MIAMI LUXURY TRAVEL GUIDE
Explore the Top Miami Luxury Hotels, Beachfront Resorts, and Five-Star Villas
Miami shines as a global destination for incredible luxury hotels and resorts, where Latin rhythm and American glamour meet overlooking the atlantic ocean. Stunning glass towers overlook South Beach, palm trees line Ocean Drive, and pastel Art Deco hotels radiate timeless Miami charm, creating five-star views at every turn.
For luxury travelers, Miami is more than a getaway, it’s a lifestyle defined by exclusive beach resorts, rooftop pools, luxury villas, and design-forward boutique hotels. The city’s late 2025 and early 2026 calendar is stacked, from Art Basel to Formula 1 to the Miami Open and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival. which means that the best properties will be booking out months in advance.
This guide highlights our selection of the best luxury hotels, beachfront resorts, and private villas Miami has to offer. From Mid-Beach hideaways to Downtown high-rises with helicopter pads to estates overlooking the ocean, we’ve got you covered. Throughout this guide, we link directly to hotels we’ve actually stayed at or thoroughly vetted. If you book through our partners, we may earn a small commission, which is how we remain reader supported and able to deliver real luxury hotel intelligence, not fluff, at top locations around the world.
If you want more destination inspiration, be sure to check out our recent travel guides for Costa Rica, Dubai, Bali, and The Maldives.
So, whether you’re after sunsets by the sea, Miami’s electric culture, or effortless relaxation, keep reading our definitive 2025 Miami travel guide to discover the best luxury hotels, resorts, and private villas in Miami, each promising a stay you’ll never forget.
Article Overview
Editors Picks:
Miami's Top 10 Luxury Hotels & Resorts
A serene counterpoint to South Beach’s energy, The Setai fuses Asian-inspired minimalism with iconic Art Deco heritage in a meticulously restored 1936 landmark near Collins Avenue. Its 91 luxurious rooms and 62 Ocean Suites evoke tranquility with sleek teak furnishings, deep hues, and calming details. Indulgent amenities include three temperature-controlled pools, a pristine private beachfront, and the renowned Valmont Spa. At Jaya, dramatic dining sets the stage, from live jazz and gourmet Asian fare to aerialists and fire dancers under the stars. Discreet, elegant, and internationally acclaimed, The Setai sets the standard for refined luxury and world-class hospitality in Miami Beach.
Faena Miami Beach is maximalist, decadent, and truly unforgettable. A bold reinvention of 1940s and 1950s Miami Beach glamour brought to life by visionary designer Alan Faena alongside Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin, the lobby’s ruby-red velvet, elegant vaulted cathedral ceilings, and gold-leaf columns set a cinematic stage for personal butler service, ocean-view suites, and one-of-a-kind art installations by Damien Hirst and Jeff Koons. Guests unwind with relaxing rituals at Tierra Santa Healing House (the hotel’s sprawling third-floor spa), then dine amid the buzz at Los Fuegos, chef Francis Mallmann’s open-fire Argentine barbecue. This is where haute design, contemporary art, and Miami’s five-star social scene merge, making every stay a showcase for global style, luxury, and creativity
1 Hotel South Beach defines Miami’s new era of sustainable luxury, with oceanfront rooms crafted from reclaimed wood, organic linens, and natural materials, creating a serene, eco-conscious sanctuary with iconic Atlantic views. Guests enjoy four stunning pools including a rooftop oasis, an expansive 40,000-square-foot wellness center, and private beach cabanas, while farm-to-table dining at 1 Kitchen delivers the ultimate balance of indulgence and environmental responsibility. This is Miami’s top five-star resort for elite travelers who value wellness, modern design, and an authentic beachfront experience.
A Miami Beach icon reimagined, Fontainebleau blends Old Hollywood glamour with contemporary luxury across 22 oceanfront acres and over 1,500 rooms and suites. A luxe celebrity hot spot, guests are invited to unwind in 11 sparkling pools, indulge at 12 world-class restaurants, including Hakkasan, Scarpetta, and StripSteak by Michael Mina, and dance late into the night at LIV Nightclub. With the rejuvenating Lapis Spa, premium family amenities, and spaces designed for celebrations of any scale, Fontainebleau is Miami’s essential five-star resort for jet setters, couples, families, and anyone seeking show-stopping luxury and effortless style.
Just steps from the white sands of Miami Beach and the boutiques of Lincoln Road, the Ritz-Carlton artfully fuses iconic Art Deco style with modern sophistication, offering ocean view suites, an elevated cross-shaped swimming pool overlooking the Atlantic ocean, and seamless five-star service. Guests can unwind at the acclaimed Ritz-Carlton Spa, savour chef-driven dining at Zaytinya, Lapidus Bar, and DiLido Beach Club, and enjoy direct beach access, all just moments from the city’s best nightlife, shopping, and culture. For those who crave luxury at the centre of it all but want to feel a world away once inside, this storied resort remains Miami’s benchmark for elegance and a true urban sanctuary.
Miami Events Calendar:
The Best Upcoming Festivals & VIP Experiences
Art Basel Miami (Decemeber 2025):
Drawing more than 75,000 global collectors, artists + brands for high-profile parties and cutting-edge exhibitions during Miami Art Week, Art Basel is one of North America’s most attended and elite cultural events where the worlds of art and luxury converge.
Art Deco Weekend (January 2026):
A celebration of the city's glamorous past, Miami Beach comes alive throughout the week with vintage cars, concerts, and glamour along Ocean Drive, setting the tone for kicking off the new year in style.
Miami International Boat Show & Yacht Week (February 2026):
The world’s largest luxury marine showcase brings super yachts to Biscayne Bay, with broker showings, waterfront design debuts, and sunset champagne decks for industry titans and well-heeled world travelers.
Ultra Music Festival (March 2026):
Beyond the average music festival, Ultra is an annual global check-in on the electronic dance music zeitgeist, setting the tone for the year with its exclusive DJ bookings and industry-defining production.
Miami Tennis Open (March/April 2026):
The Miami Open brings the world’s best tennis talent to Miami, with two weeks of ATP/WTA action, luxury suites, and VIP events that make it a can’t-miss for elite sports fans and global travelers.
Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix (May 2026):
Experience world-class racing, A-list parties, and luxury brand activations as F1 transforms South Beach and Hard Rock Stadium into a premier global motorsport destination.
Explore Ticket Availability →
Stylish, social, and always magnetic, W South Beach epitomizes Miami’s “see-and-be-seen” vibe with 357 ocean view rooms with private balconies, all refreshed during a recent $30 million renovation. The hotel also features a $100 million museum-quality art collection curated to reflect Miami’s dynamic culture, rooftop tennis and basketball courts, and the award-winning Away Spa for ultimate in relaxation. Guests will enjoy acclaimed dining at Mr. Chow and RWSB before gathering at the iconic Wet Deck rooftop poo, the city’s leading social hub for sun, nightlife, and celebration.
Cofounded by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro, and Meir Teper, Nobu Hotel Miami is an oceanside sanctuary where Japanese minimalism meets Miami’s beachfront energy. Guests relax in zen-inspired rooms and penthouses with ocean or skyline views, experience the world-famous Nobu Miami restaurant, and recharge at the expansive Esencia Wellness Spa or the hotel’s exclusive adults-only pool. Honored by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler as the #1 Best Resort in Greater Miami Beach, Nobu delivers quiet sophistication, five-star amenities, and the city’s most celebrated culinary artistry for discerning travelers.
Ian Schrager’s Miami Beach EDITION hotel perfectly blends cool sophistication with playful luxury on Collins Avenue. Suites exude tranquility with warm oak finishes, Le Labo amenities, and ocean-facing private terraces. Guests enjoy Michelin-starred dining at Jean-Georges’ Matador Room and signature cocktails at the rooftop bar. The hotel’s spa offers candlelit treatments and a unique “Power Nap” experience, while the hotel’s standout amenities include two ocean view pools, an outdoor movie theatre, an ice-skating rink, and a bowling alley. With direct beach access and vibrant cultural programming, EDITION is the ultimate urban beach retreat for design lovers and discerning travelers alike.
Miami’s ultimate luxury escape, The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club seamlessly combines stunning historical architecture with modern elegance and world-class amenities. Nestled along a pristine private beach, the resort offers 77 suites designed by Joseph Dirand with Mediterranean-inspired finishes, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, expansive ocean-facing terraces, and private rooftop pools. Guests enjoy adults-only pools, an oceanfront spa and wellness center, and fine dining at the Michelin-starred Surf Club Restaurant by Thomas Keller. The hotel’s lush landscaped gardens and historic clubhouse lounge honoring Winston Churchill add timeless charm to the unparalleled service.
With curated kid’s programming, fitness amenities, and the best concierge program in the city, The Surf Club is a leading Miami escape for those seeking refined luxury and elevated beach living.
A refreshed South Beach icon, Loews Miami Beach seamlessly blends heritage with modern luxury following a sweeping $50 million renovation. Luxe rooms, custom furnishings, exclusive poolside cabanas, and stylish locally inspired dining concepts, including Bistro Collins and The Sushi Bar, define the elevated guest experience. Beloved by everyone from business travelers to families to honeymooners, the resort balances approachable five-star polish with creative touches, direct beachfront access, and standout service that makes Loews a perennial favorite in the heart of the city.
Miami's Best Luxury Beachfront Hotels & Resorts
Miami’s stunning shoreline sets the benchmark for beachfront luxury, with five-star oceanfront hotels that fuse urban sophistication and tropical ease from South Beach to Bal Harbour. At these getaways, jet-setters, couples, and families can savour champagne sunsets, indulge in private cabanas, and experience the best of Miami’s lavish coastal lifestyle.
Leading the way is 1 Hotel South Beach, a sanctuary of natural beauty and sustainable design. Set on 600 ft. of pristine beachfront, the hotel reimagines coastal luxury through its organic interiors, panoramic rooftop pool, and signature eco-luxe ethos. Guests can unwind with farm-to-table dining, holistic spa treatments, and sunrise yoga overlooking the Atlantic ocean. For travelers more drawn to bold glamour and immersive art, Faena Hotel Miami Beach is the one of the city’s most stunning beachfront getaways. With its red-and-gold interiors, Damien Hirst sculptures, and beachfront cabanas framed by candy-striped umbrellas, Faena captures Miami’s flair for fine dining and luxe interiors while inviting the outside in.
Tucked away from the South Beach buzz, The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort offers serene sophistication and unmatched service just north of the city. Its ocean-view suites and marble bathrooms open up to private balconies, while butler service and champagne rituals embody timeless luxury. Guests enjoy oceanfront tranquility steps from the Bal Harbour Shops.
Further north, Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach delivers Mediterranean-inspired grandeur with a deeply personal touch. Often recognized among the best oceanfront resorts in the United States, Acqualina blends five-star service with a warm, residential feel. Its oceanfront pools, award-winning spa, and curated children’s programs make it equally suited for families and couples seeking a sophisticated seaside escape.
Miami’s Best Beachfront Luxury Hotels & Resorts:
Miami's Best Boutique Hotels & Hidden Gems
Outside of Miami’s larger than life resorts, there’s a world of boutique hotels where understated luxury takes center stage, and the Betsy blends art, music, and service like no other. Guests unwind in beautiful spaces filled with jazz and contemporary works while also having one of the best rooftop views in the city. The Goodtime Hotel, founded by David Grutman and Pharrell Williams, has the whimsical but ultra luxury vibe you would expect. Their popular pool club, Strawberry Moon, is perfect for easygoing days. Soho Beach House is all about classic Miami luxury, with great service and sophisticated vintage-inspired spaces. Esmé Miami Beach brings luxe boho vibes with a serene rooftop pool, making it perfect for those seeking both style and privacy.
The Best Miami Boutique Hotels & Hidden Gems:
Miami's Best Luxury Hotels for Couples
Miami’s luxury hotel scene offers couples more than oceanfront views. It provides the privacy, elevated service, and atmosphere that make meaningful escapes possible. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or extended weekend, these properties deliver the combination of sophisticated service and genuine seclusion that discerning travelers expect. Effortlessly balancing Japanese minimalism with oceanfront glamour.
Nobu Hotel Miami Beach brings Japanese minimalism to South Beach with an approach that prioritizes tranquility over spectacle. The 206 rooms feature clean lines, natural materials, and ocean views that don’t compete for attention. Couples will appreciate the property’s relatively intimate scale and the genuine privacy it affords.
The Setai Miami Beach has earned its reputation as one of Miami’s most refined properties. The 1936 Art Deco building houses 130 suites and studios designed around Asian-inspired minimalism, thimk teak furnishings, subtle colors, and architectural restraint throughout. Suites feature floor-t0-ceiling windows, deep soaking tubs, and terraces with unobstructed ocean views. Three infinity pools at different temperatures overlook the ocean, and the private beachfront includes individual daybeds positioned for maximum seclusion.
Finally, The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club offers couples a more secluded alternative just fifteen minutes north of South Beach. The 1930s-era resort has been restored with contemporary interiors by Joseph Dirand, creating spaces that feel both historic and modern at the same time. The two-acre pool deck includes private cabanas and palm-lined terraces with sunset views over the Atlantic.
Couples can move seamlessly between spa treatments, poolside privacy, and evening dining at Le Zoo by Thomas Keller, one of Miami’s buzziest restaurants. Add private beach access and ocean views, and the Four Seasons is perfect for those who prefer understated luxury and genuine privacy, making it one of Miami’s most sophisticated options.
Miami’s Best Luxury Hotels for Couples:
Miami's Best Luxury Hotels for Families
Luxury family travel in Miami no longer requires compromising between adult sophistication and children’s needs. The city’s leading family-friendly properties have developed comprehensive programs that address multiple generations simultaneously, combining refined accommodations, professional children’s services, and the amenities that make extended stays functional for everyone.
The Fontainebleau Miami Beach remains an icon among the city’s family resorts, seamlessly combining glamour with playful energy. Its legendary pools, expansive oceanfront location, and countless dining options make it a self-contained paradise for families. Kids can join the FB Kids’ Camp for creative activities while parents unwind at the Lapis Spa or sip cocktails poolside. With spacious suites and a lively yet refined atmosphere, the Fontainebleau is where classic Miami luxury meets family-friendly fun.
For a more contemporary twist on beachfront family living, Loews Miami Beach Hotel offers luxury service and a welcoming sense of place. It’s Loews Loves Families club isn’t marketing language, it’s a comprehensive program that includes everything from complimentary cribs and strollers to beach toys and teen entertainment. Parents can arrange these amenities before arrival, eliminating the usual complications of traveling with young children. The result is a seamless and stress-free stay that keeps everyone happy and entertained.
The Ritz-Carlton South Beach is perfect for families who prefer a smaller and more refined luxury property. This stunning Art Deco hotel has 375 rooms and suites, many with ocean views and separate living areas suitable for families and groups. The Ritz Kids program introduces children to South Florida’s marine environment and local art through structured activities led by trained staff. Parents can schedule spa appointments, dine at Fuego y Mar, or simply relax at the elevated pool knowing their children are in capable hands.
The Best Miami Luxury Hotels for Families:
Miami’s Celebrity-Favorite Luxury Hotels & Resorts
In Miami, luxury is a lifestyle. From private penthouse terraces to ocean-view pool cabanas, the city’s most glamorous hotels double as playgrounds for the rich, the famous, and the effortlessly chic. Whether you’re hoping to stay where Hollywood unwinds or simply want to experience Miami like a star, these celebrity-favorite 5-star hotels promise world-class privacy, design, and indulgence all wrapped in that unmistakable Miami glow.
The Setai Miami Beach
A magnet for A-list names like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Gisele Bündchen, Lenny Kravitz, and Madonna, The Setai embodies refined discretion in the heart of South Beach. Its restored Art Deco architecture, gorgeous infinity pools, and beachside spa create a serene sanctuary just steps from Collins Avenue.
The Fontainebleau Miami Beach
The Fontainebleau is a Miami icon of celebrity, indulgence, and excess. Its guest list reads like a Vanity Fair cover: Leonardo DiCaprio, Lady Gaga, and the Kardashians are all regulars. With oceanfront suites, Michelin-level dining, and world-class nightlife, the Fontainebleau delivers pure spectacle that’s perfect for those who like their luxury loud, lavish, and larger than life.
The W South Beach
Contemporary cool meets a-list energy at the W South Beach, a favorite of LeBron James, Tom Cruise, and fashion insiders alike. Oceanfront suites with floor-to-ceiling windows overlook a scene of private cabanas, sunset DJ sets, and chic guests sipping cocktails beneath the palms. This is a 5-star luxury hotel in South Beach where trendsetters come not just to stay, but to be seen.
Ready to Book Your Luxury Miami Vacation?
From the golden coastline of South Beach to the refined luxury of Bal Harbour and Surfside, Miami’s five-star hotels and oceanfront resorts set the global standard for tropical sophistication. Here, Michelin-level dining, world-class spas, and curated cultural programming are paired with spectacular views and direct beach access. Whether it’s a romantic retreat, family escape, or a front-row seat to Miami’s art, sports, or fashion events, booking ahead at one of the city’s best luxury hotels ensures a true window into its unparalleled hospitality scene.
With Art Basel and 2026 social season on the horizon, there’s no better moment to secure your stay and experience Miami’s most coveted hotels, where every check-in opens the door to exceptional experiences and resort living at its finest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Miami's Best Luxury Hotels & Resorts
What are the best 5-star luxury hotels in Miami?
Miami is home to some of the world’s most prestigious hotels. The top-rated 5-star properties include The Setai Miami Beach, Faena Hotel Miami Beach, The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, 1 Hotel South Beach, and Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Each offers exceptional service, oceanfront views, world-class dining, and luxury amenities tailored to discerning travelers.
What hotels do celebrities stay at in Miami?
Celebrities gravitate toward Miami’s most exclusive hotels for their privacy and impeccable service. The Setai Miami Beach, Fontainebleau, and the W Hotel South Beach are frequent favorites, while A-listers seeking tranquility often choose the Mandarin Oriental on Brickell Key or The Four Seasons at The Surf Club for a more discreet and refined stay.
What are the best areas in Miami for luxury hotels?
For beachfront glamour, South Beach remains the heart of Miami’s luxury scene, ideal for first-time visitors and nightlife seekers. Mid-Beach offers a quieter, more refined oceanfront experience with hotels like The Faena Hotel and Miami Beach EDITION. Bal Harbour and Surfside cater to those seeking ultra-exclusive stays, designer shopping, and world-class dining.
When is the best time to visit Miami?
Miami’s peak luxury season runs from December to April, when weather is ideal and the social calendar brims with marquee events like Art Basel, the Miami Open, and Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix. For a quieter and more affordable experience, the summer months offer excellent rates, fewer crowds, and spa-focused or family-friendly getaways.
Which Miami luxury hotels are best for couples and honeymooners?
Couples seeking romance should consider The Setai Miami Beach, Nobu Hotel Miami Beach, or The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club. These properties blend serene design, world-class dining, and wellness experiences perfect for honeymooners and romantic escapes.
What are the best luxury hotels in Miami for families?
Top family-friendly luxury hotels include Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Loews Miami Beach Hotel, and The Ritz-Carlton South Beach. These resorts offer kids’ programs, spacious suites, beachfront access, and a range of family-focused activities without sacrificing five-star sophistication.
Are there boutique luxury hotels in Miami?
Yes, Miami’s boutique hotel scene is thriving. The Betsy Hotel South Beach, Esmé Miami Beach, and The Goodtime Hotel are beloved for their personalized service, intimate design, and distinctive cultural touch-points. They’re ideal for travelers seeking local character and a more private, design-driven experience.
How far in advance should I book a luxury hotel in Miami?
During peak season and major events such as Art Basel, Formula 1, and Miami Swim Week, it’s best to book your luxury hotel at least 3 to 6 months in advance. Many properties offer flexible cancellation policies, so early reservations help secure the best suites and rates.
What are the most exclusive luxury hotels in Miami right now?
For the ultimate in exclusivity, The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, The Setai Miami Beach, and Faena Hotel Miami Beach lead the pack. These hotels combine architectural beauty, celebrity appeal, Michelin-starred dining, and the kind of privacy sought by royalty, artists, and the international elite.