Centennial Plaza Resort Gulfport

The hotel offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern family entertainment, making it a memorable destination. Its signature feature is the expansive on-site water park, complete with a lazy river and slides, which consistently delights guests of all ages. This property is particularly well-suited for families with young children seeking a fun-filled vacation, as well as couples looking for a relaxing getaway with ample amenities. Many guests appreciate the hotel's overall cleanliness and the spaciousness of the rooms. While the staff generally receives praise for their friendliness, some guests have noted inconsistencies with housekeeping services. To ensure a comfortable stay, it is advisable to confirm housekeeping schedules upon check-in, as daily service may require a specific request, and consider bringing a portable fan if you prefer cooler room temperatures.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts an impressive array of facilities designed for family enjoyment, most notably a large water park featuring a lazy river, exciting slides, and a dedicated kiddie area, which are major highlights for many visitors. Beyond the aquatic fun, guests can also find an arcade and an ice cream shop on-site, adding to the entertainment options. While the property is undergoing ongoing construction for additions like a putt-putt course, some existing amenities receive mixed feedback. The fitness center is present but described by some as subpar, lacking proper equipment maintenance. A frequent point of concern is the absence of microwaves in guest rooms, and some find the mini-fridges to be too small. The hotel also features a beautiful fountain with a musical light show, which many guests enjoy.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness is generally positive, with many describing rooms and the overall property as very clean and well-maintained. The rooms are frequently praised for their spaciousness, offering ample space for relaxation. However, opinions on bed comfort are divided, with a significant number of guests finding the beds hard, while others describe them as very comfortable. A recurring issue relates to air conditioning and humidity control; some rooms are reported to be hot, damp, or have malfunctioning AC units, with instances of mold on vents and carpet stains being noted. Other concerns include dirty bathroom floors, stained towels, and occasional issues with TV functionality or toilet handles. Some guests also mentioned thin walls and train noise impacting their sleep.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers several on-site dining options, including the Oasis Grill and a wine bar, which receive varied feedback. The breakfast options are generally considered good, though it is not complimentary and some guests experienced long waits or issues with service. The food quality at the Oasis Grill is often praised, but some guests reported inconsistencies, such as salty or frozen-tasting dishes. The wine bar is appreciated for its ambiance and drink selection, though some guests encountered rude staff or found it unexpectedly closed. The pool bar is a popular feature, but it frequently suffers from long wait times and understaffing, leading to frustration among guests. A snack bar is also available, but some guests noted limited options or stock shortages.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests directly across from the beach and within easy walking distance or a short drive to various attractions, downtown areas, and casinos. Its proximity to the airport and public transportation is also convenient for travelers. However, the property's unique layout, being a former large campus with spread-out buildings, can be confusing to navigate, leading to long walks between facilities and the main lobby. Parking is available, but some areas are not easily accessible or are poorly lit, causing concern for some guests. Despite its overall convenience, the train noise at night is occasionally mentioned as a disturbance.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives high praise for being friendly, helpful, and professional, contributing positively to the guest experience. Many guests highlight their attentiveness and willingness to assist. However, there are notable inconsistencies, particularly concerning the check-in process, which some guests describe as lengthy, disorganized, or involving unhelpful staff, including instances of double charging. Housekeeping is a frequent point of contention, as it is often not provided daily and requires guests to specifically request service, leading to frustration. Feedback on pool staff is mixed, with some reports of rude or unprofessional behavior and understaffing at the pool bar, impacting service efficiency.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel is a historical property that was once a VA campus, which contributes to its unique, spread-out property layout and ongoing renovations. A significant point of contention for many guests is the mandatory resort fee, which is charged daily, even during off-season periods when many amenities, such as the water park or certain dining options, may be closed or have limited services. Some guests feel this fee is not adequately justified or explained. The hotel enforces a no smoking policy in rooms. While the property aims to be comprehensive, some guests noted a lack of basic conveniences like vending machines or readily available ice in all buildings, requiring longer walks.