Okay, two years ago this place would have rendered a 4 Star Review. The place was a laid back alternative to the hyped up Rehab party down the road. There were lots of people who were there not to be hot-bodies and flaunt what they got, but to actually listen to some good music music and be social by the pool. But as with most things. Fame seems to corrupt.
I returned this summer only to find the place completely flip-flopped. It's become yet another haven for the egocentric and those whose outer beauty must be overcompensating for the disgusting truth of what lies inside. Tons of hard bodies and hotties roaming around like a bunch of sun bleached ants doing a mating dance. Being of the "attached" assortment, this kind of prowling was intimidating. Gave a whole new meaning to the term "meat market".
The cover is outrageous for a place where you can't even sit down. Best suggestion is to get your hookup long before you get to the bouncer. The guy has a memory like an elephant. I tried to explain that my "VIP" card had been left in my room and he immediately made me out to be some deadbeat. I walk around outside for awhile hoping to return to somebody a bit more generous. Not the case. $40 later (for me and my lady) and we were in.
The drinks have always been a bit expensive, but permissible then. Now, you have to deal with alot of BS and pay top dollar for watered down drinks. Some words of advice, PAY CASH. I let a tab open and when all was said and done, the bartender included his tip in my bill. Not that what he added was unreasonable. But the fact that he took the liberty to do so kind of piffed me a bit (I usually tip in cash).
The music was beyond unbearable. The first couple djs played "mash-ups" blended with garbage mainstream hip-hop and badly might I add. Patiently waiting for the some house music, the next dj answers my prayers (kinda). But this was more techno than house. Just way too hard and loud for the time and place.
I had hoped to get that laid back South Beach vibe from Wet Republic when I returned but only got an excuse for the party monsters to come out into the daylight. I had hoped to be able to hang out with a more average sort and listen to some deep grooves while chilling out at the pool. What I got was cocaine frenzied mating ritual of overly (I actually was going to go with ridiculously) chiseled bodies that I didn't want to be part of.
My suggestion:
Pack a mini cooler of your favorite alcoholic beverage. Come as you are. And find a lounger along the west side of lazy river where you can still hear the music from beyond the wall of Wet Republic.
Rated Two Stars for:
Bad vibes
Worse music
Expensive drinks
Only thing saving this from being a one-star review is that I've seen this place better. So I know it has potential. Loose the "bros" and "hos" attitudes and I might come back.