W Fort Lauderdale Upgrade: Captivating Views with Generous Outdoor Space

As the largest W hotel in the world by number of units, the W Fort Lauderdale keeps things interesting even for frequent guests.  Even though I've stayed at the W Fort Lauderdale more than 15 times, their large inventory of room types enabled me to still have a new experience during our stay this month.

As a SPG Platinum member visiting during low season and booking a standard "Wonderful Room" for a rate of ~$225, we were upgraded to a "Sensational Suite".  W's room type names are a bit tough to grasp, but generally the suites don't disappoint.  In this case, the Sensational Suite is an oceanfront room with an open concept bedroom, sitting area and bathroom (peak-a-boo style).  But for this room, the big draw is the outdoor space.  The balcony rivals the size of the room itself and offers unobstructed ocean views as well as vantage points north and south along the beachfront.

Oceanfront balcony of a Sensational Suite at the W Fort Lauderdale

We made use of the dining table to enjoy dinner to go from Whole Foods (about a 7-10 min drive).  The Wi-Fi, free for SPG Platinum, worked on the balcony as well allowing me some productivity time while relaxing in one of the two chaise lounges.

One pet peeve about this W is that the outdoor furniture is dreadfully uncomfortable as is.  There are plush cushions that are custom made to fit the furniture, but you have to know to request them from the "Whatever" desk and have them sent up to your room.  I expect that most guests don't know to call, nor should they have to.

There's been one new development at this property that I first experienced during this stay: upon check-in, guests must sign a form indicating that they are aware of the hotel's policies about additional guests and noise.  Groups are not allowed to be in the rooms and no noise is allowed during late evening hours.  The front desk reported to me that they've been having some noise/ party issues more recently so they've initiated the new form policy.

Quick Hits:

W Fort Lauderdale Residences offer full kitchens and laundry

• Stay at the W Fort Lauderdale if you're loyal to SPG, not traveling with kids and like a "scene" at the pool.  Pool waitstaff are not very attentive and some are less than friendly.  Stay there for the pretty amazing rooms and views.
• If you are there more for relaxation, check out the second smaller pool on deck 5 of Tower II (Wet Deck West) which is a more serene environment and offers free first-come, first served cabanas.
• If you like cooking in, try to get an upgrade to one of the residences that offer full kitchens and in-room laundry in the western tower (Tower II) of the hotel.
• If you're going to visit the onsite Bliss Spa for nail service, ask for Tia.  She's authentically friendly while executing the service professionally.
• While the onsite restaurant, Steak 954, offers some good breakfast options, they are pricey for dinner.  Instead, try nearby S3 (Surf, Sun, Sand) in the Hilton for casual/ slightly upscale indoor or outdoor dining with some unique spins on traditional fare.  Both restaurants are on Open Table (even Steak 954 for breakfast), so capitalize on the points opportunity.

  

  S3 Restaurant in the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach shares their daily specials on a mini blackboard that accompanies the menus.