Solara Surfside

I have stayed here many times and love the fact that it's on the beach and has a wonderful grilling area. You can even borrow utensils for the grill!

I have gone with just my husband and also with family with children. We always have a blast. The water and beach are perfect.

We've had 6 people in the smaller 2 bedroom with no problem getting around and cooking in the kitchen.

The valet is great, but make sure to call before you go down so your car is ready. They will even help you load your car as there are steps at the front. I always end up forgetting something at the grocery (which is walkable, but tough on the way back if you have a lot of groceries), so have to request my car more than once a day. Especially if we drive to dinner or an attraction. They are always accomodating and never had a bad word to say.

The rooms are clean and have everything you need. I always leave relaxed.

Just returned with the familiy for spring break in Miami. We have two daughters in College so they were able to go down to the South Beach area, while my wife and I enjoyed quiet time by the beach. Hint: Purchase a 7-day bus pass about 40 days advance of your stay. A pass for one person is $26 (unlimited). We took the bus to get groceries; go shopping; and go out to dinner. The rental car was used to/from the airport; the everglades, and the Keys. As stated in other reviews this is in a quiet neighborhood - right next to Bal Harbour. You are roughly 3:15 hours from the Keys - so that tends to be a day-trip. The Everglades or Zoo can be a 1/2 day trip.

Aug. 2009, I vacationed with my family of 4, we absolutely loved it. It's Chic, bright and almost Exclusive. The 2 BR sleeps 6 was BIG, But the 2 BR sleeps 8 is FANTASTIC, with its Ocean Front balcony. The location was great as it was a peaceful retreat not far from main areas as South Beach and nite life. The resort planned really good activities and "A good time was had by all". We'll be back!

I have put off reviewing this resort because our problems may not be a problem to anybody else. The resort is all that other reviewers have said, BUT Surfside is a residential community. The nearest restaurants/groceries are about a mile away in either direction. The restaurants within walking distance weren't particularly good, which means driving. And the resort is valet parking only. There's a daily parking fee, and add that to a valet tip each way, and things get expensive. Lastly, we had a nasty experience. The parking is below the building, and we took our luggage down to load it into the car. Then, since the gate was open, we drove up to the entrance to check out. The valet was pretty ugly, missing his tip. I might have tipped him anyway, except for his remarks. We drove off, and in 20 minutes had a flat tire. I don't know that the valet did it, but the tire was slashed on the side, and it was the right rear tire where he stood, while I checked out. I don't like giving this review, but others need to know.

Stayed for April break with several families, abslolutely loved it. Close to everything in Miami and Miami Beach, ocean/beach was great. Resort is located in quiet location, has tennis court near by, great for family. Pool could be bigger. Resort has 1 BR room, 1 BR delux and 2 BR. 1 BR is regular size, 1 BR delux is very spacious-when I booked reservation I was not told there are different 1 BRms. 2 BR is huge and can easily fit 8-10 people. Plan to go back next year.