The Ritz Carlton Area

Would like to book a week at The Ritz Carlton in Bal Harbour. We'd rather not rent a car. Are there enough dining & shopping options within walking distance (or a short uber ride,) or is having a car a must? Also any water front dining suggestions? Any input would be so appreciated! Thank you!

The Ritz-Carlton in Bal Harbour is located in a very upscale and convenient area. Bal Harbour itself is a small village in the northern part of Miami Beach, famous for its luxury shopping and high-end resorts. If your goal is to relax, shop, and dine without the hassle of a car, you’ll find that staying at The Ritz-Carlton allows you to do just that, as many amenities are within walking distance or a short Uber ride.

Bal Harbour is home to the famous Bal Harbour Shops, a luxury shopping center featuring high-end brands like Chanel, Gucci, Prada, and Balenciaga. The shopping center is only a few minutes’ walk from the hotel, so you can easily enjoy a day of shopping without needing transportation. Additionally, there are several boutique stores, art galleries, and small markets scattered nearby.

For dining, Bal Harbour has a good variety of options within walking distance of The Ritz-Carlton. You’ll find fine dining, casual eateries, and cafés along Bal Harbour’s main streets. If you are open to taking a short Uber ride, nearby Surfside and Sunny Isles Beach also offer additional restaurant options, expanding the culinary choices without requiring a car.

  • Makoto – a high-end Japanese restaurant located within Bal Harbour Shops, known for sushi and robata grill.
  • Carpaccio – Italian fine dining, also inside Bal Harbour Shops, offering a scenic indoor/outdoor setting.
  • Juvia – rooftop dining a short Uber ride away, offering French, Japanese, and Peruvian fusion with city and ocean views.
  • Le Zoo – French bistro in nearby Surfside, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch with a charming atmosphere.
  • Hakkasan – upscale Cantonese cuisine in nearby Miami Beach, accessible via a quick ride.

If you’re looking specifically for waterfront dining, The Ritz-Carlton itself has oceanfront restaurants, providing scenic views while you enjoy your meal. In addition, a short walk or Uber ride south along Collins Avenue will take you to other beachfront restaurants in Miami Beach and Surfside. Many of these places offer outdoor seating with ocean views, ideal for a relaxing lunch or romantic dinner.

  • Ocean Grill at The Ritz-Carlton – offers fresh seafood and ocean views right at the hotel.
  • La Goulue – European-style dining with patio seating overlooking the water, located nearby.
  • Haven – rooftop bar and restaurant with views of the Atlantic, located a few minutes away by ride.

Overall, having a car in Bal Harbour is not necessary unless you want to explore greater Miami or drive to more distant attractions. Walking, biking, and ride-share services are convenient and efficient. You can easily enjoy shopping, dining, and beach time entirely without a car, making your stay at The Ritz-Carlton both relaxing and luxurious.


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