Four Seasons Miami with Kids

Miami has always been one of our favorite family vacation destinations with a fun international vibe, beautiful white beaches, and loads to do. We love that it’s warm year-round and easy to access from practically anywhere.

Say Miami and people often just think of South Beach, yet that is a small fraction of what makes Miami “The Magic City.” Miami is large and diverse, offering plenty of neighborhoods, each with it’s own appeal. We’ve always stayed in Coconut Grove or South Beach, so I have to admit that I was shocked to discover how long Miami Beach stretches — it’s a 30-minute drive to North Miami Beach from South Beach.

One thing Miami does not lack is style. With that appreciation of style, comes fabulous hotels. However, finding one that is chic where your children are welcome and you don’t feel like you’re in an art museum, can be a challenge.

This is why when we arrived at the Four Seasons Miami, we knew we found “our place.”

7th story roof is an in-city oasis

Setting the Mood

This hotel’s sophistications are present both in the sleek décor and the outstanding service that you come to expect at the Four Seasons. Located in the Brickell neighborhood, often referred to as Millionaires’ Row across from Miami Beach, it’s close to area attractions like the Seaquarium, the beaches, Vizcaya Museum and Key Biscayne.

At first I was concerned because the property is not right on the beach, but that isn’t a problem at all. My kids fell in love with the pools on the seventh story, especially the “Palm Grove Pool” with about 20 palm trees planted in a knee-deep pool interlaced with hammocks — so relaxing! If we had wanted to hit the sand, the hotel happily provides access to a private beach a short drive away from the hotel.

Everyone, even the mom and baby, relaxing in the hammocks at the Palm Grove Pool

The rooms are spacious and luxuriously appointed. The recently updated décor is modern without feeling sterile or like you are in an art museum. My 4-year-old’s favorite is the shower with multiple shower heads; I love the gorgeous views of the water via the huge glass windows.

There’s also a huge LA Sports Club on site. So forget the small hotel gym, this place is the real deal for people who enjoy working out. There is an endless selection of high-quality fitness classes and spa services.

Refreshing fruit platter brought out per my kids’ “honest” request

Four Seasons Service

So what really sets this property apart? Hands down, the detail-oriented, highly personalized service. Obviously, when you go to a five star hotel, you expect good service. However, there’s good service and then there’s Four Season’s service.

The Four Seasons attention to detail is both impressive and meaningful.

Impressive

– Every staff person knew our name

– The personalized gifts selected were according to age and gender of my kids

– The stack of Xbox games waiting in our room with the Xbox Kinnect

Meaningful

As background, my 8-year-old-son has severe food allergies …

– The head chef coming out to the pool and verifying that the food he got for my son at Whole Foods was safe for his allergies

– Emptying the mini/snack bar of all the nut products

– Having a welcome snack of fruit rather than cookies so my son could actually eat it.

Oh and by the way, all the food stuff mentioned above was totally unsolicited.

Case In Point

When someone asks you, “Is there anything that we can get for you?” and you politely reply, “No, thank you. We are all set.” But, they asked a second time …”Are you sure there isn’t anything.” Well, wouldn’t you know, apparently that second ask was my kids’ signal to be honest. Ignoring, my look, they started listing their desires! Next thing you know, two beautiful trays of their favorite fruits were delivered poolside by the chef himself.

Editorial Note: Four Seasons Miami hosted Nancy and her family for an overnight to experience the hotel first-hand. As always, our opinions are our own. Photos by Nancy Solomon

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