"Have you stayed at this FS property before? If so, how large was the pool area and how relaxing was it, as compared to a beach (other than South Beach)? That is, to what extent do you feel like you are in the middle of a downtown rather than near/on the water?

Thanks"

I visited the MO's pool, gym, spa, and deluxe rooms. The pool area and gym at the MO are much smaller than the Four Season's. I did not see any cabana's at the MO which are complimentary at the FS. As for a comparison of the properties respective gyms the MO has a small but adequate room with good equipment attended by thoughtful staff. The FS owns and gives free access to its guests to the exceptional Sports Club LA (located on the fourth floor of the hotel/residences, a 40,000 foot space) which has the latest equipment, free classes (weight training, yoga, spinning...).The mens area has large steam/sauna rooms men's and women's and large private showers, marble everywhere. Though some will disagree I felt that the rooms at the MO are not decorated to the same high quality level as the FS, nor as well maintained. The FS pool area has a very level of service during the day and feels as though you are in the Carribean with the palm trees and plantings surrounding. I didn't miss being near the beach.

Quoting the Miami Four Seasons Website:

The 2-acre (0.8-hectare) pool terrace contains three separate swimming pools. The Main Pool, which is the largest of the three pools, is on the south side of the terrace and includes a large whirlpool at its west end. Pool attendants are available to offer water spritzes and cool, moist towels.

Hours:
Attended every day Dawn – Dusk

Pool details
Location Outdoor
Pool length (ft) 110
Depth of pool (ft) 5
Pool length (m) 34
Depth of pool (m) 1.5