The Clinton Hotel and Spa
New Miami
Newly opened in 2004, The Clinton Hotel fully embodies the new Miami, with its finger on novelty but with a subtle nod toward the past. This boutique hotel and spa in the heart of South Beach just steps away from its white sandy beaches combines the famous deco style with cutting edge innovation. Nestled in the middle of world class clubs, restaurants and shopping, it’s the perfect spot for a fabulously chic party and who doesn’t want to party in South Beach?
Ultra cool, intimate and sexy was my take away and as my first introduction to the South Beach scene, I was feeling the vibe right away. The lobby beckoned from a movie marquee entrance suitable for Hollywood & Vine and the ultramodern neutral public spaces framed by dramatic lighting set a mood of backstage glamour. My charming white room was a peaceful sanctuary that screamed sexy chic.
The dimly lit royal blue hallways give off a very mysterious feel and your imagination can run wild just getting to your room. Every guest room door is complemented by an adjacent wall plaque with a sexy silhouette of a man or a woman. In an unusual twist on the standard, to reach my quarters I had to exit to an outside catwalk then re-enter. Strutting in my 5 inch heels, I felt like it was my own little secret runway and the best detail – the walkway and my room overlooked a small waterfall that ran into a glowing pond, lit with underneath lights.
Like the hotel my suite was ultra-contemporary. The large shower could fit a few friends and was beautifully fitted with slate floors and walls. The huge bed, bathed in charming white complete with a pillow top mattress and crisp white sheets, kept me for a few extra minutes in the morning. A cozy love seat that looked like it was snatched from a Grace Kelly still hugged the entrance wall. Hmmm, perhaps I could pick up a Harlequin novel and indulge in some chocolates. Opening the sliding glass doors I had a pleasant surprise – my own balcony and Jacuzzi! This became my refuge, where I could plan my next conquest or just daydream, listening to the light trickles of the waterfall.
The tiny lap pool was nestled behind the hotel’s restaurant, The Goods, and had the perfect intimate focus that is sometimes wanting in the South Beach social setting. Let’s just say it invited company, ok? For private time with that certain person, gleaming white furnished cabanas provided shelter from staring eyes from the balconied rooms overlooking the pool. A light Caribbean music groove got me thinking about Stella in Jamaica.
The Clinton Hotel is a special place, one to call home while enjoying the extravagances of South Beach where the sizzling sun and night life can drain your energy. But don’t worry; you won’t miss a beat because you’re close enough to pop back for a little disco nap.
The Clinton Hotel
825 Washington Ave.
South Beach, FL 33139
(305)-538-1472
www.clintonsouthbeach.com