We stayed at The Standard Spa, Miami Beach for three nights. I had been looking forward to the included spa experience, and while I really enjoyed the facilities and waterfront setting, our room was a letdown.
We stayed in Room 6, which had a private outdoor courtyard with a bathtub. The room was described in terms of minimalist design and Scandinavian style, but to me it felt more like an industrial Scandinavian dormitory-motel room than a spa hotel room. The beige speckled linoleum flooring reminded me of grade school, and the toilet had a foot-operated flush lever like those in public restrooms. There was a small marble sink on a wooden stand, a wooden futon with a red-and-white striped cover, and three windows with wooden blinds. Tiny tables extended off the bed, just large enough for a Kindle, phone, and glass of water.
I fell asleep listening to the blowing noise from the air conditioning, followed by about 15 minutes of a popcorn popping sound. On the positive, the room was kept at a comfortable temperature and two pairs of ear plugs were provided.
Our room, booked through the American Express Hotel Collection, included a $30-per-person breakfast credit that could be used for a room service breakfast or at Lido Bayside Grill. With only a small metal-and-plastic folding table for dining in our room, I chose the beautiful bayfront view at Lido instead!
The private courtyard was attractive, with white pebbles and a flowering tree. Fabric panels and a hanging curtain served as the walls and door separating our courtyard from the neighbors and the walkway. The door curtain fluttered open in the breeze, so it didn't feel especially private with people walking by. We could hear our neighbors talking next door, which made it rather awkward to sit naked in the tub at night, knowing that when we stood up, our silhouettes could be visible through the fabric panels. The tub was just large enough for the two of us to sit facing each other.
The spa and pool facilities and bayfront location really made this hotel.
We loved the large waterfront pool, comfortable padded loungers, and gradual sloping entry into the water. The adults-only atmosphere was relaxing, and the views across Biscayne Bay toward the Miami skyline were beautiful. The poolside service was great, and everyone was so nice.
The spa offered an impressive variety of experiences, including a hammam with heated stone platforms and soaking tubs, a eucalyptus steam room, sauna with a view of the bay, rainfall shower, Ice Room (actually a room with chilled air rather than ice), and relaxation area. I particularly enjoyed moving between the warm and cool spaces.
We also appreciated the complimentary wellness classes. My husband and I attended Tai Chi with Jackie, who guided us through gentle movements while we enjoyed the views of the water, palm trees, and sky. It was a wonderful way to begin the morning. She did a great job explaining the movements.
The poolside and Lido staff were helpful, including Richard, Sophia, Jabar, and Eric, who assisted us during our stay. Megan was especially sweet, offering restaurant suggestions and explaining the complimentary water bicycle and kayak rentals.
We enjoyed relaxing at Lido Bayside Grill, particularly the waterfront views and Mon - Thurs Happy Hour from 4-6 pm with $12 cocktails. It was a lovely place to sit by the water and watch the changing light over the bay.
Overall, I would happily return for the spa, pool, wellness classes, and relaxing waterfront atmosphere. For a hotel at this price level, I expected a more comfortable and attractive room. I think the room could have a more inviting atmosphere with wood-look flooring, wooden tables in the bathroom and bedroom, and some artwork. A way to secure the bottom of the courtyard door curtain to prevent it from fluttering open would also be helpful.
The Standard Spa offers a unique experience with its lush gardens, inviting sitting areas, wonderful spa and pool facilities, and bayfront dining. Despite my disappointment with the room, I thoroughly enjoyed the rest of our stay. Thank you to the wonderful staff at The Standard! read more