Is the texture of the sand in the Miami Beach area, powder, shell-like, white, yellow, brown, ect.? And also, what color is the ocean; blue or gray,(like the Carolinas)? Thanks

YES!!!!!!!!!!!

The sand is golden. The water is emerald gree and very clear (atleast when I visited it was). The texture of the sand is sandy -- I guess. It is not sharp nor is it muddy, if that is what you mean.

Jason, you answered my difficult question very well. My next question is: Have you ever been to Clarion Suites Crystal BEACH CLUB on Collins Ave. in Miami Beach? Appreciate any info! Thanks

No. I stayed in North Miami Beach when I went. I have stayed at a Clarion before and was not disappoionted. As far as the location, Collins Ave. is the main drag through Miami Beach. It should be convenient to most of what you want to do.

ejc - If you're looking to stay in "South Beach", then the Clarion is not in the South Beach area. It's in Miami Beach but up the road a bit from all the SoBe action. The main drag through the South Beach is Ocean Ave. Collins starts as the beachfront drive further north. The water off South Beach and most of Miami Beach is pretty green-blue-aqua shades unless there's a storm off the shore. The sand is fine grained and sand-colored. I love Miami Beach. It's my usual beach to hit here.