Never did I expect to see manatees in the wild! From my balcony way up high, I could see the piers off to my right. Much to my surprise, I saw what appeared to be manatees in the water. I couldn't believe it. I thought my eyes must have deceived me because I was so high. An hour later, I went out to the balcony again and noticed that the shapes that I was guessing were manatees had moved. Now, convinced, I headed downstairs, down along the water and out to the last pier, where I recalled seeing them. I didn't see them in the water until I was almost on top of them on the pier. I stood there for quite a while enjoying them. Two other people came out saying that they had also seen them from their balconies. It was truly exciting and memorable and this alone made my stay at the Marriott Biscayne Bay wonderful!
Although not at South Beach, the hotel is convenient to the beaches and local sites, but far enough away, that it feels isolated. At night, you can sit outside the bar on benches and enjoy the breeze and a good cocktail --- this was in January when everyone at home was freezing.
The pool isn't anything to write home about, but, it's adequate. There's a pool bar and fitness center and a friendly front desk staff. The pool also has a hot tub - yea!
The only bad part of the experience is that there is no wireless internet in the rooms. It's bad enough that internet is not included in the room. But, wired. Only wired! WTH?! I brought my Kindle Fire and could not use it in my room. What a waste. How is this a modern hotel? I felt like I was in some third world country! There is wireless internet in the lobby. But, I didn't want to hang out in the lobby.
Rooms are OK.
A nice coffee shop in the lobby with brewed Illy espresso. Nice.
Overall -- highly rated -- largely because of the manatees.
- Marriott Miami
- Miami Marriott
