hotels We Love series, we've curated a list of the 15 best hotels in Miami and Miami Beach—ranked without preference—for various types of travelers, whether you're visiting for business or enjoying a long weekend soaking up the sun and lively culture.
1. 1 Hotel South Beach
Photo courtesy of 1 Hotels
Standing out in vibrant South Beach is no easy feat, but when it opened in 2015, 1 Hotel South Beach made a significant impression—not through lavishness, but by championing sustainability. The hotel features a spacious Bamford spa and has become a go-to destination for chic, health-conscious travelers who appreciate its eco-friendly elements like reclaimed wood, living plant walls, and refillable toiletries. With four pools, including an adults-only rooftop pool offering ocean views, guests enjoy direct access to the beach complete with chairs and umbrellas. Families can take advantage of a children's play area on the beach and a kids' club.
Rooms here are expansive, with the smallest starting at 700 square feet. The color scheme is dominated by whites and beiges, complemented by rattan and wood details for a coastal vibe. Each room includes hemp mattresses with organic linens, chalkboards instead of disposable notepads, and eco-friendly socks instead of single-use slippers. A yoga mat is provided in every room for those interested, or guests can explore the extensive fitness center, yoga deck, and even an obstacle course (yes, it's real).
If you're feeling hungry, grab a snack at the lobby's farm stand or head to the rooftop at Watr for a menu featuring sushi and light dishes like hotpot rice and chicken karaage, all while enjoying stunning city views. Downstairs, Habitat offers a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine, serving local grouper tacos, wood-fired steaks, and Florida Red Snapper Veracruzano. Starting from $549
2. Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Image courtesy of Faena Miami
Fashion designer and art enthusiast Alan Faena rose to fame in the hotel industry with a Philippe Starck-designed property in Buenos Aires back in 2004. He later expanded this vision to Miami, transforming a rundown area filled with art deco high-rises into a vibrant district of art and hospitality. At the heart of this development is the Faena Hotel, where a lavish lobby adorned with gold leaf and murals leads to an outdoor patio featuring a striking gilded mammoth skeleton. The hotel doubles as an attraction, with a theater hosting sultry burlesque shows and a restaurant called Fuego offering exquisite steaks crafted by renowned Argentine chef Francis Mallmann.
The hotel boasts 179 guest rooms that exude a sense of extravagant elegance, enhanced by ocean views, tiger-print throw pillows, and rich crimson curtains. In South Beach terms, the rooms are spacious, with entry-level accommodations starting at nearly 500 square feet. Faena exemplifies Miami's evolution beyond gaudy luxury, representing the city's esteemed position in the contemporary art scene. Rates start at $665
3. Four Seasons Surf Club
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Surf Club
In Miami's golden age as a retreat for affluent northerners, the Surf Club was a vibrant social center where the elite enjoyed sun-soaked days near the Mediterranean revival main building. The Four Seasons has preserved much of the original 1930s club, allowing visitors to stroll beneath its wooden beams and arched ceilings, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Keep an eye out for the original frescoes adorning the lobby ceiling. Guests indulge in exquisite wines at the hotel's elegant Champagne Bar, conveniently located outside Lido, which offers upscale Italian dining right by the beach.
No discussion of the Four Seasons would be complete without mentioning Thomas Keller’s Surf Club restaurant, one of the first in Miami to earn a Michelin star. While the dining is exceptional, the hotel’s real highlight remains its luxurious rooms. Spacious and modern, these accommodations provide breathtaking floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean and bay, complemented by white marble bathrooms and high-quality linens. They create the perfect ambiance for starting your luxury beach vacation, setting a tranquil mood for the day ahead. Rates begin at $1,500
4. Mr. C Miami — Coconut Grove
Image courtesy of Mr. C Miami
From the creators of the iconic Bellini cocktail at Harry’s Bar in Venice, this Coconut Grove hotel is a celebration of refined European elegance. Long, polished wooden hallways evoke the ambiance of an Italian luxury yacht. The rooms feature porthole windows and nautical-themed art, while balconies provide semi-private outdoor retreats.
Mr. C's rooftop is a standout, boasting a lengthy pool that overlooks the bay and Miami skyline. After taking in the scenic views of Peacock Park, visit Bellini, the hotel’s signature restaurant, which captures the essence of a 1920s Parisian cocktail bar. While you can order a Bellini for a taste of nostalgia, don’t miss the Bucatini cacio e pepe, a creamy dish that highlights how gourmet can come from simple ingredients. Rates start at $400.
5. Acqualina Resort & Residences
Image courtesy of Acqualina Resort
Though some may question the location of Acqualina Resort in the quieter Sunny Isles, anyone seeking beach fun, gourmet dining, and a taste of European luxury will find everything they need here. Acqualina is renowned for its expansive 1,100-square-foot guest rooms. Full kitchens equipped with gas stoves and stainless steel appliances allow you to whip up breakfast in your water-view nook. Each room features separate dens ideal for extended stays and remote work, while marble bathrooms with rain showers and soaking tubs provide a spa-like experience. With only four rooms per floor, there’s a sense of privacy without crowded hallways or busy elevators.
The resort boasts serene pools adorned with fountains and design elements inspired by the Cote d’Azur, offering a peaceful retreat from the beach crowds. For those wanting to enjoy the sand, a red carpet leads directly to the water, where private lounge chairs await your arrival. After a sun-soaked day, head right off the lobby for an exquisite dinner at Il Mulino New York. This Miami branch of the famed NYC restaurant serves homemade pastas and rich sauces in a setting reminiscent of Manhattan, enhanced by gentle tropical breezes. Alternatively, guests can indulge in Ke-uH, a Japanese fusion dining experience highlighted by an indoor cherry blossom tree. Rates start at $750.
6. Nobu Hotel
Image courtesy of Nobu Hotel Miami Beach
Nestled within the historic Eden Roc, a Morris Lapidus masterpiece that has been a Miami Beach staple since 1955, the Nobu Hotel offers a refined getaway from the bustling mega-resorts. The calming, neutral-toned rooms and serene hallways evoke the ambiance of a Japanese onsen spa. Each room features private balconies overlooking the ocean or the Intracoastal Waterway, complemented by floor-to-ceiling windows and teak benches in the rain showers. The design promotes tranquility with light woods and exclusive Nobu signature beds from Simmons.
Guests at Nobu can enjoy an adults-only swimming pool located above the main pool deck of the Eden Roc, where the sounds of children fade away and attendants serve complimentary champagne. Dining at the hotel’s namesake restaurant is also a treat; while reservations aren’t guaranteed, they’re easily secured if you’re a hotel guest. Along with the luxury of Nobu, visitors also have full access to the amenities at the Eden Roc, ensuring there are plenty of activities for families as well. Starting from $399.
7. Aka Brickell
Image courtesy of Aka Brickell
Originally recognized as a long-term-stay hotel, Aka has now expanded into a full-service establishment within Brickell’s arch building, offering travelers an ideal mix of business and leisure. The front desk is located on the ground floor, while the hotel’s main lobby is situated on the 25th floor, boasting panoramic windows that showcase views of the Brickell skyline, Key Biscayne, and Biscayne Bay.
Accommodations provide sweeping views through oversized windows, and spacious bathrooms are equipped with soaking tubs and brass-accented showers, complete with dual sinks and bay vistas. Aka stands out among Brickell hotels for its connection to Miami’s vibrant food scene. On the 25th floor, Adrift Mare, helmed by celebrity chef David Myers, offers a delightful selection of Mediterranean dishes, including a zesty falafel salad and crispy eggplant. Meanwhile, on the ground floor, the Basque-inspired restaurant Zeru has become one of 2023’s hottest culinary spots, drawing in patrons with its Josper-grilled steaks and fresh seafood, catering to both power lunchers and evening gourmets. Starting at $300.
8. Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
Image courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne
Revered as “the Island Paradise,” Key Biscayne is home to this magnificent Ritz-Carlton, which stands like a castle on the idyllic island just off downtown Miami. Guests can relax on the hotel’s exclusive powdery beach or stroll along the shoreline to the palm-fringed Crandon Park. All rooms offer at least partial ocean views, complemented by marble bathrooms, separate bathtubs and showers, and plush pillowtop mattresses.
On Sundays, the hotel attracts a larger crowd as Lightkeepers hosts a lavish brunch buffet that draws locals across the causeway. This extensive spread is best enjoyed from a table overlooking the pool and the shimmering turquoise waters. At night, Rumbar transforms into a lively cocktail lounge with themed events for Halloween and the Holidays. Guests may also indulge in a meal at Cantina Beach, a beachfront Mexican eatery renowned for some of Miami’s finest fish tacos. Starting at $375.
9. The Setai, Miami Beach
Image courtesy of the Setai, Miami Beach
The Setai provides an elegant respite from the lively party atmosphere found at other nearby hotels. Its exceptional service and privacy attract many celebrity guests. While the hotel's exterior may appear somewhat conservative, with understated art deco elements, its interior design is truly remarkable. The Setai embraces luxurious details without being flamboyant, featuring exquisite Swedish beds, premium Italian linens, indulgent soaking tubs, and polished wooden furnishings. The property also includes residences available for booking, perfect for longer stays.
Dining at the Setai is equally opulent. Jaya presents refined South Asian cuisine, set against the backdrop of twinkling lights above a reflective pool. During weekends, the venue transforms into a live jazz hotspot, enhancing a lavish brunch buffet experience. Starting at $975.
10. W South Beach
Image courtesy of W South Beach
W South Beach proudly showcases one of the largest collections of original Andy Warhol artworks outside of a museum, lining its lobby with exceptional pieces that greet guests upon arrival. The impressive art collection alone is a reason to visit, even if you're not an overnight guest. Just beyond the Warhols lies the W’s signature Living Room bar, where fresh juice cocktails and lively energy fill the space, especially on weekends. The contemporary guest rooms above feature white walls and floors accented with pops of coral and green, many offering balconies with stunning ocean views.
The signature pool at W is surrounded by lush greenery, creating an oasis-like atmosphere reminiscent of a tropical hideaway. This tranquil setting is occasionally enlivened by surprise performances from A-list DJs or culinary events featuring renowned local chefs at the W’s regular backyard barbecues. Starting at $599.
11. Carillon Miami Wellness Resort
Image courtesy of Carillon Miami Wellness Resort
Many luxury hotels make claims about their wellness programs, but Carillon truly embodies a health-focused experience. The resort feels like an expansive spa, from the jasmine-and-citrus aroma in the lobby to the plush linens in the guest rooms. Each room is designed as a one-bedroom apartment, allowing you to prepare your own healthy meals and enjoy them on your private balcony.
While the pleasant climate enhances relaxation, the highlight of Carillon is undoubtedly its spa, a multi-level haven offering a diverse selection of treatments. Indulge in a warm water chamber shaped like an egg or experience sensory deprivation in a private lounge. After your day of indulgence, dine at Tristan Brandt’s Michelin-starred Tambourine Room, where a delightful French tasting menu awaits. For a more relaxed option, visit the beachside pool and enjoy a freshly pressed juice or an organic salad. Starting at $699.
12. JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa
Image courtesy of JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa has earned recognition for its championship golf course, which hosts the annual charity tournament for the Miami Dolphins. It has become a family-friendly destination with the introduction of Tidal Cove, an onsite water park that blends the stylish Miami pool scene with thrilling waterslides, allowing adults to enjoy a fun day reminiscent of childhood—complete with cocktails.
After an adventurous day, unwind at Bourbon Steak, chef Michael Mina’s renowned restaurant offering prime cuts of beef and an impressive selection of bourbons. Alternatively, enjoy casual dining at Corsair Kitchen and Bar, perfect for a laid-back lunch between golf rounds. For an evening drink, head to Soff’s Lobby Lounge, a stylish, leather-appointed venue that evokes the essence of historic Miami. In the morning, prepare for your tee time at Turnberry, exclusive to hotel guests and club members. Starting at $335.
13. Biltmore Hotel
George Merrick’s iconic Mediterranean revival hotel remains one of Miami’s most magnificent establishments, showcasing exceptional design and intricate craftsmanship. The Biltmore first opened its doors in 1930 and continued to prosper as a winter haven for the elite, even amid the Great Depression. A significant attraction is its 18-hole golf course, enticing many guests to reserve a tee time. If golf isn’t your interest, relax by the expansive lagoon pool, which, during its heyday, served as a glamorous retreat for stars like Judy Garland and Johnny Weissmuller.
The accommodations have evolved to meet contemporary standards while still honoring the past with elements like gold accents, plush velvet fabrics, and elegant framed artwork. This kind of early 20th-century opulence is a rarity in South Florida, enhancing the sophistication of any Miami getaway. Starting from $299.
14. The Goodtime Hotel
Photo by Alice Gao
In Miami, the distinction between a vibrant “scene” and true luxury is subtle. The Goodtime Hotel is a unique social media sensation that also delivers an exceptional experience, featuring an interior designed by Ken Fulk and a vibrant rooftop pool. The lobby is adorned with murals depicting the wetlands of Old Florida, celebrating alligators and ibises throughout the hotel. Pink pinstripes set the tone for the decor, creating a whimsical Florida dreamscape across the hotel's seven stories.
While the rooms may feel a bit compact, the beds are indulgently comfortable, and the bathrooms are lively with color. However, this is not a hotel meant for lounging in your room; with poolside massages and champagne waiting downstairs, there’s too much to enjoy. The pool buzzes with energy on weekends, hosting extravagant parties led by DJs like David Guetta and Steve Aoki that carry on into the night. Adjacent to the pool, Strawberry Moon offers grilled Mediterranean dishes that are both delicious and light, leaving you feeling confident to stroll the pool deck in your swimsuit the next morning. Starting from $199.
15. Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove
Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove.
The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove seamlessly embraces the tropical bohemian spirit of the neighborhood while upholding the luxury standards associated with the brand. Each room features its own balcony, offering stunning views of either Biscayne Bay or the lush surroundings, furnished with elegant rattan furniture and adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathrooms provide a spacious retreat, showcasing white marble with large soaking tubs and separate showers.
On the lower level, guests can unwind in the Commodore bar, reminiscent of a captain’s cabin on a rum-running ship, complete with a crackling fire and plush leather seating. Its unique atmosphere sets it apart from Coconut Grove’s eclectic mix of local bars, offering a sophisticated alternative. Next door, Isabella’s delights with grilled meats, fresh pastas, and local seafood served in a serene outdoor tropical garden. Starting at $349.
Additional reporting by Devorah Lev-Tov.
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