I think it's great you followed up with your decision and results after so much time! Upthread there was a mention of the "Crown Plaza on South Beach" and it not being on the beach... This is true, it's a 3-5 minute walk/1 block off the beach. However, the Z Ocean has a deal at the chair/umbrella/towel vendor where you walk into the beach. It's free. Part of the resort free normally I think, but you dont pay that on reward redemptions. <br /><br />I've booked it 4 times, every time on points or free nights, upgraded to their penthouse/rooftop Jacuzzi deck room, every time. 2 room suite with even more area outside , on 2 levels. Most have 2 full baths and good views. Great service and great room...a good value if the rooms aren't to cheap. Ive seen them range from 200-500/night. Tax, resort, and paid room fees for guests #3 or 4 can add $150+ to that, so unless its just 1 or 2 people in low season, points can easily make sense.
Warning though...DON'T turn on all the knobs in the Master shower at once, you could seriously drown if you can't get the door open quick enough! That's a LOT of water from seemingly everywhere!!