Acqualina Resort – Paradise in Sunny Isles, Florida

 

By: Inna Shamis

Located in Sunny Isles, Florida – just between Miami and Ft. Lauderdale – Acqualina is one of South Florida’s most recognized and talked-about oceanfront properties.  Featuring stunning panoramic views of the coastline and Miami’s magnificent skyline, the luxury resort property offers 51 glorious floors that house a 97-room world-class resort and nearly 190 luxurious residences – all of which come with their own balcony.

The decor at this Mediterranean villa-inspired resort features contemporary styling and Old-World architecture – expect to see sculpted archways and Baroque fountains.  Acqualina offers three oceanfront pools, including an adult’s-only tranquility pool and an infinity-edge pool with the Atlantic coast as a backdrop – providing a view and ambiance that’s simply spectacular! 

The property also plays host to several restaurants (including the famed Il Mulino), ESPA (a 2-story 20,000 square foot oceanfront spa), tropical garden areas and a private beach club – which come together in the most beautiful way.

Offering the utmost attention to detail, and designed to complement and showcase the Floridian lifestyle, Acqualina is easily one of the most luxurious properties on what is perhaps considered the best beach on this area’s coast.

Today, Acqualina celebrates its 2nd anniversary and boasts an impressive list of accolades that include:  “Top 100 Exclusive Resorts in the World” by Robb Report, Conde Nast Traveler’s “65 Coolest New Hotels in the World” and “World’s Best Award” from Travel + Leisure magazine – and we certainly couldn’t agree more!

Location, Location, Location

Not only does Acqualina create a truly elegant and refined luxury environment that’s accentuated with exceptional service, generous accommodations and amenities, and unprecedented attention to detail – the resort is also near the best of what the area has to offer. 

Being centrally located, Acqualina is just a short ride from the world-famous Bal Harbour shopping mecca and the pulsating hustle n’ bustle of South Beach.

 

Dining, Miami Style

Voted as the “# 1 Italian Restaurant” by the trusted Zagat Survey, the famed Il Mulino New York has spread its wings to the south and opened its 6th location at the property. 

Let Chef Michele Mazza wow you with his Branzino – a fresh Mediterranean Sea Bass flown in daily from Greece. Or enjoy other favorites, which include the Double-cut Veal Chop served with sage potatoes and the Ravioli Porcini – Porcini-filled Ravioli served in a Champagne Cream Sauce with Black Truffles.

For those looking to impress a loved one with something completely romantic and unique – Acqualina has already done the legwork! The hotel can assist in setting up an intimate beachside dining for two; then, in-house chef Dioniso Erazo can help to personalize a menu for you, alongside a pairing of the perfect bottle of wine from the master sommelier.  What better way to surround yourself with flickering candles, breathtaking views of the ocean and exceptional cuisine!

Other dining options at Acqualina include the Costa Grill, a beachside bistro serving fresh gourmet salads and sandwiches; or the Aaria Bar & Lounge, where you can cool off and enjoy signature cocktails while sitting on the veranda overlooking the stunning Atlantic Ocean.

Relaxation At Its Finest

If R&R is what you are looking for then Acqualina has the perfect remedy for those overworked muscles and minds. At ESPA, let the trained professionals do the work – all you have to do is show up!

From tantalizing scalp and back massages, to invigorating body exfoliation and holistic Ayurvedic treatments – anyone who visits will leave feeling revitalized, balanced and ten lbs. lighter (at least we felt so)!

Each treatment at ESPA begins with a refreshing Tea Ceremony, an in-depth consultation and a cooling aloe foot buff to promote spiritual grounding. The spa advises guests to allow an ESPA therapist to advise on the best remedy for a tired body or assist in picking what would be most suitable.

At ESPA, guests can enjoy the solitude and luxury of a private spa suite, soak away worries in the heated jet pool or let the crystal steam room work its magic. However guests decide to spend their day here – we can guarantee one thing: they will not be disappointed!

Whether you’re looking for the perfect couple’s getaway or on a private journey to find the inner you – the Acqualina Resort delivers the whole package:  fine dining, romance, state-of-the-art amenities, lavish bedding, replenishing spa treatments, friendly staff, breathtaking views and proximity to Miami’s nightlife.

Acqualina Resort and Spa on the Beach is located at 17875 Collins Avenue, in Sunny Isles Beach.

For a full list of Miami’s hotspots, check out our Miami Destination Guide!