St James Bay Golf & Pickleball Resort

This resort offers a unique blend of a challenging golf course and spacious villas set within a tranquil, natural environment, making it a true hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Its signature feature is the extensive golf facilities, which are consistently praised for their condition and challenging layout. The resort is an ideal fit for golf enthusiasts looking for a dedicated 'stay and play' experience, as well as families and couples who appreciate ample living space and a quiet atmosphere. Pet owners will also find it accommodating, with many villas offering pet-friendly options. Guests frequently highlight the friendly staff and the overall serene ambiance. To ensure a smooth stay, it is advisable to confirm specific unit amenities like kitchen appliances and coffee makers, and be aware that ongoing construction may be present in certain areas of the property.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort offers a range of appealing facilities designed to enhance the guest experience. The golf course is a central attraction, frequently described as challenging yet enjoyable, with many guests praising its well-maintained fairways and greens. For those seeking alternative activities, the newly installed pickleball courts are a popular addition, providing a fun and engaging option. A new pool offers a relaxing spot for guests, though some have noted issues with water clarity or temperature at times. While a fitness center is available, specific details about its equipment are less frequently mentioned. Most villas come equipped with a full kitchen, often described as well-stocked, and many units include a washer and dryer, which is a significant convenience for longer stays. However, some guests have reported inconsistent Wi-Fi connectivity and issues with specific kitchen appliances like toasters or coffee makers.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is somewhat varied, reflecting different experiences across units. Many guests describe their accommodations as spacious and clean, appreciating the overall layout and design of the villas. The beds generally receive praise for being comfortable, with some guests specifically mentioning them as heavenly. However, a notable number of reviews highlight significant cleanliness issues, including dirty floors that leave feet black, stained furniture, and the presence of ants or roaches in some units. Guests have also reported various maintenance problems within rooms, such as leaking refrigerators, broken toasters, non-functioning ceiling fans or lights, and even exposed electrical wiring. Some units are noted to have dated or scratched furniture, and issues like wobbly chairs or non-locking doors have been mentioned. While many find the resort to be quiet, some guests have experienced noise from adjacent units or ongoing construction.

Dining & Food Quality
The on-site restaurant, the Crooked River Grill, is a significant amenity for guests, especially given the limited dining options in the immediate vicinity. Feedback on food quality is generally positive, with many guests describing meals as good, yummy, or even outstanding, and some specifically recommending the burger. The restaurant also offers a good selection of beers on tap and a pleasant atmosphere for dining, including both indoor and outdoor seating. However, the service at the restaurant receives mixed reviews. While many guests commend the staff for being gracious and providing exceptional service, a recurring theme is that the restaurant can be understaffed, leading to slow service and extended wait times, particularly during busy periods. Some guests have noted instances where staff appeared overwhelmed or frazzled. Despite these service challenges, the convenience of having a dining option on-site is highly valued by visitors.

Location & Accessibility
The resort's secluded location is a defining characteristic, offering a peaceful retreat nestled within a nature preserve setting. Many guests appreciate this quiet environment, which provides a sense of getting away from it all. It is conveniently situated across from the Gulf of Mexico, allowing for scenic drives and access to nearby beaches. The location also serves as a good base for exploring various state and national parks in the surrounding area. For those traveling with boats, the availability of easy boat parking is a notable advantage. However, guests should be aware that dining options directly outside the resort are very limited, often requiring a drive of several miles. While the resort is about a 45-minute drive from Tallahassee, its immediate surroundings are quite rural. Parking at the resort is generally easy and accessible, with some units offering parking directly next door or in a convenient parking deck.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the resort generally receive high praise from guests, contributing significantly to a positive experience. Many reviews highlight the friendly, helpful, and accommodating nature of the team, from the pro shop to the restaurant. Guests appreciate the professional and attentive service provided, with staff often going above and beyond to assist with requests or resolve issues. The check-in process is frequently described as smooth and efficient, even for late arrivals. However, there is a notable area of concern regarding the resort's cancellation policy, particularly when guests need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances like illness. Several guests have reported a lack of flexibility or empathy in these situations, with requests for refunds or credits being denied, leading to frustration. Some also mentioned perceived issues with management responsiveness or communication in specific instances.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several important details to optimize their stay. The resort offers a pet-friendly policy in many of its villas, which is highly appreciated by animal owners, though some note challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas for pets. There is significant ongoing construction and renovation work across the property, which can result in noise, roped-off areas, and occasional access difficulties. While the golf course is generally well-regarded for its challenging layout, some reviews mention specific issues like aerated greens, unkempt areas, or dirt tee boxes, and advise bringing extra balls. Guests have also reported instances of golf booking issues, including being overbooked or facing unexpected upcharges. The check-in time is after 4 PM and check-out is by 10 AM, which some guests find restrictive. It is recommended to clarify specific unit amenities like the type of coffee maker or presence of a stove, as these can vary. Additionally, some units have policies requiring guests to wash their own dishes or take out trash upon departure.