Aventura is a repeat destination for us. We’ve visited 4-5 times and hope to continue coming back. The destination is based solely on going to the JW Marriott Turnberry Resort & Spa. We discovered this hidden gem through Marriott app, and we took a shot at it for two reasons. The resort has golf and a pool. Two key things that help each of us get what we need out of vacation. It was a slam dunk. We typically go in February, as a way to escape our winter cold but have traveled here in the Summer and Fall as well. Admittedly, it always seems busy. The property has a water park, Tidal Cove, that attracts families of all ages. We have not ventured over to the madness at the water park. The property is great for golfers, girlfriends, couples, and of course, families. It’s bustling all day long.. you’ll see why below. While this type of setting is a little out of our norm (we typically like more quiet, low-key spots), we love the people-watching and the property is big enough that you still feel like you can find quiet.
Getting here: From Atlanta, we fly to Ft. Lauderdale for a 30-45 minute taxi ride to Aventura, depending on traffic.
Sleeping: We always stay at the JW Marriott for access to the amenities. The property is beautiful and the rooms are spacious and nice. Most offer a balcony.
There is a Residence Inn across the street from the entrance to the resort. I’m unsure what amenity access would be like if you choose to stay here.
Eating: The resort has two onsite restaurants, Corsair and Bourbon Steak. Corsair offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. I’ll touch on each because we love this spot for any time of day! There is a breakfast buffet daily, which we typically opt for but they have a lovely breakfast menu if you choose. As Marriott Platinum members, we get breakfast included. If you want a lighter option, there is a full-service Starbucks on the property.
Lunch and dinner menus are great. We have enjoyed the guacamole, smash burger, chicken Caesar Milanese, and the Corsair Cobb, to name a few. The menu hasn’t changed much since we have been coming, and we recognize many of the staff each time we visit. It’s a casual, friendly environment.
Bourbon Steak is a nicer meal with an incredible ambiance. The space alone is worth it! The restaurant is tucked to the side of the resort lobby entrance, and our first time walking in the expansive bar and dining area blew us away. It’s gorgeous and the meal was spectacular. They bring you fries as an appetizer (vs. bread) – love!
Across the road, you will find plenty of options at the Aventura Mall. We frequent Pubbelly Sushi and have more recently indulged in CVI.CHE 105, a Peruvian restaurant.
Doing
Golf: There are two excellent golf courses on the property, which make for great daytime fun. Paul will always play as much as he can. I plan sometimes when I want to give up pool time.
Spa and Fitness: ame Spa has everything you could ask for. I’ve done a facial and massage, and both were excellent. The facility has a sauna and salt room plus showers and more. The space is relaxing. The fitness center is great for whatever you desire in a workout, and they offer a variety of classes.
Pool: There is an adult-only pool, completely separate from the Tidal Wave water park. It’s conveniently located between the main lobby and Corsair restaurant. This is one of my favorite spots!
Don Soffer Exercise Trail: This paved path is 3.1 miles long and circles the entire property. Morning walks along this trail are motivating, as it’s incredibly active with nice scenery. It’s such a great touch to have just outside the front entrance.
Aventura Mall is in walking distance to the resort. We go at least once every time we visit, whether to shop around, eat, kill time, or grab dessert. It’s a great mall with just about every store you could want. There’s also a Publix next to the mall, along with a few other shops and restaurants
Soff’s Lounge is where the people-watching takes place! It’s dark, comfy, and the definition of “lounge”. There is live music on weekend nights.
Explore!!! There’s so much to do in this part of Florida. Unfortunately, you need to plan extra time if even going a few miles away because traffic is seemingly always heavy. We ventured to Brickell City Center (approximately a 45 minute ride) for a Tuscan cooking class at Sur La Table. The City Center itself is worth exploring. It touts itself as a lifestyle center, made up of shops, restaurants, offices, and more making up 5.4 million square feet semi-outdoor. I’ve never seen anything like it!
