For those who want a more peaceful experience, the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club offers the same level of luxury as central Miami in the quiet residential town of Surfside. The hotel sits around 30 minutes outside of the main city and offers sanctuary from the hustle and bustle that comes with it.
The main building was constructed in the 1930s and the original hotel was frequented by some of the biggest names of the era including Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor. The interior still shows signs of the glamour of that age, particularly in the champagne bar which was originally a ballroom.
Sitting alongside its old-world charm is a host of modern amenities. This includes a vast spa and wellness center and three swimming pools. Rooms come with beautiful upholstery and marble finishes. Floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies also offer guests a private slither of paradise.
Dining options include The Surf Club Restaurant, offering continental cuisine under the expert guidance of the world-renowned Thomas Keller, of French Laundry fame. Guests hoping for a casual bite can head to Winston’s on the Beach, which focuses on light dishes that showcase the flavors of Florida.
Top suite: Marybelle Penthouse Suite
The Marybelle Penthouse Suite’s name is inspired by the yacht that Harvey Firestone and his peers were sailing on when they discovered the pristine beaches that would later become The Surf Club.
The 7,200-square-foot suite has been designed by Joseph Dirand and is a wonderful mix of modern, understated luxury with old-school style. The suite is set over three floors with the third boasting a private patio with its own pool. There is also another patio on the ground floor for entertaining guests.