A Sanctuary for the Senses

By Hillary Latos

Just steps from the white sandy beach and action of Ocean Drive, is a serene beachy hideaway, Sense Beach House in the chic SoFi (south of fifth) district. Taking inspiration from the beach, the design aesthetic is more like a multi million dollar Montauk cottage than the retro minimalist look of South Beach, with plenty of shabby chic and understated touches for an exceptionally relaxing stay.

Sitting in the lobby, aptly named the parlor, is like being in a wealthy friend's Hamptons home with a welcoming staff that makes you feel at home. Decorated in a soft seaside palette, sink into their natural linen down filled couches on seagrass carpet and admire the ocean themed décor or sip one of their refreshing cocktails. Or if you are more inclined for beachside fun, Senses has a number of complementary beach chairs for guests on the adjacent strip of Miami Beach. If its rest and relaxation you seek, escape to the rooftop pool and terrace named "The Oasis" which has sumptuous chaise loungers with beautiful views of the beach and city as a backdrop.

Calming beach tones of sand or sea set the palette for the rooms. The luxuriously appointed oversized rooms each have an individual balcony and are so chic and well appointed you may never want to leave. Every detail has been addressed to ensure comfort and tranquility from the soothing striped walls, plush memory foam mattress, Egyptian cotton sheets, tufted pillows, 46" flat screen TV, to the Molton Brown toiletries and modern granite bathroom with a rain shower head.

Dining at their signature restaurant, The Local House is a true treat for the senses. Unlike the tourist traps besieging Ocean Drive, The Local House is a popular dining destination amongst locals who come for the relaxed atmosphere for and vibrant and uncomplicated contemporary American fare with a Latin twist. A specialty of the house is the fresh South Floridian seafood ranging from an extensive raw bar, corvina ceviche, grouper sliders, blackened mahi mahi tacos, seared scallops and pan seared branzino. Be sure to try their signature cocktails that pair perfectly with the delectable and light cuisine. Potent concoctions such as Down the Rabbit Hole with bourbon, raspberries, mint, lime and ginger ale or Beyond Good and Evil with rum, triple sec, jalapeno and passion fruit are all suitably named with an equally bold personality. The best cure for a hard night of SoBe partying, is their renowned brunch. Indulge in a brunch classic with a twist like a crab cake benedict, caramelized banana pancakes, brioche French toast or a sizzling braised beef brisket with creamy polenta, all of which are as delicious as they sound.

Senses Beach House 400 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach 305 538 5529 From $299 per night.

For more information:
sensebeachhouse.com