Acqualina Resort and Spa

For years, I have seen photos of and heard rave reviews of Acqualina Resort and Spa, and it has been on my travel wishlist. Earlier this year, I finally had the chance to visit the property. And it certainly didn’t disappoint! In fact, the resort exceeded my expectations in every way possible.

Located in Sunny Isles, Florida, Acqualina Resort and Spa is without a doubt the most luxurious resort between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. In fact, Trip Advisor rated it as the #1 beachfront hotel in the continental United States. Additionally, Andrew Harper Readers’ Choice Awards named Acqualina the #1 beach resort, spa resort, and family resort in the world.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit

As you can tell, I had definitely researched the property and I was aware of all its awards. However, I went into my weekend experience with an open mind, ready to form my own opinions. Dare I say my own experience exceeded that which I had read about and anticipated? Based on my time at the resort, here are the top five reasons to visit.

The Service

Going into the trip, I had surmised that the premises would be beautiful. That was almost a given in my mind. But what really blew me away was the level of service. It wasn’t just one staff member who went out of their way to make our experience the best it could be, but every single member of the Acqualina team provided excellent, personalized service with a smile and friendly attitude. From the valet attendants to the bellmen to the front desk personnel to the beach staff to the waiters in the restaurant to the spa attendants, every single encounter with a member of the Acqualina team was a special encounter.

The Beach

Of course, many beaches in this part of Florida are beautiful. But Acqualina in particular has a special spot on the beach. The luxury resort is located on 4.5 acres of beachfront property and features a full 400 feet of pristine Atlantic Ocean coastline upon which to take a peaceful stroll. The beach is truly a haven for rest, relaxation, or play – whatever your heart desires.

The Restaurant

As with most top-notch resorts, Acqualina of course offers several dining options. In fact, there are three restaurants on property. However, one restaurant stole my food-loving heart. The famed New York Italian restaurant Il Mulino brings its authentic Italian cuisine to southern Florida. Without missing a beat, Il Molino transfers its flawless service, wonderful atmosphere, and phenomenal Italian menu to a beach side setting at Acqualina. In fact, we loved the restaurant so much we ate there twice in one weekend!

The Spa

Acqualina Spa by Espa provides a true sanctuary and respite. Even before starting your selected treatment, you will feel lavishly pampered, as the pre-appointment agenda includes unwinding with fruit, tea, a steam shower, an arctic ice fountain, the outdoor heated jet pool, and many other options. I opted for a facial treatment when I was visited. The aesthetician was attentive to my concerns and personalized the treatment for my skin.

The Rooms

When I arrived at the resort, I was surprised at how large the building looked, as I had read it had fewer than 100 guest rooms. Well, upon arrival to my suite, I understood the size of the building. It’s because all of the rooms are so spacious! Not only are the rooms large, they are impeccably furnished and remarkably comfortable, plus they provide top notch views from the comfort of within your room or from the spacious balconies.

Bonus : The Family Friendly Atmosphere

One final bonus reason to visit: The resort is very family friendly. From a children’s pool to sandcastle building on the beach to a soccer field, the property boasts many activities for the kids. Even more impressive is the new children’s aquamarine program recently launched. Read more about that amenity here.

On the flip side, though, an adults-only trip is totally reasonable at this hotel as well. We found plenty of opportunities for couples time on the beach, in the restaurant, at the spa, and at the adult infinity edge pool. The property truly encompasses the best of both worlds.

Conclusion

The only downside to my trip was that it was still a bit chilly, cloudy, and a little rainy when I was there in early February. I am already dreaming of going back in the upcoming warm months!

Have you made any summer vacation plans yet? Clearly, I highly recommend you consider staying here if southern Florida is on your radar. You will not be disappointed.

Thank you to the kind team at Acqualina for hosting me. Also, be sure to read my Fashion Month interview with Acqualina on their lifestyle blog. Have a great week!