Photography: 1 Hotel South Beach
1 Hotel South Beach Miami
Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop
Set the scene
Upon stepping into 1 Hotel South Beach, you're instantly greeted by an exquisite blend of organic elements - inspired by and sourced from the very surroundings of the resort. Think reclaimed wood, tropical plants, and living walls that echo the natural beauty of Miami. Your eyes will instantly dart towards the grand lobby, a showcase of nature and architecture playing together harmoniously.
In the evenings, the vibe shifts to a feeling of vibrant, effortless chic. You can spot the hotel's high-profile clientele mingling under the warm, ambient lighting. The mixture of laughter, clinking glasses, and the soft hum of indie music offers a social atmosphere yet maintains a serene sanctuary-like feeling. One glance around, and you’ll understand why this eco-conscious haven is the jewel of Miami’s hospitality scene.
What can we expect in our room at 1 Hotel South Beach
Here is what to expect when you step into any one of the rooms at 1 Hotel South Beach. Wood elements blend with earth-toned furnishings, creating a beautiful blend of natural aesthetic with modern comfort. Each room has been mindfully designed, ensuring every detail embodies the hotel's environmental ethos without compromising on style or comfort. It's well-lit, spacious, and plush; every bit of it screams luxury, but with an eco-conscious twist.
Now picture this; an expansive window view that captures the vast azure sea and the sparkling cityscape beyond. You can enjoy this view right from the comfort of your bed in their ocean-front rooms. You'd imagine something so grand would risk feeling impersonal, but the rooms have a warm, welcoming feel to them.
How about the food and drinks
Imagine being able to savor the culinary delights of not one, not two, but six gastronomic havens all within the comfort zone of your beachfront abode. The ‘Habitat’, its main restaurant, dishes out fresh and locally sourced food, using unique culinary techniques. Paired with the ambient decor that is soothingly organic, it creates a harmonious synergy that is a treat for both the palate and the eyes. Whether it is the sustainable sea bass or the green curry coconut risotto, every dish is crafted to make your taste buds do a joyful dance.
And then there's 'Plnthouse' - a delight for health-conscious foodies. Offering a line-up of plant-based meals, it is refreshing, nutritious, and tasty. For those craving a cold pint or a classy cocktail, 'The Sand Box' offers both, with bartenders who know their stuff. You want a tranquil balmy setting to slowly sip your favorite tropical concoction? You got it! Head over to 'Water' at the 1 Rooftop. Expect some terrific sushi options to go with that lip-smacking Long Island Iced Tea. 1 Hotel South Beach also offers a lavish breakfast buffet and 'Nativ Made' for your traditional grab and go, ensuring that your palette relishes every mealtime delight on offer.
What is the service like at 1 Hotel South Beach
The staff, always warm and welcoming, seem to have an uncanny knack for remembering your name, a small touch that adds to the personalized feel of your stay. They'll readily go above and beyond to ensure your needs are met; be it arranging a last-minute dinner reservation at a coveted Miami restaurant or suggesting the perfect spa treatment for your ultimate relaxation.
And oh, the concierge team! They're your on-site magicians, making things happen even before you can voice your desires. Need to do something spontaneous and thrilling? They'll come up with the best recommendations. Looking for a hidden beach to unwind? They'll guide you right to it. They're constantly on their toes, hustling hard so you can have the time of your life.
What’s the neighborhood scene like
Here, you're just a stone's throw away from the trendiest dining, shopping, and entertainment venues. This part of South Beach is fondly called "SoFi" by locals, short for South of Fifth, a lively neighborhood that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Miami's multi-faceted charm. The palm-lined streets, the Art Deco architecture, and the soothing sound of the ocean waves rolling onto the sandy beach - the ambiance is always buzzing with excitement and wonder.
Maybe you're an early bird who loves a good morning jog? The pristine beach walk adjacent to the hotel is perfect. More of a night owl? Clubs like Nikki Beach promise night-long parties while serving up the best music tracks. Perhaps you enjoy casual strolls? Or maybe you're a fashion enthusiast who enjoys boutique shopping? The area embodies the fine essence of everything "Miami". Just don't forget to put on your best pair of sunglasses, for not only the golden sun but also the star-studded scene!
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What’s the backstory
Imagine stepping into a venue straight out of an eco-conscious dream. That's the sensation you'd get in the 1 Hotel South Beach, thanks to the vision of Starwood Capital Group's Barry Sternlicht. The concept was birthed in 2006 from Sternlicht's passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship, combined with his deep understanding of the hospitality industry. The idea was simple but bold - craft an upscale hotel experience that not only pampers guests but also protects the Earth.
Transforming that vision into reality didn't come easy. Sternlicht's team embarked on a daring redesign of the historic Roney Plaza, preserving its art-deco charm while introducing innovative sustainable elements. The fundamental building materials were sourced from recycled and repurposed wood, the walls embellished with living green moss. Giving it a notch above are features like the triple-filtered water system and a modern fleet of electric vehicles. With its opening in March 2015, it was clear that the 1 Hotel South Beach isn’t just a luxuriant getaway - it's a green revolution disguised as a resort.
Price Range
With rates starting from $500 per night in the low season, it crawls up to approximately $700 a night during the high. So yeah, you're looking at a pretty hefty bill, but hey, every spa visit, every selfie with the oh-so-perfect lighting, every ounce of paradise - they are all worth it!
Keep in mind, these rates do not include the lavish breakfast on the rooftop with a mesmerizing sunrise view. That's an additional cost. And don’t forget the daily resort fee, the parking fees, and taxes.
Amenities & Facilities
The sprawling 600-foot-location is brimming with facilities. Feel free to kick back and enjoy the outstanding rooftop pool with panoramic views over Miami, daybeds, and VIP cabanas. A spa, fitness center, and beach services also await those in search of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Rooms at the hotel are no less opulent, furnished with contemporary decor that takes cues from nature, carefully curated fixtures, and eco-friendly touches. Tech-savvy? Rooms come equipped with Nespresso machines, Smart TVs, Bluetooth speakers, and complimentary Wi-Fi. At bedside, you'll even find yoga mats and glass terrariums, stressing the hotel's commitment to balancing luxury with responsible living.
How to get to 1 Hotel South Beach in Miami Beach
As you arrive at Miami airport, you will be itching to get to 1 Hotel South Beach pronto. No worries, just grab a cab and say "Take me to 1 Hotel in South Beach, driver!" In roughly 20 minutes and about $35 later, your taxi would be pulling up to this oceanfront urban retreat.
Not feeling keen on a cab ride? Fear not, we got public transport figured out for you too! Miami’s Metrobus system takes just over an hour to deliver you to the doorstep of 1 Hotel South Beach, and costs just $2.25. Hop on the bus 150 Airport Express from the airport and get off at the Washington Avenue & 15th Street stop. It's a short 10-minute stroll to the hotel.
What Customers Have To Say
Shoutout to Warren at check in who made our experience super special and unforgettable
Hotel staff were all very friendly welcoming and accommodating
10/10 will definitely come again
I think what makes this hotel really special is their staff. Everyone we interacted with went above and beyond. Staff are very kind, hardworking and caring, this honestly means a lot. We spent 5 nights at the hotel and ordered at the bar a bunch. One of our bartenders was Evans, he was extra awesome! Super friendly, welcoming, thoughtful, always checked on us, made tasty drinks! Evans made our experience 5 stars all around! The pool staff were wonderful as well, everyone went above and beyond every time!
Also, coffee shop staff make amazing cappuccino! Our room service staff were so sweet and thoughtful.
Yes, the property is beautiful, fancy and location is prime, but it’s the staff that make the experience really top tier, in my opinion.
Cons: certain food items are over the top overpriced. Basic salad costs $20 and if you want to add chicken it comes out to $40…small container of overnight oats costs $18! I absolutely welcome 20% service charge…I just think the hotel price gouges in certain ways…Im from NYC and even there I don’t pay $40 for a basic salad with chicken at a take out cafe. It’s a stretch. We ordered a cup of steamed milk to the room and the charge was $10..like it’s absurd.
I sincerely hope the hotel compensates their staff well and treats them appropriately. Sustainability and green approach is the way to go, but certain money grab practices leave a bad impression for sure. It makes me question overall integrity of the business. I hope the focus on sustainability doesn’t happen at the expense of human labor being disposable.
Contact:
Address: 2341 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139, United States of America
Phone: 305 534-8800
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.