Eat, drink, swim, and nap under the palms at Miami’s coolest oceanfront haunts
It’s chill time at these four spots in Miami Beach and South Beach where balmy breezes flow in from the sea and soaking up the sun or chilling under the shade is all that’s on the agenda. Drinks and bites are just a nod away.
High Tide at Kimpton Surfcomber, South Beach
The resort, on the National Register of Historic Places, was originally built in 1948 and sits on Collins Avenue with other properties of the same vintage. Retaining embellishments of deco details from the past and a contemporary surf theme evoking a relaxed atmosphere, the design melds an eclectic European bohemian element with homey comfort. The large pool has been the center of many pool parties over the years that coincide with music festivals and holidays. Most days the pool offers a chill spot to relax under the palms or in a private cabana. Those looking to burn calories will find aqua Zumba classes in the morning or easy-going beachfront yoga. Relaxation and escapes happen at the K’alama Spa offering unique locally inspired journeys like the Mojito Scrub or Cafecito Massage.
Surfcomber’s High Tide Bar & Grill offers patio dining around the bar and sofas for a relaxed day outdoors. Photo: Surfcomber
The outdoor dining and bar area of High Tide is where guests congregate either around the bar or at tables scattered about the patio. Brightly painted wood benches, big rocking chairs, and comfy sofas encourage mingling and hanging out with a cocktail or beer. Outdoor activities include bocci ball, beanbag toss, and even a whirl with a hula hoop. Cuisine combines Florida favorites with a South American twist. Try the mahi or shrimp tacos, and order a plate of empanadas to share and a pitcher of sangria. For more about the hotel: https://www.surfcomber.com/
Tiki Bar at The Palms Hotel & Spa, Miami Beach
The Palms Hotel takes a queue from nature with a setting nestled in tropical gardens. Here, it’s easy to find a quiet space and relax among the palms, orchids, and flowering plants on the 1.5 acres. A Zen Garden, outdoor spa treatment rooms, and a meditation circle bring in the resort’s nod to wellness promoting relaxation and mind- body connections.
The thatched roof, seaside location, and sandy floor make the Tiki Bar at the Palms the ideal location to grab a cocktail any time of the year. Photo: The Palms
Sun worshippers will find poolside lounge chairs and umbrellas, and on the beach, private cabanas await true indulgence. Over at the Tiki Bar palms sway in the breeze and soothing ocean breezes billow in. Order an array of chef-prepared cuisines, a favorite is pork tacos with grilled pineapple. Kick it back with a spicy mango Margarita and tune in to the sounds of the ocean waves just steps away. For info: www.thepalmshotel.com
Lolo’s Surf Cantina at Marriott Stanton, South Beach
This hip spot melds into the South Beach vibe as if it were another residential building in the popular but quiet end of southern SoBe. The art-deco-inspired lobby encourages a tour of the historic district which leads to the Art Deco Museum on Ocean Drive. Grab your sunnies and head over to the oceanfront infinity pools or out to the white sands of South Beach and reserve a cabana for ultimate relaxation. You can settle into your chaise and never leave as servers from the bar are ready to deliver.
Soak up the sun at the two heated infinity pools at the Marriott Stanton in South Beach. Photo: The Stanton
Lolo’s Surf Cantina will bring the fiesta to you. The Mexican-inspired eatery is a favorite spot for Margaritas, tacos, tostadas, and more. Order a torta, a take on the burger. And, of course, you’ll want a few churros to snack on in the late afternoon. See the menu at: https://loloscantina.com/
Tropicale at The Miami Beach EDITION, Miami Beach
You’ll find this restored mid-century grand dame on Collins Avenue in the Mid-Beach neighborhood. Boasting a design that fits right in the middle of mid-century glamour and minimalism with plenty of white marble and potted palms. There are two restaurants helmed by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten; foodies gravitate just on that merit alone. Guests have two pools, a cabana bar with rooftop lounges, and a spa with plenty of options to destress and begin the relaxation process.
Tropicale at The Miami Beach EDITION serves cool refreshing drinks after a day on the beach. Photo: The Edition
Out on the grassy lawn overlooking the beach is Tropicale offering casual al fresco dining. Inspired by the Tropicana, the historic 1950s Havana nightclub, Tropicale offers cocktails, wine, and beer. There’s a selection of frozen drinks and cocktails by the pitcher or glass and a fresh and light menu selection that is fitting for the beach scene. Sip a strawberry basil lemonade or dive into a signature beer, brewed by Miami Brewing Company as you take in the ocean views and island tunes. See more at: https://www.editionhotels.com/miami- beach/restaurants-and-bars/tropicale/
