North America / USA / Florida / South Florida / Miami / Best Hotels

The Palms Hotel & Spa

You’ll be green here, but not with envy. The Palms was recognized by Florida’s Green Lodging Program for demonstrating a commitment to protecting Florida’s natural resources, and has been honored by a slew of green-leaning organizations for its sustainable practices. It’s also a darn nice place to stay, just a stone’s throw away from Miami Beach’s entertainment district, right on the beach on the northern, more tranquil side of Miami Beach. Lush gardens landscaped with palms and other tropical plants surround a large, heated freshwater pool, and in the evenings a tiki bar entertains guests.  Immaculate, recently renovated ‘tropical modern’ accommodations (think: dark wood beds with colorful botanical artwork) feature fabulous spa-inspired bathrooms. Service here is warm and caring. In the lower lobby is the fantastic, 5,000 square-foot Palms Spa, Miami Beach’s only Aveda destination spa, offering holistic treatments (try the chakra balancing), as well as hair, nail, and makeup services. In its quest to provide a natural and wholesome experience for every guest, the hotel also has an excellent restaurant—Essensia Restaurant, focusing on local, organic, and seasonal ingredients.