By Lisa Simundson
Feeling sexy has everything to do with feeling good about yourself. And the following Miami hotels know that. They offer a level of service, style and sophistication that will transport you to a different world the moment you walk in. It might be an exotic world or an elegant world, but each property knows how to make you feel like you’re the only couple in the world. Which is very sexy.
The Setai
“Stunning” doesn’t begin to cover the visual impact of The Setai, whose Asian influences and luxury accents give it a minimalist feel while maintaining the extravagant “wow” factor. Rainfall showers, mood lighting, black granite baths and teak floors set the stage for romance in rooms and suites, but there are getaways-within-getaways at this South Beach stunner—from secluded beachside sitting areas to the sunken pod in the outdoor courtyard, to the passion-inducing Love Bath at the Spa, complete with “Love Potion” bath oil, champagne and canapés.
The Tides
This Art Deco treasure on South Beach received an updated makeover from interior design guru Kelly Wearstler and the results are stupendous, with rich hues that echo the colors of the beach and put couples in the mood to relax and get reacquainted. All rooms at The Tides are oceanfront suites, and each room is assigned a personal assistant to handle the details of your stay, leaving you more time for each other. Dial the passion higher with a Return to Romance package, which includes three nights in the Amber Suite, dinner for two at the hotel’s La Marea restaurant, a full breakfast each morning, a couple’s massage and a welcome gift upon arrival.
Hotel Victor
Small, sexy and glamorous, this boutique gem is set in the heart of South Beach yet creates its own world of intimate pleasures with features that include the area’s first hammam (Turkish bath), where guests recline on a traditional heated marble bed surrounded by custom-blended music and aromas. It will invigorate you for what lies ahead, for Hotel Victor is home to one of the city’s most popular restaurants, Bice, as well as the V Bar and an ocean-view infinity pool. Rooms pamper with oversized soaking tubs and rain showers, and the hotel’s innovative decor includes a jellyfish aquarium.
The Standard
The senses awaken, and sensuality follows at this Miami Beach retreat set on a wide expanse of Biscayne Bay. The Standard’s spa and wellness programs draw on ancient principles of balance and restorative hydrotherapies, whether couples are striking a pose in yoga and meditation classes or sinking into the decadent comfort of a Roman waterfall hot tub. Where is all this going? The room names give some clue—Missionary, Lush, Wet (including outdoor terrace baths) and the Full Spread bayview suite.
Rising 20 stories on the quieter north side of South Beach, this stunning sanctuary blends comfort and flawless service with artful design, including a huge collection of paintings, objets d’art and decorative rugs, creating a vibe that manages to be both hip and homey. Larger than average, the rooms boast terraces that are angled to overlook the ocean, with showers large enough to share and fully equipped kitchenettes for those “let’s stay in” moments. When it’s time to make the scene, an Acura MDX with personal driver is at your disposal free of charge; it’s part of the hotel’s “Whatever/Whenever” service.
The Fontainebleau Miami Beach
This legendary hotel deals in superlatives—a $1 billion recent makeover, 1,500 guestrooms and suites, massive free-form pools and a sprawling location that encompasses several city blocks. But the Fontainebleau has its personal side, too, in spacious rooms filled with every possible amenity—including 20-inch iMacs—as well as pool cabanas that take luxury to the next level with wireless Internet, 32-inch flat screens and butler service. But when you’re ready to join the party, the Fontainebleau goes over the top with excitement, from stylish bars and restaurants to one of the hottest nightclubs anywhere, LIV.
Fisher Island Hotel and Resort
Escape the mainland altogether at the Fisher Island Hotel and Resort, a 10-minute ferry ride from Miami but a world away for couples seeking opulence in total seclusion. The property was once the winter playground of William Vanderbilt II, and it shows in every detail, from tuxedo-clad waiters to lavishly decorated rooms and junior suites, as well as villas with private outdoor Jacuzzis. Should you be venturing forth, all rooms include the use of a golf cart.
The amenities here are plentiful—a waterfront spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a poolside garden cafe and the world-famous Bal Harbour Shops within walking distance. And you’ll enjoy them all... that is, if you can tear yourself away from the bathrooms at this luxury tower on Miami Beach’s northern end. Free-standing tubs sit next to floor-to-ceiling views, offering unparalleled views while bathing, and walk-in showers are conveniently big enough for two. You might find yourself primping in front of the bathroom mirror for longer than usual, though—a television is embedded there.
The Biltmore
The heat builds slowly and subtly at this landmark hotel in Coral Gables. Dating back to 1926 and boasting an ornate tower than can be seen for miles, the Biltmore starts on a grandly romantic note with a palatial lobby and lush, magnificent grounds that include a golf course and the famed Biltmore pool, reportedly the largest hotel swimming pool in the country and offering private, elegantly furnished cabanas. Couples can turn up the temperature by booking a private spa suite, taking yoga and tai chi classes, or enjoying some down time in a private mixology class, learning how to concoct the perfect cocktail (which could come in handy later).
Set in the middle of downtown Coconut Grove, the outside world is shut away immediately upon entering this oasis of tranquility. Rich woods and lush foliage create a jungle-like feel throughout the property, from a leafy indoor courtyard to the exotic decor of the common areas. For private moments, oversized rooms open onto bright balconies with individual spa tubs and large wicker sofas. Couples may also choose to mix and mingle at the Rooftop Cabana Club—featuring a pool and lounge—or refresh and rejuvenate at the Jurlique Spa, offering a couples suite for side-by-side treatments.