Book this if You want a full-service resort experience with a kitchenette and kids' club without the South Beach chaos.
Why People Love It
Grotto-style pool with waterfalls and a separate lap pool
Spacious rooms with kitchenettes or full kitchens
Direct beach access with lounger service included in resort fee
Quick Take: A solid, family-heavy condo-hotel that delivers on amenities but charges steep fees for everything from parking to breakfast.
Reviewed by @ingaw18: I stayed in this high-floor suite and the ocean views completely blew me away. Waking up to that endless blue horizon and having coffee on the massive balcony was the highlight of my Miami trip. The interior is comfy, but that view is the real luxury.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
The hype
Families love the pool and room size, but solo travelers find it crowded and expensive.
Reality check
You will hear your neighbors—walls are thinner than the 'luxury' branding suggests.
You are traveling with kids (Planet Kids club is a hit)
You need a kitchen to save on dining costs
You want a resort vibe but need to be near Aventura or Sunny Isles
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though some reports of missed spots or late timing.
Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are marble and usually sparkling; grout issues are rare.
Maintenance: Rooms are well-maintained but decor is feeling slightly dated in some units.
Linens & towels: Towels are plentiful and decent quality; bedding is crisp.
Odors & scents: Lobby has a signature scent; rooms are generally fresh, no lingering smoke issues.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
Thin walls (voices/TVs from neighbors)
Hallway noise from kids/families
occasional construction noise from nearby developments
Before you book
Good to know
Check-in is at 4pm and they are strict about it
Resort fee includes beach chairs and umbrellas, which is a huge plus
No self-parking available; factor $60/night valet into your budget
What to pack
Groceries (to use the kitchenette and skip the $40 breakfast)
Insulated water bottle (beach service can be slow)
Earplugs (just in case of noisy neighbors)
Room Genie
Best picks
Oceanfront Two-Bedroom Suite (Room 2409S series) for families needing space and views
Junior Suites for a balance of space and value (includes kitchenette)
Rooms to avoid
Low-floor rooms near the pool (noise)
City view rooms if you are sensitive to street traffic noise
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a high-floor Oceanfront Suite, preferably away from the elevator bank to minimize hallway noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, both the grotto and lap pools are heated.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Yes, there are several plazas within 5-10 minutes walking distance with casual dining.
Is there a shuttle?
No dedicated airport shuttle, but they sometimes offer shuttles to Aventura Mall (check with concierge).
Are pets allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome for a $25 daily fee (up to 2 dogs, max 40lbs).
Is the beach private?
It's a public beach, but the hotel has a dedicated area with chairs and umbrellas for guests.
Does the room have a washer/dryer?
Suites (1-bedroom and up) typically have them; standard rooms do not.
Insider Tips
✨
Walk to 'Family Fresh Café' for a much cheaper breakfast than the hotel buffet
✨
The 'grotto' pool is chaotic with kids; use the lap pool for a slightly calmer vibe
✨
Request a microwave if your room type doesn't guarantee one (most do)
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators can be a nightmare at 11am checkout time
💡You have to wear a wristband to access the pool and beach
💡The 'city view' is actually quite nice at night with the skyline lights
💡Room service adds a hefty service charge + delivery fee (~30% markup)
💡The beach sand can be a bit shelly; water shoes help
Local Playbook
Map
See where Trump International Sonesta Be is located and what's nearby.