South Florida is renowned for its spectacular white sandy beaches and turquoise water. The region is dominated by the Miami metro area and includes the Florida Keys, with fabulous beachfront hotels found everywhere from Boca Raton, Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale to Miami Beach and Key West. For the ultimate stay that will put you just steps from the sand, consider one of these top South Florida resorts.
Faena Hotel Miami Beach
Located about 10 blocks north of South Beach and its colorful Art Deco architecture, restaurants, and buzzy nightlife, Faena Hotel Miami Beach is a gorgeous design hotel and one of the best luxury stays in Miami. It looks like a piece of contemporary art itself and includes famous facilities like a dreamy spa for pampering treatments, a gym with daily boot camp and yoga classes on the beach, a beautiful pool, and a theater that hosts concerts and cabaret-style musical revues. Two award-winning restaurants are on-site, and every room comes with a balcony. Book an oceanfront room and you may never want to leave.
Key Amenities:
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22,000-square-foot spa with shaman-developed treatments, beautiful pool and beach, and gym with daily boot camp and yoga classes on the beach
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Balcony off every guestroom
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Two award-winning restaurants on-site
3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA— +1 305-534-8800
The Ritz-Carlton South Beach - Miami
The luxurious The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach is located in the heart of one of the most popular Miami neighborhoods, set within a historic property just steps from a bevy of enticing shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. Guests enjoy dazzling views, with the oceanfront infinity pool a definite highlight. The beach club serves refreshing cocktails while the massive spa is guaranteed to melt every last bit of stress away. Rooms feature vintage decor and are available with various views and layouts. The best come with spacious terraces or balconies that open to the pool deck, and many boast at least a partial ocean view.
Key Amenities:
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Rooms feature marble bathrooms, plush robes, and views of the Atlantic Ocean, South Beach, or the pool
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Elevated outdoor pool with private cabanas and an ocean view
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Alfresco dining at the oceanfront DiLido Beach Club and craft cocktails at Lapidus Bar
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Spa with holistic treatments and JetPeel facials
Acqualina Resort & Residences - Sunny Isles Beach
One of the best beachfront hotels in Florida, Acqualina Resort & Residences is an elegant Mediterranean-inspired resort on 4.5 acres of beachfront. Think 5-star opulence with everything from beach butler service and rooms that feature ocean views and whirlpool tubs to multiple oceanfront pools with private cabanas and the stunning Acqualina Spa, which specializes in total “spa journeys.” Multiple dining options include award-winning Mediterranean fare at II Mulino New York. Couples seeking an ultra-romantic meal can request intimate dinners right on the beach.
Key Amenities:
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Rooms with ocean views and whirlpool tubs
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Multiple oceanfront pools with private cabanas
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World-class, 20,000-square-foot spa featuring state-of-the-art treatment rooms, healing heat and water rituals, relaxation lounges, and private suites
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Innovative marine biology-based AcquaMarine children’s program
17875 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160, USA— +1 877-312-9742
Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort - Hollywood
Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort offers a beachfront paradise just seven miles south of the Fort Lauderdale airport. It’s an ode to Jimmy Buffet’s popular “Margaritaville” tune, something that can be seen throughout, including a margarita glass chandelier. There are all sorts of exciting themed events and live entertainment, along with an extensive list of facilities. Families will enjoy the Landshark pools’ island-inspired waterfalls and slides, while couples can enjoy serenity at the rooftop adults-only pool. Kayaking and paddle-boarding are available on the Intracoastal waterway, and there’s a FlowRider surfing simulator right on-site. Rooms come with all the essentials and then some, including options with private ocean-view balconies.
Key Amenities:
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Themed events and live entertainment
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Multiple pools, including the island-inspired Landshark Pool with waterfalls and waterslides and an adults-only rooftop pool
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FlowRider surf simulator on-site
W South Beach - Miami
W South Beach will put you just steps from the Atlantic as well as the neighborhood’s many shops, restaurants, and clubs along famous Collins Avenue. There are two pools, one that’s adults-only with lots of loungers and cabanas when you’re looking for relaxation. That can be taken up a notch at the on-site spa which has a sauna and steam room along with a wide range of treatment options. There’s a 24/7 fitness center and fitness classes, a variety of dining venues and a swanky boutique on-site too. Plus, luxury sports cars are available for rent if you want to explore the area in style. All rooms and suites come with furnished balconies and sweeping panoramic views – the suites offer even more upscale features like kitchenettes and plunge pools.
Key Amenities:
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Two picturesque heated pools, including an adults-only pool with loungers and cabanas
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On-site spa with sauna, steam room, and bespoke spa menu
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24/7 fitness center with fitness classes
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Luxury sports cars for rent
2201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA— +1 305-938-3126
The Palms Hotel & Spa - Miami Beach
A top spa resort in Florida, The Palms Hotel & Spa offers a tranquil oasis in Miami Beach with private beach access, lush tropical gardens, and a long list of amenities. That includes an outdoor heated pool and poolside cabanas as well as “cabanitas” on the beach with personal service. Yoga in the garden is available, and there’s a fitness center, or you can get your exercise in by walking or jogging Miami Beach’s four-mile boardwalk. Rooms come with garden, city, and ocean views, with Oceanfront One-Bedroom Suites particularly ideal, featuring separate living areas and large terraces overlooking the Atlantic.
Key Amenities:
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Private beach access
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Outdoor heated pool with poolside cabanas
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Fitness center with yoga classes available
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Spa with rejuvenating treatments influenced by holistic Ayurvedic wellness rituals
3025 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA— +1 305-534-0505
Pier House Resort and Spa - Key West
The Pier House Resort and Spa sits at the foot of the famous Duval Street, the main downtown drag in Key West, yet it offers a tranquil setting along the quiet stretch of sand. As one of the best beach hotels in Key West, it’s hard to beat when it comes to location, and it offers quite a few amenities too, including a beautiful pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. The bar is one of the most legendary in town as the unofficial headquarters of Jimmy Buffet and Mel Fisher. The colorful rooms include options for ocean, garden, or pool views. The high-end suites that extend right over the water are to die for.
Key Amenities:
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Private white sand beach and outdoor swimming pool
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Full-service spa with an extensive menu of treatments, a fitness center, and a whirlpool tub
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Three award-winning restaurants and bars featuring seafood, steak, and live music
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa - Little Torch Key
Nestled in the lower Florida Keys, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa feels like staying on your own private Gilligan’s Island but with plenty of luxuries and VIP service. One of the best adults-only resorts in the world, it can only be reached by seaplane or boat. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing cocktail. From there, head to your bungalow, all of which are spacious, and sit under thatched roofs with breathtaking views of the water. Look forward to soaking in a copper bath on your private balcony, the perfect way to unwind after any one of the excursions that can be arranged, from diving and snorkeling to kayaking and sailing. Award-winning seafood and steaks can be enjoyed in the Dining Room.
Key Amenities:
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Welcome cocktail upon arrival
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Thatched roof bungalows with private balconies, outdoor showers, and copper tubs
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Bali-inspired indoor/outdoor spa
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World-class cuisine at the on-site restaurant
28500 Overseas Hwy, Little Torch Key, FL 33042, USA— +1 305-684-8341
Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach - Fort Lauderdale
Located at the north edge of Fort Lauderdale, Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach is a great budget-friendly beachfront option that comes complete with beach service, a swimming pool, and a large fitness center. Spa treatments like massages and hydrotherapy baths are available, and there is a calendar of free offerings such as wine and cheese. All rooms boast sweeping ocean views, Keurig coffeemakers, minifridges, flat-screen TVs, and comfy beds with signature Sonesta bedding.
Key Amenities:
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Full-service beachfront restaurant serving authentic South Florida cuisine
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Outdoor pool with sundeck, loungers, and a pool bar
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24-hour state-of-the-art fitness facilities
999 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, USA— +1 954-315-1460
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa - Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa is set along a quarter-mile stretch of private beach with the popular shops and eateries on Las Olas Boulevard just minutes away. A variety of water sports can be enjoyed, from snorkeling to jet-skiing, and there’s a gorgeous lagoon-style pool ideal for lounging around with a cocktail beneath the shade of a palm tree. The on-site spa is the place to go for extra-special pampering, while the on-site restaurant/bar serves a menu of delectable fresh and local seafood. All rooms come at this popular beachfront hotel in Fort Lauderdale with coffeemakers, minibars, and private balconies – but for a real treat, book one with an ocean view.
Key Amenities:
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Private beachfront and 8,000-square-foot lagoon-style pool
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Daily family-friendly activities and kids’ club
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22,000-square-foot, full-service spa with private pool, whirlpool and sauna, fitness center, and daily fitness classes
3030 Holiday Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, USA— +1 954-525-4000
The Breakers - Palm Beach
The Breakers offers the chance to live like royalty, in a place that feels more like a palace than a hotel. One of the most luxurious beach stays in Florida, this Italian Renaissance-style property has its own half-mile stretch of private beach enjoyed exclusively for guests only. Plus, there are five pools, two golf courses, 10 tennis courts, and a lavish spa. Dining options are numerous, with favorites including the Beach Club Restaurant for breakfast and lunch, and the Flagler Steakhouse for a fine-dining dinner. Rooms include minibars and flat-screen TVs with DVD players; some have balconies too. Book well in advance for one that’s ocean-facing.
Key Amenities:
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Home to five pools, two golf courses, ten tennis courts, and a lavish spa
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Numerous dining options, including a beachfront restaurant and fine-dining steakhouse
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Rooms include a minibar, a flat-screen TV with a DVD player, and some have a balcony
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa - Manalapan
For those seeking a quieter stay away from the busy Palm Beach areas, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa sits on a private beach with lush tropical gardens. It has everything one could want in a beach retreat and then some, including two beautiful pools, one for adults only. Dining is particularly impressive with four restaurants, including the oceanfront Breeze Ocean Kitchen, which specializes in Caribbean, Latin, and Asian fare for lunch and dinner. Fine dining (dinner only) can be enjoyed at the Angle, which features Creekstone Farm dry-aged beef and fresh Floria seafood. Families with children can take advantage of the teen lounge and kids’ program, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy the world-class on-site spa.
Key Amenities:
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Two outdoor pools, one of which is adults-only
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Forbes Five-Star spa with 19 treatment rooms and a fitness center
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Four on-site restaurants ranging from casual to fine-dining
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Teen lounge and kids’ programming
Four Seasons Palm Beach - Palm Beach
Four Seasons Palm Beach offers all the luxuries one would expect from a Four Seasons property right on the beachfront. Impressive throughout, when you aren’t soaking up the sun while relaxing on the sand (beach service and water sports included), enjoy relaxing at the magnificently landscaped pool with chilled towels and Evian spritzes. There’s a luxurious spa with whirlpools, a sauna and steam room, and a fitness center with daily complimentary classes. Many of the plush rooms come with partial ocean, resort, or garden views, but you might want to splurge for a direct ocean view.
Key Amenities:
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Poolside cabanas and beach day bed rentals
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Five-star spa with whirlpools, sauna, steam room, and salon
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Fitness center with a selection of complimentary fitness classes
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House car services to local attractions and complimentary bike and helmet rentals
2800 S Ocean Blvd, Palm Beach, FL 33480, USA— +1 561-582-2800
Boca Raton Beach Club - Boca Raton
An enclave of luxurious seaside charm, the Boca Raton Beach Club was built in the 1920s by famous Palm Beach architect Addison Mizner. Mediterranean-inspired, it includes an outdoor pool, two golf courses, jet-skiing facilities, and a surf school. The spa is incredible, spread over 50,000 square feet, designed to resemble the Alhambra Palace in Spain while offering treatments like caviar specials. Enjoy the private beach with beach chairs and umbrellas included in the rates and multiple award-winning restaurants. Rooms and suites all come with soaking tubs, and some have patios or balconies with ocean views.
Key Amenities:
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50,000-square-foot spa, two golf courses, private beach with food and beverage service, and three pools with private cabanas
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All rooms come with soaking tubs and a complimentary minibar
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Shuttle and water taxi service between Harborside and Beachside
900 S Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432, USA— +1 561-288-9944
