Lankford Hotel and Lodge

This establishment offers a unique, vintage beach-front experience, distinguished by its prime boardwalk location and direct beach access. It is particularly well-suited for families seeking spacious accommodations with kitchen facilities, couples desiring a quaint coastal getaway, and sightseers who appreciate being at the heart of the action. While many guests cherish its old-school charm, recent changes under new ownership have altered the atmosphere, leading to mixed feedback. To make the most of your stay, consider requesting a room in the main building for a potentially more consistent experience, and be prepared for the absence of an elevator, which is a key consideration for those with mobility concerns. Bringing your own coffee and hair dryer is also advisable, as these amenities are not consistently provided.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers various accommodations, with many guests appreciating the convenience of kitchenettes in their rooms, often equipped with a full-sized refrigerator, stove, dishes, and utensils, which is ideal for self-catering. Some rooms also feature private balconies or patios, providing outdoor space. However, a significant point of feedback is the lack of an elevator, which can be challenging for guests with luggage or mobility issues, especially in the multi-story Lodge building. While private parking is available and generally convenient, it can be limited. Guests frequently note the absence of Wi-Fi in some rooms or its poor quality, and there are no coffee makers or ice machines in the rooms. Basic amenities like hair dryers and irons are also not standard and must be requested from the front desk.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is varied. Many guests commend the cleanliness of their rooms, describing them as spotless with fresh linens and towels. The beds receive mixed reviews, with some finding them comfortable while others report them as uncomfortable or too soft. However, a notable concern for some guests includes the presence of dead bugs, ants, or even mice in their rooms, along with complaints of dirty carpets and mold in showers. Rooms are often described as small and outdated, with musty smells reported by some. Bathrooms are frequently criticized for being tiny and lacking space, with issues like poor water pressure (ranging from a trickle to scalding hot or ice cold) and noisy AC units. Thin walls also contribute to noise from neighbors and the boardwalk.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options have undergone significant changes, leading to mixed guest experiences. Previously, a free breakfast was offered, but this has been discontinued, much to the disappointment of many returning guests. The former cozy lobby area, which once served as a communal space, has been replaced by an on-site cafe (Loves Cafe) and a bar or taco place (Tipsy Taco). While the cafe offers coffee and bagels, some guests find the prices to be high. The presence of the bar has also introduced noise concerns, particularly for rooms located directly above it, impacting the quiet enjoyment of the stay for some.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, offering direct boardwalk access and immediate proximity to the beach. Guests appreciate being within easy walking distance of numerous attractions, restaurants, and shops. The availability of free parking is a significant advantage, though some guests note that the parking lot can be tight and challenging to navigate, especially during peak times. While the main building is directly on the boardwalk, some accommodations are located in separate buildings, such as "The Lodge," which is slightly set back. The convenience of being able to walk everywhere is a major draw for most visitors.

Staff & Service
Guest experiences with staff and service are notably varied. Many reviews praise the friendly staff, describing them as helpful and accommodating, particularly during check-in and when addressing specific issues like AC problems or room changes due to cleanliness concerns. Some guests highlight responsive service from maintenance and housekeeping. However, a significant number of reviews express dissatisfaction with the new ownership, citing rude staff, unhelpful staff, and a general lack of communication. Issues include difficulties with refunds, unreturned phone calls, and staff being absent from the front desk. Some guests also report aggressive check-out enforcement and a perceived lack of empathy from management regarding guest complaints.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several important details that impact their stay. The hotel has a strict check-in time of 4 PM and an early check-out time of 10 AM, with no options for late check-out. The refund policy has been a source of frustration for many, with reports of difficult and unfulfilled refund processes, even for cancellations made within the grace period. Some buildings, particularly "The Lodge," may have no staff after hours, which can be problematic for guests needing assistance. The hotel's vintage charm and status as a historic building are appreciated by those seeking an old-school experience, but this also means a lack of modern amenities like elevators. Recent construction noise and significant changes to common areas, such as the removal of the traditional lobby and front porch, have altered the hotel's long-standing character.