It’s hard to imagine a better place for the W hotel brand than South Beach, so it’s no surprise this hotel has been the place to be seen since opening in 2009. W South Beach’s ubiquitous popularity clicked into overdrive when it reopened in 2020 following extensive renovations with revamped rooms and suites, and a sparkling new spa.

W South Beach is now a reflection of the evolution of the party brand, from unfiltered hedonism to something sophisticated and with a sense of place. The mostly white interiors act as a blank canvas, allowing the ocean views to illuminate the space, with the only occasional – and tasteful – pops of color coming from carefully curated pieces of furniture.

The E-Wow Penthouse did not escape the attention of the refurbishment and reemerged as a modern duplex befitting of a discerning Miami property mogul. The suite has 2,056 sq ft of internal space, in which it fits two bedrooms, a charming living area, a full kitchen and four bathrooms. 

Its main selling point, however, is the private terrace. With its own plunge pool, ample sunbathing space and an al fresco dining table, you can spend your entire weekend out here. The suite’s dedicated W Insider can arrange however many staff you need, from a mixologist for endless cocktails to a private chef for dinner parties.

There are ample reasons to leave, however, including the hotel’s urban refuge, AWAY. The spa, opened in 2020, has multiple treatment rooms and a long menu of detoxifying remedies. The hotel also has its own yoga program, designed by the influential Dawn Feinberg.

For the perenially active, the hotel also has a rooftop tennis court and basketball court, both exclusively for guests and residents. Work up a sweat before heading to The Restaurant, which serves the best of Miami fare with Tuscan influences.