ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Having stayed in the South Beach area of Miami before, I was very curious about staying at The Palms Hotel & Spa in Mid Beach. As you may have guessed, Mid Beach is a bit north of Miami and features numerous upscale hotels and resorts as well as a bit less buzz than her southern neighbor.

I drove in from Sarasota, gave my car to the valet who was waiting for my arrival, and was kindly escorted into the resort for check-in. I noticed a commitment to hospitality by each worker I encountered, with friendly smiles, guidance and pleasant engagement whenever I interacted with them. As I waited behind guests who took a bit longer than usual to finalize their room, the concierge stepped up and asked if he could help check me in instead. Although I was early, I was pleased to learn my room was available, on the sixth floor.

© The Palms Hotel & Spa

GUEST QUARTERS: With 251 rooms and a couple different towers available at The Palms, my king-sized corner room faced the ocean and looked exactly like the online photo. Using cozy ocean décor, the suite offered two bathrooms, a king bed, full-sized sofa bed, floor-to-ceiling windows and nearly 400 square feet of space. Balconies are available when booking oceanfront suites, as well as city views within standard rooms.

When I wasn’t in my room, I enjoyed sitting on the outdoor lounge terrace, day or night. Overlooking a gazebo,the area reminded me of family gatherings on the porch with board games, outdoor seating and a light breeze rustling through the trees.

© Carrie Cox

SERVICES/AMENITIES: On site, The Palms offers oceanfront serenity and few reasons to leave. My trip started with a 50-minute treatment from The Palms Aveda Spa, shortly after arrival. I chose the Zen Ayurvedic Massage, a one-of-a-kind treatment incorporating warm oils, aromatherapy and pindas, designed to balance my mind, body and soul. I can easily say I would return time and time again for this signature massage and the relaxing results it delivered.

I also enjoyed the lounge area post-massage, drinking flavored water and listening to soft music while giving my treatment space to settle. Further, I enjoyed lunch on the Essenia Restaurant Terrace, along with cocktails and appetizers at Essenia Bar. The farm-to-table ingredients were a highlight, and each item was plated with perfection.

Oceanfront access means guests can take a short walk through the resort to experience the beach. However, The Palms boasts a large pool, tiki bar, cabanas, Zen garden, hammocks and meditation circle, all fully encompassed by 1.5 acres of tropical foliage. When surrounded by such beautiful and extensive flora and fauna, leaving feels unnecessary.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

• The Palms feels like a private club with an elevated family atmosphere.
• Family-owned and -operated under the current owners since 1992
• The hotel prioritizes sustainability and often wins awards for its green commitments.

THE PALMS HOTEL & SPA
3025 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33140
tel 305 534 0505