What to expect: The Diplomat Golf Resort & Spa offers Mediterranean-style architecture and a tranquil atmosphere. A picturesque 18-hole championship golf course, lush gardens, and palm trees surround the resort. Comprised of three main buildings, The Diplomat Golf Resort & Spa includes the Clubhouse with guestrooms, a European-style spa, and the Tennis Center. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at the Links Restaurant & Lounge, which overlooks the golf course’s peaceful lakes, Banyan Trees, and Royal Palms. Guests may also dine on several shaded terraces, all with spectacular views. The outdoor patio at Links Grill offers a perfect spot to watch the setting sun over the golf course.

Amenity highlights: The resort’s 155-acre, 18-hole championship golf course is managed by Troon Golf and includes practice putting and chipping greens, and a driving range. Guests can order lunch from their golf carts, which are equipped with GPS-enabled electronic caddies, and then enjoy on-course food delivery. The adjacent Tennis Center offers 10-clay courts with stadium seating and night play. The 30,000-square-foot European-style spa features 22 treatment rooms, signature facial and body treatments, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and men’s and women’s locker rooms with wet areas, lounges, private sunbathing terraces, and wooden lockers. Fitness classes include stretching and toning, aerobics, yoga, and Pilates.

Insider tip: One of the most popular and trendiest shopping experiences in the surrounding area is at the Aventura Mall (four miles). Huge by any standard, the Aventura Mall contains 250 specialty shops and is anchored by Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, and Burdines.