3 Best Hotels in Bal Harbour, Miami and Miami Beach

This posh resort (which cost over $1 billion to build) embodies the next level of ultraglamour and haute living along Miami's North Beach. In every facet of design and operation, the 27-story St. Regis is magnificent. An unassuming entrance gives way to a series of three-story, octagonal lobby partitions finished in rare West African movingui wood and exclusively quarried Chinese marble, illuminated by sparkling chandeliers hung from rosette ceilings, and decked in world-class European artwork. Rooms range from enormous (650 square feet) to gigantic (2,800 square feet), with oversize ocean-view balconies and surprisingly light, understated interiors; discreet butlers are on hand to manage your every need. The 14,000-square-foot spa offers every imaginable treatment, and multiple restaurants provide a nice range of smart culinary experiences. Choose between two infinity pools—each with different experiences. The adult's tranquillity pool is the place to catch up on your reading (or grab a catnap in the sun). The main ocean pool is a family-friendly area. Expect surprises and perks like smoothie tastings, sunscreen, and cold towels during your pool visit. The resort has a kids' day camp if you need some me time. Also set aside some time to shop at chic Bal Harbour Shops, across the street.

Built in the 1930s as a members-only club called The Surf Club, this sophisticated 9-acre oceanfront property has always been a spot for people with good taste to have good times. The beautiful open spaces throughout its three buildings make visitors feel like they're on a posh Italian escape, and the slick white rooms with modern fixtures create instant relaxation upon arrival. There's a state-of-the-art spa and two gorgeous beachside pools with 40 cabanas offering absolute privacy. Its well-known gem The Champagne Bar features Miami's largest champagne selection (and a delicious menu of Italian selections), with bartenders in crisp white jackets ready to attend to your every whim. It's also home to Thomas Keller's only restaurant in the south, The Surf Club, serving only the highest caliber of dishes.

In one of South Florida's poshest neighborhoods, this property exudes contemporary beachfront luxury design with decadent mahogany-floor guest rooms featuring large terraces with panoramic views of the water and city, over-the-top bathrooms with 10-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, and LCD TVs built into the bathroom mirrors. Suites have fully equipped kitchens with cooktops, microwaves, convection ovens, dishwashers, and refrigerators. The northwest corner suites have some of the best views in Miami. Split your afternoons between the outdoors—enjoying the pool and 750 feet of beachfront—and the hotel's lavish, 10,000-square-foot spa and fitness center.