These glamorous Miami properties were made for hosting friends during the holidays.
With its open floor plan, the circular main room of this 8,400-square-foot penthouse allows guests to flow through the three stages of any good party: first cocktails on the couches in the center of the room, then dinner with a view of the beach, and a round of pool (and a few more drinks) to end the evening. Bonus: You control the lighting and music from your iPad. One Sotheby's International Realty, Eloy D. Carmenate, 305-673-4808
Even putting aside the outdoor kitchen and pool pavilion, this Key Biscayne residence is equipped for any size gathering. When you throw this year's big holiday party, serve bites on the sleek kitchen island and your guests can find a seat at the bar, in a comfy chair with an ocean view, or inside the casual dining room. One Sotheby's International Realty, Barbara A. Lamar, 305-365-2811
Invite stylish guests to dine atop marble floors, next to floor-to-ceiling windows, and under a crystal chandelier (we hope it comes with the property) inside this two-level penthouse with 180-degree ocean views. Douglas Elliman, Janet BenZvi, 305-695-6300; Christopher Leavitt, 212-891-7011
Take your cocktail party to the next level inside this 2,300-square-foot custom unit at The Setai Resort & Residences. A floating bar, complete with modern, wraparound shelves to display your glassware, is the focal point of the seating area (if you don't count the ocean views) and allows you, the host, to mix up cocktails while mingling with guests. Douglas Elliman, Oren Alexander, 212-350-8561
If it's too chilly to hang out on the patio, there's no chicer place to serve up some holiday cocktails and hors d'oeuvres overlooking the pool than this cozy, rustic lounge inside a Mediterranean mansion. Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Gilles Rais, 954-527-5900