Ocean Key Resort

The hotel's signature feature is its exceptional proximity to the beach, being just steps away, making it an ideal choice for families and beach enthusiasts seeking convenient access to the oceanfront. Guests frequently highlight the spacious rooms, which are well-suited for larger groups, and the engaging children's activities led by dedicated staff members. While many appreciate the overall friendly staff and the hotel's value, some note that the property appears dated and could benefit from renovations. The hotel's location also provides easy access to nearby restaurants and the boardwalk, appealing to sightseers and those who enjoy exploring on foot. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to be prepared for potential challenges with the parking garage, particularly if driving a larger vehicle, and to inquire about the popular activity schedule upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of amenities, though guest experiences are mixed. The indoor pool and hot tub are popular, especially with families, providing a welcome option for relaxation and fun, even if some guests reported issues with the pool's cleanliness or the hot tub being out of order at times. The strong chlorine smell from the pool area can be noticeable in the lobby. A fitness center is available for guests, and the convenience of free laundry facilities is frequently appreciated. The activity center stands out as a highly praised feature, offering engaging crafts and games for both children and adults. However, the elevators are a consistent point of concern, with many guests experiencing long waits due to one often being out of service, and they are frequently wet and sandy. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests noted it could be spotty.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is notably mixed. While some guests found their rooms to be very clean, spacious, and in excellent condition, others reported significant issues, including stained sheets, dirty floors, and even the presence of roaches or ants. Many reviews indicate that the rooms and overall property are dated and in need of renovation, with specific mentions of peeling laminate, mold in bathrooms, and broken fixtures like showerheads or toilet handles. Bed comfort also varies, with some finding them comfortable, while others described mattresses as hard or worn. Noise levels are a frequent complaint, with guests often hearing traffic, neighbors, or hallway disturbances due to thin walls. Issues with air conditioning and inconsistent hot water were also reported by some, alongside concerns about the functionality of in-room TVs and the small size of some kitchenettes.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers convenient dining options on-site, primarily through its pizza place, Roma's, which is frequently praised for its good quality and the convenience of late delivery directly to rooms. Guests appreciate the ease of access to quick meals and snacks without having to leave the premises. Additionally, a general restaurant on the property received positive remarks for its quality. A notable amenity is the provision of free coffee in the mornings, offering a wide variety of options and add-ons, though guests are advised to take advantage of this before 10 AM as it is not replenished afterward. While some rooms feature kitchenettes, feedback on their cleanliness and utility for food preparation is mixed, with some guests noting issues with dirty utensils or limited space.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location, being just steps away and directly across the street from the beach, making it incredibly convenient for guests to enjoy the oceanfront. It is also within walking distance to numerous restaurants and shops, as well as the boardwalk, providing easy access to local attractions and dining experiences. Situated on a quieter end of the beach, it offers a more relaxed atmosphere, though some guests noted significant traffic noise from nearby roads. For those utilizing public transport, a trolley stop is conveniently located across the street. However, parking is a major and consistent point of concern. The parking garage is frequently described as small, tight, and difficult to navigate, especially for larger vehicles or SUVs, due to numerous support pillars and poorly marked spaces, leading to frustration and long searches for available spots.

Staff & Service
Staff and service at the hotel elicit a wide range of guest experiences. Many guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful demeanor of the staff, particularly highlighting the engaging and patient activity coordinators who enhance the stay for families. The check-in process is often described as quick and easy, with staff sometimes accommodating early arrivals. However, there are numerous reports of unhelpful or rude interactions, especially with front desk personnel, who some guests found to be dismissive or lacking in customer service. Housekeeping service is a significant area of concern; many guests reported rooms not being cleaned, being charged for cleaning, or having to personally retrieve fresh linens and towels due to limited service hours or staff unresponsiveness. While maintenance staff are sometimes quick to address issues, their effectiveness can vary. Some guests also expressed frustration with persistent attempts to engage them in timeshare seminars.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the property operates as a timeshare resort, and some long-term owners have expressed concerns regarding the allocation of maintenance fees towards upkeep, noting a perceived decline in the property's condition. There have been instances of building evacuations due to fire alarms, sometimes occurring unexpectedly at late hours. While the hotel aims to provide a comfortable stay, some guests reported minor issues such as door locks beeping on other units, which staff advised could be resolved by firmly pushing the lock. A recurring theme is the perceived lack of readily available management to address guest concerns, with some reporting difficulty in speaking with a manager directly. Additionally, some guests noted a general lack of small conveniences like a broom in the unit for quick clean-ups or USB charging ports.