Our stay of the week – Thompson Miami Beach

Update June 2016 – since this post was first published, the hotel has been purchased by the Hyatt group and though it looks the same, it’s now called The Confidante

It takes serious game to compete with the multitude of glitzy openings in Miami – especially now this one has upped the ante. A delight to the eye with direct access to sensational white sands, Thompson Miami Beach has muscled its way to the fore of Florida’s ultra-hip beach scene.

#Nofilter needed for the eye-popping canary yellows and marine blues that permeate the interior and exterior of the property. Envisaged by Martin Brudnizki (designer of The Ivy, Dean Street Townhouse and one half of the creative team behind Soho Beach House Miami), Thompson Miami Beach has the air of an arty private members’ club. It’s among the most ambitious projects (and the first ocean-facing resort) for the boutique hotel group, whose nine-strong portfolio includes one European outpost – the exclusive Belgraves London.

Premium King room

At the risk of betraying our homeboy Belgraves, Miami Beach might just be our favourite of them all. The freshly squeezed style positively screams sunshine, while the nod to the glamour of the 1950s makes it one of the most visually appealing hotels we’ve seen. Housed in a restored 1940s Art Deco tower – the signature architecture of Collins Avenue – its look is a triumph of mid-century optics and vivid colour.

Seagrape terrace

Not merely a new icon for hotel design fans, it’s also home to two swanky restaurants by Michelle Bernstein; three bars, a jet-lag-busting rooftop spa, 24-hour fitness centre with complimentary classes for guests and two perfect pools set in tropical gardens, so there’s no need to stray far until you get the exploring itch. South Beach (the buzziest strip where the heat really is on) is close but not within shrieking distance, as are the abundant cafes and shops of Lincoln Road. But despite the merits of the local neighbourhood – nothing’s going to beat watching the waves roll in from one of those candy-striped sun loungers. Come armed with a stack of magazines and a decent summer playlist…

We’re offering a stay at Thompson Miami Beach from £99 for a Deluxe King room (Premium King and Partial Ocean View Balcony King rooms also available), including valet parking.

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