Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay: Your Dream Miami Escape Awaits!
Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay: My Love/Hate Letter to Paradise (Probably)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to unleash a review of the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay that's less "objective journalist" and more "slightly stressed-out travel enthusiast spilling her guts." Basically, think less Michelin Guide, more late-night confessional with a side of salty margaritas (which, spoiler alert, you can get at this place!).
First, the Big Picture: Is it a Dream Escape? (Mostly Yes, with a Side of "Oh Boy…")
The tagline, "Your Dream Miami Escape Awaits!" – well, it's ambitious, alright. And honestly? It's kinda true. The views? Stunning. Seriously, the Biscayne Bay kisses you awake every morning with a sunrise that'll make you forgive all your life choices (almost). So, yeah, dream escape potential is high. But, like life, it ain't all perfect sunsets and perfectly tanned people.
Accessibility: Rolling in the Right Direction (Mostly)
Okay, let's get the practical stuff out of the way. Accessibility is pretty decent. The elevators are plentiful, and I saw plenty of wheelchair access, which is HUGE. I didn't personally test every nook and cranny, but from what I observed, they seem to have put some thought into making things accessible. Good job, Marriott! It's crucial.
On-site Accessibility Restaurants/Lounges: Don't have much to report here specifically but the general layout suggested nothing too restrictive. My bad for not being more thorough, but hey, I was busy living the dream, or trying to.
Rooms: Ah, the Sanctuary (with a Few Quirks)
Okay, let's talk rooms. They list a ton of features, so I'll hit the highlights and the, uh, less exciting bits.
- The Good: Air conditioning that actually WORKS (praise be!), the free Wi-Fi in all rooms (essential for my social media stalking), a coffee/tea maker (morning savior!), and a mini-bar (slightly overpriced temptation). The views are everything. Seriously, high floor rooms are worth the extra dough. My balcony felt like a slice of heaven.
- The Hmm…: The soundproofing wasn't flawless. I'm a light sleeper. I'd occasionally hear the distant rumble of a jet ski party or a couple of overenthusiastic seagulls. Carpet is always a bit suspect, but it was clean, thankfully. The bathroom phone is a bit… antiquated, but hey, it worked! Still, give me a modern bathroom phone with Bluetooth! The slippers provided were soft. I loved those.
- Side note: My room had a bathtub and a separate shower/bathtub. Luxury! I am quite a fan of daily housekeeping.
- Internet: My free Wi-Fi connection in my room was strong. I can't report on the Internet [LAN]. I didn't even bring a LAN cable.
- Room Decorations: Okay, my room decorations were standard hotel fare. Nothing spectacular but nothing offensive.
- Available in All Rooms:
- Additional toilet: Don't have to report.
- Alarm clock: Present, but I used my phone.
- Bathrobes: Comfy.
- Bathroom phone: Kind of useless nowadays, but I could call.
- Bathtub: Yes.
- Blackout curtains: Yes. Essential for sleep.
- Closet: Plenty of space for my outfits.
- Coffee/tea maker: Yes, and used!
- Complimentary tea: Yes.
- Desk: Yes, and I used my laptop workspace.
- Extra long bed: I did not measure it, but it felt great.
- Free bottled water: Yes, a nice touch.
- Hair dryer: Worked great!
- High floor: Amazing view.
- In-room safe box: There and I put my valuables in the box.
- Interconnecting room(s) available: Not in my personal suite.
- Internet access – LAN: No experience with it.
- Internet access – wireless: Excellent.
- Ironing facilities: Iron and board present.
- Laptop workspace: The desk.
- Linens: Clean and fresh.
- Mini bar: The usual.
- Mirror: Many.
- Non-smoking: Yes.
- On-demand movies: Yes, but I didn't use.
- Private bathroom: Yes.
- Reading light: Yes, and I used it, for reading.
- Refrigerator: Yes.
- Safety/security feature: Present.
- Satellite/cable channels: Yes.
- Scale: Nope.
- Seating area: Present.
- Separate shower/bathtub: Yes.
- Shower: Yes.
- Slippers: Soft.
- Smoke detector: Yes.
- Socket near the bed: Yes, and I used it for my phone.
- Sofa: No.
- Soundproofing: Alright.
- Telephone: Yes, though I only used it to order room service.
- Toiletries: Meh. Bring your own.
- Towels: Plenty.
- Umbrella: Yes, because Miami, and because rain happens.
- Visual alarm: Nope.
- Wake-up service: Nope.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Yes.
- Window that opens: Nope.
Stuff to Do: Relax, or, Uh, Try to Relax
- The Good: Swimming pool [outdoor] is fantastic. The Pool with view is gorgeous -- and huge. I spent a LOT of time there. The fitness center is well-equipped, but I, uh, mostly just looked at it. I heard it had multiple gym/fitness machines. The spa/sauna is tempting.
- The Maybe Not So Good: I was tempted to have a Body scrub or Body wrap or a massage, but I never got around to it. Sometimes you just want to do nothing, right?
- Ways to Relax:
- Foot bath: Didn't try.
- Sauna: Tempting.
- Spa: Again, the temptation.
- Steamroom: Tempting.
- Spa: I'm putting Spa here again because it's tempting.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food, Glorious Food (and Drinks!)
This is where things get interesting. Miami needs good food, right? And while the Marriott tries, it's a mixed bag.
- The Good: The poolside bar is a lifesaver. Frozen cocktails, anyone? They also have restaurants. The Asian cuisine in restaurant and the Western cuisine in restaurant options are a nice touch. The Coffee shop is convenient for a morning caffeine fix. The Snack bar is great for quick bites. A Bottle of water will be brought to your door. The Bar is open late, and the Poolside bar is great. The Breakfast service is great, and the Breakfast [buffet] is fantastic. I took a Breakfast takeaway service once.
- The Mixed Bag: I tried the buffet in restaurant, and it was… fine. Lots of options, but nothing blew my mind. The a la carte in restaurant was sometimes hit or miss. The dinner was OK. The Happy hour had some decent deals, but the crowds were… well they were there to drink.
- The Not So Great:
- Alternative meal arrangement: I didn't try it, but it's worth noting that they offered it.
- Asian breakfast: I didn't try it.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: Present.
- Desserts in restaurant: Decent.
- International cuisine in restaurant: Decent.
- Poolside bar: Amazing.
- Room service [24-hour]: Nice to have but pricey.
- Salad in restaurant: There.
- Snack bar: Convenient, but the food was alright.
- Soup in restaurant: Present.
- Vegetarian restaurant: I didn't see it.
- Western breakfast: Decent.
Cleanliness and Safety: The Sanitization Station
The pandemic has changed everything, and the Marriott tries to keep up
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Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this ain't your sanitized travel brochure. This is… well, it’s me, about to drown in the Miami sun, and hopefully, come out alive. Here's what I think I'm doing, because, let's be honest, plans are more like suggestions when I'm involved. And it's all centered around the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay, because, hey, points, right? (And hopefully a decent view, because staring at a parking lot for three days seriously cramps my style.)
Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay: A Whirlwind (and Possibly a Wipeout) of a Trip
Day 1: Arrival, Anxiety, and Aperol-Fueled Optimism
1:00 PM: Arrive at Miami International Airport (MIA). Pray to the travel gods that my luggage hasn't decided to vacation in Iceland. Seriously, the last time I flew, my suitcase went rogue and ended up in… well, let’s just say it wasn't where I was going. The stress of baggage claim alone makes my stomach churn.
- Anecdote: Trying to look breezy while simultaneously praying for my suitcase’s safe arrival. The lady next to me in sandals and a floral dress just looked happy and casual. I, on the other hand, am sweating.
1:30 PM: Grab a Lyft. Hopefully, the driver doesn't try to make conversation. I need a moment. A silent, reflective moment. (Or maybe a pre-emptive mental pep talk.)
2:30 PM: Check into the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay. Cross fingers for a decent room. I requested a view. Remember that time I booked a "city view" in Vegas and ended up staring at a giant dumpster? Yeah, that scarred me.
3:00 PM: Unpack (maybe). Probably just throw my clothes haphazardly onto various surfaces. First impressions: The room is bright, the view is… checks notes… actually pretty good! Biscayne Bay is right there! Holy crap, I might actually get some sun!
3:30 PM: Hit the pool. I need instant relaxation. The anxiety is still whispering inside me. And the pool bar? Yes, please. Aperol Spritz, STAT. This could be my whole vacation: Aperol Spritz, pool, and a quiet existential dread.
- Quirky Observation: Watching people attempt synchronized swimming (or something that looks vaguely like it) is entertainment enough. Observe the speedos! Behold the sun-burned shoulders of the tourists!
5:00 PM: Wander around the hotel looking for food, and not getting myself lost.
7:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel's restaurant. Ideally, it won't be a disaster. Fingers crossed.
- Emotional Reaction: Food at hotel restaurants can be a rollercoaster of expectations. I'm hoping it's a pleasant climb, not a plummeting descent. I'm hungry. I'm on vacation. Anything will do.
9:00 PM: Collapse. Maybe a little TV. Or maybe just stare out at the water. Tomorrow is another day, and I've got to try and do something with it.
Day 2: South Beach Shenanigans and the Search for Authentic Cuban Coffee
8:00 AM: Alarm goes off. I groan, and consider getting out of bed, but not before another few mental reminders, and a quick social media scroll.
9:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel. Scramble some eggs? That would be nice. I'm kind of hoping I can just get some decent fruit, and that they have coffee that actually tastes like coffee.
10:00 AM: Head to South Beach. Because, you know, Miami. Rent a car if the price is right, and have the courage to face the traffic. Pray for the car to last one whole trip. Or call a cab, it's okay.
11:00 AM: South Beach. Walk around, take some photos, try to avoid the overly aggressive souvenir hawkers, and wonder how anyone could be this tan. (Seriously, is there a special sun dial just for the bronzed people?)
- Anecdote: Last time I was here, got so carried away with the scenery that I walked straight into a lifeguard stand. Mortifying.
12:00 PM: Lunch at a cafe. Try to order something that doesn't involve a burger.
1:00 PM: Find authentic Cuban coffee! The most important mission of the day. I'm envisioning a tiny, potent shot of caffeine, a tiny pastry, and a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss. Google Maps, here I come.
2:00 PM: Explore a little. I'm thinking perhaps Lincoln Road, a beautiful street with shops and people.
4:00 PM: Return to the hotel. Lay by the pool. Dip in the pool, that is.
7:00 PM: Dinner. This isn't set in stone.
9:00 PM: Maybe some live music somewhere. Or, more realistically, order room service and watch a movie. I'm not exactly a nightlife person.
Day 3: Art Deco, Biscayne Bay Cruise, and the Bitter Sweet End
- 9:00 AM: Sleep in a bit. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and soak up the view.
- 10:00 AM: Visit the Art Deco Historic District. Take a stroll and admire the architecture.
- 12:00 PM: Biscayne Bay boat tour. I'm hoping I don't have any seasickness.
- Emotional Reaction: I can't decide if I love the water or get super-impressed by it. On the one hand, fresh air, the ocean, all the beauty. On the other hand, I'm a bit scared of it.
- 2:00 PM: Lunch at a restaurant.
- 4:00 PM: Start packing. The dread of going home is already setting in.
- 6:00 PM: Final dinner. Think about where to have it. Maybe a place I haven't tried yet.
- 8:00 PM: Back to the hotel. Pack.
- 9:00 PM: Reflect on the trip.
- 10:00 PM: Sleep.
Day 4: Departure and the Post-Vacation Blues
- 6:00 AM: Wake up. Still feeling exhausted.
- 7:00 AM: Check out of the hotel.
- 8:00 AM: Travel to the airport.
- 10:00 AM: Fly home.
- 12:00 PM: Start planning the next trip.
The Real Truth:
This is probably all going to be a messier, more disorganized, and ultimately, a totally different experience than I've planned. I'll probably end up getting lost, overspending on ridiculous souvenirs, and eating way too much ice cream. But that's okay. Because that's the beauty of travel, isn't it? The unexpected, the imperfections, the moments that make you laugh, cry, and maybe even learn something about yourself.
So, wish me luck. I have a feeling I'll need it. And if you see a sweaty, slightly bewildered person wandering around South Beach, that might just be me. Come say hello. And bring coffee.
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So, Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay… Is it actually worth it? Spill the tea!
Okay, honesty time. *Worth it* is a loaded question, right? It depends on *you*. If you're picturing a budget hostel, absolutely not. If you're after a luxe, over-the-top experience with a private jet, maybe not either. But if you're looking for a solid, comfortable hotel in a great location with some seriously stunning views…yeah, pretty much. I'd say it's a solid "yes." I mean, I've stayed there, and let's just say, the memory of that sunset over the bay still gives me goosebumps. I remember sitting there one night, after a truly, profoundly mediocre dinner (more on that later), and thinking, "Okay, *this* is Miami." The city sprawling before me, twinkling lights, the whole shebang. It's got that magic. You gotta roll with the vibes, though! Don't expect perfection.
Where exactly is this place? Because I'm directionally challenged (and probably craving a mojito).
Right on Biscayne Bay, honey! Duh! Seriously though, it’s in the Omni area, which puts you right on the water, near the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts (fancy!). It’s *convenient*. Like, close to everything convenient. You can hail a cab (or better yet, order an Uber), to South Beach, Wynwood, the Design District… you're basically in the heart of the action! I remember when I first pulled up, I was so frazzled from the flight, and it was like, "Okay, cool view, now where's the bar?!". Turns out, it’s very close. Very, very close.
What kind of rooms are we talkin' about? Gotta know how much closet space I have for my *lewks*.
Rooms are… well, they're Marriott rooms. They're clean. They're functional. Don't expect a palatial suite unless you're *willing* to pay for it. The views, however, are the *real* star. Seriously, you're paying for that panoramic Biscayne Bay vista, which, if you ask me, is worth every penny. Ask for a high floor! Trust me on this. I remember I scored a corner room once with floor-to-ceiling windows, and I swear I spent half the trip glued to the glass, just staring. And as for closet space… it's adequate. Pack light, or embrace the minimalist lifestyle. Unless you bring a whole, you know, suitcase *full* of lewks, you should be fine.
Pool time! Is the pool scene worth the hype (and the inevitable sunburn)?
The pool? It's…fine. Don't go expecting a South Beach mega-pool party. It’s more of a chill vibe. There's a decent-sized pool, a hot tub, and a bar where you can get your cocktails on. The views are, of course, lovely. I think I might have seen someone doing a quick dip nude. It's a pool, it's water, it keeps you cool. It *does* get crowded, so get there early to snag a good lounger, especially if you’re the type who likes a lounger that’s not in the direct sun. And the service can sometimes be a little…slow. Be prepared to flag down a server. And wear sunscreen! I learned that the hard way. Remember the first time I went, got SO SUNBURNED I was lobster red FOR A WEEK. Ugh. Totally worth it for that first dip though.
Okay, let's talk food. What are my dining options? And should I pack a sandwich?
Alright, let's get real. The dining options at the hotel are…mixed. There's a restaurant called Catch Grill & Bar, which is where I experienced the aforementioned "profoundly mediocre dinner." It’s right on the water, which is great, but the food…well, it could be better. The breakfast buffet is solid, though. Standard hotel fare: eggs, waffles, the usual suspects. There's also a Starbucks, which is a lifesaver. However, you’re in Miami, so you're surrounded by amazing restaurants! Get out there and explore! Seriously, don't be afraid to Uber a few blocks. I once found this amazing little Cuban place, and I was like, "Why didn't I discover this sooner?!" So, no need to pack a sandwich, but definitely don't eat all your meals at the hotel.
Is there a gym? Because, you know, gotta work off those mojitos...
Yes! They have a decent gym. It’s not a luxury fitness club, but it has everything you need: treadmills, weights, machines. I always tell myself I'm going to be super diligent about my workout routine while traveling, and then, you know... the pool bar. But hey, it's there if you want it. Don’t expect, you know, a *spa*. Although, I think they *do* offer in-room massages, so you can kind of have a mini-spa experience. I've definitely opted for that option before. Worth every penny, I'm telling you!
What’s the vibe like? Is it a party hotel, or more chill?
It’s more chill than, say, the Fontainebleau. It's a good mix, though! Mostly, it’s couples and families. There were conferences when I went, which meant it got a little corporate-y at times, but that's Miami, right? You’ll find people of all ages, from babies to the blue-haired jet set (okay, I imagine those last ones are in the suites). It's a great place to *start* your Miami adventure, just don’t expect an all-night rager. This isn't a crazy party hotel where you lose your clothes at 3 am. It's a solid place to unwind, enjoy the views, and then head out and experience the REAL Miami.
Okay, the view… what’s the *best* view? Seriously, I'm obsessed.
Oh, the *view*! The view is *everything*. I would say the higher, the better. Ideally, you want a room facing the bay. Get ready for some serious sunsets! I had a room on the 30th floor, and it was pure magic. Every evening, I just sat there, watching the colors change. It's like, every sunset is a different masterpiece! One night, there was this incredible storm rolling in, the whole sky was electric, and I was just mesmerized by the view. It was honestly breathtaking. Worth the upgrade. Seriously, if you can swing it, get a bay view room on a high floor. You won’t regret it. Just… do it. You’ll probably never want to leave your room. *That’s* the best viewNomadic Stays
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