Announcing the Winners of the 2024 Hospitality Mentor Awards

By: Steve Turk

The 2024 Hospitality Mentor Awards were born out of my personal journey through South Florida’s luxury hospitality scene during the 50 Hotels in 50 Days challenge. Over the course of this adventure, I had the unique opportunity to experience firsthand what makes each hotel exceptional, from their architectural brilliance to the unforgettable guest experiences they provide.

The nominees for this year’s awards were carefully selected from the hotels I visited during the challenge, with each property demonstrating a remarkable commitment to excellence. After months of anticipation, I’m excited to reveal the winners, who have truly set themselves apart in their respective categories.

Steve Turk on stage at The Hospitality Mentor Awards ceremony.

Here’s a look at the 2024 Hospitality Mentor Awards winners:

1. Best Architectural Design

Winner: The Breakers Palm Beach

Known for its historic grandeur and seamless blend of Mediterranean Revival architecture with modern luxury, The Breakers Palm Beach was a standout for its timeless design.

2. Best Lobby Design

Winner: Fontainebleau Miami Beach

A symbol of Miami Beach’s Art Deco heritage, Fontainebleau’s lobby blends classic glamour with contemporary style, creating a show-stopping entrance that captures the essence of Miami.

3. Best Pool

Winner: Acqualina Resort

Acqualina Resort’s stunning beachfront pools offer a serene, luxurious escape, with impeccable service and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

4. Best Pool Cabana

Winner: The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort

The St. Regis Bal Harbour elevates poolside lounging with its luxurious cabanas, offering privacy, personalized service, and a chic setting.

5. Best Coffee Shop

Winner: The Biltmore Hotel

The Biltmore’s elegant coffee shop pairs its historic charm with artisanal brews, making it a standout for guests seeking a refined coffee experience.

6. Best Dining Experience

Winner: The Faena Hotel Miami Beach

At The Faena, dining is more than a meal – it’s an immersive experience. From world-class cuisine to artistic surroundings, every dinner feels like a performance.

7. Best Eco-Friendly Hotel

Winner: 1 Hotel South Beach

Leading the way in sustainable hospitality, 1 Hotel South Beach’s commitment to eco-friendly practices without sacrificing luxury made it an obvious choice for this category.

8. Best Spa and Wellness Center

Winner: Mandarin Oriental Miami

The Mandarin Oriental’s spa is a haven for relaxation, combining state-of-the-art treatments with serene surroundings for a truly world-class wellness experience.

9. Best Bar

Winner: The Edition Hotel Miami Beach

Known for its lively atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails, The Edition’s bar has become one of Miami Beach’s most stylish nightlife destinations.

10. Best Cultural Experience

Winner: The Betsy Hotel Miami Beach

With its deep commitment to the arts, The Betsy Hotel curates a unique cultural experience for guests, offering everything from artist residencies to live performances.

11. Best Family-Friendly Hotel

Winner: Loews Miami Beach Hotel

Loews Miami Beach Hotel creates the perfect family getaway, offering amenities and activities designed to entertain and engage guests of all ages.

12. Best Rooftop Experience

Winner: East Hotel Miami

East Hotel’s rooftop experience is unmatched, offering panoramic views of Miami’s skyline paired with a chic atmosphere and crafted cocktails.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 Hospitality Mentor Awards

The 2024 awards marked the culmination of an incredible journey, but this is just the beginning! I’m thrilled to announce that we will be returning next year with another edition of the Hospitality Mentor Awards, continuing the tradition of exploring, experiencing, and celebrating the finest hotels in South Florida.

Each year brings new innovations and experiences in the hospitality industry, and I can’t wait to see what the 2025 journey has in store. Be sure to follow along for the next challenge, where we’ll uncover more exceptional properties and elevate even more standout destinations.

Full List of Nominees for the 2024 Hospitality Mentor Awards: