Miami, Florida is a city that pulses with vibrant energy, offering a unique blend of sun-soaked beaches, iconic architecture, first-class resorts, incredible dining, and a lively nightlife scene. It’s the ultimate destination for a luxurious girls’ getaway, and my recent trip with my lifelong best friend was a testament to its undeniable allure and global […] The post Miami Girls’ Getaway Travel Guide: A Luxurious Journey of Relaxation, Adventure, and Celebration appeared first on Inspirations and Celebrations.
Miami, Florida is a city that pulses with vibrant energy, offering a unique blend of sun-soaked beaches, iconic architecture, first-class resorts, incredible dining, and a lively nightlife scene. It’s the ultimate destination for a luxurious girls’ getaway, and my recent trip with my lifelong best friend was a testament to its undeniable allure and global appeal.
From the warm and welcoming hospitality we encountered everywhere to the unforgettable experiences that celebrated our friendship, this trip showcased Miami as more than a travel destination—it’s a place that fosters connection, joy, and indulgence. Unwinding at an award-winning beachfront resort, exploring the iconic Art Deco Historic District, adventuring through the Mangrove-lined jungle, and savoring exquisite cuisine at bustling restaurants – a vacation in Miami is a bucket-list experience that’s a treat for the senses.
Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Beachfront Luxury Resort
While there are several luxury hotels in Miami, if you’re seeking an outstanding resort that offers a spectacular setting, fantastic service, and a peaceful atmosphere, I highly recommend heading to the northern side of Miami. Nestled on nearly 5 beachfront acres in Sunny Isles Beach, Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach is a Mediterranean-inspired haven that sets the standard for luxury. As a family-owned hotel, it embodies warmth and heartfelt hospitality, driven by a genuine desire to create unforgettable experiences.
Real estate developers, Jules Trump and his brother Eddie, along with their family opened Acqualina in 2006 with a vision to bring the elegance of Saint-Tropez to Florida’s coast. As shared on the Acqualina blog, Jules stated “Our initial vision was to build a family-run hotel that had all of the elements of the finest resorts in Saint-Tropez, as well as the elegance of great city hotels. We felt what was missing in hospitality was really great amenities and creature comforts, particularly while spending the day out on the beach, from dining and drinks to exceptional service.”
Acqualina has earned numerous accolades, including the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Awards for both the hotel and spa, the AAA Five Diamond Award, TripAdvisor named Acqualina the “Top Luxury Beachfront Hotel” in the United States, and it earned recognition as the “Best Hotel in the USA” and the “Best Hotel in Florida” by U.S. News & World Report (as of 2024). It’s also a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World, which adds to its distinctive high ranking as an independently owned property.
While I’ve been aware of the hotel’s prestigious background and renowned accolades for several years, now that I’ve recently visited the resort, I can attest to their team’s dedication to creating a dream destination that shines in every detail, from the meticulously maintained property and world-class restaurants to the attentive service that makes every guest feel like royalty.
When you arrive, you’re greeted by a grand gilded wrought iron gated driveway leading up to three dramatic sky-high towers – one that primarily serves as the hotel (with 98 guest rooms, flanked by 188 residences) and two other buildings – for The Estates at Acqualina and The Mansions at Acqualina (comprised of ultra-luxury multi-million dollar residences, which I heard is home to entrepreneurs, executives, superstar athletes, and renowned figures).
At one point, globally renowned fashion design legend Karl Lagerfeld (who previously led the designs at Fendi and Chanel, and then later went on to create his namesake brand) even designed the exquisite lobbies at The Estates, reflecting his iconic style and chic aesthetic.
Complete with a bubbling fountain and European statue, the stately entrance to the hotel sets the tone for an elegant escape that exudes opulence, sophistication, and class. Strolling through the expansive property (from the landscaped patios to the vibrant pools), to play up their signature brand color, the bold red umbrellas and loungers dotting the lush tropical grounds perfectly complement the glittering aquamarine ocean, creating a picture-perfect setting that is so gorgeous it nearly feels surreal.
Upon checking in, you’re greeted by the cheerful front desk staff who strive to make you feel welcomed and at home. At every turn, each person (from the restaurant hosts to the pool attendants) greets you by name and treats you with the utmost respect. In the era we’re living in (where many people have lost sight of old-fashioned values), businesses that make people feel appreciated (no matter if you’re a guest or part of the staff) should be revered, in my opinion. This level of service stands out the most – as it goes back to the heart of the operation.
As the saying goes, “Everything starts at the top”. From my experience, when great people run a company, they create a wonderful work environment that inspires and motivates every team member to do their best and genuinely strive to exhibit a welcoming spirit. This, in essence, is what true hospitality is about. On that note, Acqualina Resort & Residences epitomizes the definition of superb hospitality.
During our visit, we stayed in a spectacular one-bedroom oceanfront suite that was breathtaking. From the sensational design, stately artwork, and elegant furnishings to the spacious accommodations, pristine maintenance, and 180-degree ocean views, every detail was utter perfection.
Designed to reflect modern Italian sophistication, the regal suite features a grand entryway that flows into an expansive living room, a gourmet kitchen with a Wolf range cooktop and Sub-Zero refrigerator, and a tastefully decorated contemporary dining room.
The expansive patio (accessible from the dining room, living room, and bedroom) offers sweeping panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the pristine beach, glistening swimming pools, and lush gardens directly below the hotel. From perfectly manicured grassy lawns to swaying palm trees, the immaculately landscaped property makes for a picturesque view anytime of day.
The bedroom boasts a king-size bed with ocean views, a walk-in closet, and a luxurious master bathroom with a soothing soaking tub, a double sink vanity (with ample storage and flattering lighting), a walk-in marble shower, and a private water closet. Not to mention – there’s a second water closet within the suite, which provides additional privacy.
Thoughtful details, such as a sofa sleeper in the living room and even a private office (which came in handy when I had to manage work calls and emails), make the suite ideal for friends or families who are staying together. While the lavish suite made it enticing to stay in the room the entire trip, the resort provides so much more than just a posh place to rest.
The resort offers an array of activities, including three beachfront pools, private cabanas, a basketball court, a soccer field, a Foosball table, and a charming life-sized chess game. From lounging on the sandy beach and enjoying fine dining (at multiple top-rated restaurants) to taking part in on-site activities, unwinding in the hot tubs, and relaxing in a private poolside cabana, there are many enjoyable ways to spend the day.
To provide a full-body rejuvenation, a visit to the award-winning 20,000-square-foot Acqualina Spa, designed by Fendi, offers an indulgent escape, especially with its Royal Spa Suite, multiple lounges, a crystal steam room, and a private outdoor terrace retreat.
Every aspect of Acqualina reflects a commitment to excellence, from its incredible design to its friendly staff, who exude warmth and genuine care. From dawn to dusk, the serene atmosphere of the resort offers an unparalleled sensorial experience for both hotel guests and residents. To call it “Heaven on Earth” is an understatement.
What to Do in Miami: Sightseeing, Activities & Adventure
Private Poolside Cabana
A highlight of our stay was an afternoon spent in a private poolside cabana at Acqualina. These cabanas redefine relaxation, offering a secluded retreat amidst the resort’s stunning landscape. Surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the picturesque swimming pools, the cabana provided us with the perfect mix of privacy and luxury.
Attentive staff catered to our every need, from delivering refreshing drinks to offering a delectable selection of included food. The shaded lounge area was ideal for unwinding while enjoying the calming sounds of the nearby waves. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or a significant other, a cabana day at Acqualina ensures an unparalleled experience of indulgence and enjoyment.
Royal Spa Suite Treatments
The award-winning Acqualina Spa is a sanctuary of luxury and tranquility, and our experience in the Royal Spa Suite was nothing short of extraordinary. Designed with opulence in mind, the suite features Fendi Casa furnishings, a crystal chandelier, and gold mosaic tiles that exude elegance. After a personalized consultation, my friend and I indulged in 50-minute massages tailored to our preferences.
Following the treatments, we enjoyed the suite’s private lounge, which includes a mother-of-pearl steam room, a rainforest shower, and a wraparound balcony with breathtaking views of the pools, gardens, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Beyond the Royal Spa Suite, the impressive two-story spa features a variety of therapeutic treatment rooms, arctic ice fountains, wellness-enhancing Finnish dry heat saunas, relaxation lounges (including Himalayan salt walls), and a beautiful co-ed outdoor patio with a heated jet pool and Roman waterfall spa. Every element of the world-class spa was designed to rejuvenate you from head to toe.
Art Deco Historic District Walking Tour
Because I’ve always been curious to see the iconic buildings along Ocean Drive and to learn about Miami’s unique history, we embarked on a guided walking tour of the Art Deco Historic District in South Beach, hosted by the Miami Design Preservation League.
This area is comprised of the world’s largest collection of Art Deco buildings, with pastel-colored facades and geometric designs that transport you to a bygone era. Leonard Horowitz, one of the district’s early preservationists, once said, “The buildings dictate to me spiritually, and I try to be sensitive to that. I consider the legacy of the architect, the use of terrazzo, of classical columns – which, it seems to me, should always be white – of bringing the colors from outside inside.” His influence is evident in the vibrant palette inspired by Miami’s dreamy skies.
This experience was an inspiring journey through history and architecture while enabling us to learn about modern-day influences (such as Gianni Versace, whose personal home, named Villa Casa Casuarina, is located in the heart of this renowned area).
The tour also highlighted other architectural styles, including Mediterranean Revival and mid-century MiMo designs, in addition to pointing out notable buildings that have been featured in Hollywood hits, such as “Something About Mary” (starring Cameron Diaz and Ben Stiller) and “The Birdcage” (featuring Robin Williams).
As we strolled past the iconic landmarks basking under the radiant glow of the Miami sunshine, our guide shared fascinating stories about the area’s transformation over the decades. This cultural immersion left us with a deep appreciation for Miami’s rich history and artistic heritage.
South Beach
After exploring the Art Deco district, we decided to head to the beach for a bit. Since South Beach is synonymous with Miami’s vibrant energy, our visit did not disappoint. The beach’s colorful umbrellas and lounge chairs create a cheerful, photogenic backdrop. We spent the afternoon basking in the sun, mingling with other beach-goers, and capturing joyful memories amidst the iconic scenery. Beyond its natural beauty, South Beach offers a lively atmosphere perfect for people-watching, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the coastal charm.
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