Where to Stay: Kimpton's Surfcomber Miami

Photo courtesy of Kimpton's Surfcomber

Apparently, South Beach is poppin'! A recent article for my Checking In hotels column on SheKnows.com detailed all of the new and upcoming hotel openings in the United States. While conducting research, I felt like every other hotel opening I stumbled upon was in Miami.

One of the newly renovated hotels in Miami is Kimpton's Surfcomber, a stylish escape with fun pop prints, a poolside pasture, and chic European porch-style furniture. Like all hotels in the Kimpton brand, the Surfcomber is sexy and fashionable, but doesn't take itself too seriously. It's still laid back, casual and welcoming.

The top-to-bottom renovation included a revamp of the Surfcomber's two towers, guestrooms and public spaces. It's a South Beach classic hotel that's been reinvented in an eclectic look that "marries European Bohemia with down home, American porch appeal." Props to Kimpton for keep the hotel's original art deco geometry in the re-design, too.

Photo courtesy of Kimpton's Surfcomber

Surfcomber's "backyard bliss" vibe is thanks in part to treasure hunts conducted around Miami. A walk through the hotel reveals wood sculptures salvaged from downed trees in Florida; sweet decks with furnishings from rural Italy, Spain and vintage Miami; and a pasture with life-sized sculptures of cows and sheep.

Throughout the Surfcomber's 186 guest rooms, 70s-inspired summer dress prints dance with pickled natural wood and smart brass fittings. Walls the color of air are punctuated by carpets that are pure pop art. And, naturally, the surfer's lifestyle is celebrated with sculptures and other art pieces.

At Lantao Kitchen & Cocktails, the focus is on Asian street food and a beachside lifestyle. Executive Chef Freddy Ortiz, who comes from a long run at Asia de Cuba, offers authentically updated takes on Hong Kong street food served family style and divided into four categories: Gansig (snacks), Shala (salads), Bo ling (bowls), and Zhuban (entrees).

Photo courtesy of Kimpton's Surfcomber

Striking flavors like lemongrass, ginger, kaffir lime, coconut milk and curry are menu mainstays, balanced with a creative list of cocktails. Signature dishes include Banh Mi "Miami" style with beef, pork belly, pickled vegetables, cilantro and spicy mayo on a baguette.

There's no onsite spa at the hotel, but Surfcomber does offer in-room spa experiences. An oceanfront pool is another major draw. Curl up in one of the cabanas or take advantage of beach activities like volleyball, jet-ski outings and kayak tours.