Grove Isle Hotel & Spa

A four-acre complex on the northern tip of Grove Isle, this hotel is a true refuge, the polar opposite of hectic South Beach—though it’s only a 15-minute drive away. It’s also a thoughtful property, attuned to the soothing waters of Biscayne Bay: some of the 50 spacious rooms, done up in shades of cocoa brown and plantation green, have raised platforms for beds allowing for optimum views. And this is a dog-friendly hotel, winner of theCESAR Five Dog Bone Award: dogs love to scamper around the walking path and the beach area. Naturally, The Spa at Grove Isle is also blessed with relaxing water views, including a yoga deck on the water. The energetic can take a Pilates class, swim laps in the bay-front pool, or play tennis at the Patrick McEnroe Tennis Center on one of 11 Har-Tru soft courts or the U.S. Open hard court. And at night, Gibraltar—with a fire pit, torches, and a soft breeze—is a truly romantic setting.