Castle in the Sand

This hotel offers a memorable beachfront experience, distinguished by its direct ocean access and the vibrant Coconuts bar and restaurant on-site, which features live music and beach service. It is an ideal destination for families seeking a fun-filled vacation with dedicated children's activities and a large pool, as well as for couples and sightseers who appreciate a lively atmosphere and convenient access to local attractions. Guests consistently highlight the friendly staff, the hotel's prime location, and the overall value. To make the most of your stay, consider requesting a room on a higher floor for enhanced ocean views and be prepared for a lively ambiance, especially near the entertainment areas.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently commend the hotel's impressive Olympic-sized pool, complete with a diving board, which serves as a popular spot for relaxation and fun. Many rooms are equipped with convenient kitchenettes, often described as well-stocked with dishes, pots, pans, and silverware, enhancing the self-catering experience. A unique amenity appreciated by families is the availability of DVD players and a selection of movies for rent in the lobby. While free Wi-Fi is provided, some guests noted it could be spotty or unreliable. The hotel offers free parking, which is a significant advantage, though spaces can sometimes be tight. Some buildings feature elevators, though they are occasionally reported as slow, and some smaller buildings may not have them.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The overall cleanliness of the rooms receives mixed feedback; while many guests found their accommodations spotless, some reported issues such as dust, hair on linens, stained carpets, or a musty smell. Opinions on bed comfort vary, with some guests praising them as comfortable, while others found them too soft, too firm, or smaller than expected. Bathrooms are a recurring point of concern, frequently described as small, outdated, and in need of upgrades, with mentions of low toilets, leaky showers, mold, or discolored fixtures. Air conditioning performance also varies, with some units being effective and others noisy or insufficient. Many rooms boast desirable ocean views, and the presence of kitchenettes is a valued convenience.

Dining & Food Quality
The on-site Coconuts bar and restaurant is a major highlight, consistently praised for its lively atmosphere, live music, and popular happy hour featuring 2-for-1 drinks. Guests particularly enjoy the convenience of beach service, allowing them to order food and drinks directly to their spot on the sand. The breakfast buffet receives mixed reviews, with some guests finding it good value with a decent selection, while others felt it was overpriced for the quality offered. The hotel's exclusive blend of coffee is often complimented. While the bar food is generally well-regarded, some guests found the overall food prices to be on the higher side.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's direct beachfront access is a primary draw, allowing guests to easily transition from their rooms to the sand and ocean. Its central location in Ocean City is highly convenient, placing guests within walking distance of numerous restaurants and shops. The convention center is also a short walk away, making it suitable for event attendees. A significant advantage is the provision of free parking, which is highly valued in the area, though some guests noted that parking spots could be tight. While not directly on the boardwalk, the hotel is a short drive or about ten blocks from its northern end, offering a balance of accessibility and a slightly quieter environment.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness across all departments. Guests frequently highlight the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as early check-ins or providing extra amenities. The beach service provided by the restaurant staff is particularly appreciated for its convenience and efficiency. While most experiences with housekeeping are positive, some guests noted occasional inconsistencies in room servicing or towel replenishment. The overall sentiment is that the staff's dedication to providing excellent service significantly enhances the guest experience.

Additional Information
A common theme among reviews is the hotel's age and its need for upgrades, with many areas described as outdated, including peeling wallpaper, old carpets, and rusty appliances. The use of physical keys for rooms is a unique, old-fashioned detail noted by guests. The hotel offers various family-friendly activities, including a kids' tent, contributing to its appeal for those traveling with children. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests experienced it as spotty or unreliable. Noise from the on-site bar or other guests can occasionally be an issue, particularly in certain buildings. The bathroom size is frequently mentioned as being very small.