Marriott Stanton South Beach

This hotel offers a prime beachfront location, providing guests with direct access to the sand and ocean, making it a signature feature for those seeking a coastal escape. Its setting in a quieter part of South Beach, yet within walking distance to vibrant areas, appeals to both beachgoers and families looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, especially with a nearby park and playground. Couples can also find appeal in the serene surroundings, though some aspects of the hotel experience may detract from a completely tranquil stay. While many guests appreciate the attentive service from various staff members, recurring issues with facility maintenance, particularly the elevators and pools, and concerns regarding additional fees, are frequently noted. To ensure a smoother visit, guests should confirm the operational status of all amenities prior to arrival and be prepared for potential wait times for elevators.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features multiple pools, though guests frequently report that one or both are often out of service, along with the hot tub, leading to overcrowding in the remaining operational areas. A significant and persistent issue highlighted by numerous reviews is the elevators, with only one typically functioning for extended periods, resulting in long wait times and considerable inconvenience for guests, especially those on higher floors or with mobility challenges. On a positive note, the fitness center is generally well-equipped, offering options for guests to maintain their routines. Complimentary bikes are available for short periods, though some are not in working order and require a third-party application. A convenient Starbucks is located on-site, and guests appreciate the complimentary gelato and sangria offered as perks. However, the Wi-Fi can be inconsistent, and while beach chairs are included, umbrellas incur an additional charge.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is mixed. Many guests describe their rooms as clean and well-maintained, with some praising the comfortable beds and spacious layouts. However, a notable number of reviews mention issues such as mold in showers or on drapes, visible dust, and stains on bedding, indicating inconsistencies in housekeeping standards. Some rooms are described as dated with worn furniture, peeling paint, or rusted fixtures. The bathrooms are often noted as small and sometimes outdated, with some featuring barn-style sliding doors that compromise privacy. Noise can be a concern, with reports of sound transferring from adjoining rooms or from loud air conditioning units located near balconies. In-room amenities like coffee makers are appreciated, but the absence of an in-room safe and the high cost of bottled water are common complaints.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers several dining options, with the Japanese restaurant consistently receiving high praise for its quality and being considered a highlight of the stay, despite being expensive with small portions. Lolo's Cantina, serving both breakfast and pool-side food, receives mixed reviews; some guests find the breakfast options limited and the service slow, while others enjoy the food. The pool bar is noted for its slow service and high prices for drinks. Room service also garners varied feedback, with some guests reporting long waits, cold food, or missing items. The convenience of an on-site Starbucks is frequently mentioned, though it can be very busy. Overall, while there are some standout dining experiences, the general food and beverage service can be inconsistent, impacting the overall guest experience.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, offering direct beach access and placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous popular attractions, including restaurants, shops, and the vibrant Ocean Drive. Its position in a quieter part of South Beach is appreciated by those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the action. However, accessibility within the hotel premises presents considerable challenges. Guests frequently report a reliance on stairs to access various areas, including the hotel entrance, lobby, pools, and the beach, making navigation difficult for individuals with mobility issues or those traveling with young children. Parking is exclusively valet and is noted as expensive, with some guests reporting issues with vehicle damage.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff receives highly varied feedback. Many guests commend the friendly staff, particularly the bellmen, valet service, and pool and beach attendants, for their helpfulness, attentiveness, and positive attitudes. These teams are often highlighted for going above and beyond to enhance the guest experience. However, the front desk and management frequently receive criticism for being unresponsive, rude, and unhelpful, especially when addressing guest concerns or issues. The check-in process is often described as slow, with rooms not being ready on time, and requests for late check-out are frequently denied, particularly for elite loyalty members. Housekeeping service is inconsistent, with some guests reporting missed room cleanings or slow responses to requests for amenities. Overall, while many individual staff members provide excellent service, systemic issues with front-facing and management teams detract from the overall service quality.

Additional Information
A major point of contention for many guests is the resort fee, which is consistently described as high, often hidden, and not fully disclosed upfront. Guests express frustration over being charged for amenities that are either not used, broken, or come with additional costs, such as beach umbrellas. The hotel's age and need for renovation are frequently mentioned, with some areas appearing luxurious while others show significant wear and tear. Despite being a loyalty program property, many guests report that rewards program benefits, such as room upgrades or late check-outs, are often not honored. Concerns about security have also been raised, with reports of theft from rooms and a perceived lack of accountability from management. The hotel offers some unique complimentary perks like gelato and fitness classes, but these are often overshadowed by the mandatory fees and maintenance issues.