The Waikiki Resort Motel, located at 18801 Collins Avenue, is one the oldest motels still operating in Sunny Isles Beach. This motel was designed by architect William Friedman and built in 1953.

Mr. Bennet Lifter, businessman and early pioneer of this area, was the owner of the motel in the 1970’s and 1980’s. The Waikiki was known as the “sister” of Lifter’s Marco Polo Resort located to the north at 19201 Collins Avenue.

According to Mr. Lifter, it cost $24,000 to build the Waikiki – a motel with approximately 60 rooms. Two other buildings were added to accommodate the exciting tourist business; after additions and renovation the Waikiki offered 342 rooms.

According to a 1970’s ad Waikiki’s summer rate was only $4.00 per person in a double occupancy room. Each room was equipped with a 21” television. The motel advertised air conditioning, Beautyrest mattresses, walk-in closets, electric kitchens and free parking.

Like most motels on the beach, the Waikiki’s outdoor bar was very popular. Every weekend people would come just to sit and socialize. Waikiki attracted visitors with its two swimming pools, 300 feet of “private” beach, dancing, movies, bingo, beach parties, the Aloha Cocktail Lounge, live music, the Pineapple Bowl Coffee Shop, free planned entertainment, shuffleboard courts and night swimming.

Mr. Lifter sold the Waikiki property in 1995 and the motel became a condominium/time-share facility. The name changed to La Playa Varadero IV.

In 2005 the La Playa de Varaderdo IV offers bar-b-q facilities, three swimming pools with comfortable chaise lounges, over 400 ft. of sandy beach bordering the Atlantic Ocean. A gated entrance gives privacy and peace of mind to its owners. The New York Deli, a Russian restaurant, occupies part of the first floor space.

Compiled by David Udoff and Marlene Calero

If you have stories and pictures to share about the history of the Sunny Isles Beach area, call City Hall at 305-947-0606

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