Fontainebleau, Surfcomber, or The Betsy

Question

Help me decide! The Betsy and the fontainebleau are the same price. The Surfcomber is free with hotel member points. Would one of the other 2 be worth it? This is for 40th birthday trip, just me and my husband. We are big foodies. We are not big party people but the Jazz Piano bar at the Betsy would be something we would enjoy. Thank you!!!

Answer

It sounds like you’re planning a special 40th birthday trip and have some great options to choose from! All three hotels—Fontainebleau, Surfcomber, and The Betsy—are wonderful, but they offer very different vibes and experiences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

The Fontainebleau is an iconic Miami Beach hotel known for its luxury, grand design, and extensive amenities. It has several high-end restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful pools. It can be a bit more lively, especially with the party atmosphere at its lounges and bars. Since you're not big into partying but love good food, you might enjoy some of the renowned restaurants here like Hakkasan (a Michelin-starred spot) and La Cote for beachside dining. However, do keep in mind that the energy here can be a little more high-octane, and it might not have the more laid-back vibe you’re looking for.

The Betsy is a fantastic choice if you want a more relaxed, boutique hotel experience. It has a beautiful and serene ambiance, and the Jazz Piano bar sounds perfect for you and your husband—especially if you enjoy good music in a low-key setting. The Betsy is also known for its excellent restaurants, particularly The Betsy’s Lido Bayside Grill, offering delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an amazing view of the water. The art deco design and sophisticated vibe would be great for a 40th birthday getaway. Given that the price is the same as Fontainebleau, it could provide you with more of the atmosphere you’re looking for without the hustle and bustle. It’s a lovely choice if you want a quieter, more intimate setting with access to great food and a touch of luxury.

The Surfcomber is a more budget-friendly option, especially since it’s free with your hotel member points. It’s also a very nice property but offers a more casual, laid-back experience compared to the other two. It’s known for being a great spot for relaxing, and it’s got a fun beach vibe. While it might not have the same level of luxury as the Fontainebleau or the boutique charm of The Betsy, if you're looking to save on accommodation and still enjoy a great beachside experience, this could be a good option. If you’re planning on using the savings for dining or other experiences around the city, it could also be a very practical choice.

Fontainebleau: Ideal for those who want a larger resort with luxury dining options and a livelier atmosphere. Great if you don’t mind some hustle and bustle.
The Betsy: Best if you prefer a quieter, more intimate atmosphere with excellent food (including the Jazz Piano bar) and a relaxed vibe. Perfect for a special occasion like a birthday.
The Surfcomber: Best option for those wanting to save money or use points, offering a more laid-back, casual experience with a beautiful beach and pool area.

Given that you’re celebrating a 40th birthday and enjoy good food but not the party scene, The Betsy might be the best choice for you. It offers a quieter, more refined atmosphere with amazing dining and the jazz piano bar, which aligns with what you're looking for. However, if you're happy with a more relaxed beach vibe and saving money with the Surfcomber, it’s still a great option. Fontainebleau is definitely a great hotel but might be more suited to those who enjoy a lively resort atmosphere.

Whatever you choose, I’m sure it will be a fantastic trip! Enjoy your time in Miami Beach!