Crystal Beach Suites Oceanfront Hotel

The Crystal Beach Suites Hotel sits on the corner of Collins Avenue with a plain entrance, adorned by a blue awning and two lions flanking glass doors that lead into the lobby. Built in 1932, the four-story hotel has a modern lobby, featuring sleek furniture, a flat-screen TV, stone tile floors, a skylight, and two elevators. There’s an ATM machine in between the two front desks. The last full renovation took place in 1995 (suites on the fourth floor were renovated in 2010), so understandably some common areas and suite furnishings are date, but this should be remedied throughout the hotel's 2017 renovation. Tropical patterned carpeting and a few pieces of hanging artwork are in hallways. The hotel’s outdoor pool -- accessible through a gate in the back of the hotel -- is partially shaded by palm trees. The deck has casual lounge chairs, patio furniture with umbrellas, and a wheelchair lift. The beach, with lounge chairs for rent and a jogging path, is nearby. The overall atmosphere is relaxed but lacking polish. 

The hotel is in North Beach’s Little Argentina in a building with Uruguayan and Colombian restaurants, an ice cream shop, and an eyeglass shop. There are markets, a Subway restaurant, liquor stores, bars, and cafes surrounding the hotel. The beach is behind the hotel, with a nice jogging trail. Shopping at Lincoln Road Mall is 16 minutes away by car. Driving to Bal Harbour Shops is 10 minutes and Aventura Mall is 30 minutes. The lively nightlife scene on Ocean Drive is a 20-minute drive. Miami Seaquarium is a 30-minute drive. The Miami Zoo takes 50 minutes by car. The Miami International Airport is a 25-minute drive.

Standard, Standard Oceanfront, Standard Large, Premium, Premium Oceanfront, and Premium Large suites are available. All suites have irons/ironing boards, DVD players, central air-conditioning, safes, and daily housekeeping. Sitting areas have sofa beds, dining tables, and kitchenettes with microwaves, mini-fridges, dishwashers, toasters, coffeemakers, and two stovetop burners. Standard suites feature outdated pink decor and '80s designs. Premium suites are more modern with granite countertops, dark wood details, contemporary furniture, stereos, and flat-screen TVs. Modern and basic bathrooms have hairdryers and shower/tub combos. Hurrican-impact windows keep rooms well insulated from outside noise, and have sea views or unattractive views of other buildings. Cribs can be requested. 

A lounge breakfast room -- with windows facing the pool -- offers classic tables, chairs, and comfy furniture; a free continental breakfast is served daily. The large gym has glass windows facing the pool, modern cardio equipment, mounted tube TVs, free weights, and ceiling fans. The outdoor pool is surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas. There’s also one 400-square-foot meeting room on-site that’s available for gatherings of up to 10 people. The front desk offers business services, including copying and faxing assistance. At the front of the hotel is 24-hour valet service, and the hotel's parking facility is one block away. Wi-Fi is free.