Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, Florida
Jimmy Buffett wears many hats: singer, songwriter, all-around nice guy, and advocate for "no worries" living. On top of that, he's growing an empire that includes an expanding collection of Margaritaville restaurants across the country, as well as five hotels and resorts of the same name. Opened earlier this year, Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort became the first full-service resort for the brand. We checked in for this report.
What's Hot: Decor throughout the 17-story, 349-room resort is inspired by the lyrics of Jimmy Buffett. Lines from his much-loved songs, including "Margaritaville" and "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere," are printed on the walls, and his music is piped into public spaces. With respect to Buffett's "island escapism" advocacy, spaces are wide and inviting, letting in sea views and sunshine at every turn.
Best Feature: The pristine spa has 11 treatment rooms, while the fitness center offers panoramic ocean views. You'll appreciate this more the morning after a margarita-soaked night.
The Rooms: Light-filled rooms feature subdued, maritime-influenced colors and plenty of room to relax. The teal-toned bathrooms are spa-like in feel, partly thanks to their spacious walk-in rain showers.
The Food: Bar fare and lots of fruity cocktails are on the menus at LandShark Bar and Grill, License to Chill Bar, and 5 O'Clock Somewhere Bar and Grill. There's also Floridays Airstream Café, set beachside in an airstream trailer and serving up casual fare to go. But wait, there's more: Opening soon is the upscale, yet laid-back JWB Prime Steak and Seafood, cooking up fresh catches alongside a raw bar and tasty steaks.
Who Will Love It: Anyone looking for sun, fun, margaritas, and a few days chilled out and "wasted away" in a self-contained resort. More active visitors can enjoy the three pools, FlowRider Double surfing simulator and paddle-boarding across the street at the 5 O'Clock Somewhere Bar. And, of course, Parrotheads will be right at home.
Who Might Not: While the resort is not noisy, the nightly entertainment and stilt walkers, on-site shops, and constant soundtrack suggest that it might not be the right fit for a quiet retreat.
Nearby: Much celebrated, the classic Hollywood Beach Boardwalk is right at your doorstep. It stretches nearly two and a half miles along the Atlantic coast and is lined with pastel-colored Art Deco buildings, boutiques, and restaurants.
Rates, Deals, and Special Offers: January rates begin at $305 per night, plus a nightly $15 resort fee. The resort has an array of on offer, including 20 percent off stays of four nights or more.