Florida sunshine and Miami nightlife await vacationers and business travelers in South Florida, where there are plenty of beachside activities to accommodate just about anyone's dreams of idyllic oceanfront living. Away from the beach you can shop at Bal Harbour, visit the Bass Museum of Art or the Miami Children's Museum, and tour Biscayne National Park or Everglades National Park. There are many places to stay, and most of them are quite adept at meeting guests' needs, whether they plan to stay a night or a winter.
Located just outside the airport, the Hampton Inn & Suites Ft. Lauderdale Airport in Hollywood is ideal for travelers who have to leave early in the morning or arrive late at night. Those on the fly can stop at the complimentary breakfast to pick up the to-go bag. Guest rooms are equipped with blackout shades and high-speed Internet access. The on-site amenities include a fitness room and outdoor swimming pool. Rates run a bit over $200 per night as of January 2011. Transportation can be included for a higher rate.
Suites with private terraces overlooking the ocean await at the Doubletree Ocean Point Resort & Spa in North Miami. First-class accommodations include the resort's own private beach, state-of-the-art fitness center, sauna/steam rooms, two outdoor Jacuzzis, zero-entry beachside pool, health spa and cabanas. A full kitchen, washer and dryer grace the suites, while a kitchenette comes in a standard room.
The oceanfront One Bal Harbour Resort and Spa describes itself as "an oasis of supreme indulgence." Try an in-room massage or a dip in the outdoor heated swimming pool, or relax in your private beach cabana. Butlers and personal shoppers await to attend to every whim. Opt for the 2,800-square-foot penthouse suite with panoramic views (call for rates) or a Deluxe King room for about $450 per night as of 2011. If you do have to tear yourself away, the concierge will charter you a private jet or yacht. There is a heliport nearby.
Rivaling the luxury of One Bal Harbour Resort and Spa is the Trump International Beach Resort, located in the Sunny Isles section of Miami Beach. View sunrises from your private balcony or relax at the onsite spa. Partake of the culinary delights at any of the resorts three restaurants or dine in the privacy and of luxury of your room or suite. Cuddle up in the sumptuous provided bathrobe, and sleep deeply on the pillow-top mattress. The oceanfront two-bedroom suite goes for about $1,400 per night as of 2011. (Ask for the optional rose petal turndown for $65.) Or you can reserve the Deluxe Bay Room for about $400 per night.
