The Best Resorts in Miami Beach

Settle into a huge apartment-like suite at this North Beach resort, and prepare for a serious wellness overhaul. Guests can choose from over 20 fitness classes a day, rent bikes, have a go at the climbing wall or take time out on one of the city’s longest beachfront stretches. The hotel’s thermal experience includes a herbal laconium and Miami’s only igloo, while cutting-edge spa treatments include chakra balancing, onyx meditation soaks and salt-float gravity therapy.

So close to the ocean you can almost smell it, this family-friendly resort sits on Collins Avenue, within steps of the sand. The restaurants, nightlife and famous Art Deco district of South Beach are only a short drive away. Yet, this hotel offers peace and quiet away from the party scene. Instead, life centers around the beach here, with free lounge chairs and beach volleyball available for guests. Every room also has a handy kitchenette for quick, easy meals after days in the surf.

If only the very best will do, Fisher Island Club and Resort is your go-to. Set on its own exclusive members-only island, reached only by ferry or helicopter, the 800 residences belong to one of the wealthiest postcodes in the US. Stay in one of 15 sumptuous suites at the island’s hotel to experience the high life for yourself. As a guest, you’ll have access to the club’s tennis courts, deep-water marina, theater, restaurants, spa, observatory and 800-square foot (74sqm) aviary, home to flamingos and tropical birds.

Luxury exudes from this opulent hotel that is located within strolling distance of Bal Harbour’s designer boutiques. The lobby glimmers with mirrored walls and jaw-dropping chandeliers, while every room has walk-in wardrobes, televisions concealed in bathroom mirrors and glass-walled balconies overlooking the ocean. Attendants offer smoothies, sunscreen and chilled towels by the pool, while the French bakery serves up caviar, afternoon tea and macarons. There’s even a champagne sabering ritual each evening, where a bottle is sliced open in the elaborate manner that was preferred by Napoleon Bonaparte.

When the buzzing streets of Miami Beach leave you frazzled, retreat to this laid-back beach resort, where relaxing is at the top of the agenda. First opened in 1941, the property has been family-owned and operated since 1989, giving it a welcoming, old-school feel that some of the area’s big names lack. Colorful decor, a lagoon-style pool and vivid green tropical gardens are ideal for families, while the AVEDA spa, beach yoga classes and informal restaurant make this a dream beach destination.

Families will never be bored at this oceanfront resort near Oleta River State Park. Sign up for painting workshops, swimming lessons, photoshoots and scuba diving instruction, or compete in giant chess, Ping-Pong, basketball and soccer tournaments. When adults hit the Acqualina Spa by ESPA, kids can explore the 500-square foot (46.5sqm) children’s center. Family meals are a cinch, thanks to Miami’s only restaurant right next to the beach.

Unbeatable sea views, casual dining and free hot breakfast come as standard at this Sunny Isles hotel. Right next to the beach, guests can easily duck back to the hotel to visit the coffee shop or all-day restaurant overlooking the ocean, or to grab warm chocolate chip cookies, which are available in the lobby. Bigger groups and families should splash out on a suite, which comes with a jetted tub, fully stocked kitchen and washer-dryer to sort sandy laundry.

There are no water slides or game rooms at this resort close to Collins Park, yet, families demanding luxury are in for a treat. The Asian-inspired rooms are huge and stuffed with goodies, including bathrobes for children, milk and cookies at turndown, Frette linens and Samsung soundbars. Downstairs, there are three temperature-controlled pools, a Swiss spa, a prime stretch of white sandy beach, an Asian restaurant and an oceanfront eatery, where the deliciously decadent truffle pizza is a must-order.