Fireside Inn, Ocean's Edge

The hotel is widely celebrated for its spectacular ocean views from every room, offering a breathtaking vista of the bay and expansive grounds that lead directly to the water. This signature feature makes it an ideal destination for couples seeking a tranquil escape, families looking for engaging outdoor activities, and especially pet owners who appreciate the direct access to the large lawn and beach. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's overall cleanliness and the friendly, attentive service provided by the staff. To make the most of your stay, consider taking advantage of the numerous outdoor seating areas to soak in the scenery and be prepared for a self-service approach to daily room amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently commend the hotel's recreational offerings, including a well-maintained indoor pool, a relaxing hot tub, and a functional sauna, providing ample opportunities for leisure and rejuvenation. The expansive lawn area is a major draw, featuring various outdoor games like cornhole and volleyball, along with comfortable Adirondack chairs for enjoying the bay views. Many rooms are equipped with convenient amenities such as a mini-fridge, microwave, and Keurig coffee maker. Some suites even boast a fireplace or a massage chair, adding to the comfort. While there is only one elevator, which can sometimes be slow or have a musty smell, the availability of loaner bikes and a well-stocked gift shop in the lobby further enhance the guest experience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives praise for its room cleanliness, with many guests describing their accommodations as spotless and comfortable upon arrival. However, feedback on room condition is mixed; while some find them spacious and cozy with modern conveniences, others note that the decor appears dated or in need of updating, with mentions of worn carpets or minor maintenance issues like dripping showers or faulty door locks. Bed comfort also varies, with many finding the beds very comfortable, while some report them as hard or lumpy. Noise levels can be a concern for some guests due to thin walls, allowing sounds from adjacent rooms or hallways to be heard. Bathrooms are typically clean, though some guests suggest they could benefit from updating.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options are limited, as the on-site restaurant is permanently closed. Most guests note that breakfast is not complimentary and consists of a "grab and go" style with limited selections, including items like cereal, muffins, bagels, and pre-packaged breakfast sandwiches. While some guests find these options adequate, many express disappointment, especially given the lack of nearby breakfast establishments within walking distance. However, the hotel does offer complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available 24/7 in the lobby, which is frequently appreciated for its quality, including espresso options. Snacks and microwavable food items are also available for purchase in the lobby.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, situated directly on the waterfront and offering stunning bay views from every room. It provides easy access to downtown Belfast, which is just a short drive away, allowing guests to explore local restaurants, shops, and attractions. The property serves as an excellent base for those looking to explore the wider Maine coast, including popular destinations like Acadia National Park, Camden, and Searsport. Guests appreciate the ample and easy parking available on-site. The direct access from the property's expansive lawn down to the rocky beach is also a highly valued feature, enhancing the overall experience of staying by the water.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and welcoming demeanor, with many guests highlighting their professional and accommodating approach to requests. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and smooth. However, the housekeeping policy is a point of mixed feedback; daily in-room cleaning service is not provided, a practice some attribute to post-pandemic changes. Guests are required to request fresh towels and other supplies, which are then delivered to their door. While some find this system inconvenient, the front desk staff are typically responsive in fulfilling these requests, ensuring guests have what they need during their stay.

Additional Information
A notable aspect of the hotel is its highly pet-friendly policy, with dedicated ground-floor rooms that offer direct patio access to the large outdoor lawn, making it convenient for guests traveling with dogs. The hotel implements a unique housekeeping system where daily in-room service is not standard; instead, guests use a request card to receive fresh towels and other amenities, which are delivered to their door. The lobby features a well-stocked gift shop offering local products and souvenirs, alongside various snacks and beverages for purchase. Guests can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities on the expansive lawn, including lawn games and the use of complimentary loaner bikes, enhancing the recreational opportunities available on-site.