Ocean Manor Beach Resort Hotel

Blending into the landscape of condos and hotels that surround it, there's nothing about the Ocean Manor Resort's exterior that makes it stand out among its neighbors. Stepping inside, guests are greeted with a sleek, swish lobby cloaked in cream hues paired with some black panelling and details -- an elegant enough space, though the electric blue backlit ceiling paired with large chandeliers gives off a slightly cheesy vibe. Cream colored couches and armchairs provide seating, and are presided over by a piano.

Though the hotel offers spacious suites with full kitchens that are suitable for families, the beachside tiki bar gets lively and hosts many nightly events that can draw crowds, amplifying a party vibe that can lead to noise. Even the hotel's Italian restaurant has a bar/lounge that hosts live music and other events, and its rustic inspired decor of stone walls and wooden elements is accompanied by colored lighting and several flat-screen TVs screening sports games. Overall, due to room cleanliness and maintenance issues as well as noise, this is an average pick for travelers who want to be on the beach. There are lots of other options in the area and it's worth comparing.

The Ocean Manor Resort is located right on a white-sand beach off N. Ocean Boulevard, the main strip of beach hotels in Fort Lauderdale. The property is sandwiched between other oceanfront resorts and close to restaurants and a few stores, but the Fort Lauderdale action is a few minutes south. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a wildlife preserve, is an easy drive away.

• 15-minute drive to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
• 15-minute drive to Las Olas Boulevard, a strip of restaurants, bars, and clubs
• 17-minute drive to downtown Fort Lauderdale
• 20-minute drive to the Museum of Discovery and Science
• 25-minute drive to Fort Lauderdale International Airport
• 50-minute drive to Miami
• 55-minute drive to Miami International Airport
• 55-minute drive to Palm Beach

Rooms here are sleek and contemporary, featuring simple, if a bit bland, decor that includes dark wood furniture (which shows some wear) contrasted by white and cream walls, bedding, curtains, and other details. Floors are either hardwood or ceramic tile. Glass sliding doors open onto small balconies in some rooms, which are furnished with tables and chairs. Many rooms offer lovely views of the beach and ocean, while others overlook the city. Note that past guests have complained of maintenance and cleanliness issues, including leaky showers, broken fridges, mold in the bathrooms, and more -- plus guests have reported roaches.

Signature Rooms have been more recently renovated. Studio and Efficiency units offer more space and have kitchenettes. One- and two-bedroom suites have separate living rooms with dining spaces as well as full kitchens with four-burner stoves, ovens, full fridges, microwaves, toasters, coffeemakers, blenders, dishwashers, and dishware, cutlery, and cookware. Standard amenities in all rooms are limited to flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms can be quite cramped, with toilets wedged between sinks and walk-in showers. Granite-topped vanities are paired with cream-colored tiling, plus toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

One of the top highlights here is the beachfront location, and the hotel has a private stretch of beach. Loungers and umbrellas can be rented for an additional fee. The hotel's large heated outdoor pool is also fairly impressive and overlooks the shore. There are lots of loungers lining the surrounding sundeck. Private cabanas are available to rent in a nearby area and include padded wicker seating and flat-screen TVs as well as showers.

The adjacent beachside tiki bar and cafe is a popular spot for guests to hang out in, and it offers casual fare (including breakfast) and daily drink specials. It's also host to live music nights and various other events -- though note that noise can be an issue. There's an Italian restaurant on-site, Casa Calabria, which serves traditional Italian fare. It has a bar -- complete with piano -- that's also host to live entertainment, happy hour specials, and other events.

Though there's no fitness center on-site, yoga classes are available on the beach (for a donation-based fee). Massage services are also available. Other amenities include a gift shop on-site that sells clothing, jewelry, and other items. Meeting and event space is available to rent, including a ballroom.