Meet Mohan Koka | General Manager of Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mohan Koka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mohan, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Vision and drive are fundamental to both personal and brand success. At Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel, our vision was to transform the property into a premier lifestyle resort, blending high-touch service with exceptional food and beverage experiences. This clarity of purpose and relentless pursuit of excellence have been instrumental in our achievements. We aimed to create a distinctive environment that resonates with guests, ensuring every aspect of their stay reflects our commitment to quality and innovation.

What should our readers know about your business?
At Kimpton Surfcomber, we’re more than just a hotel—we’re a boutique oceanfront property that embodies the lively spirit of South Beach. Located in the heart of the Art Deco District on Collins Avenue, we blend upscale comfort with an unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere. Our beachfront location offers guests a true Miami experience with a strong sense of community.

One of our proudest achievements is the expansion of our “DayLife” program, which features wellness activities, family-friendly events, and team-building exercises. This has boosted guest experience and driven ancillary revenue, helping us rise into the top 15 Miami Beach hotels on TripAdvisor.

What truly sets us apart is our culture of energy, warmth, and inclusivity. Our team is passionate about creating a relaxed, memorable environment where every guest feels welcomed and at ease. This dedication drives guest satisfaction and strengthens our success.

Operating in a historic building has its challenges, but we’ve overcome them by focusing on what we can control and fostering a strong, united team with a clear vision. Earning the trust of our stakeholders and positioning Surfcomber as a market leader was no small feat, but it’s been worth it.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to deepen our connection with South Beach through events like Art Basel, Miami Swim Week, and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, continuing to offer enriching experiences while engaging with the local community.

At our core, Kimpton Surfcomber is about people—creating a space where both guests and staff feel valued and empowered. It’s this spirit, along with our prime location and unique offerings, that drives our success.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Miami for a week, here’s how we’d make the most of it:
1. Beach Days – You can’t come to Miami without spending time on one of the world’s most famous beaches. We’d soak up the sun, relax on the sparkling sands, and dip into the clear waters right here in South Beach. It’s iconic for a reason.
2. Wynwood Adventure – We’d take a day to explore Wynwood’s vibrant art scene, starting with the Wynwood Walls. Afterward, we’d grab cocktails at High Ground, enjoy sushi at Uchi for dinner, and then head to Sylvester for a fun, laid-back nightcap.
3. Brickell Nights – Miami’s nightlife is a must, so we’d go for drinks at Sugar at EAST Miami, followed by a 9:30 PM reservation at Sexy Fish. The late seating is key because after dinner, the restaurant transforms into a club, so we can keep the party going.
4. Design District Shopping – For a more refined day, we’d head to the Design District for some high-end shopping. My wife especially loves it here. We’d also make a stop at Aubi & Ramsa for spiked ice cream—flavors like Jack Daniels and chocolate make for a fun twist on dessert.
5. Afternoon on the Water – Renting a 40-foot sport yacht for the afternoon is a quintessential Miami experience. Yes, it’s a splurge, but being out on the water with views of the city makes it worth every penny.
6. Escape to Nature – For something a bit more low-key, we’d visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne. It’s Florida’s island nature at its best—quiet, scenic, and a perfect break from the city’s hustle.
7. Sunrise Stroll – Miami’s late-night energy is great, but I’d still convince my friend to catch at least one sunrise on the beach. There’s something special about having the beach nearly to yourself while the sun comes up. It’s peaceful, and the perfect way to start the day.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shout-out goes to the exceptional team at Kimpton Surfcomber. It’s not just about any one individual, but rather a dynamic collective of passionate professionals who have transformed our shared vision into a reality. Their unwavering belief in our mission and their relentless dedication, particularly during the trials of the pandemic, have been instrumental in shaping our success. From the housekeepers who travel far and wide to ensure the comfort of our guests, to the managers who lead with purpose and drive, each person plays a vital role. A special acknowledgment goes to Jason Jones, our Restaurants & Bars General Manager, who has been a steadfast partner in this journey for five years; Ivanna Gonzalez, our Director of Rooms, who has risen through the ranks with grace and skill; and Tania Campbell, who has led our housekeeping team with unwavering commitment for six years. The success we celebrate is a direct result of their hard work, resilience, and shared dedication, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

Website: https://www.surfcomber.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surfcomberhotel/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohankoka/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/surfcomberhotel/

Image Credits
Images are courtesy of Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel