The hype
Travelers love the location and the Tiki Bar, but many feel the Tiki Building rooms are dated compared to the Palm Tower.
Lido Beach Resort
$250-450/ night
Book this if You want a hassle-free beach vacation with a free shuttle to St. Armands Circle and don't mind paying extra for the 'resort' tower.
Why People Love It
- Direct access to a private stretch of Lido Beach
- Free shuttle to St. Armands Circle shopping and dining
- Two distinct pools: one for families, one for adults only
Quick Take: It's a tale of two hotels: the Palm Tower is a proper resort, while the Tiki Building is an overpriced motel with a great location.
Reviewed by @Ahatcher: I stayed here for a quick getaway and it was exactly what I needed. The location is unbeatable—you're right on the beach with a Tiki bar downstairs. My room had a full kitchen which was super convenient for snacks. Definitely recommend for a low-stress trip.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'musty smell' in some rooms (especially lower floors) is a recurring complaint, likely exacerbated by recent hurricane humidity.
- You prioritize beach proximity over room luxury (if in Tiki tower)
- You want a car-free evening via the St. Armands shuttle
- You need a kitchenette for family breakfasts
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable, though sand tracking is inevitable in beach rooms.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally sparkling, but watch for mildew in grout in older Tiki Building rooms.
- Maintenance: Palm Tower is pristine; Tiki Building shows age with some peeling paint and worn carpets.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, though pool towels can run small.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh; some lower-floor rooms have a lingering 'Florida humidity' mustiness.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Beach dredging equipment (7am-7pm through April 2026)
- External corridor noise in Tiki Building
- Tiki Bar music (ends reasonably early)
Before you book
Good to know
- Valet parking is mandatory ($20/night) with in/out privileges
- Beach chairs are included in the resort fee, but umbrellas often cost extra or run out fast
- The free shuttle runs 8am-10:30pm to St. Armands Circle
What to pack
- Insulated cup for beach drinks (glass isn't allowed)
- White noise machine if staying in the Tiki Building
Room Genie
Best picks
- Palm Tower, floors 8-14 (Gulf View) for best views and silence
- Corner Suites in Palm Tower for wrap-around balconies
Rooms to avoid
- Tiki Building ground floor (noise, lack of privacy)
- Rooms facing the parking lot/road in the Tiki Building
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room in the Palm Tower (South Tower), ideally on floor 8 or higher with a direct Gulf view. Please avoid the Tiki Building due to noise sensitivity.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is breakfast included?
No. Breakfast is cooked-to-order at Drift or the cafe and costs $6-$25 per person.
What is the difference between the towers?
Palm Tower is 14 stories, modern, interior hallways. Tiki Building is 4 stories, motel-style, exterior walkways.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, both the family pool and the adults-only pool are heated year-round.
Can I walk to St. Armands Circle?
Yes, it's about a 0.7-mile walk (15 mins), or you can take the free hotel shuttle.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, dogs are welcome for a $100/night fee (max 2 dogs, 30lbs limit).
How bad is the construction?
Significant through April 2026. Dredging pipes and bulldozers are on the beach, though they move in sections.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Adults Only' pool is often quieter but has fewer chairs—go early (before 10am) to snag a spot.
- ✨
Walk south along the beach to Ted Sperling Park for a stunning, quiet nature trail away from the resort crowds.
- ✨
Happy Hour at the Tiki Bar often has solid drink specials before the sunset rush.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'kitchenettes' in the Tiki Building are sometimes just a microwave and mini-fridge, not a full cooking setup.
💡The elevators in the Palm Tower can be painfully slow during peak check-out times.
💡You can hear the Tiki Bar music clearly from the pool-facing Tiki Building rooms.
💡The beach renourishment sand is darker and coarser than the famous Siesta Key powder until it bleaches out.
💡There is no self-parking; you are forced to use the $20/night valet.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Lido Beach Resort is located and what's nearby.