Arrival/Check-In: My friend and I arrived at Faena Hotel Miami Beach for a girls’ weekend in January, despite less-than-ideal weather. From the moment we stepped into the grand entryway, we were greeted by a friendly bellhop who pointed out the striking artwork that defines the foyer. To the right of the foyer are a restaurant and a theater; to the left are elevators, concierge services and a personalized check-in area. Instead of a large, bustling front desk, Faena offers two smaller desks that create a more exclusive, relaxed welcome. We were checked in efficiently and escorted to our room within minutes.
Guest Quarters: Housed in the former 1947 Saxony Hotel on Collins Avenue, Faena retains some of the building’s original character while delivering a decidedly modern, curated aesthetic. The corridors toward the guestrooms feel intimate and residential rather than institutional, and the art and décor lend an exotic, sophisticated vibe. The property emphasizes attentive service, including the availability of butlers for added convenience.
Most accommodations are suites. Our suite opened into a bright living area with a wet bar immediately to the right of the entrance and a coat closet to the left where we stashed our winter coats. A compact dining table flowed into the living room, which featured comfortable armchairs, a sofa and a coffee table facing a two-sided television. A private deck off the living space provided a partial view of the beach. The living area led directly into the bedroom, which offered additional closet space, and then into a generous bathroom with double sinks, an extended vanity, a separate water closet with a smart toilet and a spacious, luxurious shower. The layouts feel thoughtful and comfortable for a weekend getaway or a longer stay.
Services and Amenities: We spent the entire weekend on property and made good use of Faena’s on-site offerings. Each morning we enjoyed breakfast at Veranda, the light, pool-adjacent dining spot that felt breezy and relaxed. For dinners, we sampled two signature restaurants: Los Fuegos by Francis Mallmann, which centers on a contemporary asado-style cooking approach, and Pao by Paul Qui, where flavors draw from Filipino, Spanish, Japanese and French influences. The hotel also has three distinct bars: Saxony Bar, with a live DJ and an atmosphere that recalls golden-age glamour; The Living Room, where small plates pair with carefully crafted cocktails; and the outdoor Tree of Life, an alfresco spot for drinks and conversation.
One notable venue we didn’t have time to experience fully was Faena Theater, an intimate, gilded performance space home to artistic productions and the hotel’s acclaimed cabaret. Based on the enthusiastic recommendations from other guests, I’d plan to see a show on a return visit.
I also booked a massage at Tierra Santa Healing House, a 22,000-square-foot spa located on the hotel’s third floor. The spa offers an extensive treatment menu, a full retail shop and multiple relaxation areas. We took advantage of the pre- and post-treatment amenities, including hot tubs and saunas, which added a restorative dimension to the stay.
Highlights and Notes:
◆ Our suite provided almost everything we needed for a comfortable stay, but we did experience one operational hiccup: the phone system at the hotel was unreliable when my friend called the front desk with a question. ◆ Despite the cool January weather, we managed to enjoy time by the pool. We reserved lounge chairs and appreciated attentive poolside service for lunch and drinks. ◆ The fitness center is modern and well equipped, though I opted to use the hotel’s prime location and took a three-mile walk along the oceanfront path that runs behind Faena Hotel Miami Beach.
FAENA HOTEL MIAMI BEACH
3201 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33140
tel 305 534 8800
faena.com