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A major shakeup is coming to the heart of the Collins Waterfront Historic District. One of Miami Beach’s most iconic luxury properties, the W South Beach, will officially close its doors on August 20, 2026. The shuttering marks the end of an era for the 350-room all-suite oceanfront resort, which will also sever its long-standing management ties with Marriott International and exit the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty ecosystem.
For Bonvoy members, the departure is a massive blow. The W South Beach has long been considered one of the most aspirational points-redemption options in the United States, according to Upgraded Points, offering travelers a high-end, beachside oasis in a prime leisure market.
Behind the abrupt shift is British investment firm Reuben Brothers, which acquired the resort in late 2024 for $425 million. The firm plans to undertake an extensive, top-to-bottom renovation of the property’s 175 hotel rooms and 173 private condos. While the hotel previously underwent a $30 million face-lift in 2020, the new owners are planning an even grander vision. Filings with the Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board reveal that while the building won't be demolished, the lobby, guest rooms, pool deck and pool bar are all slated for major upgrades. The expansion will increase restaurant and bar seating by more than 700 spots, introduce a French-caliber pâtisserie with an outdoor courtyard and add an exclusive, members-only club and drop-off zone. No timeline has been announced.
However, the glitzy transformation comes at a steep human cost. According to a federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act letter sent to local officials, the hotel will lay off 337 non-union employees effective August 19. The affected workers are being let go with no promises of future employment.
With reservations cut off after August 17 and no official reopening timeline announced, South Beach is preparing to say goodbye to a hospitality staple—paving the way for an ultra-exclusive next chapter.