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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Resort Was Named the Best in Miami Beach—and It Has an Adults-only Pool, a Champagne Bar, and Dreamy Views
When it comes to domestic beach getaways, Miami simply has it all: seven miles of public sandy shores, a thriving nightlife scene, a vibrant, diverse culinary scene, and, of course, luxury beachfront resorts galore. With dozens of great hotels to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming. But, according to Travel + Leisure readers, the stays that stand out from the rest have impeccable service and luxurious facilities that offer guests a peaceful respite from the city's high energy. How Voting Works Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. One of three pools at the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club. Sofi Perazzo What Readers Loved This year's is full of familiar names, including two longtime World's Best Awards honorees, Faena Hotel Miami Beach (No. 2), known for its eclectic design and live cabaret performances, and The Setai (No. 3), which one reader described as '… managed better than any hotel I have ever experienced." The Standard (No. 10) impressed readers with its stunning spa that offers unique wellness treatments, from acupuncture facial rejuvenation to astrology sessions. 'You absolutely cannot go wrong when staying at The Standard,' gushed one voter, who then called the hotel a 'little slice of relaxation paradise on Miami Beach.' Acqualina Resort & Residences (No. 4), a Mediterranean-inspired beachside escape in Miami's Sunny Isles Beach neighborhood, stood out from the rest because of its high attention to detail. "This hotel never fails to deliver,' one reader said. 'It is shocking how they can be so on point year after year. Most hotels decline after several years, but this place only gets better.' Keep reading to see which property made this year's No. 1 spot—and how they stole the spotlight. The Winner Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club A guest room with Atlantic Ocean views at Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club. Sofi Perazzo The building that now houses the Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club originally opened its doors in 1930 as a social club and welcomed the likes of celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor and Winston Churchill. Nearly nine decades later, the property has been transformed into its current incarnation— and according to our readers, it's the No. 1 resort in Miami Beach. Located in Surfside, a posh uptown Miami beach community, the hotel jumped from its No. 3 spot on last year's list to get the gold, finally surpassing some of its fiercest South Beach competitors. Highlights of this property include oceanview suites, three large pools (one is adults-only), and a gorgeous Champagne bar that pays homage to the glamor of the club's early years. Readers also loved its attentive staff and prime beachfront location near some of the best shopping and restaurants in the area. 'This is exactly what I envision a luxury hotel to be,' one reader said. T+L Reader This is exactly what I envision a luxury hotel to be. — T+L Reader The Full List 1. Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club: Surfside, Florida Reader Score: 96.24 2. Faena Hotel Miami Beach: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 95.52 3. The Setai Miami Beach: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 94.34 4. Acqualina Resort & Residences: Sunny Isles Beach, Florida WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 93.08 5. Nobu Hotel Miami Beach: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 92.55 6. W South Beach: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 92.53 7. Loews Miami Beach Hotel: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 91.73 8. JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa: Aventura, Florida Reader Score: 91.50 9. The Palms Hotel & Spa: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 90.50 10. The Standard, Miami Beach: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 90.00 11. The Biltmore Miami–Coral Gables: Coral Gabes, Florida Reader Score: 89.09 12. Eden Roc Miami Beach: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 87.76 13. 1 Hotel South Beach: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 85.17 14. Fontainebleau Miami Beach: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 81.57 15. Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Autograph Collection: Miami Beach, Florida Reader Score: 77.88
The Independent
02-07-2025
- The Independent
Best hotels in Cancun, from family getaways to wellness escapes
Cancun is the epitome of the Mexican beach getaway. Flawlessly placed in the heart of the Mexican Caribbean, its powdery beaches and clear waters create the perfect setting for sun-filled days where worries fade into the horizon. Beloved by families and couples, it's also a top destination for groups – from large business conventions to bachelor/bachelorette parties and, yes, spring breakers. Many of Cancun's top hotels (like Kempinski and JW Marriott) are concentrated around its iconic Zona Hotelera, conveniently located near restaurants, nightclubs, and shops, while others stand in the surrounding Riviera Maya area. For the following selection, we chose hotels no more than 40 minutes away from Cancun International Airport, keeping you as close to the action as possible – or as far from it as you want. Best hotels in Cancun 2025 At a glance Cristina Alonso 1. SHA Mexico hotel Costa Mujeres, Quintana Roo Who hasn't dreamed of getting away from it all for a few days of absolute rest and renovation? SHA exists for that precise purpose. Founded in 2008, the Spanish brand landed in the Mexican Caribbean in 2024, bringing its world-renowned SHA Method. The comprehensive wellness programme means that every single element of your stay will benefit your health: mental, physical, and spiritual. Choose between focused programmes like Advanced Longevity, Detox & Optimal Weight, and Recover & Energize, or opt for a fully tailored programme that adapts to your needs with the stunning natural surroundings as part of your journey. Address: Carretera a Punta Sam 84, 777420, Cancún, Quintana Roo 2. Chablé Maroma hotel Punta Maroma, Quintana Roo Situated amidst a seemingly endless stretch of sand and sea, Chablé Maroma celebrates the unique riches of the Mexican Caribbean. Every element of the experience here is infused with a deep love and respect for Mexico – from the excellent dining offerings, led by Chef Jorge Vallejo of Mexico City's renowned Quintonil, to the soulful wellness experiences, including a healing ritual inspired by the sea. Days here can be spent in pursuit of adventure – how about diving in a cenote (a natural sinkhole)? – of culinary knowledge – check out the Mayan recipe class – or of total relaxation under the sun. 3. The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya hotel Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo Inspired by the Pleiades star cluster, highly regarded in Mayan culture, the spectacular St. Regis Kanai floats above an ocean of green – a mangrove forest that expands until it meets the sea. The resort's modern, eye-catching architecture blends with naturally-inspired elements like ceramic lamps and wooden headboards, honouring its unique surroundings. St. Regis fans will find the brand's signature touch in elements like the Afternoon Tea Ritual and its Butler Service, blended with locally-infused experiences like Night Sky Observation sessions and Clay Art Classes. With 194 guest rooms, 19 suites, and a Presidential Suite, it's as fitting for couples as it is for families or groups of friends. Address: Paseo Kanai 15, Solidaridad, 77730, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo 4. Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo An explosion of colour and fun, this 280-suite guest room is a kid-friendly dream come to life – a place where SpongeBob joins the family photo, and getting bathed in neon-green slime is the utmost honour. Entertainment options are enough to keep the kids happy and energised throughout your stay, courtesy of the expansive six-acre Aqua Nick water park featuring a Lazy River, tons of slides, and a Paw Patrol area – while grown-ups get their own VIP treatment at the Náay Spa. Make the most of its all-inclusive rates and stay alert for frequent seasonal promotions. Address: Km 45 Carretera Cancun–Tulum, 77710, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo 5. Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya hotel Cancun, Quintana Roo Sleek sophistication and deep relaxation define the Waldorf Astoria, one of the latest additions to the Riviera Maya landscape. Each of its 173 guest rooms and suites features a private balcony and a jet tub, plus luxurious amenities like Frette linens and locally-infused crafts. The resort's pristine beach and serene waters create the perfect setting for activities like paddle boarding and kayaking, while two infinity pools welcome guests of all ages for hours of refreshing bliss. The varied culinary offerings range from the elegant Malpeque, serving a fire and smoke-based menu, to the chic Peacock Alley bar, perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap. 6. Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection hotel Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo This dreamy resort's name holds a promise: an ethereal, soothing stay filled with moments of calm and bliss. Located in the gorgeous Kanai complex, Etéreo is surrounded by lush mangroves that create a deep connection with nature. With only 75 studio-style rooms and suites, outfitted with contemporary furniture, local crafts, and carved wooden walls by Mexican artist Manuel Felguérez, the resort feels secluded and private, yet offers plenty of opportunities for connection and discovery. Delve into Mexican spirits during a guided tasting, learn the secrets of the Mayan calendar with a local astrologist, or share a fresh seafood-based feast at Che Che, a casual Japanese-meets-Mexican spot. 7. Rosewood Mayakoba hotel Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo It's hard to picture a more idyllic setting than Mayakoba: an emerald lagoon surrounded by lush mangroves that end where the sea begins. Within this unique setting stands Rosewood Mayakoba, featuring 129 exquisite suites – to which you check in by boat – with expansive terraces and plunge pools. Dining is one of the main draws here: from shareable feasts at the enchanting La Ceiba Garden to fish tacos at the laid-back Aquí Me Quedo beach club, all the way to spectacular craft cocktails at the awarded Zapote Bar. Wellness enthusiasts will love the offerings at Sense, A Rosewood Spa, where local healing traditions meet state-of-the-art products and techniques. Address: Carretera Cancun–Playa del Carmen Km 298, 77710, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo Book now 8. Nizuc Resort & Spa hotel Cancun, Quintana Roo An extensive 12-hectare enclave becomes your personal paradise once you cross the doors to Nizuc. Spacious suites with modern furnishings are uniquely designed for couples or families, while private villas offer their own infinity pools and the perfect setting for a group or family escape. Entertainment abounds throughout the day, from snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and tennis lessons at the courts to craft-making for the little ones at Winik's Kids Club and live jazz-infused cocktails for the adults. After an action-packed day, how about a contemporary Mexican dinner at Ramona or a Mediterranean-inspired feast at Terra Nostra? Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 21.26, 77500, Cancun, Quintana Roo 9. JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa hotel Cancun, Quintana Roo A Cancun classic, the JW Marriott places you in the heart of the action – the perfect starting point for exploring Cancun's culinary landscape, its nightlife scene, and stunning cultural and natural attractions, making the most of the hotel's tour offerings. There's plenty to enjoy on the property, too. Find your perfect spot to lounge under the sun by the Caribbean's azure waters or the lovely outdoor pools –one for families, one for adults– book a fitness class at Sens Yah Spa; or share a generous paella and a bottle of wine at the newly-opened Bravio Spanish Cuisine. 10. Atelier Playa Mujeres hotel Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo Those who hold a grudge against all-inclusive resorts have clearly never visited Atelier Playa Mujeres. Bathed by the serene waters of Playa Mujeres, this modern all-suite resort offers a fantastic all-inclusive deal that includes unlimited dining at its more than 25 dining outlets –including María Dolores, led by renowned chef Edgar Núñez– access to a premium minibar, and even special amenities for dogs through the Pet-It program. The all-adult resort features 593 suites with gorgeous views of the sea and the Greg Norman-designed golf course. Best of all, many of them give way to water terraces that take the concept of private pools to a whole new level. 11. Kempinski Hotel Cancun Cancun, Quintana Roo Fans of old-school glamour will find their place at this Cancun hotel – a grand, 363-room building standing elegantly by the shores of the Mexican Caribbean. Bedecked in light, calming hues, guest rooms and suites await with airy balconies, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee with the warm morning breeze. With two pools and an impressive stretch of beach, it's hard to find a better plan than hanging out under the sun. As the day winds down, head to Kayantá Spa for the Ek Chuah Journey, featuring the region's most iconic and healing ingredients: a coffee scrub, a cacao wrap and a honey balm. Crown the evening with a Mediterranean dinner at Fantino. 12. Hard Rock Hotel Cancun Cancun, Quintana Roo Eclectic decor, inspiring views, and plenty of attitude: staying at this Cancun hotel is a constant invitation to make the most of every second. An unbeatable deal for groups of friends and families, your all-inclusive fare allows you to get in full vacation mode, enjoying all your meals and drinks (including room service), plus fantastic entertainment programming, without worrying about prices. Five restaurants –including Mexican, Asian, and Italian options– the Rock Spa, and stunning swimming pools are just the beginning. Music fans can't miss The Sound of Your Journey, a programme with access to exclusive playlists, Fender guitar rentals and in-room record players. Address: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 14.5, 77500, Cancun, Quintana Roo Why trust us The hotels featured in this list have been carefully selected by The Independent's expert travel writers, each with a deep knowledge of their destination. As a travel writer, Cristina visits the Mexican Caribbean constantly, both for work and pleasure. The area's natural beauty is a constant source of amazement, as are its incredibly varied hospitality offerings. When picking which hotels to include, they consider their own experience staying in the hotels and evaluate location, facilities, service and all the other details that make for an exceptional stay for all types of traveller. FAQs What is the best month to travel to Cancun? With a privileged Caribbean location, Cancun has an average temperature of 80°C year-round. The winter season (between December and April) is the most popular, with snowbirds escaping the cold and locals making the most of Christmas and Easter breaks. Summer brings another peak – as well as higher temperatures and humidity. While the rainy season (between June and November) brings showers and humidity, it also means there are smaller crowds and lower prices. What currency do I need? It's always a good idea to have a few hundred Mexican pesos in cash – especially if you're buying snacks or small souvenirs – but you can essentially operate in US Dollars. Is Cancun cheap or expensive? As one of Mexico's most popular destinations, Cancun caters to a wide audience, both domestic and international, and its price range reflects it. You can find excellent deals – especially at all-inclusive resorts – go super high-end at luxury resorts, and everything in between. Seasonality affects prices, so plan ahead and keep your eyes open for shoulder-season deals. What is Cancun famous for? Miles of sandy beaches bathed by turquoise seas make Cancun one of the most beloved destinations by Mexican and foreign travellers alike. Its varied hotel selection makes it as appealing for groups of friends and families as it is for couples. Cancun's location makes it the perfect starting point to explore wonders like Maya archaeological sites, cenotes, and nearby destinations like Isla Mujeres and Tulum. Its nightlife and culinary offerings also make it a favourite among those who love the good life.
Yahoo
28-06-2025
- Yahoo
2 New Jersey beaches named Best Hidden Gems in US, according to Frugal Flyer
Summer in New Jersey means one thing: BEACH DAYS. But if you're tired of the usual crowds and looking for a serene sandy escape, you're in luck. Here are Garden State's best hidden gem beaches for a quieter getaway. A recent survey conducted by Frugal Flyer, a Canadian travel blog, polled 3,002 individuals to identify the United States' top under-the-radar beaches. For New Jersey residents dreaming of a quieter beach day, you'll be thrilled to hear that two Garden State beaches earned a spot on a national list of 95 top hidden gems, promising serene shores and easy parking. Sedge Island is No. 27 on the list. This location a unique and environmentally significant area located in Barnegat Bay, off Island Beach State Park, in New Jersey's only Marine Conservation Zone. It's not a typical public "beach" in the sense of a boardwalk and sunbathing area you can just drive up to. Coming in at No. 30 is Pearl Beach in Cape May Point. This beach is for those seeking genuine tranquility, a serene escape surrounded by natural beauty. It's conveniently located near the iconic Sunset Beach, the historic Cape May Lighthouse and the birdwatcher's paradise of Cape May Point State Park. But, don't expect restrooms or snack bars right on the sand — this location is for the prepared beachgoer who packs essentials. Awahua Beach in Molokai, Hawaii Pa'ako Cove in Makena, Hawaii Gray's Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii Secret Beach in Brookings, Oregon Shell Key Preserve in Tierra Verde, Florida Red Sand Beach, or Kaihalulu Beach, on Maui, Hawaii Wildcat Beach in Marin County, California Carmel Meadows Beach in Carmel, California Gray Whale Cove Beach in San Mateo County, California Crystal Lake near Barton, Vermont This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: New Jersey's top hidden gem beaches for a peaceful retreat
The Sun
11-06-2025
- The Sun
Holiday parks with lidos and sandy beaches have last-minute breaks from just £30 each as UK set for 26C highs
TEMPERATURES are set to hit 26C this week, so there is no better time for a last-minute holiday. And the UK isn't short of holiday parks that have amazing outdoor facilities. 9 In fact, it is estimated that there are more than 6,000 holiday parks across the country. However, trying to find some that are near the beach or have an outdoor swimming pool can't be easy. So here are some of our top picks of holiday parks across the country that are either right by the beach or have outdoor pools. We've even checked to find some of the cheapest deals for this month as well. Whitehill Country Park, Devon The Devon holiday park Whitehill Country Park is in Paignton, a popular seaside town. Along with playgrounds and soft play zones, there is an indoor pool as well as a heated outdoor pool, which has a mini splash zone for kids and a poolside spa. There are even glamping pods and lodges on-site alongside the camping pitches. Don't worry about going hungry, with everything from booze and burgers at the Hayloft Bar as well as pizza, cafe snacks and a mini-supermarket. While its in the beautiful countryside, it is just a 13 minute drive to the beach, or an hours walk. Prices start from £21 a night for standard pitches, working out to £10.50 a night. 9 Award-winning holiday park in St Ives Lido Beach Holiday Park, North Wales Lido Beach Holiday Park is right on the Welsh coastline, with guests able to walk right over to Prestatyn Central Beach. New this year is a whole new complex with a sport bar and diner, lounge and outdoor terrace. And guests can also access the nearby Robin Hood Holiday Park, with a free shuttle bus and swimming pools. A three-night stay starts from £340, working out to £18 each per night based on six sharing. 9 Trelawne Manor, Cornwall Near Looe is Trelawne Manor, which is found on the grounds of a historic manor house. It has a heated outdoor swimming pool with a huge flume too. Just two miles down the road is the pretty village of Looe as well. A three-night stay starts from £158, working out to £8.60 each a night based on six sharing. 9 9 California Cliffs Holiday Park, Norfolk Parkdean's California Cliffs Holiday Park is just a five minute walk from Scratby Beach, a quieter alternative to Great Yartmouth. It has indoor and outdoor pools along with waterslides and loads of watersports such as aqua jet, kayaks and zorbing. Otherwise it has all of the usual kids entertainment at Parkdean resorts from live shows to go karts and art activities. Last month, the holiday park was even recognised in the 2025 Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Awards. A three-night stay starts from £159, working out to £8.80 each per night based on six staying. 9 Combe Haven Holiday Park, Sussex The Haven holiday park in Sussex is a five minute drive from Bulverhythe Beach or an easy 20 minute walk. The outdoor pool has the Space Bowl Flume although there is an indoor pool right next to it as well. New this year is the Football Fun Factory with classes for all ages. If you want to explore nearby, there is also St Leonards and Hastings a short drive. A four night stay starts from £119, working out to £7.30 each per night based on four staying. 9 Seaview Holiday Park, Kent Right between Whitstable and Canterbury, Seaview Holiday Park can't get much closer to the beach. Most of the lodges overlook the sea, as well as some of the caravans. Otherwise it does have its own outdoor swimming pool which is heated as well. A four-night stay starts from £199, which works out to £8 each per night based on six sharing. 9
Forbes
16-05-2025
- Forbes
Europe's Most Beautiful Beaches, The World's Most Powerful Passports And Other Travel News
. Looking for a new beach getaway this summer? Europe's Best Destinations recently released its annual list of the most beautiful beaches in Europe for 2025. Based on the votes of thousands of global travelers, Port Glarokavos Lagoon Beach in Northern Greece was named the continent's most beautiful beach this year, Cala Brandinchi in Sardinia, Italy took the No. 2 spot, with Cala Pregonda in Menorca, Spain rounding out the top three. . The annual Henley Passport Index ranks the most powerful passports based solely on the number of countries they provide visa-free access to, while the Nomad Passport Index (NPI) has a broader approach to international travel. The NPI also weighs visa-free travel but expands its scope to include countries that value 'personal freedom and financial prosperity.' Based on that wider criteria, Ireland has the world's most powerful passport for 2025, according to NPI, with Switzerland and Greece tied for second. The two passport rankings do agree on one thing, however—Afghanistan has the least powerful passport in the world. . When it's not a business destination, Manila is usually thought of as a stopover for those traveling to some of the Philippines' extraordinary beach resorts. But the country's capital has emerged as a luxury travel destination in its own right with world-class hotels, fine dining and even a few casino resorts to rival Macau. The editors of Forbes Travel Guide recently released their list of the five most luxurious hotel suites in Manila. And just in case you actually leave the hotel, here's how to spend two days in the city known as the Pearl of the Orient. This is the published version of Forbes' Passport newsletter, which offers a first-class guide to luxury travel. Click here to get it delivered to your inbox every Friday. . Last year, some 36 million checked bags were delayed, misplaced, misdirected, pilfered or stolen, according to a recent study. Here's how travel pros keep their checked luggage safe—and how you can, too. 'He who does not look back at where he came from will never get to his destination.' . Listen, anyone can pose near the Tower of Pisa and take the gag photo propping it up, but some of the other classic tourist photos in the world will actually cost money to get close enough. The Burj Khalifa in Dubai, for example, charges a little more than $100 for entry and attracts more than 17 million visitors a year. From the Galapagos to Mount Kilimanjaro, here are the most expensive tourist photos in the world.
