Stayed at the Harbour Beach from 7/3-7/10, we are seasoned beach travelors that took our 1 year old. We usually travel the carribean, but decided to stay in the U.S. since this was our first beach trip with the "little dude". The hotel is nice. The rooms are average, but clean. We requested a refridgerator and a crib, no problems. We stayed on the 12th floor, corner room with a great view and a larger than normal balcony, very nice. The pool and beach are very nice, the water is not carribean blue and clear, but was aware of that before we left (I did not need my snorkle gear that I brought). I used the weight room every morning, small room but never crowded, was efficent. We did not rent a car. Took taxi from airport (approx. $15.00), no problem. Traveled by water taxi ($5) interesting and fun for a day, would not use it for main transportation. Took the Broward County Transit (bus, $1) for a few short trips, picks up on A1A 2 blocks from front door,easy to use and would recommend to travel toBeachPlace and other areas that transportation is required. Walked to BeachPlace (1 mile north), places to eat and shop along the beach. We enjoyed walking and seeing the sights. Hotel food is expensive, but noticed all restaurants can be higher than at home. Try the filet at Max's (cheap, good and fast). I would rate The Marriott a 4 star (out of 5). Most of the staff were friendly and helpful (doormen, bellmen and security staff). We enjoyed our stay and if you are going to Ft. Lauderdale this is a nice place to stay.

Well appointed, imposing building and ideally situated, private beach, great views and large swimming pool sets it apart from other hotels along the front.

On the minus side, expensive, not enough staff on the catering side at the pool area made for slow service, food dropped on the floor by service staff was not cleaned up. Hotel does not have much atmosphere, probably great if you want to be left alone, but not ideal for families. Car parking at over $20 per 24 hour period.

By comparison, I stayed in the Sheraton Yankee Trader a couple of years previously (1.5 miles further up the road) much more ideally suited for families and much friendlier, you could also probably save up to £600 or $900, but book early as this is a very popular hotel.

I recently spent a weeks vacation at this resort. I neverly felt so relaxed and at peace it was truely a vacation. Its set away from the hustle of the city, yet right there! Private beach, drinks and food served to you on beach at your lounge chair. European spa, to pamper yourself. Fine dining restaurants, must try 3030 Ocean Restaurant, seafood cusine is delightful.They even have a Starbucks in the lobby area, for your morning habit. The pool is very tropical with waterfalls around it. Staff was very attentive to us. This resort is a bit costly, but well worth it for the privacy and comforts. Also, lots to do & see in Ft. Lauderdale, its not the college town it was years ago, remodeled and upscale now.

Some TripAdvisor reviews had me quite worried about the service and condition of this resort. They were WAY off base. From the minute we arrived, the staff at every juncture (front desk, concierge, room service, beach bar staff) was enthusiastic, polite and responsive. We needed a fridge, pillows, towels and a roll away right away for our room. All delivered with a smile. The hotel bar and breakfast restaurant were both great. The hotel shops were so much fun to browse in and took care of my gift purchases very conveniently (and took a return the next day when I changed my mind with no problem). I really loved the little things like the giant decanters of free ice cold water w/fresh lemons by the pool and all the places to rinse off your beach feet. It was so nice to stay hydrated and refreshed w/out paying $3 everytime I needed a drink of water. Charging our morning Starbucks to the room was another little delight. I knew nothing of Fort Lauderdale before this trip and I have to say it offers wonderful shopping, restaurants and bars, clubs. Whatever you want, it's got it. Again, I can't say enough about the service and ease of the vacation. The only drawback was that everything was already so great that I felt no need to use their beautiful spa... Next time! This visit was a girl's weekend and we had such a great time, but it was a nice mix crowd of business, couples, girl's/boy's weekenders and families. I would recommend it highly to anyone.