There’s a reason why jet setters and celebrities visit Greater Miami & Miami Beach on the regular. The city has its simple luxuries, like year-round sunny weather, aquamarine waters, and sandy beaches, but Miami also puts the “extra” in extravagance.
LessThe Ritz Carlton has brand recognition for a reason. This iconic South Beach resort features an elevated pool, a full-service spa, gourmet cuisine, and special events year-round. Guests can taste cuisines from across the world or get a feel for Miami's heritage and culture at the Lapidus Bar, but what sets the Ritz apart from the rest is its high level of service.
This beachfront resort could be compared to a royal palace. The Acqualina offers beautiful rooms with jaw-dropping views, multiple fine dining experiences, and a tranquil spa. Escape to the adult pool for relaxation and special pampering from a pool butler who visits hourly with fresh juices, fruits, and cold towelettes, or do some exploring and check out the resort's "Aqua Experiences."
They call Sunny Isles Beach Florida’s Riviera for a good reason. Discover golden beaches, lavish condominiums resorts, and a collection of spectacular residential buildings crafted by luxury brands Armani/Casa, Porsche and Bentley. Sunny Isles Beach is just the right place to treat yourself to a five-star spa experience or gourmet dining from places like Timo Restaurant & Bar or II Mulino NY.
Aventura is home to beautiful golf courses, thoroughbred horse racing, and world-class shopping at the Aventura Mall. This mall is no ordinary shopping center; it's a must-visit destination for art, food, and sought-after brands, like Hermès, Balenciaga, and Gucci. Shoppers can even support the local economy at the Aventura Market featuring artisan items and fresh produce.
Bal Harbour Shops serves as an introduction to the little slice of paradise that is Bal Harbour. The upscale, al fresco mall opened in 1965, and its mid-century modern cool is retained today through breezeways with lush tropical plants, koi ponds and limestone fountains. Anchored by brands like Saks Fifth Avenue, the mall boasts flagship boutiques such as Chanel and Prada.
Preeminent gallerist David Castillo is a Cuban-American pioneer who reflects the vibrant culture of Miami through his eponymous gallery on Miami Beach’s Lincoln Road. Castillo opened his contemporary art space in 2005 with a clear focus on identity and how minority cultures are labeled “other.” Remaining true to his vision, Castillo showcases ground-breaking visionaries of the art world.
If you’re looking for a glitzy scene served with your meal, Komodo in Brickell is the place to pose and mingle with Miami’s fashionable set. This three-story hot spot is known for its Asian cuisine with creative bites like steak and egg nigiri or the melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef dumplings. For a unique dining experience, sit on the plush patio or dine in private from a floating "nest" above the dining floor.
For a beautiful seafood feast along the scenic Miami River, make reservations at Seaspice. The chic brasserie delivers globally inspired dishes with standouts like seafood casseroles, wild-caught Dover sole with black truffle risotto, and blue crab ravioli. This is a place where guests arrive in style on sleek yachts, and a DJ keeps the energy high well into the night.
For a stylish al fresco meal, dine at Jaya at the Setai. Jaya offers a memorable dining experience at one of Miami Beach's most elegant seaside resorts. Their Sunday Jazz Brunch features a live band, fresh seafood, rotisserie-cooked meats, and Asian, Indian, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Of course, no experience is complete without libations, so guests are treated to bottomless champagne, mimosas, and wine.
Helmed by “Top Chef” winner Jeremy Ford, Stubborn Seed is ranked as one of the destination’s best restaurants. Settle into the intimate dining room, where you’ll be impressed by plates of art. Dishes are seasonal and constantly evolving, and diners can expect lots of texture and interesting combinations like cacio e pepe cheese puffs, gooey jalapeño fritters, and crunchy truffle bravas. For a sampling, try the eight-course tasting menu.