Location. There aren't many hotels in Miami that can claim a private island all their own, except for the Grove Isle Resort. On an island in the middle of Biscayne Bay with its panoramic views,the Grove Isle offers guests an ideal retreat but a location close to Coconut Grove's exclusive boutiques and entertainment venues. Two miles away stands CocoWalk, an indoor outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment center in the heart of Coconut Grove built around an open courtyard packed with vendors' carts. The area includes outdoor cafes, multiplex theater, shops and street entertainers. In addition, Key Biscayne and South Beach are within six miles from the Grove Isle.

Hotel Features. The Grove Isle's 111 slip marina provides moorage for guests arriving by yacht. Dockmasters can arrange fishing and sailing trips. The recreationally inclined will love the 12 lighted tennis courts, jogging track and fitness center. The pool's deck area features a life sized chess board with 3 foot chess pieces. In addition to the dozens of restaurants in Coconut Grove, the hotel's Baleen dishes up plenty of seafood choices with a pan Asian twist. Guests can also kick back in the Baleen Lounge or the Oasis Bar before returning to their rooms.

Guestrooms. Rooms are decorated in a breezy Colonial style, with blond mahogany furnishings, terracotta tile floors, iron framed beds, whimsical artwork of mostly monkeys and bananas, and balconies offering bay views. Bathrooms include bathrobes and Spa Terre bath products.