THE NICI Bournemouth blends South Beach style with luxury British hospitality. With 88 rooms, a spa, two restaurants and a 30m pool, it’s a standout destination for weekend escapes and stylish seaside stays.
Perched on Bournemouth’s West Cliff, THE NICI is a hotel that doesn’t just nod to Miami – it practically dances to its beat. When it first opened in June 2022, chairman Nicolas Roach promised a splash of South Beach glamour on the Dorset coast, and he delivered. Three years on, the hotel has evolved into a full-blown resort, complete with a spa, heated outdoor pool, cabanas, and two vibrant restaurants. It’s a place that feels both escapist and rooted, offering a high-end experience without the jetlag.
THE NICI occupies a prime spot overlooking the sea, and its 88 rooms range from cosy doubles to expansive sea-view suites. On a recent late-summer visit and with the typical British weather which was not cooperating, my super-king bed was dressed in soft, high-thread-count cotton, while the bathroom gleamed with white marble and a pop of colour from the tiles, gold fittings and Malin + Goetz amenities. It’s the kind of setup that makes you want to cancel plans and stay in which I did.
Despite the rain, the hotel was buzzing. Families, couples, hen parties and groups of friends filled the spa, indoor pool and lounges. The energy was upbeat, and the staff were impressively attentive.
Dining is a highlight. Old Harry Rocks brings a Mediterranean flair with bold flavours, sea views and a resident DJ. The South Beach restaurant was made for Sunday morning recoveries, with a generous breakfast buffet and strong coffee served alongside full English plates and shakshuka.
Even in the rain, THE NICI delivers. It’s a hotel that has redefined Bournemouth’s hospitality scene, offering a stylish, high-energy alternative to traditional seaside stays. Whether you’re escaping for a birthday weekend, a romantic break or a business wind-down, it’s a destination that should definitely be tried.