Marlin's Beach

This resort offers a memorable stay, primarily due to its direct beachfront access and close proximity to the famous Kota Beach sandbar, making it a prime spot for relaxation and exploration. Guests consistently highlight the friendly and accommodating staff, the spacious rooms, and the overall cleanliness of the property. It's an ideal destination for honeymooners seeking a peaceful retreat, families with young children who appreciate the kid-friendly atmosphere and spacious accommodations, and sightseers looking to be near local attractions and nightlife. Many find the resort to be a great value. To ensure a comfortable stay, guests should consider bringing earplugs due to potential noise from local dogs at night, and be aware that renovations might be ongoing, which could lead to some daytime noise.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort offers a range of facilities, though some areas indicate a need for renovation and updates. While many appreciate the presence of air conditioning in rooms, some guests reported issues with it not working on occasion. The property benefits from backup power, which is a significant plus. Guests note that the lounge chairs on the beach are sometimes in poor condition, and there's a desire for more trees and shade around the property. While there is no swimming pool, the beautiful beachfront access compensates for this. Wi-Fi is generally available, though a few reviews mentioned its absence. Some bathrooms lack a bidet or water tub. A specific concern raised was the hot ramp railing leading to the beach, which can become extremely hot under the sun, posing a safety risk.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, with many describing rooms as spacious and clean. Many rooms feature a balcony, often with an ocean view, enhancing the stay. However, some guests noted that certain bathroom fixtures are old and rusty, with occasional issues like a leaking toilet or a sewer smell. A recurring concern is the lack of hot water in some rooms, and the absence of a bidet or water tub in bathrooms. Regarding beds, while rooms are spacious, some guests found the beds to be hard and noted that many rooms only have two single beds rather than larger queen or king-sized options. Noise can be an issue for rooms facing the street, with construction and vehicle noise starting early in the morning.

Dining & Food Quality
The resort offers breakfast, which is often included with the stay and can be enjoyed by the beach, providing a pleasant start to the day. Most guests describe the breakfast quality as good to superb, with some highlighting it as kid-friendly. However, a common point of feedback is the limited variety in the breakfast menu, with some guests noting it remained the same throughout their extended stay. Regarding the restaurant and its general food quality, reviews are mixed; some guests praise the dishes as very good and tasty, while others found the food to be either bland or overly salty. The restaurant offers a selection of Filipino and Western foods, but the overall menu is limited, which can be a concern for longer stays.

Location & Accessibility
The resort boasts an excellent central location, directly on the beachfront and very close to the famous Kota Beach sandbar. Guests consistently praise its proximity to MJ Square, a vibrant hub for nightlife, and numerous restaurants and bars, all within easy walking distance. This strategic placement allows guests to effortlessly explore the local dining and entertainment scene. Despite being near lively areas, the immediate surroundings of the resort often feel private and quiet, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustle. It is conveniently situated in Santa Fe, providing easy access to the town center, shops, and other popular resorts. This accessibility makes it an ideal base for those who want to enjoy both the serene beach environment and the convenience of nearby amenities.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the resort consistently receive high praise from guests, standing out as a major highlight of the stay. Reviewers frequently describe the team as incredibly friendly, helpful, attentive, and accommodating, often going the extra mile to ensure a pleasant and memorable experience. Guests appreciate their willingness to act quickly on issues, such as promptly moving rooms when a shower lacked hot water, demonstrating a commitment to guest satisfaction. The security personnel are also noted for their effectiveness and helpfulness, contributing to a strong sense of safety and peace of mind for visitors. While the vast majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, one guest mentioned an isolated instance of miscommunication between staff that led to an unexpected payment issue. Overall, the dedication and positive demeanor of the staff significantly enhance the guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests benefit from convenient free port pick-up and drop-off services, which are highly appreciated, especially the use of new service vehicles. The resort is notably pet-friendly, a significant advantage for travelers with animal companions. A crucial amenity mentioned is the reliable backup power, ensuring comfort even during outages. However, guests should be aware that the resort has undergone renovations, which some experienced as construction noise starting early in the morning, potentially impacting peace and quiet. Another point of note, external to the resort but impacting the stay, is the presence of stray dogs in the area that can cause nighttime barking, leading some guests to recommend bringing earplugs for a more restful sleep.