Courtyard Gulf Shores Craft Farms

This hotel is primarily noted for its convenient location, offering easy access to nearby shopping and dining options, making it a suitable choice for families and sightseers looking to explore the area on foot. While many guests appreciate the friendly staff and the overall atmosphere, a significant recurring theme is the ongoing renovations, which have impacted various aspects of the stay, from noise levels to accessibility. The hotel aims to provide a comfortable experience, but some aspects of room comfort and cleanliness have received mixed feedback. For travelers planning a stay, it is advisable to confirm the current status of renovations and any potential disruptions to ensure expectations align with the hotel's temporary conditions.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a pool that receives mixed reviews, with some guests finding it large and beautiful, while others report it being dirty or not heated as expected. A major point of contention is the elevator, which has frequently been out of service due to the ongoing construction, forcing guests to use stairs, sometimes with luggage. The lobby is generally described as inviting and well-maintained. While a fitness center and laundry room are available, the overall impression of the facilities is heavily influenced by the renovation work, which has led to blocked main entrances, visible construction equipment, and associated noise during the day. Guests also note the presence of mini-fridges and microwaves in rooms, adding convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is notably mixed. While some guests praise the rooms as very clean and comfortable, many report significant issues such as musty smells, stained carpets, dirty bathrooms with hair in showers, and even instances of roaches. The beds are a point of frequent discussion, described by some as comfortable but by others as terrible, worn, or having saggy mattresses. Sofa beds are often reported as unusable due to exposed springs. Air conditioning units are sometimes described as loud or ineffective, failing to keep rooms cool. Noise from construction, elevators, and even carpet cleaning has been a concern for some, impacting sleep quality. Additionally, issues with hot water availability and outdated room furnishings are commonly mentioned.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options, primarily a bistro or restaurant area, receive varied feedback. Many guests praise the breakfast as excellent, good, and fresh, though it is often noted that it is not complimentary and can be expensive. Some guests express disappointment with the limited hours of the restaurant/coffee bar, finding it hardly open or not available after certain morning hours. There are also reports of issues with food quality, including a mention of moldy fruit in a parfait. The coffee provided in rooms or at the bistro is sometimes described as bad or not up to standard, and complimentary coffee in the lobby is not consistently available.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, placing guests within walking distance of numerous amenities, including Target, Publix, a movie theater, and various other stores and restaurants. It is widely considered to be close to everything needed for a convenient stay. While not directly on the beach, the hotel is typically a short drive of about 10 minutes to the coast, making it accessible for beach visits. Parking is available, though some guests have noted it can be limited or impacted by the ongoing construction. The hotel's proximity to the airport is also mentioned as a convenience for travelers.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise from many guests, who describe them as exceptionally friendly, helpful, and accommodating. Specific mentions highlight their attentiveness, quick responses to needs, and positive attitudes, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. However, there is also a notable number of reviews detailing negative experiences with staff, including instances of rude or dismissive behavior, a perceived lack of concern for guest issues, and poor customer service. Some guests report difficulties with the check-in process, unaddressed complaints, and issues with refunds or compensation for problems encountered during their stay.

Additional Information
A major point of contention for many guests is the lack of upfront disclosure about ongoing renovations, leading to unexpected disruptions such as a broken elevator, blocked main entrances, and construction noise. This has frequently led to issues with refunds or cancellations, particularly for bookings made through third-party sites, with guests reporting difficulty obtaining compensation for inconveniences. Some elite loyalty program members express disappointment, noting a lack of upgrades or receiving points instead of desired refunds. There are also reports of issues with deposits not being returned promptly. While the hotel is generally considered a smoke-free facility, some guests have reported strong odors.