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Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne Completes $100 Million Renovation After 25 Years

Open-air architecture and glass façade prioritize connection to Atlantic coastline
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Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne Completes $100 Million Renovation After 25 Years

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami reopened today following a $100 million renovation, its first comprehensive update in nearly 25 years. The 17-acre beachfront property positions itself as a modern coastal escape that balances Key Biscayne's island lifestyle with Miami's high-energy reputation.

Global luxury hospitality developers Gencom led the transformation, working with design studios Hart Howerton, DesignAgency, and Chapi Chapo Design. The result is a property that references mid-century glamour while targeting contemporary travelers looking for oceanfront luxury minutes from downtown Miami.

Design That Opens to the Ocean

The renovation prioritizes connection to the Atlantic coastline through open-air architecture and uninterrupted ocean views. A sweeping glass façade frames the entrance, with a reflective fountain terrace flowing from the lobby into tropical gardens. The indoor-outdoor concept extends throughout the property, from open-air pathways to expansive terraces designed for sunrise swims and sunset cocktails.

Guest rooms and suites feature bespoke furnishings, natural materials, and color palettes pulled from sea and sand. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide ocean and garden views, with private terraces overlooking Biscayne Bay. The Presidential Suite tops the accommodation lineup at 2,620 square feet, with two bedrooms, two and a half baths, a private balcony, and panoramic ocean views.

"This next chapter celebrates our expansive landscape, luxury oceanfront accommodations and vibrant setting designed for global travelers and locals alike," says Derek Flint, Market General Manager. "We've created a resort intended to transport our guests and inspire celebration, reconnection and rejuvenation."

Six Dining Concepts, From Mediterranean to Greek

The culinary program expands to six beachfront dining and cocktail destinations. Luma leads with Mediterranean-inspired Italian cuisine featuring grilled fish, handmade pastas, and tableside finishes. A roaming Dolce Vita gelato and granita cart adds a sweet component reminiscent of Italian coastal towns.

Paralía brings Greek and Turkish taverna influences to the shoreline. Executive Chef Renato Mekolli focuses on Florida-sourced seafood, shareable meze platters, herbaceous salads, and whole grilled fish brightened with citrus and island herbs. The beverage program features Greek wines, ouzo, and cocktails using indigenous botanicals. As evening arrives, Paralía shifts into a lively setting for seaside drinks.

Rum Bar elevates the lobby lounge experience with Caribbean heritage references and aged rum cocktails. Dune Beach Bar operates as a daytime retreat and evening destination, serving cocktails and small plates near the sand. Stefano's handles poolside pizza from a wood-fired oven, while Scoop offers artisanal gelato in playful flavors.

The property also partnered with Pura Vida Miami, the wellness lifestyle brand, for an all-day café serving nutrient-rich dishes prepared without seed oils. Bissinger's Handcrafted Chocolatier rounds out the collection with upscale confections.

A 30,000-Square-Foot Spa Anchors Wellness Programming

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Key Biscayne debuts as a 30,000-square-foot wellness center with 16 treatment rooms, including three couples suites. The facility includes a full-service salon, Spa Sanctuary, Journey Lounge, and Sensory Spa Garden with private cabanas.

The spa's programming centers on sound therapy and elemental healing. A complimentary Renewal Ritual runs each morning and afternoon, offering meditation focused on intention, grounding, and renewal. Scent-led experiences and curated teas in the Spa Sanctuary enhance treatments, while the Spa Garden provides nature-infused relaxation and dining options.

Wellness extends beyond the spa with an oceanfront fitness center offering strength and movement classes for guests 18 and over. Miami boutique fitness brand Tremble brings reformer-based programming that blends strength training, cardio, and Pilates-inspired movement. Complimentary daily classes on the grand lawn include yoga, stretching, and body sculpting.

Leisure and Retail Programming

The resort expanded its water sports lineup and refreshed pools with new cabanas. The Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center now offers tennis, pickleball, and padel courts for all skill levels.

Retail outposts include 120 Lino, Lilly Pulitzer, Coastal Boutique, Sabbia Fine Jewelry, and The Spa Boutique. The mix targets the resort's lifestyle positioning with fashion, local finds, and coastal accessories.

Families get access to the new Ritz Kids Club, designed with nature-inspired elements and interactive programming aimed at younger guests.

What the $100 Million Bought

The transformation marks the property's first comprehensive renewal since its opening. The investment covered architectural changes, interior design, dining concepts, spa construction, and leisure amenities. The scope indicates Gencom's commitment to repositioning the property for the current luxury travel market while maintaining the Ritz-Carlton brand standards.

Key Biscayne's location—close to Miami but separated by Biscayne Bay—gives the property a distinct positioning. It's not South Beach or Brickell, but it's accessible to both. The renovation targets travelers looking for beachfront tranquility without sacrificing proximity to urban energy.

Reservations are available now through ritzcarlton.com/keybiscayne.