Gilded palazzo spectacle
Beyond the wrought-iron gates on Ocean Drive, open-air courtyards and gilded frescos preserve the extravagant atmosphere of a private Mediterranean palace.
Where it shines
Remarkable
A 1930 palazzo preserving the personal residence and intricate mosaics of Gianni Versace.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
The accommodations don’t play it any safer than the hyper-ornate common areas; all the suites are intricately detailed, full of stained glass, mosaic tile and hand-carved furniture...
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Facing Lummus Park on bustling Ocean Drive, the property places South Beach's cafe culture, sands, and Art Deco architecture at your doorstep.
The rooms
Suites showcase frescoed ceilings, vibrant stained glass, and hand-carved furnishings, extending into expansive marble baths with ornate gold-plated details.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The 54-foot pool is lined with thousands of Italian mosaic tiles, 24-karat gold inlay, and a Medusa emblem.
Gianni's Restaurant
Tables line the open-air courtyard and mosaic pool deck, serving Italian and Mediterranean dishes beneath the palm trees.
At the table
The Onyx Bar occupies Gianni Versace's former kitchen, pouring wine and craft cocktails along a carved wooden counter.
How it began

Standard Oil heir Alden Freeman built the residence in 1930, modeling the three-story palazzo on Santo Domingo's Alcázar de Colón.
Good to know
Stay here
The Villa Casa Casuarina
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.