Elizabeth Pointe Lodge

This charming inn offers a distinctive seaside escape, celebrated for its direct beach access and a captivating Victorian-era ambiance that transports guests to a tranquil coastal retreat. Its unique character and intimate setting make it an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway, honeymooners, and relaxation seekers looking to unwind by the ocean. Guests consistently highlight the exceptionally friendly and accommodating staff, the delicious made-to-order breakfast, and the stunning ocean views from various common areas. While many appreciate the quaint, home-like feel, some recent reviews indicate ongoing renovations may affect the guest experience. To maximize your stay, consider requesting an ocean-facing room to fully enjoy the breathtaking sunrises and take advantage of the complimentary beach amenities and daily happy hour.

Facilities & Amenities
The inn provides a range of thoughtful complimentary amenities that significantly enhance the guest experience. Guests consistently praise the 24/7 availability of water, coffee, tea, cookies, and brownies, which offers convenient refreshments throughout the day and night. A popular feature is the daily wine reception or happy hour, where guests can enjoy beverages and socialize. For those looking to relax by the sea, the inn offers beach chairs and umbrellas, making direct beach access effortless and comfortable. The inviting porch or veranda, furnished with rocking chairs, is frequently mentioned as a favorite spot to enjoy the ocean views and breezes. While the elevator is generally available and appreciated for convenience, some guests have reported it being out of service during their stay, which can be challenging, especially for those on higher floors. The common areas are described as cozy and conducive to mingling, fostering a welcoming atmosphere.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests commend the overall cleanliness of the inn and its rooms, often describing them as impeccably maintained and having a pleasant, royal-home ambiance. Many appreciate the spacious rooms and the recent bathroom updates, which are noted as very nice and modern in some units. However, feedback regarding room comfort and condition is mixed. While some guests find the beds comfortable and conducive to a restful sleep, a significant number report issues with old or uncomfortable mattresses, describing them as too firm, worn out, or having visible springs. Recurring concerns include a persistent musty smell in some rooms and hallways, particularly in older sections, and issues with dampness due to inadequate ventilation or air conditioning. Some rooms are described as outdated, lacking essential amenities like dressers or sufficient hanging space, and experiencing problems such as peeling wallpaper or malfunctioning bathroom doors. Noise from traffic, other guests, or loud AC units is also occasionally mentioned, impacting the tranquility of the stay for some.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast experience at the inn receives widespread acclaim, consistently described as delicious, amazing, and a highlight of the stay. Guests particularly appreciate the made-to-order options, which include favorites like blueberry pancakes and French toast, alongside a variety of other fresh and hot selections. Many reviews praise the quality and taste of the food, noting it surpasses expectations and offers excellent choices, including gluten-free options. The breakfast room itself is often mentioned as a pleasant setting with great views. In addition to breakfast, the daily happy hour or wine reception is a highly popular amenity, providing guests with complimentary beverages and snacks, fostering a convivial atmosphere where many enjoy socializing. While the inn excels in its breakfast and happy hour offerings, it is important to note that there is no on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner, nor is there 24-hour room service. However, guests find numerous dining options within walking distance or a short drive.

Location & Accessibility
The inn's location is consistently lauded as a major highlight, being right on the beach and offering stunning ocean views from many rooms and common areas. Guests appreciate the easy and direct beach access, often enjoying beautiful sunrises. The property is conveniently situated within walking distance to several restaurants and a short distance from historic downtown Fernandina Beach, which offers a variety of shops and additional dining options. Its proximity to Fort Clinch State Park also makes it ideal for outdoor activities like biking. The inn provides ample parking, which guests find convenient for their vehicles. While the immediate area is peaceful, the vibrant downtown and natural attractions are easily accessible, whether by walking, biking, or using ride-sharing services, making it a perfect base for exploring the island.

Staff & Service
The staff at the inn consistently receives glowing reviews, with guests frequently describing them as exceptionally friendly, accommodating, and helpful. Many feel a genuine sense of hospitality, noting that the team goes above and beyond to make them feel like family. Specific praise is often directed at the attentive service during breakfast and happy hour, where staff members are noted for their dedication and personalized care. They are generally quick to address guest needs and resolve issues, such as moving guests to different rooms when problems arise. However, some guests have reported instances of the inn being understaffed, particularly concerning assistance with luggage or the setup of beach amenities, leading to guests having to manage these tasks themselves. There are also a few isolated accounts of staff being perceived as impersonal or unable to provide immediate assistance during off-hours, and some guests have expressed frustration with the handling of refund requests or compensation for unsatisfactory room conditions, with staff sometimes citing new ownership as a reason for changes.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the inn has recently undergone a change in ownership, leading to significant renovations and updates across the property. While many appreciate the efforts to modernize, some guests have experienced ongoing construction during their stay, including workers on-site, noise, and temporary inconveniences like portable AC units in hallways or limited parking due to equipment. This period of transition has occasionally impacted the guest experience, with some feeling that the hotel should have been closed during more extensive work. The inn operates as an adults-only establishment, providing a tranquil environment for guests seeking peace and quiet. Additionally, guests should anticipate a resort fee or other additional charges upon arrival, which some reviews indicate can be substantial and may not always be clearly communicated upfront.