Water Street Hotel & Marina, an Ascend Collection Hotel

This hotel is celebrated for its spacious, condo-style accommodations and a screened-in veranda that offers stunning views of the water, making it a memorable retreat. Its prime location provides easy access to local attractions, appealing to a diverse range of guests. The generous room sizes, often featuring full kitchens and in-room laundry facilities, make it an excellent choice for families seeking a home-away-from-home experience and business travelers on extended stays. Couples appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and scenic vistas, while pet owners find the hotel accommodating, though some specific considerations apply. For anglers and boaters, the direct access to boat slips is a significant advantage. To maximize your stay, consider utilizing the well-equipped in-room kitchens for convenience and be prepared for potential variations in service quality.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the convenience of the full kitchens found in the spacious, apartment-like units, which come equipped with dishes and utensils, though some note a need for more comprehensive stocking or specific items like ice makers. A significant advantage for longer stays or families is the inclusion of in-room washers and dryers. The hotel features a pleasant swimming pool with sunbeds and patio furniture, offering a relaxing spot for guests. For those arriving by water, boat slips are available and are described as spacious and sturdy. While Wi-Fi is provided, some guests have reported it can be slow or intermittent. A recurring concern is the functionality of the elevator, which guests report frequently breaks down, causing inconvenience, particularly for those on higher floors or with mobility issues.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The rooms are generally described as clean and spacious, often resembling mini-apartments with separate living areas and multiple bathrooms. Most guests find the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few have noted some mattresses are too firm or sofa beds are uncomfortable. While many appreciate the overall condition, some reviews indicate that rooms can appear tired or run-down, with specific mentions of rusted fixtures, grout stains, water damage, and worn towels. Minor issues like dusty ceiling fans or lamps have been observed. Noise levels are typically low, contributing to a peaceful stay, though occasional disturbances from nearby establishments or other guests have been reported. The presence of a coffee maker in the room is appreciated, but guests often need to provide their own coffee pods and supplies.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not offer on-site dining facilities, such as a restaurant or breakfast service. Guests consistently note the absence of a complimentary breakfast, advising visitors to plan accordingly. However, the inclusion of a full kitchen in each unit is a significant advantage, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and snacks. This feature is particularly valued by those on longer stays or families who prefer to dine in. Many guests choose to walk to the numerous nearby restaurants and bars in the town center, which are easily accessible from the hotel. The well-equipped kitchens, despite occasional comments about needing more utensils or specific items, provide a convenient alternative for guests to manage their dining needs independently.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it highly desirable for exploring the area. Guests appreciate being within easy walking distance to a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and the marina. The proximity to the water offers beautiful views and opportunities for fishing and water sports. While the immediate surroundings include some older industrial buildings, the overall area is considered quiet and safe for walking. The hotel is also a short drive from popular beach destinations like St. George Island and Port St. Joe. Parking can be a point of concern for some, with comments about remote parking options and limited spaces close to the hotel, though a loading zone is available for temporary use.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives praise for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating, contributing positively to the guest experience. Many guests highlight the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to assist with requests. However, feedback on service quality is mixed, with some guests reporting significant issues. Instances of unresponsive management regarding maintenance problems, such as persistent elevator malfunctions, have been noted. Some guests have experienced difficulties with billing and refunds, including unauthorized charges and a lack of flexibility regarding cancellations, particularly during unforeseen circumstances like hurricane evacuations. While some staff members are commended for going above and beyond, other interactions have been described as unhelpful or lacking empathy.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is a significant draw for guests traveling with animals, though some find the nightly pet fees to be quite high. A unique aspect of the property is the presence of resident cats, which are fed and maintained by the hotel staff; however, some guests have reported instances of these cats causing damage to boats. Recurring issues with the elevator are a notable concern, with multiple reports of it being out of service for extended periods, causing considerable inconvenience. Guests should also be aware of potential unauthorized charges or difficulties with refunds, as several reviews mention disputes with billing. The hotel's screened-in balconies are a beloved feature, offering peaceful views, but some guests have noted issues with the doors not closing or locking properly, or screens needing repair.