The quiet is the first thing many notice upon arriving at The Setai Miami Beach, a stark contrast to the typical energetic soundscape of the area. This hotel offers a serene escape, stepping into a space lined with Burmese teak that feels removed from South Beach’s often loud music and flashy cars. Guests seeking tranquility will find it here, a departure from the usual glitz found along Collins Avenue.
The Setai’s Unique Appeal
This hotel is positioned as the Loro Piana of accommodations in an area dominated by entities like Versace, signifying a focus on understated, quiet luxury. Owned by the family behind Jordache jeans, it is a favored choice for celebrities, blending the region’s Art Deco aesthetic with a distinct Pan-Asian influence. The lobby itself is a testament to this fusion, built using bricks from Shanghai, a city known for its Art Deco heritage. Elaborate displays, such as a weekly refresh of hundreds of roses, contribute to its lush and sophisticated atmosphere, offering a stately, moody ambiance compared to its neighbors.
Yes, The Setai’s tranquil environment and expansive suites can be very comfortable for families. While it caters to a luxury market, the spacious grounds and pool access offer amenities that children can enjoy, provided the family appreciates a more relaxed pace over a typical resort experience.
The Art Deco Suite
The hotel’s suites are designed to evoke an immediate sense of luxury and calm. Wood-lined accents and sliding doors create a tranquil feel within large, sun-drenched spaces. Bathtubs are a highlight, often described as deep, roomy, and lined with marble. Beds are typically provided by high-end Swedish brands, and the in-room amenities are from premium European labels. Recent partnerships have introduced exclusive lines of luxury personal care products.
Art Lovers
Discerning Travelers
The Grounds
The hotel’s grounds are designed to feel like an exotic escape, offering a tropical ambiance that might remind guests of a journey to Bali. For those who appreciate a choice of aquatic experiences, The Setai provides three infinity pools, each maintained at a different temperature, situated in a line leading towards the hotel’s private beach access.
Jaya Restaurant
Before reaching the beach, guests can explore Jaya, the hotel’s main restaurant. This dining space is set within a courtyard, richly adorned with palm fronds and featuring tranquil water elements. During breakfast, the ambiance is airy and serene, transitioning to a sultrier atmosphere at dinner with dimmed lighting and upbeat music.
The hotel’s layout encourages a journey through its amenities, starting from the lobby and moving towards the pools and beach, with dining options strategically placed along the path.
The Spa
The spa facilities are subtly located, housed in a building easily missed to the right of the infinity pools. Here, a selection of high-end body and facial treatments are available from a renowned Swiss brand. One of the most exclusive offerings is a comprehensive signature treatment that includes a full-body exfoliation and a specialized facial massage. Despite its European product focus, the spa also integrates Asian influences, notably with traditional Ayurvedic massages that aim to leave guests feeling deeply relaxed. Occasionally, treatments may take place in suites within The Setai Tower, requiring a brief walk through the lobby.
Book spa appointments in advance, especially for signature treatments, as availability can be limited due to the exclusive nature of the services.
The Food
The culinary offerings are considered a significant highlight. Two distinct dining venues are available. The Ocean Grill provides a casual beachfront setting with menu items like fish tacos and ceviche. Jaya, the hotel’s primary restaurant, under the direction of its executive chef, presents a sophisticated Pan-Asian dining experience.
Jaya’s Culinary Fusion
Jaya specializes in a fusion of flavors drawing from Thailand, Vietnam, India, China, and Japan. The kitchen is equipped with specialized ovens, such as a large tandoori oven for expertly grilled meats. The team includes international staff who contribute authentic expertise to the cuisine.
On select nights, Jaya hosts an Asian Night Bazaar, which features live entertainment alongside the dining experience. The menu includes a variety of fresh nigiri and sushi, which can be paired with dishes like the Thali Platter, presenting Indian breads and curries. Main courses might include curries with balanced spice and creaminess, and a signature Peking Duck noted for its authentic preparation outside of a traditional Chinatown. Desserts often feature traditional Asian sweets. The dining experience at Jaya is enhanced by dimmed lighting and performances by contortionists and fire dancers during the evening bazaars.
When is the Asian Night Bazaar held?
The Asian Night Bazaar at Jaya typically takes place on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
This event combines dinner with live entertainment in the hotel’s courtyard setting.
The vibrant atmosphere during the Asian Night Bazaar, while engaging, may be less conducive to very young children who require a quieter dining environment.
The Ocean Grill
For a more relaxed meal, The Ocean Grill offers casual dining directly on the beach. The menu features approachable favorites such as fish tacos and grilled shrimp, alongside a selection of fresh ceviche, providing a laid-back option with ocean views.
| Dining Venue | Ambiance | Cuisine Style | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jaya | Sophisticated, courtyard setting, transforms for dinner and bazaars | Pan-Asian (Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, Chinese, Japanese) | Live entertainment, fusion dishes, Peking Duck, Thali Platter |
| The Ocean Grill | Casual, beachfront | Seafood, American beach fare | Fish tacos, grilled shrimp, fresh ceviche |
Miami Beach’s Art Deco Legacy
Miami Beach is globally recognized for its extensive Art Deco Historic District, a designation that protects over 800 buildings from the 1920s to the 1940s. This architectural style is characterized by geometric shapes, pastel colors, and decorative elements that evoke a sense of optimism and glamour from a bygone era. The hotels and buildings along Ocean Drive and Collins Avenue are prime examples, showcasing streamlined forms, nautical motifs, and elaborate ornamentation. The Setai integrates this local architectural heritage, notably by incorporating materials and design principles that reference this distinct period.
How does The Setai connect with Miami’s Art Deco history?
The hotel’s lobby architecture, including the use of imported bricks, directly references Art Deco design principles found in Shanghai, a city also known for this style.
This creates a unique dialogue between the local Miami aesthetic and international Art Deco influences.
Exclusive Amenities and Experiences
The Setai offers a collection of amenities designed for a refined guest experience. Beyond its tranquil pools and private beach access, the hotel provides a serene environment that emphasizes relaxation and exclusivity. The rooms themselves are appointed with high-quality furnishings and premium toiletries, contributing to the overall sense of luxury.
The Infinity Pools
A notable feature is the series of three infinity pools, arranged sequentially and heated to different temperatures. This offers guests a choice for their aquatic relaxation, each providing a sophisticated setting to unwind before heading down to the shoreline.
Luxury Partnerships
The hotel has established partnerships with luxury brands to enhance the guest experience. This extends to in-room amenities and retail offerings, featuring exclusive collaborations with high-end fashion and lifestyle labels. These alliances underscore The Setai’s commitment to providing guests with products and services of exceptional quality and desirability.
What luxury brands are associated with The Setai?
The hotel has featured amenities from brands like Aqua di Parma and recently formed a partnership with the luxury streetwear brand Palm Angels for its exclusive line of shampoos and conditioners.
These collaborations highlight the hotel’s dedication to offering premium guest experiences.
Key Takeaways
- The Setai offers a quiet luxury experience distinct from its South Beach neighbors.
- Its design blends Art Deco aesthetics with Pan-Asian influences.
- Dining at Jaya provides a notable Pan-Asian fusion experience, especially during the Night Bazaar.
- The hotel features three distinct infinity pools leading to its private beach.
For travelers seeking a sophisticated and tranquil stay in Miami Beach, The Setai presents a compelling option.
