Delano Hotel South Beach to Reopen in Early 2026 Following Landmark Renovation

The legendary Delano Hotel in South Beach—a symbol of Miami’s glamorous Art Deco era—is undergoing an extensive transformation and is now officially slated to reopen on March 9 2026, according to a recent announcement from Ennismore and Cain International. While earlier reports had pointed to a late-2025 debut, the developers confirmed a revised timeline that ensures every detail of this landmark restoration meets the highest standards of design and hospitality excellence.

A Storied Legacy on the Shores of South Beach

Originally opened in 1947, the Delano Hotel was designed by architect Robert Swartburg and built by Rob & Rose Schwartz, featuring a striking white façade that embodied the post-war optimism and sleek minimalism of Miami’s emerging Art Deco movement. Over the decades, the property evolved from a classic beachside retreat into a cultural icon. Its rebirth in the 1990s—led by hotelier Ian Schrager and designer Philippe Starck—marked the beginning of the modern “boutique hotel” era, blending art, design, and nightlife in ways that forever changed the hospitality landscape. For years, the Delano’s soaring lobby, all-white interiors, and poolside scene became synonymous with South Beach sophistication.

After decades at the top of Miami’s social and cultural scene, the hotel closed in March 2020 for what was described as a “comprehensive renovation.” The plan: to preserve its timeless character while reimagining it for a new generation of travelers.

A Reimagined Icon

The upcoming relaunch of the Delano South Beach represents one of the most anticipated reopenings in the hospitality world. The property will feature 171 guestrooms and suites, including signature Poolside Bungalows and Penthouse Suites, offering views of both the Miami skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. Design work is being led by Elastic Architects, in collaboration with Ennismore’s in-house team, ensuring that the renovation honors the building’s historic architecture while delivering modern comfort and artistry.

Inside, the transformation emphasizes fluid, organic forms and natural textures inspired by Miami’s coastal setting. Guestrooms will showcase bespoke furnishings, soft lighting, and a neutral palette designed to evoke calm and understated luxury. The new interiors will strike a balance between heritage and innovation, blending Starck’s original vision with contemporary elegance.

Preserving Art Deco Heritage

The restoration will also celebrate the hotel’s Art Deco roots, preserving many of its most beloved details. The terrazzo flooring, hexagonal columns, and vertical paint bands that once defined the property will be carefully restored. The mezzanine bridge overlooking the iconic lobby will be redesigned to enhance sightlines to the gardens and the pool area, while the hotel’s original logo and design motifs will be reintroduced in subtle yet meaningful ways. This careful attention to preservation ensures that the Delano remains true to its DNA while evolving for the modern era.

New Dining, Wellness, and Lifestyle Offerings

When the hotel reopens, guests can expect a complete culinary and wellness transformation. Plans call for four distinct restaurant and bar concepts, including a modern reimagining of the beloved Rose Bar, once the heart of South Beach’s nightlife scene. The legendary pool deck—famed for its ethereal, all-white cabanas and minimalist aesthetic—will return with refreshed landscaping, new furnishings, and a second rooftop pool offering panoramic ocean views.

A full-service spa and wellness center will debut alongside a state-of-the-art fitness studio, curated retail experiences, and flexible meeting and event spaces. Together, these new features will position the Delano as not just a hotel, but a destination for art, design, and well-being.

Why the Updated Timeline Matters

While several outlets previously reported that the Delano would reopen by late 2025, the most recent press release issued in October 2025 confirms an early 2026 reopening target. This adjustment reflects the scale and complexity of the renovation—one that aims to deliver a true revival rather than a mere refresh. For travelers, event planners, and local hospitality insiders, the new timeline provides clarity and sets expectations for one of Miami’s most significant luxury reopenings in recent years.

A New Chapter for South Beach

The return of the Delano marks a major milestone in Miami Beach’s ongoing evolution as a world-class destination for design and hospitality. Its reopening will not only revive a cherished landmark but also strengthen South Beach’s identity as a nexus of art, architecture, and luxury living. For Miami’s hotel scene, the Delano’s comeback signals renewed confidence in the market—and for locals and visitors alike, it promises the reemergence of a timeless icon reimagined for the modern age.