KENT HOTEL, Miami Beach

The Kent Hotel sits on Collins Avenue in the heart of South Beach, just one block from the white-sand beach and a two-minute stroll to Ocean Drive's restaurants, bars, and shops. Major landmarks like Lincoln Road and the Miami Beach Convention Center are a short walk or quick ride away. Miami International Airport is 18 km away, and the Port of Miami is 10 km - a taxi or rideshare is the quickest route. The surrounding area is packed with dining options including Gianni's, Osteria Del Teatro, and Swizzle Rum Bar, all within 0.5 km. For longer trips, the 100 bus route to downtown Miami and the airport is nearby. The location is perfectly suited for those who want to be at the center of the action, though the lively nightlife means some street noise is a given.

The hotel offers 60 rooms across several categories. Deluxe King and Deluxe Double Queen rooms have 65-inch flat-screen TVs with HBO and premium satellite, laptop-compatible safes, mini-fridges, and blackout curtains. The Premier King Balcony room adds a private balcony overlooking the courtyard and restaurant, a 70-inch TV, a bathroom with dual sinks and dual rainfall shower heads, and quartz accents. An accessible room with a roll-in shower, grab bars, and widened doors is also available. The rooms are compact - smaller than photos suggest, especially Deluxe Doubles that feel tight for four people with luggage. Limited drawer and counter space is a common point. Bed comfort is good, with plush mattresses and soft pillows, though some bedding has been noted as worn. The mini-split AC units are effective but noisy, and the lack of openable windows means relying on the AC for ventilation. Bathrooms are modern but have dim lighting, no exhaust fan, and shower curtains that are too short, causing water on the floor. Some rooms overlook an internal courtyard or a wall, so room choice matters. The lift is tiny (max 2 people), so those on higher floors may prefer stairs. Overall, the accommodation works well for short, budget-conscious stays focused on location rather than luxury.

The hotel does not have its own breakfast included, but guests receive preferential service at the adjacent Rakija Lounge. Breakfast is available daily for $7.99 per person, which includes eggs, bacon, toast, and a mimosa or coffee - considered good value in South Beach. The restaurant also serves lunch and dinner with Mediterranean dishes and a full bar, plus a Tiki Bar with a daily happy hour. In-room dining from Rakija Lounge is available via room service. The food and cocktails are well-regarded, and guests staying at the hotel often receive discounts or a free mimosa. However, the restaurant can be very loud, especially on nights with live DJs or parties that extend until 2:00 AM, which may affect rooms directly above. The restaurant is independently owned and managed. For a quieter meal or wider variety, Ocean Drive is a two-minute walk away with countless options. Nearby cafes like Gusto Express and The Garden Bar & Grill provide alternative breakfast choices.

The hotel does not have a pool, spa, or fitness center. The primary leisure activity is the beach, which is a one-block walk from the lobby. Free beach towels are provided at reception, and guests often head directly to the sand or use nearby bicycle rental shops (additional charge) and golf courses (within 3 km). The surrounding South Beach area offers endless outdoor and cultural activities - from Ocean Drive promenades to the Art Deco architecture. For those wanting shopping, the Miami Design District and Dolphin Mall are within easy reach. The hotel's shared lounge/TV area and the on-site Rakija Lounge bar provide casual relaxation spots on property.

The daily resort fee ($22.80) covers WiFi throughout the property, complimentary beach towel rental, package receiving, a business center with computer and printer for boarding passes, domestic phone calls, and a welcome bottle of water. Luggage storage is free, which is very useful for early arrivals or late departures. The multilingual front desk team operates 24/7 and offers full concierge services, including restaurant recommendations and transport booking (taxis, Ubers, or valet). Parking is not on-site. The hotel partners with a local valet service ($35/day) and there are nearby public garages ($40/day). The valet can take up to 30 minutes to retrieve the car, so plan extra time when departing. Laundry and dry cleaning are available for a fee. The property is non-smoking throughout and has key card access, CCTV, and a safety deposit box at reception. Pets are welcome for a $50 fee (one pet, up to 11 kg). There is no shuttle service, but staff can call a taxi or arrange a ride-share. The elevator is small (capacity 2 people), which can cause wait times; guests on upper floors may prefer stairs.