The Ultimate Long Weekend Escape: Oceanfront Ease at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami
When a full week away is not realistic but you still need a true reset, the right long weekend getaway makes all the difference. Our advisor Barbara recently escaped to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne with her husband for a quick oceanfront getaway, and she came back saying it was exactly what a long weekend should be. Easy to reach, beautiful without being over the top, and relaxed in all the right ways. She’s sharing all of their favorite moments and recommendations here, from where to stay and dine to what’s actually worth doing during a three or four day escape.
For travelers who want sunshine, strong dining, spa time, and just enough activity to feel energized, this is one of the best long weekend options in South Florida.
A Fresh Chapter on Key Biscayne
After its first major renovation in nearly 25 years, the resort has reopened with completely redesigned guest rooms and suites, a reimagined lobby, refreshed pools, an expanded spa, and six new or updated dining venues.
The transformation feels thoughtful rather than flashy. The aesthetic leans into coastal sophistication with soft neutrals, natural textures, and open, airy spaces that pull your eye toward the ocean. From the moment you walk into the lobby and see the water beyond, the tone is set. Calm, refined, and distinctly coastal.
Inside the Hotel: What Sets It Apart
The Setting
The resort sits directly on a wide stretch of beach on Key Biscayne, offering a more residential and peaceful feel compared to South Beach. The property has a classic Mediterranean-style architecture, but the renovation has softened and modernized the interiors.
Two large pools anchor the outdoor space, with updated cabanas and plenty of room to spread out. Families tend to gravitate toward one pool, while couples often prefer the quieter areas closer to the beach.
The Rooms & Suites
Guest rooms and suites now reflect a layered coastal palette. Light woods, clean lines, and subtle ocean-inspired details create a space that feels elevated but approachable. Many rooms feature private balconies, which are ideal for early morning coffee with a view of the Atlantic.
Suites are especially strong for families or small groups, offering extra space without losing that refined atmosphere.
The Spa
The refreshed spa has expanded indoor and outdoor spaces, creating more of a wellness retreat than just a treatment menu. It is easy to dedicate half a day here, moving between relaxation areas and scheduled services. For a long weekend, this is where you slow down intentionally.
Dining on Property
With six new or reimagined dining and bar concepts, you never feel limited.
Dune Beach Bar for relaxed beachfront cocktails
Dune Oceanfront Burger Lounge for elevated casual fare
Key Pantry for coffee and quick bites
Rum Bar for a lively evening scene
Cantina Beach for Mexican-inspired coastal dishes
Menus draw inspiration from Mediterranean, Italian, Greek, and Turkish flavors, giving the culinary program a cohesive coastal identity.
For a long weekend, having this level of variety without leaving the property is a major advantage.
Getting There
Fly into Miami International Airport, about 20 to 30 minutes away via the scenic Rickenbacker Causeway. The drive itself, surrounded by water, feels like the start of vacation.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is also an option, particularly if you are looking for specific nonstop routes.
Who This Stay Is For
This is ideal for:
Couples needing a quick oceanfront reset
Families looking for an easy beach escape
Friends planning a celebratory long weekend
Travelers who love Miami, but prefer to sleep somewhere serene
For a long weekend getaway, the goal is simple. Arrive easily. Relax quickly. Leave feeling like you were gone much longer than you actually were.
On Key Biscayne, that balance feels effortless.
What to Do Beyond the Resort
Even though you could easily stay on the property, Key Biscayne offers worthwhile exploration.
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park
This iconic state park offers beaches, biking paths, kayaking, and the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse. It is perfect for a morning ride or sunset stroll.
Just offshore, Biscayne National Park offers boating excursions, snorkeling trips, and marine exploration. It is a must for travelers who want to experience the natural side of South Florida.
Miami Exploration
One of the biggest advantages of staying on Key Biscayne is proximity. In under 30 minutes, you can be in Brickell for dining and shopping, Coconut Grove for charm and waterfront parks, or South Beach for art, architecture, and nightlife.
Local Favorites on Crandon Blvd & Around Town
Here are some great restaurants worth checking out when you’re exploring Key Biscayne beyond the resort. We’ve linked each one directly to its website so you can easily view menus, make reservations, or plan your stops.
Dining & Wine Spots
Fulano – Elevated Argentine-Italian fusion with a cozy neighborhood vibe on Crandon Blvd.
Costa Med Bistro + Wine – Mediterranean bistro with an extensive wine list and elegant yet relaxed atmosphere.
Milanezza Kitchen Bar & Market – Casual Italian and Argentine dishes, great for lunch or dinner.
Novecento – Key Biscayne – Argentine steakhouse and classic bistro fare in a stylish setting.
Vinya Wine & Market – Key Biscayne – Wine bar and market with curated bottles and small plates.
Mestizo Latin Cuisine & Coffee – Venezuelan-inspired brunch, Latin classics, and specialty coffee in a vibrant space.
Narbona – Key Biscayne – A local favorite for elevated comfort fare, wine, and desserts with a Mediterranean influence.
Rusty Pelican Miami – Iconic waterfront seafood restaurant with panoramic water views, perfect for sunset dinners.
Kazumi – Stylish sushi and Japanese cuisine with modern touches.
The Golden Hog – Classic gastropub elevated with creative plates and craft beer.
Casual & Quick Bite Spots
La Boulangerie Boul’Mich – French bakery and café for fresh pastries, breakfast, and coffee.
Piononos – Classic Latin pastries and quick bites.
The Empanada’s Key Biscayne – Spot for handheld empanadas and laid-back snacks.
These local restaurants offer a nice variety of cuisines and dining styles, so whether you’re looking for a relaxed brunch, an elegant dinner, or a scenic waterfront meal, there’s something to match your long weekend mood.
If a long weekend like this sounds exactly like what you need, we would love to help you plan it. Whether it’s a quick couples escape, a celebratory trip, or simply a few days to recharge by the ocean, we’ll handle the details so you can focus on showing up and relaxing. Reach out to us and let’s start mapping out your next getaway. Sometimes three or four days is all it takes to feel completely refreshed.
