5 Miami Cabanas Worth Splurging On

*By: Sarah Harris*

Having logged countless miles, my feet have been fortunate enough to wander many cities and countries around the world. And while exploring the road less travelled is always an adventure, sometimes they deserve a little break. It’s not until I had the opportunity to relax and unwind in a pool-side cabana that I truly felt pampered and privy to a lifestyle I didn’t quite appreciate, that is, until now…

The appeal beyond privacy and pampering, is that you’re quite literally secluded in your own world. A universe that sees attentive butlers delivering crafted cocktails and offering amenities you never knew existed. Sounds dreamy, right? It is. With a plethora of cabanas to choose from in Miami, the only challenge you’ll face is deciding which one to book. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered…

Five Cabanas In Miami Worth Splurging On

1. Loews Miami Beach Hotel

Located on Collins Avenue, this striking hotel boasts resort-like amenities including fully-loaded cabanas that are available to guests and the general public via a simple reservation system. This ultra-luxe experience is run through their SOAK program, featuring eight state-of-the-art poolside cabanas and a bevvy of daybeds. With air conditioning, Miami-worthy décor, concierge services, expanded food offerings and butlers on site, you simply can’t go wrong with a cabana at Loews Miami Beach Hotel. Stare into the endless abyss, party by the pool or take a catnap as you rest your vacation worries away.

Cocktail + Cabana Pairing: Lay back and relax as your butler brings you delightful offerings from one of their otherworldly onsite restaurants, Nautilus. Enjoy a plate of fresh tuna Niçoise salad with a cold Exhale Spa Refresher, complete with St-Germain elderflower liqueur and cucumbers.

2. Mandarin Oriental

This five-star spot is synonymous with million-dollar views of Biscayne Bay and a top-notch cabana service that’s exclusively available to guests of the hotel. As these amenities are reserved for hotel or spa guests, you can relax under the cloak of ease and privacy at Brickell Beach. Be sure to indulge in finely curated bites as your butler delivers crafted cocktails throughout the day.

Cocktail + Cabana Pairing: Enjoy light fare at the Oasis Pool Café in between dips. We recommend the soy braised baby back ribs paired with their Juliette Frosé, a frozen speciality drink blended with Provence rosé and organic peaches.

3. The Biltmore Hotel

Escape to this tropical oasis hidden within the glitzy area of Coral Gables. Elegantly appointed cabanas are available for daily rentals to the public and sport teak wooden chairs, ceiling fans and outdoor showers, ensuring your day is spent being equal parts relaxing and ritzy. If you’re looking for the ultimate Miami experience, make a reservation on Sunday to enjoy their famed Champagne Brunch.

Cocktail + Cabana Pairing: While food and spa services can be summoned, we recommend checking out Cascade Restaurant, nestled under a 23-foot waterfall. Order their Biltmore Mojito with muddled mint and lime, and a mouth-watering plate of grouper ceviche.

4. EAST

Just 15-minutes from the Miami International Airport, this hotel perched atop the Brickell city centre boasts a vibrant cabana culture reserved solely for guests of the property. With a 20,000-square-foot pool, this exclusive sunbathing opportunity is truly for your eyes only. Nestle beneath the brightly coloured cabanas as you enjoy the onsite Uruguayan restaurant and cool cocktails with your nearest and dearest.

Cocktail + Cabana Pairing: Refreshing drinks and food can be ordered from their signature spot, Quinto La Huella. We think their Quinto Old Fashioned with allspice and clove syrup enjoyed with the Cake de siri, frisee, rabanitos (crab cakes topped with pickled hearts of palm) would be exquisite.

5. Four Seasons Hotel At The Surf Club

With 40 beachside cabanas, three pools and world-renowned amenities, your vacation will be elevated the second you arrive at Four Seasons Hotel At The Surf Club. The storied cabanas (once a playground for Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor and Winston Churchill) were recently re-envisioned by designer Joseph Dirand and are as opulent and private as ever. Available exclusively to hotel guests, “Cabana Row” continues to be the soul of the iconic property and offers a full selection of amenities. Timeless glamour and attentive service make these breezy retreats an experience to remember.

Cocktail + Cabana Pairing: If you’re looking to indulge even further, we recommend the upscale fare at Winston’s On The Beach, an al fresco dining experience. Order the lobster roll topped with chipotle ketchup paired with their Peacock Alley Mai Tai, a white and dark rum confection.

If you’re planning a luxurious girls’ getaway to Miami, make sure to check out our guide for the perfect weekend itinerary.