The hype
Travelers love the retro aesthetic and the rooftop pool scene, but often complain about the humidity/musty smell in the rooms.
The Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort
$175-330/ night
Book this if You want a stylish, social boutique vibe with a killer rooftop pool that feels like a private club, just steps from the beach but away from the mega-resort chaos.
Why People Love It
- The rooftop pool deck with Intracoastal views and sunset DJ sets
- La Fuga's coastal Italian food is actually good, not just 'hotel good'
- Kimpton's signature perks: free bikes, yoga mats, and nightly wine hour
Quick Take: It’s a renovated 1949 motel with a fresh coat of mid-century cool, so expect thin walls and small bathrooms behind the stylish decor.
Reviewed by @lizthetravelplanner: I stayed here and was so relieved by the accessible setup. The walk-in shower made my trip stress-free, and the room felt cozy, not clinical. Loved the cute retro fridge and the free beach bag—made heading to the ocean super easy. Highly recommend for a relaxed stay.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'resort fee' feels steep ($40+) when the 'beach access' is just public sand and some chairs you have to carry or claim.
- You travel with a dog (no fees, no size limits)
- You prioritize a vibe-y pool scene over a massive room
- You want to be near the action but not directly on the loud A1A strip
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Generally responsive, but daily service can be hit-or-miss on timing.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean surfaces, but watch for mildew in grout lines due to the humidity.
- Maintenance: Some wear and tear visible (scuffed baseboards, slow drains) typical of older renovated buildings.
- Linens & towels: Towels can feel a bit scratchy/worn; linens are standard crisp white.
- Odors & scents: Frequent complaints of a 'musty' or 'damp' smell in rooms, especially on lower floors.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud in-room air conditioning units
- Hallway noise due to gaps under doors
- Street noise for rooms facing Riomar St
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'resort fee' includes beach chairs, but you pick them up at the hotel and walk them to the beach.
- Social hour (free wine/beer) happens daily from 5-6 PM in the lobby.
- There is no self-parking; factor the $47/night valet into your budget.
What to pack
- A portable dehumidifier or moisture absorbers (rooms can feel damp)
- White noise machine to drown out the AC cycling
Room Genie
Best picks
- Rooftop Pool Level rooms for easy access to the social scene
- Higher floor King rooms facing the Intracoastal for better light and sunsets
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor corner rooms (often dark, damp, and lack privacy)
- Rooms near the elevator/ice machine (noise bleed is real)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a room on a higher floor (3rd or 4th), ideally facing away from the street for better light and quiet. Please avoid the ground floor if possible due to privacy concerns.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it directly on the beach?
No. It is about a 2-minute walk (1-2 blocks) to the sand.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, both the rooftop and courtyard pools are heated.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Kimpton has one of the best pet policies: no fees, no weight limits, any number of pets.
Is breakfast included?
Typically no. It is available at La Fuga for ~$15-20/person unless you book a specific package.
How much is the resort fee?
Expect to pay around $40-$45 per night plus tax.
Is there a gym?
Yes, a decent fitness center with Peloton bikes and free weights.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for the 'secret' password at check-in (sometimes posted on their social media) for a potential free upgrade or amenity.
- ✨
The water taxi stop is just a short walk away behind the Marriott—great for exploring without a car.
- ✨
Use the free loaner bikes to ride to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, just a few minutes north.
5 things to know before you go
💡The building was originally 'The Escape Hotel' opened in 1949, the first hotel near the beach with a pool open year-round.
💡The 'ocean view' rooms often just have a sliver of blue between other buildings.
💡The elevators can be painfully slow during peak check-out times.
💡The bathroom barn doors in some rooms don't lock or seal fully—awkward for new couples.
💡You can hear the rooftop DJ bass in the rooms directly below on the 3rd/4th floor on weekends.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort is located and what's nearby.