Nautilus Sonesta Miami Beach, the first property under the renewed The James Hotels brand, owned by Sonesta International Hotels, will reopen in late 2026 as The James Nautilus Miami Beach after a $40 million revamp.
The 250-room property is located on Collins Avenue and pays tribute to the original Nautilus Hotel, the Morris Lapidus-designed oceanfront property that opened in the early 1950s.
The James Hotels is a lifestyle hospitality brand reimagined by Sonesta International Hotels. Design for the property was handled by Anderson Miller, with the team drawing on the legacy of Lapidus, known as “The Architect of Joy,” and the MiMo Miami architectural style.
“When guests step into the doors of The James Nautilus Miami Beach, we want them to feel as though they are stepping into a world curated by James himself,” said Elizabeth Harlow, chief brand officer of Sonesta International Hotels. “This is more than the unveiling of a hotel or brand; we’re creating an atmosphere where every guest feels instantly welcomed, inspired, and part of something special.”
“The James Nautilus represents both a new chapter and a thoughtful tribute to one of Miami Beach’s most iconic addresses,” Garcia said. “As Collins Avenue enters a renaissance, the property will stand out as a gathering place for both visitors and locals seeking a more intimate and elevated Miami Beach experience,” said Carlos Garcia, general manager of The James Nautilus Miami Beach.
Through a partnership with LDV Hospitality—the group behind New York City dining destinations including Scarpetta, American Cut and Barlume — the property will feature three food and beverage outlets. These include a signature restaurant with Mediterranean-style fare and alfresco seating extending to the pool and beach, an omakase dining experience and a late-night lounge offering cocktails and social programming in a maximalist setting.
The James Hotels brand positions its properties as gathering points for culture, music, art, fashion and architecture. The brand concept centers on a fictional host character named James, described as a charismatic figure known for bringing guests together.