The hype
Guests are obsessed with the sunset views and the 'pantry' on every floor, but sticker shock on food and parking is real.
Opal Sands Resort
$337-664/ night
Book this if You want a glitzy, Miami-style high-rise where every single room faces the ocean and you don't mind paying extra for the view.
Why People Love It
- Every room has a floor-to-ceiling Gulf view
- Zero-entry pool deck feels like a fashion runway
- Direct connection to the new Opal Sol resort doubles your amenity access
Quick Take: A stunning glass tower that charges top dollar for views but skimps on bathroom privacy.
Reviewed by @RTessier: I stayed here for a weekend getaway and was blown away. Every single room faces the ocean, so you wake up to this view daily. The sunset at the Sandbar was the highlight of my trip—definitely the most aesthetic spot on the beach.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Families hate the see-through bathroom doors; couples love the romantic balconies.
- You refuse to stay in a room without an ocean view
- You want a 'scene' at the pool with cocktails and music
- You appreciate free cookies and fruit stocked on your floor daily
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Generally excellent daily service, though hallway trays can linger.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless glass and tile, though some grout wear noted in older reviews.
- Maintenance: Modern and well-kept, occasional complaints about slow drains or AC noise.
- Linens & towels: High-quality, fresh, and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Fresh, signature 'Opal' scent in lobby; no musty carpet smells.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway chatter near elevators
- Connecting room doors
- occasional construction noise from neighboring developments
Before you book
Good to know
- Guests get access to the new Opal Sol resort next door via skybridge (more pools/restaurants)
- The 'Jolley Trolley' is often free for guests—ask the front desk for a pass
- Guest pantries on each floor offer free water, fruit, and cookies, but they empty out fast
What to pack
- A clip or tape for the curtains (blackout gap can be annoying)
- Casual-chic outfits for the pool bar (it's a scene)
- Your own pillow if you are picky (standard ones are soft)
Room Genie
Best picks
- High-floor 'Premium Gulf Front' rooms (floors 10+) for the most panoramic horizon views
- Corner suites for dual-aspect sunrise and sunset views
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevators (noise)
- Lower floors on the north side (views can be obstructed by the pool deck or neighboring buildings)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a high-floor room (10th floor or higher) away from the elevators. If available, a corner unit would be incredible. Please ensure the floor pantry near my room is stocked!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the zero-entry pool is heated, but shade hits it in the late afternoon due to the building's height.
Can I self-park?
No. It is valet-only, costing around $40-$45 per night plus tax.
Is breakfast included?
No. Breakfast at Sea-Guini is à la carte and pricey ($20-$35 per person).
Are pets allowed?
Yes, dogs under 30 lbs are welcome for a non-refundable fee of ~$100 per night.
How bad is the bathroom privacy?
It's a common complaint. The sliding barn doors have gaps and frosted glass, offering little sound or sight isolation.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, approximately $35/night, covering wifi, beach towels, bikes, and the floor pantry.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The guest pantry on your floor is restocked in the morning—grab your water and cookies early.
- ✨
Walk across the skybridge to Opal Sol to use their pool if the main Opal Sands pool is crowded.
- ✨
You can see the sunset perfectly from the Sandbar tiki bar without fighting for a balcony spot.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom doors don't lock.
💡Room service dishes often pile up in the hallways for hours.
💡The 'Gulf View' is great, but the 'Gulf Front' is the direct, unobstructed money shot.
💡You can hear your neighbors if you have a connecting room door.
💡The elevators can be a 10-minute wait during 11 AM checkout.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Opal Sands Resort is located and what's nearby.