Trump International Beach Resort Miami

Character and identity

A 32-story tower rising over the wide sands of Sunny Isles, just south of Bal Harbour, this is a resort that leans into its beachfront vertical setting rather than any subtle design statement. Rooms are contemporary and comfortably sized, with private balconies over the water and practical touches like wet bars, microwaves and fridges. Two beachside pools come with hot tubs, fountains and cabanas (the lower tier with private bathrooms and butler service from the pool bar). The 8,000-square-foot Aquanox Spa runs six treatment rooms, and Azzurro, the signature Italian restaurant, plates seabass piccata and ossobuco from a poolside perch facing the Atlantic.

Who's it for

Bottom line

The pitch here is location and activity density: beachfront watersports, three golf courses nearby, luxury malls minutes away, and a spa and pool deck to fall back on. Book it if you want a busy, family-friendly Miami beach base rather than a design or culinary destination. Splurge on a lower-pool cabana day, and request a higher floor for the ocean balcony view.