Penguin Hotel

Miami Beach 25.78584300, -80.12981300 , 1418 Ocean Drive (Show on Map)
7.2
Good


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1 room2 guests 1 room, 2 guests
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Summary of reviewsThe Penguin Hotel enjoys a splendid location on the iconic Ocean Drive, earning high praise from guests for its proximity to the beach, eateries, bars and shops. Visitors frequently commend the hotel's central yet serene setting, making it the perfect choice for exploring South Beach, Lummus Park and the Art Deco district, ensuring an unforgettable Miami experience.

Breakfast is generally well-received, provided daily and often enjoyed at nearby establishments like Havana 1957, praised for its tasty and visually appealing selections. Despite some inconveniences like the walk to a neighboring hotel or limited variety, guests value the quality and complimentary nature of the breakfast offerings.

Although the hotel does not provide on-site dinner options, its location within walking distance of a myriad of restaurants satisfies diverse culinary preferences and ensures guests can savor nearby dining experiences. The lack of in-house dining is overshadowed by the abundance of options in the vibrant restaurant scene of Miami Beach.

Rooms at the Penguin Hotel receive mixed reviews. Positively, they are described as bright, comfortable, clean and well-maintained with superb lighting and beautiful views, particularly of the sea. However, issues like small room sizes, limited amenities and occasional cleanliness problems slightly mar the experience. Some guests reported maintenance issues and noise disturbances, but the overall comfort and aesthetic of the rooms are generally appreciated.

Cleanliness is another area where the hotel receives mixed feedback. While many guests praise the hotel's cleanliness standards, describing both rooms and common areas as spotless and well-maintained, concerns about the infrequency of room cleaning and inconsistent cleanliness are consistently mentioned. Despite this, numerous positive remarks about the staff's friendliness and professionalism enhance the overall guest experience.

The hotel staff largely contributes to positive reviews, frequently described as friendly, helpful and polite. Guests often mention specific employees for their exceptional service, boosting the overall impression of hospitality. However, a few reports of indifferent or unprofessional behavior at the reception indicate room for improvement.

While the complimentary wifi is a noteworthy feature, its performance is often criticized. Guests report weak, unstable or slow connections, particularly on higher floors, suggesting that the hotel could improve its internet services.

The rooftop pool, though small and sometimes crowded, provides a pleasant swimming experience, especially since it is complemented by access to facilities at a neighboring hotel. Despite some logistical challenges and occasional closure, guests find the pool area clean and adequate for a refreshing dip.

The hotel's family-friendly environment receives high praise with many guests noting the courteous staff and clean, well-maintained rooms accommodating families comfortably. Despite some space constraints and logistical challenges, the hotel's location and amenities make it a strong option for family vacations, offering nearby activities and attractions suitable for children.

For nightlife enthusiasts, the Penguin Hotel is a prime spot, situated among numerous bars, restaurants and nightclubs. The lively atmosphere, particularly in the evenings, caters well to those seeking night-time adventures, despite some noise disturbances from the surrounding nightlife.

The beds receive generally positive feedback, highlighting their comfort, cleanliness and the quality of the bedding. However, a few guests have reported discomfort with overly firm beds, particularly sleeper sofas, pointing to variability in bedding comfort.

In summary, the Penguin Hotel stands out for its superb location and welcoming staff, offering a generally positive experience for beach-goers, families and nightlife seekers alike, albeit with some areas for improvement in room amenities, cleanliness consistency and internet connectivity.
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Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Situated on Ocean Drive, placing guests directly amidst the vibrant and pedestrian-friendly nightlife of South Beach. Offers easy walking access to many bars and clubs.

Hotel with Free Wi-Fi
Situated on Ocean Drive, the Penguin Hotel offers a great location and comfortable accommodations. Free Wi-Fi is available, ensuring guests can stay connected while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Beachfront Hotel

Hotel near The Beach

Hotel for Honeymoon

Family Friendly Hotel

Hotel with Swimming Pool

  Outdoor Pool  


Accessible Hotel

3-Star Hotel

Hotel with Outdoor Pool

Room Types
King Room - Ocean View This oceanfront room features a flat-screen plasma TV and a small refrigerator.

Corner Queen Room with Two Queen Beds and Ocean View This ocean view room features a flat-screen plasma TV and a small refrigerator.

Traditional Two Queen Beds This quadruple room features a flat-screen plasma TV and a small refrigerator. A safety deposit box and ironing facilities are provided.

Traditional Room 1 King bed OR Traditional Room 1 King bed with rollaway bed This double room includes a small refrigerator and a flat-screen plasma TV. A safety deposit box and ironing facilities are provided.

Ocean Corner Suite with King Bed This ocean view suite features a flat-screen plasma TV and a small refrigerator. A seating area with a sofa bed is also provided.

Ocean Front Room King Bed with Terrace This oceanfront double room features a terrace with an ocean view. It also provides a flat-screen plasma TV and a small refrigerator.

King Room with Sea View This double room's standout feature is the pool with a view. Offering free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The air-conditioned double room offers a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, parquet floors as well as sea views. The unit has 1 bed.

Guest Reviews
7.2
Good
Location
Nestled right on the iconic Ocean Drive, the Penguin Hotel boasts an enviable location that has received high praise from guests. Strategically positioned just steps from the beach and within walking distance to a plethora of restaurants, bars and shops, it offers an ideal spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of South Beach. Reviewers frequently highlight the ease of access to both trendy nightlife and relaxing beach days, noting the hotel's central but peaceful ambiance. The hotel's proximity to key attractions like Lummus Park and the Art Deco district adds to its allure, making it a prime choice for visitors eager to explore Miami Beach. With such an exceptional geographic positioning, it’s no wonder guests consider the Penguin Hotel's location unbeatable and perfect for a memorable Miami experience.

Breakfast
Guests at the Penguin Hotel have shared a spectrum of experiences regarding the breakfast offerings. Many appreciated that the breakfast, often described as complimentary, is provided daily and enjoyed at nearby establishments, particularly the Havana 1957 restaurant, which was frequently praised for its delicious and visually appealing selections. Phrases like "excellent," "very good," and "delicious" were commonly used to describe the breakfast, which included generous portions, diverse options and typical American breakfast items.

However, several guests highlighted certain inconveniences and limitations. The breakfast arrangement requiring a walk to a neighboring sister hotel or restaurant was seen as inconvenient by some, especially considering the limited variety and repetitive menu options. Occasionally, the breakfast venue was overcrowded and disorganized, leading to a less pleasant dining experience.

While some reviews mentioned a lack of variety and basic or standard food items, others found the breakfast service friendly and the atmosphere pleasant with some even enjoying breakfast on Ocean Drive, offering an inviting start to the day. In summary, despite a few logistical and variety-related challenges, the breakfast provided by the Penguin Hotel is generally well-received and appreciated for its quality and complimentary nature.

Dinner
The Penguin Hotel offers an ideal location for guests looking to explore and enjoy the bustling restaurant scene of Miami Beach. Although the hotel does not provide an on-site dinner option or a dedicated dinner menu, guests can easily find a diverse range of dining options within walking distance. The lack of in-house dining is offset by the proximity to numerous high-quality restaurants, allowing guests to savor a variety of cuisines nearby. Additionally, the hotel's peaceful setting, despite being close to the lively Miami Beach area, offers a quiet retreat after an evening out. While some guests noted the limited breakfast options and the absence of a restaurant breakfast, the convenience of nearby dining establishments effectively addresses these concerns. Overall, the Penguin Hotel's strategic location adjacent to Lummus Park and a vibrant restaurant scene makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize dining variety and local exploration.

Rooms
Penguin Hotel receives mixed feedback concerning its rooms. Positively, many guests appreciate the bright and very comfortable accommodations, noting that rooms are clean, cozy and well-tended with superb lighting and beautiful views, particularly of the sea. Spacious suites and top-floor rooms with large balconies also draw favorable mentions.

On the downside, numerous reviews highlight the small and cramped nature of many rooms, describing them as very confined with minimal space, inadequate ventilation and lacking essential amenities such as microwaves, fridges and coffeemakers. Several guests noted maintenance issues, including broken refrigerators, non-functional televisions and noise disturbances from both inside and outside the hotel. Some rooms were reported to have cleanliness issues, being described as dusty, dirty or with an unpleasant odor.

Additionally, the decor and furnishings seem outdated to some guests with rooms in need of renovations and better upkeep. The infrequency of room cleaning was also a common concern, as was the lack of daily room service. Despite some modern renovations, the overall small size of the rooms and lack of amenities play a significant role in guest satisfaction.

In summary, while Penguin Hotel offers comfort and cleanliness in an appealing location with picturesque views, potential guests should be prepared for small room sizes and some variability in room conditions and amenities.

Beds
The beds at Penguin Hotel have garnered a mix of opinions from guests. On a positive note, many reviewers consistently described the beds as very comfortable, clean and featuring superb bedding. Quite a few guests praised the large, spacious and comfy beds with some specifically highlighting extremely comfortable mattresses and very pleasant bedding. The availability of additional beds upon request and the provision of extra blankets were also commendable aspects.

However, several guests reported experiences with uncomfortable beds, describing some as excessively firm, causing backaches or being rock hard. Issues were noted with sleeper sofas, which were found to be extremely uncomfortable and unsuitable for adults due to a hard metal bar in the middle. Bedding quality also varied with some noting old linen, unclean conditions and unchanged bedding during their stay. Despite these complaints, the general sentiment leans towards beds being comfortable and conducive to a pleasant stay for most guests.

Cleanliness
Penguin Hotel has received mixed feedback regarding its cleanliness from guests. Many have highlighted that the overall cleanliness standards are commendable, describing the hotel as clean with clean rooms and a tidy communal pool. Several reviews noted that the rooms were very clean, modern, comfortable and well-maintained with the cleanliness in both the rooms and bathrooms often described as excellent. The hotel staff is frequently mentioned as friendly and professional, adding to the positive guest experience.

However, some guests expressed dissatisfaction with the cleaning schedule, noting that rooms are only cleaned every three days. Inconsistent cleanliness was a recurring issue with a few reviews mentioning dirty rooms, fixtures needing maintenance and dust accumulation. Issues such as dirty windows, dirty air filters and overflowing trash bins were occasionally cited. There were also mentions of foreign hairs found in bed linen and towels and some areas, including hallways and bathrooms, needing more regular cleaning.

In conclusion, while many guests appreciated the cleanliness and maintenance of the Penguin Hotel, there is room for improvement, particularly in maintaining a more consistent cleaning schedule and addressing specific areas that require more frequent attention.

Staff
The reviews for the Penguin Hotel highlight a mostly positive experience with the hotel's staff, who are frequently described as friendly, helpful and polite. Many guests appreciated the attentive and accommodating service provided by employees like Carmen, James, Ashley and David. The general friendliness and welcoming nature of the reception and housekeeping staff were frequently noted with particular praise for the front desk team's personal treatment and the rooftop pool staff's friendliness.

However, a few negative experiences were also reported. Some guests encountered indifferent or unhelpful staff, particularly at the breakfast service and reception. A few instances of rude behavior and unprofessionalism at the front desk were mentioned, including issues with wait times and poor communication. Despite these occasional setbacks, many travelers found the overall service and hospitality to be commendable, contributing positively to their stay.

Wi-Fi
The wifi situation at the Penguin Hotel appears to receive mixed reviews. There are mentions of WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) being great and some guests found the wifi to be fast and worked perfectly with remarks about complimentary wifi being a positive feature. Instances of the wifi being fine or seeming good give a sense of occasional reliability.

However, a significant number of reviews indicate dissatisfaction with the wifi performance. Many guests experienced weak, unstable or slow internet with wifi signals not reaching rooms or being weak throughout the hotel. Connectivity issues and limited access were also common complaints. Descriptions of the wifi being very bad, unreliable, intermittent and even non-existent were frequent. The overall quality was often rated as poor with some guests noting that the wifi could be significantly improved, especially on higher floors. With minimal options to charge electronics, it seems that the hotel's internet amenities are a common area for guest frustration.

Pool
Penguin Hotel offers a small yet pleasant rooftop pool, although it is actually located at a neighboring or sister hotel. While the ambiance at this tiny outdoor pool is nice, guests often find the size to be an issue, describing it as small, crowded or even microscopic. Despite its compact size, the pool area is clean and adequate and it shares facilities with another hotel, which can be a minor inconvenience. For many, the pool's distant location and access complications are notable drawbacks, though some guests appreciate the complimentary tickets provided to use it. However, guests should be prepared that the pool is sometimes closed with occasional complaints regarding water temperature and cleanliness. Overall, the rooftop pool at Penguin Hotel provides a decent, albeit modest, swimming experience.

Beach
The Penguin Hotel boasts an exceptional location, particularly noted for its close proximity to the beach. Guests frequently highlight the ease of beach access with some mentioning that the beach is directly across the street or just a short walk away. The convenience of being able to stroll to the beach within minutes is a recurring theme, often appreciated by beach lovers and families.

The beach itself receives favorable mentions, described as nice and beautiful with plenty of available amenities such as parking and beach towels provided by the hotel. The surrounding area is safe with the added benefit of nearby restaurants and the vibrant atmosphere of South Beach.

Some reviews note the slightly dirty part of the beach near the hotel, but overall, the emphasis is on the positive aspects of the location. Many guests rave about the hotel’s prime position on Miami Beach’s famous Ocean Drive, offering stunning sea views and a fantastic setting for a beachfront escape.

Family
Penguin Hotel receives high praise for its family-friendly environment, making it an ideal location for those traveling with children. The guest reviews consistently highlight the courteous and welcoming front desk staff who particularly accommodate families, often making check-in seamless, even with early arrivals.

The hotel stands out as family-oriented, offering clean and neat rooms specifically designed to meet family needs. However, some guests noted that while the rooms are clean and well-maintained, they can feel a bit cramped for larger families. Despite the smaller room sizes, the overall environment remains conducive for family stays.

While there are positive remarks about the convenience of the location and family-oriented amenities, a few logistical challenges were mentioned, such as the difficulty in accessing the hotel with a vehicle and making long journeys with luggage. Furthermore, some reviewers felt that the family support services could be improved, citing inadequate facilities and services for children.

Noteworthy is the variety of activities available for children in the vicinity, along with heated pool access and complimentary tickets for certain attractions, which families found beneficial. Though there were minor issues like insufficient catering for children at nearby restaurants and occasional problems with children's breakfast vouchers, families generally reported that their children enjoyed their stay.

Overall, Penguin Hotel is frequently recommended for its family-friendly atmosphere, helpful staff and convenient, clean accommodations. While there are areas for improvement, particularly regarding space and children's services, it remains a strong option for those planning a family trip.

Nightlife
The Penguin Hotel is an ideal hub for those eager to experience vibrant nightlife. Located on Ocean Drive, it is surrounded by an array of restaurants and numerous bars and nightclubs within walking distance. The hotel offers a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, making it perfect for night-time adventures. Proximity to clubs and late-night bars ensures guests have a wealth of entertainment options close by, which is great for partygoers.

While the area is bustling with energy and provides easy access to various nightlife hotspots, it also comes with some drawbacks. Several reviews mention noise from the surrounding bars and nightlife, which can affect those sensitive to nighttime disturbances. Nonetheless, the dynamic scene and the hotel's convenient location make it a prime choice for those looking to dive into the heart of the local nightlife.

3 Star
The Penguin Hotel presents a mixed bag of experiences, often leading to debates around its advertised three-star status. While it boasts certain typical three-star amenities and accommodations, such as decent pricing and classic mid-range services, many guests felt it falls short of these claims. Some aspects hint at a balanced value for money with comfortable and clean, though slightly outdated, facilities. However, others mentioned that the hotel does not meet the expected standards for a three-star rating and likened it more to a two-star experience, causing disappointment for those anticipating more.

The general upkeep and maintenance seem to be recurring concerns with some parts of the hotel needing upgrades. Despite these drawbacks, it appears to work well for short, budget-conscious stays. The hotel overall provides an average quality that could suffice for less demanding travelers, yet those with higher expectations might find it underwhelming given the perceived discrepancy between its marketing and actual offerings. While it's affordable and fits basic needs, the Penguin Hotel might not fully satisfy those looking for a quintessential three-star experience.

Accessible
The Penguin Hotel has received a mix of reviews regarding its accessibility for guests with disabilities. Many guests highlighted the hotel's overall good accessibility, describing it as wheelchair-friendly with accessible rooms, entries and amenities. The hotel ensures easy access to rooms and nearby areas, allowing guests to explore without difficulty. Its location adds to its appeal, being easily accessible and in a good area.

However, some challenges were noted. Guests pointed out difficulties due to the hotel's street location, where vehicles can't reach the front door, making it inconvenient to arrive with luggage and hindering direct access. Concerns were raised about the lack of nearby parking and the need for guidance on where to park. For those with mobility issues, accessibility accommodations were found to be limited or lacking with some reviews pointing out specific areas where the hotel could improve.

In summary, while the Penguin Hotel offers several accessibility features and convenient areas for exploration, the challenges with parking, luggage handling and some accessibility accommodations indicate that it may not fully meet the needs of all guests with disabilities.

Outdoor Pool
Guests of Penguin Hotel have shared their experiences regarding the hotel's outdoor pool, shedding light on various aspects of this amenity. The outdoor pool is praised for being clean and well-maintained, making it an enjoyable spot for a refreshing dip. However, guests note that the pool is relatively small but still adequate for relaxation and cooling off, especially on a hot day.

One standout feature is the rooftop pool, which several guests mentioned. This rooftop pool offers an elevated experience, although it's worth noting that it is also on the smaller side. Some reviews mentioned that the outdoor pool is located in a different or adjacent building or even at a nearby hotel, but access is still convenient for guests staying at the Penguin Hotel.

Despite its size, the pool's quality and cleanliness, combined with its rooftop location, make it a nice perk for the guests. Overall, the available pool options, including the rooftop setting, provide a pleasant and satisfactory experience for those seeking a swim or a spot to relax.

Honeymoon
Penguin Hotel has garnered numerous positive reviews, particularly for its suitability as a honeymoon destination. With its romantically themed ambiance, this hotel is described as perfect for honeymoon couples looking for a quiet and serene environment. The atmosphere is often highlighted as calm, romantic and filled with honeymoon vibes, making it an ideal spot for newlyweds.

Many guests emphasize the hotel's romantic setting and ambiance, noting that it provides the perfect backdrop for a special getaway. The honeymoon suites, especially those on sale, are frequently mentioned for their cleanliness and romantic decor, adding to the overall appeal for couples.

Furthermore, the hotel’s location right on the strip is seen as a significant advantage, giving guests easy access to surrounding attractions while still maintaining a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The complementary services offered by the hotel further enhance the experience, ensuring that honeymooners feel pampered and well taken care of during their stay.

Overall, Penguin Hotel is highly praised as a wonderful place for honeymooners, offering a romantic and serene environment perfect for celebrating the start of a marriage.

Beachfront
Penguin Hotel enjoys a prime location for beach lovers, being situated directly on Ocean Drive and offering magnificent sea views. Guests repeatedly highlight the hotel's superb beachfront position, just steps away from the clean, white sand of South Beach. The convenience of direct beachfront access allows visitors to easily transition from their rooms to the shore. Many reviewers specifically praise the fantastic location, which not only provides immediate beach access but also stunning ocean views from both private terraces and within the rooms. The hotel's proximity to key attractions on Miami Beach further enhances its appeal, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the coastal experience. Overall, the Penguin Hotel's beachfront accommodations receive strong accolades for their unbeatable location right on the beach.


Yes, Penguin Hotel has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.

No, a spa isn't available at Penguin Hotel.

No, Penguin Hotel doesn't allow dogs.

No, parking facilities aren't available at Penguin Hotel.

No, Penguin Hotel doesn't have a gym.

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