Arrival/Check-In: We arrived well past midnight and were welcomed by a friendly valet team. The entrance is easily accessible from the lively Collins Avenue. The Gates Hotel South Beach – a DoubleTree by Hilton is an upscale property in the heart of South Beach, directly across from the Atlantic Ocean. It’s within easy reach of Lincoln Road, Ocean Drive and South Beach’s top dining, shopping and nightlife, and convenient to Biscayne Bay, Bal Harbour and the Design District. Valet parking is straightforward and convenient. Palm trees, bamboo and lush tropical landscaping line the walkway to the entrance, and the soft landscape lighting and warm ocean breeze create a relaxing ambiance. The lobby maintains that same intimate, private feel introduced at the entrance. Eclectic, beach-inspired décor gives a bungalow-like charm, and the spacious lobby features a casual bar, billiard tables and multiple lounging areas. The front desk staff extended a warm, professional welcome that capped off a long day of travel.
Guest Quarters: My suite was located on the ground floor, just down a short corridor from the lobby. The design blends modern contemporary lines with South Florida style: a soothing color palette, minimal décor and clean finishes. Though compact, the suite felt open and well planned. Upon entering, the bathroom to the right featured a stylish vanity and a roomy standup shower. Further in, the suite opened to a very comfortable king bed with built-in reading lights and nightstands on both sides. I found ample outlets for charging devices, and a large window spanning the width of the room offered pleasant views of the canal behind the property. The room layout made amenities easily accessible, including a 42-inch television, a mini-fridge and a laptop-sized safe. Select guestrooms include patios or balconies and may offer canal, lake or city views.
PHOTO: © THE GATES HOTEL SOUTH BEACH – A DOUBLETREE BY HILTON
Services/Amenities: Be sure to try breakfast at the on-site restaurant located on Collins Avenue just behind the valet station. The restaurant’s glass frontage fills the space with natural light and offers views of the lake and neighboring hotels, creating an airy dining experience. The cooked-to-order breakfast is flavorful and satisfying, and a buffet provides classic options alongside fresh fruit and healthier choices.
The hotel offers an outdoor pool with a Jacuzzi, a fitness center, a business center and concierge services. The fitness center hosts classes during the week, and K’Alma Spa provides in-room treatments. The property also includes three meeting rooms and typically features live DJ entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.
Top Takeaways:
◆ Although the hotel is not directly on the sand, the beach is just across the street and only a short, easy walk away.
◆ The hotel is approximately nine miles north of Miami International Airport and about 28 miles south of Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport. It is also conveniently close to the Port of Miami and the Miami Beach Convention Center.
◆ The Gates Hotel is 100 percent non-smoking, pet-friendly and offers 24-hour on-site security.
THE GATES HOTEL SOUTH BEACH — A DOUBLETREE BY HILTON
2360 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
tel 305 860 9444
doubletree3.hilton.com