1430 Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, Florida, United States | (251) 219-4428
Superb oceanfront location
Easy walk to bars, shops and restaurants
Clean, well-maintained facilities
Spacious suites with kitchenettes
Free Wi-Fi
No pool
No on-site lounge or restaurant
Rooms lack views
Expensive valet-only parking
Some rooms can be noisy
Offering just 52 rooms in one of the world's most desirable destinations, it's no surprise that the Grand Vacations Club, a timeshare property owned and operated by Hilton, is sold out for months at a stretch. Divided between two adjacent Art Deco buildings directly on Ocean Drive, the hotel clearly has a lock on prime location. However, guests expecting resort-style amenities will be disappointed: The property has no pool, restaurant, or lounge, and parking is valet only. Families will likely appreciate the small kitchen for whipping up a quick breakfast or lunch.
Scene
Low-Key South Beach Retreat
The Grand Vacations Club is housed in twin vintage properties that still retain much of their Art Deco charm. Original terrazzo floors lead from the front terrace to a small, quiet lobby that is minimally furnished with a few retro-style round banquettes and armchair groupings. As the property lacks a cocktail lounge or café, the real action is the passing street parade outside, which guests can enjoy watching from the comfortably padded sofas on shaded dual patios.
Location
South Beach Central, facing the Atlantic
The Grand Vacations Club is on the northern end of Ocean Drive, the most legendary -- and lively -- thoroughfare in South Beach. The stunning blue of the ocean is clearly visible just across the street, and the cafes, boutiques and nightclubs of Collins Avenue are just around the corner. The Miami Beach Convention Center is within a five-minute drive and Miami International Airport is about 10 miles away.
Rooms
Ample space to stretch out
One- and two-bedroom suites provide enough space to relax and feature a lively gray, black and yellow color scheme on upholstery and carpets. While cabinetry is a bit worn, the small corner kitchenettes with granite-topped breakfast bars are amply equipped with coffeemakers, microwaves and other essentials for making quick snacks. Beds feature oversized headboards and simple white bedding. Views are of a rear alley or the building next door, and noise from garbage trucks can be intrusive in some rooms.
Features
Maximum location, minimal amenities
The Hilton Grand Vacations Club is a condo-style property, not a full-service resort. There's a well-maintained hot tub and workout room on an upper floor and a small desk in the lobby that functions as a business center. While there is no on-site dining, the hotel offers limited room service delivery from local restaurants. Valet parking is available for an added daily fee.