Grapetree Bay Hotel & Villas

The hotel's breathtaking ocean views from every room and its recently renovated, boutique atmosphere make it a memorable destination. It offers a tranquil escape, ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, honeymooners, and solo travelers looking for peace and quiet. Families also find it suitable for a relaxing vacation. The property's unique charm lies in its unpretentious elegance and its commitment to providing a serene environment. Most guests appreciate the hotel's dedication to restoration, bringing back its historic allure. To maximize your experience, consider renting a car for exploring the island, as the hotel is quite remote, and be aware that while the views are stunning, the immediate beach may not be ideal for swimming, though sandy options are a short walk away.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed for relaxation and convenience. Most guests highly praise the large, lovely waterfront pool, describing it as crystal clear and a refreshing spot to unwind, often uncrowded. However, some guests note that the hotel sells day passes to the community, which can occasionally lead to the pool area becoming busier with families and children. For those seeking to maintain their fitness routine, a spacious gym is available and generally quiet. While the Wi-Fi connectivity is reported to be excellent, a recurring concern is the non-functioning elevator, which can pose a challenge for guests with mobility issues. Rooms are equipped with a microwave and refrigerator, though some guests suggest adding more kitchenware, such as dishcloths, dish towels, and wine glasses, for enhanced convenience. Free ample parking is consistently highlighted as a significant benefit.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel for its exceptional cleanliness, frequently describing rooms as spotless, immaculately maintained, and among the cleanest they have experienced. The rooms themselves are often highlighted as spacious, airy, and bright, featuring beautiful decor and comfortable furnishings. Most guests report a comfortable bed ensuring a restful night's sleep. A standout feature for many is the breathtaking ocean view from every room's balcony, allowing guests to wake up to the soothing sound of waves. While the overall ambiance is peaceful, a notable concern for some is the inconsistent hot water in showers, with a few guests reporting only lukewarm temperatures. Additionally, some mention that housekeeping is provided every third day, with light cleaning available upon request, which might differ from expectations of daily service.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a diverse dining experience, with most guests finding the food quality to be very good, often describing meals as delicious and top-notch. There are generally two main restaurants on-site: a main restaurant, often by the pool, and an East End bar. The East End bar is frequently praised for its excellent pizza, sandwiches, and cocktails, with many guests enjoying the casual atmosphere and live music. The main restaurant offers a varied menu, including Asian fusion options and specific dishes like Korean beef and dumplings, which receive positive remarks. While most feedback on food is positive, a few guests have expressed disappointment with specific dishes or found the breakfast offerings, particularly the continental option, to be somewhat lacking or pricey for what is offered. However, the Sunday brunch is often highlighted as outstanding.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location on the far east end of the island is a defining characteristic, offering a quiet and remote retreat away from bustling city areas. This seclusion is highly valued by guests seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. However, this also means that a rental car is almost universally recommended for exploring the island, as taxis can be expensive and less available in this area. While the hotel boasts stunning ocean views, the immediate beach is often described as rocky and not ideal for swimming directly from the property. Nevertheless, guests appreciate the proximity to other attractions, such as Cramer Beach Park and Point Udall, which are just a short drive away. Hiking trails are also accessible nearby, leading to other beautiful, secluded beaches. Free ample parking is available on-site.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives overwhelming praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight the warm reception at check-in and the staff's willingness to go above and beyond to accommodate requests. Many reviews commend specific individuals across various departments, from the front desk to restaurant servers and housekeeping, for their exceptional customer service. The owners are also frequently mentioned for their visible presence on-site and their genuine care for guests' experiences. However, a significant number of reviews detail serious issues with management regarding billing disputes, refund policies, and handling of guest complaints, including instances of perceived rudeness and unresponsiveness. While the general service staff is highly regarded, these specific negative experiences with management stand out as a point of concern for some guests.

Additional Information
The hotel is undergoing an extensive renovation process, transforming it from its hurricane-damaged past into a modern boutique destination. Guests frequently note that while the main hotel is largely complete, the restoration of villas and additional facilities is ongoing, indicating a continuous effort to enhance the property. A unique aspect is the hotel's history, with many guests appreciating the story of its revival. The hotel also offers various entertainment options, including live music, trivia nights, and wine club events, which add to the guest experience. A point of mixed feedback is the hotel's policy of selling day passes for pool access; while this allows non-guests to enjoy the facilities, some overnight guests feel it can detract from the peaceful ambiance they expect.