Arrival/Check-In: I arrived at the SLS on a sunny Miami day. Valets greeted me curbside, assisted with my luggage and escorted me to the front desk, where check-in was quick and seamless. The lobby’s design still captures attention: black-and-white tiled floors, photographs in mismatched antique frames and period details that nod to the building’s 1930s origins while integrating modern accents. The décor felt familiar yet distinct, with each element contributing to a cohesive, thoughtfully curated atmosphere.
Guest Quarters: My room was on the sixth floor. Dimly lit, moody corridors set up a contrast that made the room’s bright white walls, bed and sofa feel even more refreshing when I opened the door. Behind the bed and television, panels display graphics that echo ornate woodwork—subtle references to the hotel’s history that blend well with the contemporary interior.
The sofa and small table created an effective workspace, with conveniently placed outlets to keep devices charged. Complimentary WiFi is available to guests, which made remote work straightforward. The large bed featured plush linens and faced a wall-mounted flat-screen television. The room’s layout made smart use of space, featuring an open closet with ample hanging room, drawers for storage and a generous laptop safe.
The bathroom was spacious and bright white, accented with a few touches of pink and multiple mirrors. While there was no bathtub, the walk-in shower offered two options: a large rain showerhead and an adjustable handheld showerhead, providing both comfort and flexibility.
Services/Amenities: Located at the corner of Collins and 17th Avenues, the SLS enjoys one of the most desirable spots on South Beach. A short walk through the hotel past two pools leads directly to the beach. I took runs along the nearby path both mornings of my stay and used the well-equipped fitness center. The Lincoln Road shopping and dining area is only a few blocks away for guests wanting more options.
The hotel offers three on-site dining experiences. The Bazaar by José Andrés serves refined Spanish and locally inspired dishes in indoor and outdoor settings. For a more formal experience, Katsuya by Starck offers sushi prepared by master chef Katsuya Uechi. Hyde Beach provides a lively, casual atmosphere with food and drinks around the pool, on the beach and in an indoor-outdoor venue at the rear of the property.
The Experience: As a business traveler on South Beach, I found the SLS met my needs with attentive service, functional work space, reliable complimentary WiFi and prompt valet service for timely arrivals and departures. At the same time, the hotel delivered the pleasures of Miami Beach: ocean breezes, stylish design and flavorful Latin cuisine, all within a boutique hotel setting. My expectations were high, and the stay more than delivered.
GT CHECKLIST
[checklist]
[item check=yes]Doorman/valet[/item]
[item check=yes]Less than 10 minutes for check-in[/item]
[item]Separate tub and shower[/item]
[item check=yes]Large vanity[/item]
[item check=yes]High-quality towels[/item]
[item check=yes]Powerful, unattached hair dryer[/item]
[item check=yes]High-quality bed linens[/item]
[item check=yes]Large, flat-screen television[/item]
[item]Large desk with convenient outlets[/item]
[item check=yes]Large, complimentary laptop safe[/item]
[item check=yes]Complimentary in-room WiFi[/item]
[item check=yes]Complimentary bottled water[/item]
[item check=yes]Stocked minibar[/item]
[item check=yes]Ample lighting[/item]
[item]In-room coffeemaker[/item]
[item check=yes]Iron and ironing board[/item]
[item check=yes]On-site restaurant[/item]
[item check=yes]24-hour room service[/item]
[item check=yes]24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center[/item]
[item check=yes]Turn-down service[/item]
[/checklist]
SLS South Beach
1701 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
tel 305 674 1701
slshotels.com