Great Stays: Six Nights of Oceanfront Bliss at Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

By Frank Macek

Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

I checked into Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa on August 8th with one goal: unplug for six nights and let the Atlantic do most of the entertaining. By the time I checked out on August 14th, I'd more than accomplished that, though I hadn't expected a single property to keep me that occupied without ever having to leave the grounds.

The resort sits at 3030 Holiday Drive, tucked along a quarter-mile stretch of private beach that's exclusive to guests, just far enough from the heart of Las Olas Boulevard to feel like a genuine escape but close enough that the shops, dining, and nightlife are only a short ride away. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is about five miles out, which made the transfer from the terminal to my room mercifully short.

Check-in was smooth.

I'd booked a Deluxe Oceanview Room, and from the moment I walked in, it was clear why this property leans so heavily on its waterfront setting in every bit of marketing. The room itself carried the beach-inspired décor the resort is known for, with a private balcony that opened straight onto the Atlantic. High-speed Wi-Fi, a mini-refrigerator, and a streaming-capable TV rounded out the practical side of things, but none of that mattered nearly as much as the view. I lost more mornings than I'll admit just standing out on that balcony with coffee, watching the water change color as the sun climbed.

Six nights gave me plenty of time to actually settle into a rhythm, which is something I don't always get on shorter trips. Mornings usually started at Riva, the resort's family-friendly waterfront spot known for its breakfasts, or with a quick stop at HB Fresh for a smoothie when I wanted something lighter before heading down to the sand. On a couple of mornings I skipped both and just walked over to the on-site Starbucks instead, coffee in hand, watching the resort slowly wake up before the pool chairs filled in.

By day three, I had a system down. Beach in the morning while the sand was still cool, a break back in the room during the peak afternoon heat, then the pool for the late afternoon before dinner.

It's a simple loop, but a resort this size makes it easy to stick to without ever feeling repetitive, since there was always a different restaurant, a different corner of the property, or a different activity to swap in.

The beach itself is the real centerpiece here, and having it feel private, rather than shared with every hotel up and down the strip, made a noticeable difference. The beach service crew deserves real credit too, attentive without hovering, quick with drinks and towels, and always checking in without making it feel like an upsell. My one gripe was the umbrella charge; it's an extra cost on top of everything else, and after a few days it started to feel like it should just be included for guests already paying resort rates.

Between beach days, I found myself gravitating toward the 8,000-square-foot Tropical Lagoon Pool, which has enough chaise lounges and day beds scattered around it that finding a quiet corner was never a problem, even midweek in August.

One afternoon I ordered lunch poolside from Sea Level Restaurant and Ocean Bar, which turned out to be one of the better decisions of the trip. Fresh seafood, premium cuts, and a menu built around local ingredients, served without ever having to leave my chair.

On a different evening, I wandered over to Loggerhead Sand Bar for cocktails right at the edge of the sand, with nothing between me and the Atlantic but a stretch of dark water and torchlight.

Dining here, honestly, could fill its own article. Between 3030 Ocean, the resort's beachfront bistro built around fresh seafood, the speakeasy-style Engine Room hidden behind Riva, and OV Tiki, a Polynesian rum bar housed inside a converted blue bus on the Ocean View Terrace, there's a different mood available every night of the week. I didn't make it through all ten of the resort's restaurants and bars in six nights, but I gave it a serious effort. Food quality was consistently good, though I'll be upfront that prices ran on the higher end across the board, which is worth budgeting for if you're planning to eat on property most nights.

One night stood out above the rest, even though I wasn't the one at the table. Walking the beach after dinner, I passed a couple seated right on the sand at Sea Level Restaurant's Barefoot Dining experience, a four-course, family-style meal built around a "toes in the sand" concept, complete with a Champagne toast and wines selected by the resort's sommelier. Tiki torches were lit around their table, and watching it from a distance, I made a mental note to book it myself next time. It looked like exactly the kind of dinner that justifies a reservation well in advance.

The spa deserves its own mention too.

At 22,000 square feet, it's a full-service operation with a private pool, whirlpool, sauna, and fitness center attached, and I booked a massage midway through the week that turned out to be exactly the reset I needed after a few too many hours in the sun. Guests can also drop into daily fitness classes if the beach and pool aren't enough activity on their own.

For a resort with this much going on, the pace never felt frantic. There's a version of this stay built around adventure, with wave runners, paddleboards, and other watercraft rentals available right off the beach, and a version built around doing nothing beyond flipping pages in a lounge chair. I split the difference, and the resort made that easy.

A few practical notes for anyone planning a similar trip. Check-in runs from 4:00 p.m. and checkout is 11:00 a.m., though the resort offers guaranteed early check-in at 10:00 a.m. and late checkout until 4:00 p.m., which is worth asking about if your flight schedule doesn't line up neatly with standard hours.

The property has gone fully cashless, so have a card or mobile payment method ready for everything from drinks at the Loggerhead Sand Bar to a treat from HB Fresh.

One more Florida-specific note worth knowing: restaurants here commonly add an automatic 20 percent gratuity to your dinner check, and that was the case throughout my stay. It's not necessary to tip on top of that unless the service genuinely earns it, and if something falls short, you can ask to have that automatic gratuity adjusted downward rather than feeling locked into it.

Parking is available on-site, with self-parking running $5 hourly or $59 daily, and valet at $65 daily. It's not a small line item over six nights, so factor that into your budget if you're driving in rather than flying. The resort is also smoke-free throughout, and pets aren't permitted, so leave the four-legged travel companions at home for this one.

If you're traveling with Marriott Bonvoy status or considering signing up, it's worth doing before you book. Members get complimentary in-room Wi-Fi when booking direct, and I noticed enough small touches throughout the stay, from mobile key access to daily housekeeping, that loyalty perks clearly extend beyond just point accumulation here.

By the middle of the week, I'd stopped checking my phone for anything other than photos.

There's something about six nights in one place, oceanfront, with nowhere urgent to be, that resets a traveler in a way a quick overnight never quite manages. I've stayed at plenty of beach resorts over the years, but few have made it this easy to just exist for a stretch of days without the trip feeling like it needed managing.

Checkout morning came with the usual reluctance. I took one last walk down the private beach before heading to the airport, coffee in hand, watching the same tide I'd been watching all week roll in one more time. Fort Lauderdale has no shortage of oceanfront properties competing for a traveler's attention, but this one earned its reputation the old-fashioned way, through genuinely good food, a beach worth returning to every single day, and a room that made it hard to want to leave.

Frank's "3" Insider Tips

1. Book the Deluxe Oceanview Room if it's within budget: The private balcony alone made the room worth the upgrade, and six nights of sunrise coffee out there is not something I regret spending on.
2. Ask about guaranteed early check-in and late checkout: With check-in access as early as 10:00 a.m. and room access held until 4:00 p.m. on departure, it's an easy way to stretch a multi-day stay without losing time at either end.
3. Pace your restaurant list across the whole stay, and budget accordingly: With ten dining and drink options on property, from the speakeasy-style Engine Room to Loggerhead Sand Bar right on the sand, spreading them across six nights beats trying to cram them into two or three, though prices run high, so plan for it. Also know that Florida restaurants typically add a 20 percent gratuity automatically, so there's no need to tip extra unless you want to, and it can be adjusted downward if service falls short.

Visitor Information: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

• Address: 3030 Holiday Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316
• Phone: (954) 525-4000 | Toll Free: 1-800-222-6543
• Website: marriott.com/fllsb
• Check-in: 4:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM (early check-in at 10:00 AM and late checkout at 4:00 PM available)
• Parking: Self-parking $5/hour or $59/day; Valet $65/day
• Nearest Airport: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL), approximately 5 miles
• Amenities: Private quarter-mile beach, 8,000 sq. ft. Tropical Lagoon Pool, 22,000 sq. ft. full-service spa, fitness center, 10 restaurants and bars, watersports rentals, pickleball and tennis courts, Kids Surf Club
• Policies: Smoke-free property; pets not allowed; cashless payment environment; minimum check-in age 21
• Ideal For: Couples, families, and travelers looking for a full-service beach resort within easy reach of Fort Lauderdale's dining and nightlife

Great Stays: Smart Comfort in the Heart of Downtown - Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland

By Frank Macek

There’s something satisfying about finding a hotel that delivers comfort, convenience, and value without trying too hard to impress you. On my latest stay in downtown Cleveland when friends came to town, we checked into the Drury Plaza Hotel—an unassuming, budget-friendly spot tucked inside one of the city’s classic historic buildings. I wasn’t expecting luxury. What I found instead was a hotel that quietly gets just about everything right.

The moment you step inside, the lobby gives off an understated warmth. The restored architecture still hints at its past life as a former Cleveland Board of Education building, but the Drury brand has layered in modern touches that make the space feel fresh without losing its character. Check-in was quick—no fuss, no hunting for someone behind the desk—just a friendly welcome and a reminder that a free hot dinner buffet was waiting for guests in the evening. You don’t hear that often anymore.

The rooms were surprisingly spacious for a downtown property. Clean, uncluttered, and thoughtfully arranged, it had everything we needed for a comfortable stay: a refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, a big TV, and a bed that struck the perfect balance between soft and supportive. I loved that the room stayed quiet at night, despite being in the heart of the city. The blackout curtains actually worked, something that matters when you're on the go and need real rest. All in all, it felt like the kind of room you settle into quickly, because nothing is confusing, nothing is missing, and nothing is trying too hard. It just works.

What sets the Drury Plaza apart is how far your dollar goes here. We started our mornings with a surprisingly hearty breakfast—eggs, sausage, potatoes, waffles, oatmeal, fruit, and plenty of hot coffee. Later in the day, the evening “Kickback” became a reliable ritual. Free hot food and drinks—enough to count as dinner if you want it to. As someone who travels a lot and watches hotel costs closely, I can tell you this is one of the few places where you truly save money without feeling like you're giving something up.

The location makes life easy too. Step outside and you’re within walking distance of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Playhouse Square, Public Square, the Guardians and Cavs arenas, and restaurants scattered in every direction. Whether you’re exploring for fun, catching a show, or grabbing a late-night bite, the Drury puts you at the center of it all without the headache of figuring out transportation.

The indoor pool and hot tub are exactly what you expect from a practical downtown hotel—not oversized, not flashy, but clean, relaxing, and never too crowded. The fitness center was a pleasant surprise, with enough equipment to keep your routine intact. The staff, from housekeeping to the front desk to the breakfast attendants, consistently delivered that low-key Midwestern friendliness that never feels forced. You get the sense that people here genuinely like their jobs, and it shows in the atmosphere of the whole property.

Now, it's worth noting that the Drury Plaza is valet-only, and the fee isn’t small. It adds up quickly, especially on multi-night stays. But valet service was fast and organized, and I rarely waited more than a minute or two for my car. If parking price is a deal-breaker, there are nearby garages, but the convenience of valet—especially in unpredictable Cleveland weather—won me over.

By the end of our stay, the Drury Plaza left me with the sense that this is one of Cleveland’s best overall hotel values. It isn’t flashy, and it doesn’t pretend to be. Instead, it focuses on the things travelers actually appreciate: clean rooms, good food, a walkable location, dependable service, and true affordability. For a downtown stay that feels comfortable, safe, and easy, this hotel rises to the top of my list.

Visitor Information; Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland

• Address: 1380 E. 6th Street, Cleveland, OH 44114
• Phone: (216) 357-3100
• Website: https://www.druryhotels.com/locations/cleveland-oh/drury-plaza-hotel-cleveland-downtown
• Check-In: 3:00 PM
• Check-Out: 11:00 AM
• Parking: Valet only; typically $30–$40 per night (prices vary by season and demand).
• Pets: Up to two pets allowed (combined 80 lbs max). Additional nightly fee applies.
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property.
• Breakfast: Free hot breakfast daily, including eggs, sausage, potatoes, waffles, fruit, and coffee.
• Evening Kickback: Free nightly hot food + drinks, generally between 5:30–7:00 PM.
• Amenities: Indoor pool, hot tub, 24-hour fitness center, business center, laundry service.
• Room Features: Microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, flat-screen TV, ironing board, hairdryer.
• Typical Nightly Rate: $130–$150 (varies by season, events, and availability).
• Best For: Budget-savvy travelers, families, weekend explorers, downtown event-goers, and visitors who appreciate value without sacrificing comfort.

Nearby Attractions (Walkable):

• Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
• Progressive Field
• Rocket Arena
• Playhouse Square
• Public Square
• East 4th Street dining district

Frank’s “3” Insider Tips

1. Skip dinner at least one night and take full advantage of the free “Kickback.” It’s surprisingly filling and can save you a solid chunk of your travel budget.

2. Ask for a room on a higher floor. They tend to be quieter and offer better views of downtown’s historic rooftops and skyline.

3. If you’re driving, factor valet fees into your budget—but check nearby garages before you arrive. Sometimes you’ll find cheaper overnight parking within a short walk.

Photos: Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland

Great Stays: Paradise Found at Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island

By Frank Macek

Visiting the Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island was one of those experiences where you realize the pictures you’ve seen don’t quite do it justice until you’re standing there, surrounded by tropical gardens, waterfalls, and shimmering lagoons that seem to stretch forever. The moment I arrived, it was clear this wasn’t just a hotel stay—it was an island experience in every sense. Spread across 62 acres along the Kohala Coast, the resort immediately impresses with its vastness and beauty. Towering palms line the entrance, koi ponds ripple quietly beside winding walkways, and a soft island breeze reminds you why people return to Hawaiʻi year after year. The check-in was smooth, with friendly staff offering leis and warm smiles that made me feel instantly at home.

The property is massive—more like a self-contained village than a resort. It has everything you could possibly want, from multiple pools and restaurants to an ocean-fed lagoon, cultural activities, and even a tram and boat system to help you get around. That scale is both its charm and its challenge. While it makes you feel like you’re exploring your own private slice of paradise, it also means a fair bit of walking if your room happens to be on the far side of the property. But that’s a small price to pay when you consider the setting. Every pathway is surrounded by lush greenery, bursts of hibiscus, and glimpses of the Pacific beyond lava-rock shorelines. It’s like being on a tropical movie set that just happens to be real life.

I stayed in the Makai Tower, the resort’s premium accommodation, which sits closest to the ocean. My balcony looked out over the lagoon and, beyond that, the deep blue horizon. Inside, the room felt bright and inviting, with modern touches that balanced island elegance and Hilton comfort. There were thoughtful details throughout—a comfortable sitting area, quality linens, and a large balcony that became my morning ritual spot. There’s something about sipping Kona coffee on your lanai as the sun rises, listening to the faint calls of tropical birds and the gentle lap of the lagoon below. At times, I even spotted sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water. Those quiet moments, before the resort stirred awake, were unforgettable.

While the rooms in the Makai Tower were up to the Hilton standard, it’s worth noting that this is a large resort with rooms across multiple towers, some of which have more traditional décor. Guests who value the most modern finishes and best views should definitely book the Makai Tower or one of the recently refreshed categories. For families or groups, other towers offer more affordable options while still keeping you close to the action.

The lagoon itself is the heartbeat of Hilton Waikoloa Village. This four-acre, ocean-fed saltwater lagoon is teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling or paddleboarding. Because it’s protected from ocean waves, the water is calm—perfect for floating under the Hawaiian sun without the surf’s unpredictability. I rented a kayak one morning and paddled across the still water as sunlight sparkled off the surface. Beneath me, colorful fish darted around, and a curious turtle poked its head up before diving again. Few hotel experiences can match that kind of natural connection.

The pools here are equally impressive, with something for everyone. The Kona Pool is the largest, featuring a 175-foot waterslide, rope bridge, and a sandy-entry area for kids. It’s a lively, family-friendly environment where laughter echoes between palm trees. For those seeking a bit more tranquility, the Kohala Pool offers a quieter experience with cabanas and a more subdued atmosphere. I found myself alternating between both—embracing the playful energy of the main pool during the day, then retreating to the quieter spaces to unwind as the sun began to set. No matter which pool you choose, the views are stunning and the service attentive.

Dining at Hilton Waikoloa Village ranges from casual to elegant. Kamuela Provision Company is the signature restaurant, and it’s the kind of place you remember long after you’ve left. Set dramatically over lava rock facing the ocean, the restaurant serves up fresh seafood and island-inspired cuisine with panoramic sunset views that are nothing short of spectacular. I opted for a macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi paired with a local chardonnay, and it was one of those perfect travel moments when the food, the view, and the warm Hawaiian evening all blended into one. For something more relaxed, Nui Italian offers family-style meals and pizzas with a to-go option, which makes for a great choice if you want to dine on your balcony. During the day, the Orchid Marketplace near the pool serves quick bites like salads, sandwiches, and tropical cocktails that are surprisingly good given their poolside setting.

Like many large resorts, dining here isn’t cheap, and some guests find the prices on the higher side. I’d suggest budgeting for at least one or two on-site dinners, especially at Kamuela Provision Company, and venturing off-property or picking up groceries for casual meals if you’re staying longer. The nearby Queens’ Marketplace offers a few restaurants and shops within walking distance, giving you a break from resort pricing.

One of the more unique aspects of this resort is how you get around it. Because the property spans such a vast area, Hilton operates both a tram and a canal boat system to transport guests between towers, restaurants, and the lobby. It’s charming in its own way and makes the experience feel more like an amusement park or luxury campus than a traditional hotel. The boats, especially at night when everything is softly lit, add a whimsical touch. However, patience is required—wait times can vary, and walking is often faster if you’re in a hurry. For me, it was part of the fun, and it gave the property an identity unlike anywhere else I’ve stayed in Hawaiʻi.

Service throughout my stay was consistently friendly and helpful. Staff were eager to share local recommendations, help with activity bookings, and greet guests with genuine aloha spirit. Housekeeping was prompt, and every interaction—from the bell desk to the restaurant servers—felt warm and welcoming. Despite the scale of the property, the staff managed to keep things personable. That’s not always easy at a resort this large, but Hilton Waikoloa Village pulls it off.

If there’s one thing to keep in mind, it’s the location. The resort sits on the Kohala Coast, roughly 30 minutes from Kona International Airport and about 40 minutes from the main town of Kailua-Kona. That means you’re somewhat isolated, which can be a good or bad thing depending on your travel style. I personally loved it. The remoteness adds to the tranquility—you’re surrounded by ocean and volcanic landscape rather than traffic or crowds. But if you’re planning on exploring the island extensively, you’ll want to rent a car. That will give you easy access to nearby beaches, parks, and other attractions, including the scenic drive to Waimea or the historic Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park farther south.

Even within the resort, there’s plenty to do if you never feel like leaving. I spent time wandering the art walkways, which display hundreds of pieces from Asian and Polynesian cultures, some dating back centuries. It gives the resort an almost gallery-like feel and reminds you that Hawaiʻi has long been a crossroads of Pacific influences. There are also daily cultural classes, such as lei-making, ukulele lessons, and hula dancing, all included in the resort fee. These small touches help you connect with the island’s traditions, rather than just passing through as a tourist.

One morning, I joined a guided tour around the lagoon area where I learned about the marine life and how the resort works to protect the turtles and native fish that inhabit the waters. Sustainability is an increasing focus here, and it shows. The staff spoke passionately about ocean preservation, and the property has several initiatives in place to minimize environmental impact. That’s always something I appreciate as a traveler—it’s reassuring to see large resorts taking real steps toward responsible tourism.

By the end of my stay, what stood out most was how much the Hilton Waikoloa Village felt like its own world. It’s a blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture that captures what makes Hawaiʻi so special. You can wake up to ocean views, spend the morning kayaking with turtles, enjoy a mid-day nap by the pool, take a hula class in the afternoon, and dine over the sunset—all without ever leaving the grounds. Yes, it’s big and occasionally busy, but it never lost its sense of serenity. Even when families filled the pools and trams bustled between towers, there were always quiet corners to retreat to, always a hammock or shaded walkway waiting to be discovered.

For those seeking a romantic escape, a family vacation, or just a restorative island getaway, Hilton Waikoloa Village delivers in spades. It’s a place where you can truly slow down and live that postcard-perfect vision of Hawaiʻi, yet still have all the modern comforts at your fingertips. I left with my camera full, my skin kissed by the sun, and my mind already replaying the images of turtles gliding beneath the surface of the lagoon. This resort has a way of staying with you, long after you’ve checked out and boarded your flight home. It’s not just a stay—it’s a story. And for me, it was one worth telling.

Frank’s “3" Insider Tips

1. Book the Makai Tower Ocean-View Room: It’s the premier location for stunning lagoon and Pacific views, plus easy access to pools and dining. The sunrise from this vantage point is unforgettable.

2. Hit the Lagoon Early: Morning hours mean calm water, peaceful surroundings, and a better chance of spotting sea turtles gliding through the lagoon before crowds arrive.

3. Ride the Canal Boats at Sunset: Instead of treating the boat or tram as just transportation, take a leisurely evening ride. The golden light on the water and soft island breeze make it one of the most magical moments of the day.

Visitor Information: Hilton Waikoloa Village

• Address: 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Hawaii 96738
• Phone: (808) 886-1234
• Website: hilton.com/waikoloa-village
• Check-in: 4:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
• Resort Charge: Includes Wi-Fi, cultural activities, fitness classes, snorkel and kayak rental discounts, and local shuttle service.
• Parking: Available on site for a daily fee
• Dining: Kamuela Provision Company, Nui Italian, Orchid Marketplace, Lagoon Grill, Kona Tap Room.
• Amenities: Four pools with slides, saltwater lagoon with sea turtles, tram and boat transport system, fitness center, Mandara Spa, cultural classes, art walk, and beach access.
• Nearby: Queens’ Marketplace, Anaehoʻomalu Bay, Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, Mauna Kea Beach, and Kona Airport (30 minutes).
• Room Rates: Typically range from $450–$800 per night depending on season and tower location.
• Ideal For: Families, couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking to blend luxury, culture, and adventure on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island.

Photos Courtesy: Hilton Waikoloa Village