Fontainebleau Miami Beach: History, Reviews, and Celebrity Allure

The Fontainebleau Miami Beach opened in 1954 as a curvaceous oceanfront vision of architect Morris Lapidus, and it has remained one of the most recognizable hotels on Miami Beach ever since. This article examines the property’s layered history, what professional critics and thousands of guests actually say about it, and whether the enduring celebrity magnet delivers on its luxury promise.

Last checked: 2026-06-25

Designer: Morris Lapidus · Year Opened: 1954 · Unique Features: 6 outdoor pools, nightclub, spa, 9 restaurants · Reputation: Iconic oceanfront escape since 1954, celebrity hotspot

What happened to the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami?

The 1954 opening and Morris Lapidus design

The Fontainebleau opened in 1954 as a resort hotel on Collins Avenue in the Mid‑Beach area known as Millionaires’ Row, not in the South Beach Art Deco district. Architect Morris Lapidus gave the building a sweeping, curved silhouette that became an instant landmark. The property’s mid‑century modern aesthetic is regularly cited as one of the most architecturally significant hotel designs on Miami Beach.

Renovations and ownership changes over the decades

After decades of hosting celebrities and conventions, the resort underwent a major renovation and expansion completed around 2016, according to Trip.com. The project transformed the property into a sprawling multi‑tower complex. Today the hotel remains a luxury destination, though its ownership has shifted multiple times. The official brand also operates a separate Fontainebleau Las Vegas, which can cause confusion in online searches.

Why is Fontainebleau in Miami so famous?

Architectural and cultural significance

Condé Nast Traveler writes that the resort “dominates its stretch of Miami Beach” and calls it “a clean and classic escape where contemporary vibes meets retro in a flash of glamour.” The curved façade and lavish public spaces have made it a frequent backdrop for fashion shoots, music videos, and films. Its placement on Millionaires’ Row places it away from the South Beach crowds, yet it remains a self‑contained destination.

Association with celebrities and pop culture

“Fontainebleau Miami Beach is one of the area’s glitziest and most glamorous hotels, and its 1,500 plus rooms make it popular with conventioneers and bachelorette parties alike.”

— Forbes Travel Guide editors

From Frank Sinatra to modern hip‑hop stars, the hotel has hosted a parade of celebrities. Multiple movies and music videos have been shot on the property, reinforcing its pop‑culture cachet. The mix of business events and high‑energy social scenes is a core part of its fame.

Is Fontainebleau, Miami a nice hotel?

Amenities: pools, dining, spa, nightlife

Hotels.com markets the property with three outdoor pools (some sources count six separate pool areas), a full‑service spa offering deep‑tissue massage and hydrotherapy, nine restaurants, two poolside bars, eight bars and lounges, a nightclub, and a fitness center. Guest reviews on Hotels.com consistently describe the pool and beach areas as “amazing” and “spotless,” particularly for families and groups focused on water activities.

Guest reviews and ratings

On TripAdvisor, the hotel is ranked #70 of 218 hotels in Miami Beach with more than 21,000 reviews. The summary notes strong praise for beach and pool service, but also frequent complaints about noise, high prices, hidden charges, and inconsistent service elsewhere. Booking.com shows an overall score of 7.3/10 based on more than 1,700 verified reviews, with cleanliness rated 6.7/10, indicating middling satisfaction relative to its price point.

Do celebrities stay at Fontainebleau, Miami?

Notable celebrity guests throughout history

The hotel’s celebrity magnetism dates back to its early years, when stars such as Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, and Elvis Presley were regulars. In later decades, the Fontainebleau became a fixture in music culture, hosting recording artists, athletes, and reality‑television figures. The nightclub attracts a scene‑oriented crowd, and the property’s sheer scale means high‑profile guests can often be spotted in public areas.

Movies and music videos filmed at the hotel

Iconic films such as Goldfinger and The Bodyguard feature scenes shot on the property. More recently, the hotel has appeared in music videos and television shows, cementing its role as a visual shorthand for Miami glamour. The combination of celebrity history and ongoing media presence makes the Fontainebleau a destination for those hoping to glimpse famous guests.