anyone stayed here recently? how is the new pool area. would kids,ages 11,14, enjoy the property? thanks

We were there during the construction - but based on what I saw - I think your kids would enjoy it. There's alot to do there besides the pool - the beach is WONDERFUL.....

I was there a month ago. The new pool area is very attractive. The kids at the new pool seemed to be younger than yours, but I wasn't looking closely so maybe there were older kids as well. The only part still under construction is the spa area, at the far north edge of the property. You'll want to ask for a room not overlooking that part.

are there water slides, waterfalls,etc? I assume they provide beach chairs and towels at the beach, right?

There's a small water slide (big enough for your kids, though they discourage adults). I think there's also a waterfall but I'm not positive. There are beach chairs, and the pool/beach towels are free when you show your room key.

WHAT IS THERE TO DO IN THE AREA, OTHER THAN SWIM AND TAN? APPRECIATE ANY INFO

There are numerous boat excursions to see dolphins or go shelling on little islands. You can also take an airboat tour in the Everglades. Parasailing seems to be very popular. The Marriot has info on all of these. There's also golf, of course.

. . . And the Marriot has kayaks and catamarans right on their beach that I assume you can borrow or rent.

In my earlier post about the new pool I forgot to mention that the landscaping around it is very attractive, if that's of interst to you.

I checked into that HUGE hotel a few months ago... we immediately went to the pool... then they had to shut it down. Someone took a dump in the pool and it was closed for 6 hours. We checked out and went to the Hilton a few doors down. Much Much better.

Oh, and there was construction going on also... very annoying and noisy. They should have finished by now though.

The Hilton is not as big, but the room was just as nice if not nicer.