Review: Nautilus by Arlo

How did it strike you on arrival?
Everything old is new again at Nautilus, an expansive beachfront hotel that was originally designed in the 1950s by Morris Lapidus, the famed “Miami Modern” architect behind the Fontainebleau. While the hotel’s many stunning neo-Baroque features were preserved during its revamp, they've been carefully integrated to complement a hip and sexy style. If Marilyn Monroe had had a Miami beach house, it probably would have looked a lot like this.

Importantly: Tell us about your room.
Whether you’re traveling with a significant other or a small group of friends, a little privacy is never a bad thing. We booked the King Junior Suite for this very reason. At 425 square feet, the room was a nice size, but the simple addition of a couple of sheer curtains helped to really separate the “bedroom” from the seating area. Though there were only two of us, a family or larger group crashing together would particularly appreciate that come bedtime, as the seating area comes with a sofa bed, making it almost like a second bedroom. Serious jet-setters will love the travel-themed décor, like the vintage steamer trunk-styled mini-bar. White marble floors are another classy touch.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
The bed’s grey upholstered headboard with nailhead trim was glamorous, and the bed itself did not disappoint; down pillows and bedding with custom Sferra 400-thread count sheets lulled me right to sleep.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?
The hotel room’s vintage touches—like the upholstered headboard and steamer trunk mini-bar—gave the space a much more homey feel, as you can imagine choosing some of these pieces for your own home. To call the mini-bar seems a bit of a slight, as it’s gigantic and filled with pretty much any kind of liquor, wine, fancy water, or gourmet snack you can imagine. (Resist the urge to pop that $45 half-bottle of wine—there are wine shops all around you if you just walk outside.)

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Given the size of the room, the bathroom is actually pretty small in comparison. But it’s well appointed—more of that gorgeous, grey-flecked white marble and walk-in glass shower. Maison Margiela products are a nice touch, as are the super fluffy towels.

We all need some good Wi-Fi. What’s the word on that?
Free Wi-Fi comes standard with every room, and the signal is strong enough to handle basic web surfing and email.

Room service: Worth it?
Given the hotel’s very hip tendencies, it should hardly be surprising that avocado toast ($15) is one of the most popular items on the in-room breakfast menu. Served on Zak the Baker sourdough, the perfectly ripened avocado, soft-poached eggs, pepitas, crispy capers, and radish made for a delicious—and somewhat healthful—meal.

Did the staff make an impression?
Nautilus guests love the nightlife, which is probably why the hotel makes sure that the p.m. staffers—especially the nighttime concierge—are up to the challenge of dealing with any late-night requests quickly and efficiently. Stop by the concierge desk or give them a call, and you’ll get what you need in seconds.

Anything stand out about other services and features?
In a city full of very cool hotel pools, Nautilus has one of the coolest: a nearly 2,000-square-foot heated, saltwater pool that overlooks the beach. Even if you generally prefer to just hang poolside, you’ll want to dive in—if only to catch a tune via the underground sound system.

What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?
Miami is no stranger to great pools, but the Nautilus has something special with its enormous, heated, saltwater version.

Bottom line: worth it?
As far as beachfront South Beach hotels go, Nautilus is pretty well-priced—and offers lots of deals during non-peak travel times. Even during the high season, the hotel’s central location, spacious rooms, glamorous vibes, and fabulous beachfront pool area make it a draw.