My wife and I spent a week at the Faena Hotel Miami Beach for our honeymoon, and it’s a stay we still think about fondly.
We arrived on a quiet, balmy evening and were immediately assisted at the front desk. We secured a spacious Bay View Room with a king-sized bed facing Collins Avenue. While an ocean-facing room would have been ideal, we were genuinely delighted with what we had.
The room felt spacious, tasteful, and peaceful, a perfect place to unwind after long days in the sun. Thoughtful details stood out, including the teal-tiled shower with bench seating and the Lavazza coffee, a small but appreciated European touch. We also enjoyed the Alan Faena Rizzoli book, which added context to the hotel’s aesthetic and made the design feel intentional.
What truly sets the hotel apart is its atmosphere. It’s bold, glamorous, and flamboyant, yet curated and confident rather than excessive. Latin American influences, particularly from Buenos Aires, blend beautifully with European touches and a theatrical flair that feels unmistakably Miami Beach. Alan Faena’s creative vision is evident throughout the property.
Dining at Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann was a highlight. We ate there often and never tired of it. Standout dishes included the filet empanadas, Tiger Prawns Salad with grilled shrimp and grapefruit, the burger, and the lobster roll. Seeing Alan Faena himself dining on-site reinforced the hotel's sense of being genuinely lived in and cared for by its creator.
We also enjoyed drinks at The Living Room, which balances South Beach glamour with a relaxed, inviting vibe. The DJ was excellent, and hearing “As” by Stevie Wonder became a special memory tied to our stay.
The beach experience was equally impressive. Service was attentive, including the memorable touch of having cold water poured over our feet as we settled in. Food and drink service on the beach was efficient, and quality remained consistently high.
Evenings were delightful. We often relaxed outdoors near the Tree of Life or enjoyed the warm Miami air. The landscaping creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a refined Argentine retreat.
One minor critique is that the pool felt a bit small and slightly dated, though it was well-maintained and didn’t detract from the overall experience.
The location is excellent. We enjoyed walking along the beachfront path and easily reached restaurants like Joe’s Stone Crab, Casa Tua, Cecconi’s, and Lucali, as well as exploring Wynwood by Uber.
This level of luxury is usually beyond our reach, so we’re grateful to have experienced it and would love to return someday.
