The hype
Travelers love the location and friendly staff but consistently complain about the nickel-and-diming on the beach.
Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel
$150-350/ night
Book this if You want a social, pet-friendly South Beach crash pad where the pool scene is the main event and you don't mind a little noise.
Why People Love It
- Legitimately fun 'Daylife' pool scene with DJs and activities
- Zero pet fees and no size restrictions (rare in Miami)
- Daily 5-6 PM wine hour that actually feels social
Quick Take: A fun, high-energy Art Deco playground that trades quiet and room size for vibes and location.
Reviewed by @ettevi_wanderlust: I stayed here for a girls' trip and it was exactly the Miami vibe we wanted. The pool area is the heart of the hotel, but I actually loved the quiet garden path just as much. Being able to walk right out to the ocean with a drink in hand made the whole trip.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'ocean view' is often just a sliver between buildings, and lower-floor rooms can feel like 'Harry Potter' cupboards due to lack of light.
- You're traveling with a dog (they get treated better than humans here)
- You plan to spend 90% of your time at the pool or on Collins Ave
- You enjoy a communal, party-lite atmosphere over secluded luxury
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7
- Housekeeping: Generally decent daily service, though some reports of 'spotty' cleaning (missed floors, dust).
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean but worn. Grout lines can be discolored, and the tiny size makes them feel dingy quickly.
- Maintenance: Showing its age. Elevators are often dirty/scuffed, and hallways can look tired.
- Linens & towels: Standard hotel quality. Clean, but not luxurious. Beach towels are provided but can run out on busy days.
- Odors & scents: The biggest offender. Frequent complaints about 'musty' or 'sewer' smells in certain corridors and rooms.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Pool deck DJ/music (audible in courtyard rooms)
- Thin walls/connecting doors
- Street noise from Collins Avenue
Before you book
Good to know
- Valet is your only on-site parking option (~$48-55/night) and can take 30+ mins to retrieve your car.
- The 'Social Fee' (resort fee) is mandatory (~$49/night).
- Elevators can be slow and hot; take the stairs if you're on a lower floor.
What to pack
- High-quality earplugs (essential for sleeping in)
- A hanging toiletry bag (zero counter space in bathrooms)
- Your own beach umbrella if you're driving (save $25/day)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Oceanfront King with Balcony (for the only real views and outdoor space)
- City View rooms on higher floors (generally quieter than pool-facing rooms)
Rooms to avoid
- Courtyard/Pool View rooms if you want to nap during the day
- Rooms ending in -01 or -02 (often near elevators/service areas)
- Lower floor interior rooms (dark and cave-like)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love a room on a high floor, away from the elevator. If possible, please avoid the 'dark' interior rooms on lower levels. We prefer city view over pool view for better sleep quality.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, and it's the center of action, but seating fills up fast.
Do I really have to pay for a beach umbrella?
Yes. The resort fee gets you two chairs and towels, but shade costs ~$25 extra per day.
Is it actually pet friendly?
Yes, genuinely. No fees, no weight limits. They just can't be at the pool or inside the restaurant.
How is the WiFi?
Generally fast and reliable, free for IHG members (join for free before you go).
Can I walk to Ocean Drive?
Yes, it's a short 5-10 minute walk to the heart of the Art Deco district.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, expect to pay around $49 + tax per night, which covers bikes, yoga, and beach chairs.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Join IHG Rewards before booking to get 'Raid the Bar' credits (usually $10) and free WiFi.
- ✨
The 'secret' path to the beach is through the back gate; use your room key for re-entry.
- ✨
Ask for a room *away* from the service elevator to avoid early morning cart noise.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Sewer Smell' Lottery: Multiple guests report intermittent sewage odors in hallways and some rooms.
💡The Umbrella Tax: It feels like a shake-down to pay $25 for shade on top of a $49 resort fee.
💡The 'Harry Potter' Rooms: Some interior rooms get virtually no natural light.
💡The Elevators: They are old, slow, and often feel unventilated.
💡The tiny closets: Don't bring a steamer trunk; there's barely room for a carry-on.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel is located and what's nearby.