Riu Plaza Miami Beach is frequently praised for its enviable location directly on the beachfront, offering easy access to the pristine sands and nearby attractions such as South Beach and downtown Miami. Guests appreciate its quieter Mid Beach setting, which is perfect for family-friendly stays while still providing proximity to the area's lively spots and various shops and restaurants within walking distance.
Regarding breakfast, the hotel stands out with an extensive and varied buffet that includes healthy options, fresh fruits, a variety of breads and made-to-order omelettes. Guests frequently highlight the excellent quality and presentation, considering it one of the best hotel breakfasts in Miami, making mornings an enjoyable experience in a beautiful setting. Dinner also receives positive remarks for its varied and fresh offerings, though some guests feel there is room for improvement regarding temperature and protein options.
Rooms at the hotel are generally described as spacious, clean and featuring breathtaking ocean views. Many guests appreciate the comfortable beds, good shower facilities and efficient housekeeping. However, a few reviews suggest that certain areas could benefit from refurbishment, noting issues such as thin walls, noisy environments and malfunctioning air conditioning systems.
Cleanliness is a notable highlight with many guests commending the well-maintained rooms, grounds and pool area. However, there are occasional reports of lapses in thoroughness, such as dust or mold in some rooms. Despite these minor issues, the overall impression of cleanliness and attentiveness contributes positively to the guest experience.
The hotel staff receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and attentiveness. Reception staff, particularly individuals like Santiago, Lucas and Alvin, are frequently commended for enhancing guests' experiences with their proactive support. Although a few reviews report unfavorable interactions or language barriers, the general consensus is that the staff significantly contributes to guests' overall satisfaction.
Feedback on the hotel's WiFi is mixed with some guests experiencing reliable connections while others encounter issues with obtaining passwords and inconsistent coverage. The gym elicits similar divided opinions; while some guests find the facilities adequate and well-maintained, others feel it lacks sufficient equipment and could use better upkeep.
The hotel's pool area is well-received for its cleanliness, pleasant atmosphere and excellent maintenance. The lush landscaping, ample sun loungers and poolside bar add to the appeal, although occasional shortages of loungers and pool closures for maintenance are noted.
The beachfront access is a standout feature with guests enjoying the clean, well-maintained shore just steps from the hotel. The private beach section with provided chairs and umbrellas enhances comfort and convenience, making it a favorite feature for visitors.
Lastly, parking at the hotel receives mixed reviews with frequent comments on its high cost and limited availability. Valet parking is noted for being efficient but expensive with fees often described as exorbitant. Despite these complaints, some guests do appreciate the convenience of the service.
In summary, Riu Plaza Miami Beach offers a comfortable stay with its prime beachfront location, excellent breakfast, friendly staff and well-maintained facilities. While there are minor areas for improvement, such as room updates and parking costs, the overall experience is highly positive, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in Miami Beach.
Categories
Beachfront
This large beachfront resort provides direct access to the beach. It features multiple pools and is a popular choice for a beachfront stay.
Beach
Riu Plaza Miami Beach is located on Collins Avenue and offers direct beach access. It provides a comfortable beachfront experience with various amenities.
Parking
This hotel provides valet parking services for its guests. While there is a fee, having on-site valet parking offers a convenient solution for arriving and departing with a vehicle directly at the hotel.
Luxury
Nightlife
Pool
Outdoor Pool
Accessible
Gym
4 Star
Outdoor Pool
Golf
Sustainability Journey
Business
Room Types
Deluxe City View King BedOffering free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room offers a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee machine, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as city views. The unit has 1 bed.
Deluxe Ocean View King BedThe spacious double room offers air conditioning, a coffee machine, a balcony with sea views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 1 bed.
Deluxe Ocean Front King BedThe spacious double room features air conditioning, a coffee machine, a balcony with sea views as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 1 bed.
Deluxe Ocean View Double BedsThe spacious double room provides air conditioning, a coffee machine, a balcony with sea views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Deluxe Ocean Front Double BedsThe spacious double room offers air conditioning, a coffee machine, a balcony with sea views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Deluxe City View Double BedsProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee machine, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box as well as city views. The unit offers 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
7.8
Good
Review Summaries
Location
The Riu Plaza Miami Beach hotel boasts an enviable location, praised frequently by its guests. Nestled directly on the beachfront, it offers easy and direct access to the pristine sands and ocean. The hotel's proximity to important Miami Beach attractions, including South Beach and downtown, is frequently highlighted. Convenient transportation options such as a nearby trolley stop make it accessible to tourist hotspots like the Art Deco District and other city highlights.
Guests also appreciate the hotel's setting on Mid Beach, providing a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere while still being close enough to the hustle and bustle of South Beach. The serene beachfront location is perfect for both relaxation and adventure with many restaurants and shops within walking distance.
The combination of a prime location, comfortable facilities and panoramic ocean views makes this hotel a favorite among visitors looking to balance leisure and exploration in Miami Beach.
Breakfast
Guests at Riu Plaza Miami Beach consistently praise the hotel's breakfast offerings. The extensive and varied breakfast buffet is highlighted for its excellent quality and abundant selections. Visitors appreciate the wide variety of choices, including both healthy and indulgent options and particularly note the fresh fruits, various types of bread and the made-to-order omelette station. Many guests comment on how well-presented and delicious the food is, making breakfast a standout aspect of their stay.
The complimentary breakfast, included with the stay, is often described as exceeding expectations compared to other hotels with users noting it as one of the best they have experienced in Miami. It is also considered a great value, adding to the overall positive experience.
Despite some comments about occasional crowding and a few mixed reviews on the buffet's consistency, the general consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Guests find the breakfast to be a highlight of their visit, fitting perfectly with the hotel's proximity to the beach, adding to the appeal of starting the day with a enjoyable meal in a beautiful setting.
Dinner
Riu Plaza Miami Beach offers a dining experience that generally leaves a positive impression among its guests. The food across the hotel's restaurants is frequently described as delicious and of good quality with meals meeting high standards. Both the breakfast and dinner buffets are highlighted for their variety and freshness and the breakfast in particular receives numerous accolades for being extensive and well-presented.
The dinner experience includes a noteworthy buffet that many find to be exceptional and varied, offering different dishes daily and generally high-quality products. Guests also appreciate the convenience of the breakfast-dinner system and several point out the inclusion of dinner in their room price as an excellent deal. The pizza at the lobby bar and other dining options, like the small restaurant and pool bar menu, also add to the overall positive impression.
Despite the overall favorable feedback, there are some dissenting opinions. A few reviews note the dinner as merely average, overpriced or even unsatisfactory. There are mentions of food not being hot enough, limited protein choices and a decline in the quality of the buffet. Some guests found the dinner buffet lacking compared to breakfast and described it as not living up to the hotel’s standards.
In summary, while there are mixed reviews, the dining options at Riu Plaza Miami Beach are largely praised for their variety, quality and convenience with just a few areas for improvement.
Rooms
Situated along the picturesque Miami Beach, the Riu Plaza Miami Beach hotel offers guests a mix of experiences when it comes to its rooms. Many visitors appreciate the spaciousness and cleanliness of the accommodations, often highlighting the breathtaking ocean views from the balconies. Rooms are described as comfortable with large beds and good shower facilities, making for pleasant stays. The hotel’s location and direct beach access are significant positives, allowing for tranquil getaways while still being close to the bustling Lincoln Road.
Many guests note that the rooms are well-appointed and maintained regularly. Housekeeping is efficient, ensuring that spaces are clean and refreshed daily. The modern decor in some of the rooms garners praise and features like functional layouts and amenities like minibars and safes are appreciated.
However, feedback indicates a need for refurbishment in certain areas with some rooms described as dated and showing signs of wear. Noisy environments are a common complaint with thin walls making it easy to hear neighbors and street noise. Additionally, some rooms have issues with air conditioning, either being too cold or malfunctioning and there are occasional complaints about unpleasant smells.
In summary, while the Riu Plaza Miami Beach excels in providing comfortable, spacious and clean environments for travelers, there are aspects that could be improved, particularly regarding noise insulation, air conditioning and general room updates. Visitors looking for a blend of beach proximity and room comfort will find much to enjoy, provided they manage their expectations around potential noise and dated decor.
Beds
Guests at Riu Plaza Miami Beach have had varied experiences with the beds. Many have praised the beds for being comfortable and cozy with several guests appreciating the clean and tidy presentation. However, there are numerous mentions of the beds being too small for two people and some guests found them to be narrow, particularly noting that the queen-size beds are smaller than usual.
Several visitors reported that their beds were very uncomfortable with a few mentioning that the mattresses felt like pull-out couch mattresses or were extremely hard. Issues such as saggy mattresses and broken bed frames were also mentioned. Additionally, a handful of guests were not satisfied with the bedding, describing the blankets as thin and the pillows as flat and unsupportive.
Despite these criticisms, there were still several positive comments about the beds being comfortable, indicating that experiences can vary between rooms or personal preferences. Cleanliness was generally well-regarded with guests appreciating the overall upkeep of the rooms and the hotel.
Cleanliness
Riu Plaza Miami Beach garners a mixed reception regarding cleanliness with a preponderance of positive mentions highlighting its commendable standards. Many guests appreciated the overall cleanliness of the hotel, frequently noting that rooms were clean, comfortable and refreshed nicely. The hotel's grounds, lobby and pool area received similar praise for being well-maintained and tidy. Additionally, the beach, which is closely situated, was often described as very clean.
Reviewers consistently mentioned the provision of clean towels daily and a generally high standard of cleanliness in the common areas. Many found the bathrooms spacious and clean and the attentive cleaning staff gave the impression of a well-kept property.
However, not all observations were positive. Some guests pointed out issues with the attention to detail in room cleaning with reports of dust on floorboards, signs of mold in the bathroom and leftover items from previous occupants. A few reviews mentioned late or inadequate room cleaning services with specifics such as unvacuumed corridors and occasional oversight in thorough cleaning.
Despite these isolated complaints, the good location, friendly service and overall cleanliness made the hotel a comfortable and convenient choice for many guests. The stunning sea view and well-cleaned pool were lauded as added perks. While the hotel may benefit from addressing some housekeeping inconsistencies, many travelers found it to be a clean and pleasant place to stay.
Staff
The reviews for Riu Plaza Miami Beach reveal a mixed yet predominantly positive perspective on the hotel's staff. The prevailing sentiment highlights that the staff are generally friendly, helpful and attentive with particular commendations for the reception team, including individuals like Santiago, Lucas and Alvin. Guests frequently appreciated the friendly and efficient service at various touchpoints, from check-in to housekeeping, the pool and the beach.
Exceptional service was noted in specific areas such as the breakfast buffet, where the crew was described as organized and attentive. The restaurant and bar staff also received praise for their friendliness and professionalism. The receptionists, especially Alvin and Lucas, were often highlighted for their proactive support and welcoming demeanor, greatly enhancing guests' experiences.
However, some reviews pointed to less favorable experiences with certain staff members. Issues ranged from perceived rudeness and unprofessional behavior to inadequate service and language barriers. Guests specifically mentioned negative interactions with some front desk and management staff, which occasionally marred their stay.
Despite these discrepancies, the overall consensus leans towards a positive view of the staff at Riu Plaza Miami Beach, commending their general helpfulness, friendliness and attentiveness, which contributed significantly to many guests' overall satisfaction.
Wi-Fi
Travelers staying at Riu Plaza Miami Beach have shared mixed experiences regarding the hotel's WiFi. Several guests reported difficulties with the WiFi password and a lack of free WiFi access, which can be a significant inconvenience in today's connected world. Some found the WiFi to be unreliable, describing it as slow, spotty, or inconsistent and noted that the signal was particularly weak in certain areas.
However, not all reviews were negative. A number of guests appreciated the good WiFi connection with some highlighting that the internet was very good and even reached the beach. The consistency of the internet service seemed to please several visitors and for those fortunate enough to get a solid connection, the WiFi was working well.
Overall, while there appear to be significant issues with the WiFi service at Riu Plaza Miami Beach, there are also reports of satisfactory experiences, indicating that the quality of the connection might vary greatly depending on individual circumstances.
Gym
The gym at Riu Plaza Miami Beach receives mixed feedback from guests. Despite some noting its small size and lack of equipment, others found the gym to be adequate or even enjoyable. Positive highlights include high-quality and solidly maintained equipment and the availability of free water for gym users, enhancing the workout experience. While some guests described the gym as nice and well-maintained, others felt it was worn out and not properly equipped, leading to disappointment. Overall, the gym offers essential facilities and is appreciated by some guests, although there is room for improvement in both maintenance and variety of equipment.
Pool
The pool at Riu Plaza Miami Beach is widely appreciated for its cleanliness, pleasant atmosphere and effective maintenance. Guests praise its beautiful setting, often highlighting the lush landscape and proximity to the beach. The outdoor area offers ample sun loungers and umbrellas, although some guests have mentioned occasional shortages. The poolside bar and restaurant enhance the experience, providing good service and a range of refreshments. The pool itself is a decent size for most, but some find it small and occasionally congested. Heated and well-maintained, it offers a relaxing spot for both families and individual travelers. However, there have been instances where the pool was closed for maintenance, which slightly impacted some visitors' experiences. Overall, the pool significantly enhances the appeal of the hotel, offering a pleasant retreat in the heart of Miami Beach.
Beach
Riu Plaza Miami Beach consistently impresses its guests with its excellent beach access and prime location right on Miami Beach. Visitors appreciate the ease with which they can reach the beach, noting that it is just steps away from the hotel. The beach itself receives high marks for being clean, well-maintained and beautiful, offering plenty of space and a pleasant environment for relaxation.
Guests mention enjoying the hotel's private beach section, complete with provided beach chairs and umbrellas, enhancing their convenience and comfort. The service at the beach is frequently described as wonderful with some guests highlighting the availability of beach towels and the ease of access to the beach area.
The proximity to the beach is a significant highlight, making it easy for guests to move back and forth between their rooms and the shore. Many reviews point out the great beachfront views and the overall lovely atmosphere of the beachfront location. The combination of the clean and spacious beach area with easy access makes this a favorite feature among visitors.
With a fantastic location that allows quick and convenient beach access, the Riu Plaza Miami Beach stands out as a top choice for travelers looking to enjoy the sun and sand of Miami Beach.
Parking
Guests of the Riu Plaza Miami Beach have frequently commented on the hotel's parking situation, generally noting that it is quite expensive and often limited. Valet parking is the primary option available, but it comes with high fees that some guests found exorbitant with rates typically around $40 per day, though some mentioned paying up to $60 per day. The convenience of valet service was appreciated by some, particularly highlighting the efficiency and professionalism of the valet staff. However, this was overshadowed by consistent complaints about the cost.
Availability of parking seems to be a common issue with many guests reporting no spaces upon their arrival, contributing to a hectic and overcrowded valet area. At times, the valet service itself was criticized for various reasons including being unhelpful, poorly organized and even incidents of mismanagement.
Despite these challenges, some reviews did acknowledge the benefits of valet parking, such as ease and time-saving aspects, indicating that for some, the trade-off was worth the extra cost. However, more economical and straightforward parking solutions appear to be a significant area where guests felt the hotel could improve. The lack of cheaper alternatives and the need to budget additional funds for parking were recurrent points of dissatisfaction among the guests.
Nightlife
Located in an area with mixed reviews regarding its nightlife proximity, the Riu Plaza Miami Beach offers guests a range of entertainment options. Although some guests noted the hotel is somewhat removed from Miami Beach's bustling nightlife scene and a closer proximity would be preferable, it compensates with its own on-site amenities. The hotel has great lounges, a bar next to the pool and live music in the evenings that add to the charm for those who prefer to stay in.
Guests looking for more vibrant night scenes found nearby neighborhoods with adequate and nice places to go out, including the entertainment found close to Ocean Drive. Accessing more lively nightlife locations is straightforward with Uber being a convenient choice for guests. Despite its more tranquil setting, those staying at Riu Plaza Miami Beach can still enjoy live entertainment and a good bar scene without venturing too far.
4 Star
Located in the vibrant mid-beach area, Riu Plaza Miami Beach offers a mix of experiences that cater to various guest preferences. The hotel has commendable aspects such as beautiful beach access, a large pool and overall cleanliness, which align well with its four-star status. Guests frequently highlight the luxurious and clean rooms, as well as the excellent service provided by the staff, emphasizing that these elements meet the expected four-star standards.
The hotel's proximity to the beach serves as a significant draw for many visitors, along with the consistent positive interaction with the staff that enhances the overall stay experience. Despite these positives, some areas such as the rooms and equipment are noted to be in need of a refresh to reach the full potential of a four-star rating. Some guests have expressed that the hotel lacks certain four-star amenities and services, such as deep cleaning in the rooms, more inclusive freebies and updated facilities.
While the price point is regarded as high, many find the value to be consistent with their expectations of a four-star accommodation. There are mixed reviews about whether the hotel fully meets the four-star criteria with some suggesting that nearby hotels might offer a more authentic four-star experience. Nevertheless, Riu Plaza Miami Beach is generally viewed as an elegant and well-located option that delivers good overall service and comfort for its guests.
Accessible
Riu Plaza Miami Beach offers a highly accessible experience for guests with disabilities, reflected positively in numerous reviews. The hotel boasts a prime location, close to a multitude of restaurants, tourist attractions and amenities, making it easily reachable for guests. Guests find the accessibility from the airport convenient and there is effortless access to buses, taxis and a free trolley that conveniently stops right in front of the hotel.
The property itself features accessible valet parking, a clean and accessible lobby and direct access to the beach, which accommodates both relaxation and mobility needs. Family-friendly with accessible rooms and areas, the hotel provides ease of access to the pool, gym and conference rooms. The bathrooms and other guest areas adapt well to those requiring disable-friendly features.
However, there are notable concerns about the functionality of the elevators with many guests reporting that only two were operational, complicating accessibility for those who have difficulty with stairs. Despite this, the hotel maintains a generally positive reputation for excellent service and good accessibility throughout most of its facilities.
Outdoor Pool
Located in the heart of Miami Beach, 'Riu Plaza Miami Beach' offers a remarkable outdoor pool experience that consistently earns praise from its guests. The outdoor pool is frequently described as clean and well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors. The area is equipped with ample sun loungers and parasols, providing plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun.
Guests particularly appreciate the heated and larger pools, offering warmth and comfort, ideal for a dip even during cooler days. The pool area is not just functional but also beautifully designed with many noting its aesthetic appeal, including a beautiful ocean-front setting. The availability of a pool bar adds an extra layer of enjoyment, allowing guests to indulge in drinks and snacks without leaving the comfort of the poolside.
Moreover, the pool’s ambiance is frequently highlighted as a significant plus with a lovely surrounding garden and proximity to a clean beach. For those looking for activities, the pool area offers great pool activities and services, ensuring entertainment and relaxation in equal measure. The pool's location and well-planned layout are also positive points, featuring nice chairs, sunbeds and a picturesque view.
Despite some mentions of the pool being smaller or occasionally crowded, the majority of reviews reflect a highly positive consensus. From its clean and spacious environment to the exceptional service provided, the outdoor pool at 'Riu Plaza Miami Beach' stands out as a highlight for guests, making it a must-experience amenity during any stay.
Luxury
Riu Plaza Miami Beach is characterized by its luxurious ambiance and high-end offerings. Guests frequently praise the exceptional stay they experience at this beautiful hotel, which stands out with its stunning decor and overall luxurious atmosphere. The hotel exudes a high-end image, resembling a castle with its elegantly designed and decorated spaces, earning it a five-star service reputation from beginning to end.
The rooms stand out for their large, comfortable and luxurious nature, featuring fancy finishes and high-end fittings. The beautifully designed lobby and a luxurious rooftop bar further elevate the guest experience. A highlight for many is the wonderful and varied buffet-style breakfast, which contributes to the overall high-end experience.
Facilities at Riu Plaza Miami Beach are modern and exceptionally clean with luxurious amenities provided throughout. From high-end guestrooms to luxury-class service, including high-end valet and dining experiences, the hotel ensures a memorable stay for its visitors. This spectacular venue is particularly noted as a great place for luxury, making it an ideal destination for special occasions like anniversary celebrations.
Despite some feedback suggesting that certain services do not quite meet the four-star design, the consensus remains that the hotel offers a luxurious stay with excellent service and beautifully appointed accommodations. Riu Plaza Miami Beach is indeed a great place for those seeking a luxurious and comfortable experience in Miami Beach.
Beachfront
The Riu Plaza Miami Beach boasts an enviable beachfront location that has garnered glowing reviews from its guests. Positioned directly on a pristine and clean beach, the hotel offers guests unparalleled access to the shore, including direct access to a private beach area that many found to be a wonderful bonus. The proximity to the oceanfront allows for spectacular beach views from lovely balconies and beachside rooms, adding to the overall charm of the stay.
Visitors praised the hotel's beautiful pool, which pairs perfectly with the lapping waves just steps away. Relaxation is a priority here with sunbeds, loungers, umbrellas and towels readily available for a comfortable beach day. The beachfront access is praised for being both accessible and convenient, making spontaneous beach outings a breeze. The hotel’s staff earned compliments for their service, particularly in the beach areas.
Additionally, the hotel offers practical amenities such as a free shuttle around Miami Beach, enhancing its appeal. Guests also appreciated the excellent breakfast, further complementing the prime location. Overall, the beachfront setting of the Riu Plaza Miami Beach stands out as a major highlight with stunning ocean views and easy beach access contributing to a memorable stay by the sea.
FAQ
Yes, Riu Plaza Miami Beach has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Riu Plaza Miami Beach.
No, Riu Plaza Miami Beach doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Riu Plaza Miami Beach.
