Fall is right around the corner. But before you start buying your pumpkin spice lattes and chunky sweaters, get one more summer adventure in while you can. What better place to do that than with a tropical getaway in sunny South Florida? We rounded up five of the best hotels to check out for your last-minute summer getaway.
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
If you truly want to get away from the craziness of the city, The Ritz in Key Biscayne is your spot. It’s close enough to Downtown Miami to venture out if you like, but once you’re here, you probably won’t want to leave. This beachfront property has two pools (one for families and one for adults), along with stellar beach service and four different restaurants to choose from. The newest of the pack is Lightkeepers which serves a variety of fish dishes (open blue cobia is a must) in a nautical setting. The service here is always top-notch, with a friendly staff that is eager to please. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy. You know, like vacation is supposed to be.
Kimpton Angler’s Hotel
Once a charming, gardenesque boutique hotel on Washington Avenue, the Angler’s has recently been renovated into a modern oasis. It’s equipped with a rooftop pool that overlooks the city and stylish interior for the new age. Located next door to its former space (which will soon be the hotel’s restaurant Seawell), the new property offers posh guest rooms. They are beach-inspired with funky fabrics for a relaxed but trendy feel. From 5-6pm every day, the hotel offers a social hour on the second floor. Here, you’ll find a variety of wine poured and oysters shucked – all complimentary to you. Minnow Bar serves handcrafted cocktails – with a specialty in gin – and will soon offer food from Seawell. And if you don’t see a drink on the menu that tickles your fancy, the bartender will create something special. The bar’s plush lounge chairs and dark decor provides the ultimate low-key vibe. It is perfect for sipping something strong before your evening’s festivities. But it’s also nice for a proper nightcap after your South Beach romp.
Carillon Miami Wellness Resort
If you’re looking to take care of yourself while away, the Carillon in Miami Beach is perfect. This resort is dedicated to all of your wellness needs. There are fitness classes (and a rock climbing wall), personal trainers, nutritionists, thermal experience to help reduce pain, and spa treatments. There are also four pools to relax by and an entire medical facility with doctors that specialize in anything from anti-aging to anxiety therapy. And the juice bar can whip up a protein-packed smoothie that’s perfect post workout.
Turnberry Isle Miami
Situated in Aventura (across the street from the ever-growing Aventura Mall), Turnberry isn’t on the beach. However, with its palm tree-lined pool and impeccable towel service, you won’t care. Plus, the perfectly landscaped golf course makes you feel like you’re in a far away magical land – with adorable duck family included. And this hotel has a spa that’s not to be missed. Try the body butter massage with your choice of guava or coconut lotion. Yum! Plus, with the two top-notch restaurants – Corsair and Bourbon Steak – you won’t grow hungry. Just be sure to dress to impress. There is some construction going on – they are renovating and making a massive water park. But it shouldn’t impact your stay. Come December, this hotel will also have a new name to go along with its new look. Say hello to the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa.
The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale
Yes, we already have one Ritz on this list, but trust us, this Fort Lauderdale location is also worth checking out. It’s completely different from the one in Key Biscayne. Here, you’re right smack in the middle of Fort Lauderdale, where you can bar hop, shop, or eat to your heart’s content. However, while here, you should check out the hotel’s Burlock Coast. This cocktail bar and swanky restaurant dishes out farm-fresh ingredients and a wide variety of rum cocktails. The hotel is also directly on the beach so getting your tan on is easy. But besides its killer location, this upscale hotel is stunning. With its infinity pool that offers ocean views and pristine decor, it’s a win. And like The Ritz in Key Biscayne, you can expect superb service, making your getaway all the better.
