Arrival/Check-In: I arrived late in the evening at the National Hotel in Miami. Although I had been told the property was completing a major refresh, there was little evidence of construction in the public areas. The spacious lobby features rich hardwood floors, comfortable seating and vintage-style fixtures that complement the hotel’s nearly 75 years of history. There was no line at check-in, so I received my key and was on my way to my room within minutes.
Guest Quarters: The beautiful hardwood floors continue through the corridors up to my room on the 10th floor. The room felt smaller than some accommodations in the South Beach area, but it was fully updated from top to bottom, including new carpeting, furniture and bedding. Practical details for business travelers included accessible outlets, blackout shades and complimentary WiFi for all devices. I used the shades only for sleep because I wanted to enjoy the view of the long infinity pool and the beach.
In the bathroom, the hotel supplies a line of National-branded bath products and plush bath towels. There wasn’t a bathtub, but the shower offers both a rain showerhead and a removable hand shower. The soft robes provided were ideal for relaxing after a long day.
Services/Amenities: The hotel serves a buffet breakfast each morning in the restaurant. On both days of my stay, staff seated me outdoors with excellent views. The fitness room is on the ground floor and is open 24 hours; while compact, it features new equipment. With the South Beach running path immediately outside, many guests likely choose an outdoor workout instead.
The expansive infinity pool is a striking feature; although I did not swim, I enjoyed the view from my room and from the breakfast terrace. I did not experience the on-site spa treatments or visit the Aqua Bar & Grill or the Blues Bar during this stay, though I heard positive comments about both venues.
The Experience: The National Hotel’s prime South Beach location and its careful balance of modernization and historic style make it an appealing option for visitors. The ongoing updates enhance comfort while preserving the hotel’s distinctive character, positioning it as a noteworthy place to stay in the area.
GT Checklist
- Doorman/valet
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Separate tub and shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- High-quality bed linens
- Large, flat-screen television
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Large, complimentary laptop safe
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Complimentary bottled water
- Stocked minibar
- Ample lighting
- In-room coffeemaker
- Iron and ironing board
- On-site restaurant and bar
- 24-hour room service
- State-of-the-art fitness center
The National Hotel Miami Beach
1677 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
tel 305-532-2311
nationalhotel.com