Four Swanky Places to Stay

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Mandarin Oriental Miami
In addition to spectacular rooms, a private beach, and an infinity pool, the Mandarin has a spa, where Mom and I got the most incredible facials. (Okay, not that I'm much of a facials expert, but Mom is, and she says the same!) The twins, meanwhile, took a yoga class. 500 Brickell Key Dr.; 866/888-6780; www.mandarinoriental.com; doubles from $575.

The Raleigh
An extremely chic Art Deco hotel on South Beach. Corner suites have pull-out sofas for kids, and the pool is stocked with inner tubes. The beach is directly behind the hotel, which puts on a Sunday soirée. For once my sisters and I were on the South Beach inside looking out! 1775 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 305/534-6300; www.raleighhotel.com; doubles from $385.

Four Seasons Miami
None of us had ever slept in such a tall building before—it's part of a 70-story tower downtown. A popcorn machine awaited us in our room, the kids' club is "free," and there's a nice children's pool. But what really impressed me were the views—from South Beach to Key Biscayne and beyond. 1435 Brickell Ave.; 800/332-3442; www.fourseasons.com; doubles from $375.

Loews Miami Beach
This resort is right on the beach. Children are welcomed—we loved the kids' club water-balloon toss—and dogs are, too. There's even a room-service menu for pooches. 1601 Collins Ave.; 800/235-6397; www.loewshotels.com; doubles from $249. —L.E.

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