Hotel Victor South Beach

Nov

Lifestyle

Hotel Victor South Beach

The Look

The amazing Hotel Victor South Beach was built in 1937 by “Dean of Deco” Lawrence Murray Dixon. Has it reopened they spent a whopping $8 million for the makeover in 2013. The effortless, understated furnishings of the lobby–all nubby linens, midcentury modern lines and muted palettes–now contrasts elegantly with Murray Dixon’s architectural details like glam crystal and brass chandeliers, geometric inlaid floors and a massive flamingo mural. A generous terrace, filled with umbrella tables, leads to both the restaurant and curvaceous pool.

Bed & Bath

The rooms are prettier and more European than the exterior of the hotel indicates, with bleached wood plank floors, Scandinavian-inspired furniture, creamy nautical fabrics and potted orchids. Views of the ocean are captivating, highlighted by plenty of glass. Bathrooms, with clear walls separating shower and toilet/bidet, are installed separately from the long sinks and Infiniti tubs, which are bedroom centerpieces. The hot water can take a long time to come in, however, so plan your disrobing accordingly.

Beyond

Italian establishment Bice is the only dining option other than room service (which is really just an extension of the restaurant). Fortunately, the fare is fresh and tasty, if a bit pricey. Enjoy it on the terrace, as the dining room tends to remain unoccupied due to the heat and humidity allowed in by propped-open doors. At the beach across the street, hotel guests are given lounge chair preference, and the gym is better equipped with machines, both weight and cardio, than many of the neighboring hotels.

In the Area

This is the famed Art Deco District; don’t leave without taking a walking or bicycle tour, self-guided or otherwise, in order to note the incredibly restored, historic properties. While Ocean Drive itself can be touristy and mediocre food-wise – with the exception of Prime 112, De Rodriguez Cuba and BLT Steak – it also offers some wicked fun, especially at the neighboring Palace South Beach, renowned for its colorful drag queen shows. Parallel streets Collins and Washington avenues feature world-class dining and nightclub options, ranging fromThe Bazaar by José Andrés in the SLS Hotel to Mansion Nightclub. Perpendicular to the beach, walking mall Lincoln Road is great for people-watching and café-hopping