Carillon Miami Wellness Resort

This property was originally built in 1958 by Norman Giller, the father of MiMo architecture. Eventually, it became a Canyon Ranch property, before shifting ownership in 2016. Major renovations then took place until late 2017, adding two food venues, meeting space, a new lobby and outdoor space. Guest rooms were redone, replacing a remarkable amount of dated-looking wood paneling with contemporary decor in fresh, sophisticated color palettes that lent a slight nod to the beach. Though no longer a Canyon Ranch property, the main goal here is wellness and the majority of guests -- couples, families, wellness retreat groups -- come to experience their own renovation in mind, body, and spirit. 

Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is located in North Beach, right across the street from a large Publix grocery store and Starbucks. This area is quieter than South Beach, though still bustling, and guests have beach access right behind the hotel. The Historic Art Deco District is a 25-minute ride south and the thumping party hub of South Beach, artsy neighborhood of Wynwood, and Downtown Miami are all a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Miami International Airport is also around a 20-minute drive away, depending on traffic. 

Carillon is an all-suite property, with rooms done in a sophisticated, contemporary, and soothing design. For the most part, the 150 one- and two-bedroom suites have the same features, leaving only the view (ocean or city) and layout as differentiators. All suites come with full kitchenettes featuring two-burner glass stoves, microwaves, toasters, minibars with freezer sections, and Nespresso machines (but no ovens). There are also dishwashers and the cabinets are stocked with everything needed to make a full meal. Washer/dryers add convenience, while floor-to-ceiling windows allow for sunlight and big views. The tiled rooms have pullout sofas and large flat-screen TVs, and score points for Bose sound systems and tablet services. Five-piece bathrooms off the bedrooms are large and gorgeous thanks to mosaic tiling, deep-soaking tubs, separate walk-in showers, and vanity areas with lighted magnifying mirrors. Many rooms have two balconies -- one off the bedroom and another off the living room. Carpeted bedrooms feature comfortable king or queen-size beds. 

Carillon Miami Wellness Resort is located up against a 750-foot stretch of Miami Beach's North Beach section. Technically, visitors must first cross a boardwalk that runs just between the hotel and the sands. No raking is allowed during the area's sea turtle season (summer to fall) in order to protect nests. Guests will find two rows of sun loungers with umbrellas (free), plus daybeds and cabanas (daily fee). 

The resort's wellness center and spa are the main attraction for most, and clocking in at 70,000 square feet, it's the largest spa and wellness facility in South Florida. The Spa has a full-service salon and a wealth of body, beauty, and massage treatments, and guests can take their pick of over 200 free exercise classes. Those serious about wellness can partake in educational wellness workshops led by certified practitioners and program planning from the wellness concierge (fee). The resort even has doctors, nutritionists, healers, and exercise physiologists available for consultations (fee). Guests also get free, everyday access to the superb Thermal Experience, inclusive of experiential showers, several showers with different temperatures and scents, and a hammam with chromotherapy -- to name a few. There's also a two-story indoor rock wall, a strict "silent phone" rule, and a gym equipped with kinesis weights and Technogym machines. It's worth noting that some exercise classes are held by a family-friendly pool, which can disrupt the zen of the class. 

This hotel has four basic pools, including a rooftop pool with good ocean views and semi-private sunning area (though no food and beverage service). There's also a lounging-ready stone hot tub with ocean views. The Sunrise Pool also has a hot tub, plus ADA access, thick-padded sunbeds, and beach access (also no food or drink service). The Cabana Family Pool is located away from most other features of the hotel and features waitered service from the Sea Glass Cafe. The only pool without a beach view is the Sunset Pool, aptly named for its great sunset views over the city. 

It's not surprising that the food and drink at Carillon Miami Wellness tends to lean on the healthier side. The Strand Bar and Grill serves up contemporary American dishes, and features marked menus for dietary restrictions, an open kitchen, two indoor dining rooms, and seating on an outdoor terrace. There's also a private dining room dubbed The Tambourine Room, a nod to the Tambourine Lounge, which was a favorite Miami hangout spot of the Rat Pack. Guests entering the restaurant through the lobby will have to pass the Strand Bar, a chic and contemporary lounge-like space with seating and an island bar with organic cocktails. The Corner Store/Juice Bar is a more casual option with smoothies, bowls, and grab-and-go items. Just be warned it gets busy in the mornings. Room service (sourced from The Strand Bar and Grill) is available until late and guests can pre-order breakfast. Kid and family programs, like exercise classes and a scheduled family rock climb, are available, though there is no dedicated kids' club here. Up to two dogs under 35 pounds, with vaccination records are welcome with a flat pet fee, but are subject to availability of pet-friendly suites. With advanced notice, the hotel can provide doggie packages with treats and toys. Third-party dog sitters and walkers are available for a fee. Other features include over 15,000 square feet of event space, a black tea or water welcome drink, and free Wi-Fi. Valet parking is the only option and it comes with a high daily fee.