Site Review for Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach

Image 1: Relaxing on the beach under the "red" umbrella ; Image 2: Entrance to the SPA

The vibe

The exquisite lobby sets a “quite luxury” tone, inviting guests to explore the lavish estate property that is the Acqualina. Reminiscent of a Mediterranean villa with Italian-inspired architecture and designer touches. Every detail, extending to refined culinary offerings, makes a grand impression.

Said to be named by Sophia Loren, the Acquallina, meaning “water’s edge” lives up to its legendary moniker. In fact, it boasts one of the area's most exclusive “private beach” experiences set, literally at the water's edge. Signature “red” cabanas, daybeds and umbrellas are available to guests with food and beverage service seaside from Ocean Front's Costa Café. Guests can also relax and plunge into one of the resort's three pools or enjoy a cocktail on the terrace, as we did, with views of the courtyard fountain and waves beyond. This quiet enclave is the perfect place to lounge in privacy.

Rooms & suites

We toured the two-and 3-bedroom suites. They are richly decorated and appointed with spacious rooms, living areas and a gourmet kitchen to host gatherings. This gives more of an upscale, luxury apartment experience. We stayed in one of the Intracoastal Bayview rooms with an elegant ambiance and sumptuous furnishings. The open-air feel captured the natural light coming through the large windows opening to our balcony. We enjoyed our room service there (which was provided with the utmost care and attention).

Image 1: Suite Tour Luxe Bath ; Image 2: Suite Tour Bedroom

Image 1: Acqualina Hotel Lobby ; Image 2: Welcome Amenity in Room Upon Arrival

Spa & fitness

In keeping with its European influence, the 20k fitness center offers spa services and wellness treatments within its confines. There is also a Royal Spa Suite for romantic couple retreats with private shower and wrap-around balcony overlooking the ocean. The venue sports an on-site spa salon, boutique and Fitness Center. Which had an “interactive wellness”/meditation space as well as yoga classes and complimentary bicycles for cruising the area.

Family fun

The Acqualina prides itself on being very family friendly, and in fact, we witnessed this first-hand with staff gracefully catering to happy kiddos and thankful parents. Families can play a host of games (including soccer on a mini field), beach volleyball, and splash in the pools or in the warm ocean waters. For those with little ones, the Acqualina offers a complimentary Kids Club with reservations based upon availability. The AcquaMarine program has an “under the sea” styled care area and it is filled with a wonderous collection of activities, books and games for kids to play and learn. This gives parents a chance to unwind on their own with the peace of mind that their children are enjoying their vacation just as much!

The Acqualina is the very definition of a luxury travel destination. If security and privacy is important to you and your family, this is an opulent beach oasis in close proximity to the best of Miami's cultural and lifestyle attractions.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Miami. In need of further inspiration? Check out Peter Alejandro’s trip report, Unparalleled Luxury at Loews Miami Beach Hotel.