Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach - a Doubletree by Hilton Hotel

This property has an interesting (and, according to some guests, confusing) setup, with a main tower connected via a walkway to a smaller building which houses additional rooms. Much of the main building is renovated and has a corporate feel from the rather nondescript cream and white aesthetic, plus many business travelers stay here. Still, tourists also love that this is practically a beachfront property, thanks to a private skywalk connecting to the shore, and a surrounding marina with lovely views. The lobby also allows in lots of natural light, and the handout of signature warm chocolate chip cookies adds a personable touch. The small lobby in the second building has more character, with mix-and-match furniture and funky wall decor, but many of its areas look dated and less than appealing. 

Located on a busy street across from Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, the hotel is within quick walking distance to the shops and restaurants on the Strip, but far enough away so that noise isn’t an issue. It’s a two-minute walk to Fort Lauderdale Beach Park and to the Fort Lauderdale Beach via the skywalk. It’s a five-minute walk to International Swimming Hall of Fame Museum. The bustling Las Olas Boulevard is a five-minute drive away. Museum of Discovery and Science is a 15-minute drive away. Fort Lauderdale International Airport is 20 minutes away by car, and the hotel doesn’t offer airport shuttles. 

Standard rooms in the main tower are modern, tasteful, and start at 250-square-feet. Some have dark blue accent walls and light gray and white color schemes, and others are decorated in cheery yellow and tangerine tones. Rooms are available with twin or king-size beds and have pleasant courtyard, marina, or ocean views. All rooms are sunny with natural light from large windows; several also have private, but simple, furnished balconies. 600-square-foot ocean-view suites have two rooms, two balconies, two TVs, and walk-in closets. However, guests complain that rooms in the marina tower are old and poorly maintained, with dingier beds and outdated carpet. Many guests have also reported that despite booking specific rooms in advance, they’re given different varieties upon arriving at the hotel.All rooms have 40-inch LCD TVs, glass-topped desks, mini-fridges, microwaves, ironing equipment, tea-and coffee-making facilities, and electronic safes. Wi-Fi is only free for Hotel Honors members (free to join), but even then, the signal isn't reliable. Bathrooms in standard rooms are very small and basic, but tidy. All have toiletries, hairdryers, and shower/tub combos with fixed showerheads. Rooms with mobility accessible features are also available.

The hotel has some nice features. The main restaurant, Breezes Tavern at Bahia Mar, is a casual lobby space with indoor, outdoor, and bar seating. Sandwiches, small plates, pastas, and desserts are served for lunch and dinner, with available kids’ menus and appetizer discounts during happy hour. A continental breakfast buffet can be included with rates, but the fresh omelet and pancake stations come with extra fees and many guests find it more cost-effective to order a la carte. On-the-go items like fresh sushi, chips and sandwiches, beverages, and salads can be purchased at the Market Deli & Liquor.The outdoor pool is large and has a good number of deck chairs alongside it, though some guests feel the area could be cleaner. Waves Pool Bar provides additional seating, plus casual food and drinks. The seven-mile beach stretch, accessible by walkway, offers some lounge chairs, a small playground, and a tennis court. The hotel gym isn’t fancy, but it's fairly big, with free weights, LifeFitness machines, and exercise balls. Bicycles can also be rented for per-day fees.Private event rooms accommodate galas as well as business conferences. There’s also a small, three-computer business center with free printing services. Wi-Fi in common areas is free. Both coin-operated laundry machines and laundry services are available. Babysitting services can be provided. A gift shop sells typical souvenirs and convenience items. Self-parking is available, but per-day fees are high. There are several accessible features throughout the property, including ramp entrances, listening devices, and visual alarms.