Turtle Beach

The rooms were clean, and the reception staff were kind and helpful, but the price didn’t feel justified at Turtle Beach Hotel. You can get a buffet three times a day and book an evening à la carte meal, which was usually good, but the buffet food needed work. The potatoes, for instance, were dry and soggy instead of crisp. Most other staff were unfriendly and made us feel unwelcome. It was almost impossible to find a sunbed, as towels had claimed them all by 8 AM. We asked about activities and a hotel plan, but staff brushed off our questions. After looking around for a while, we gave up. Activities shown on the daily schedule also cost extra, which felt unacceptable given how expensive the stay was. They gave us a “dummy receipt” for meals showing what they supposedly cost. It seemed odd and unnecessary, and the laundry service was outrageously expensive. For anyone wanting to explore the island, this is definitely the wrong hotel. Even if you want all-inclusive, there are probably better value options.

The service was the hotel’s biggest strength. Staff were truly excellent, the beach was stunning, and the food was very high quality. We were a couple at what seems mostly like a family hotel, so our perspective may be a little biased. We stayed at Tuttle Bay for five nights. I understand renovations are planned for this year, so I’ll focus on our own experience rather than the grounds that many reviews say need updating. We booked an ocean-view room but were first put above the restaurant entertainment area, where the music was unbearable. After complaining, we were moved the next night to a much quieter room on the other side of the property, nearer the beach. Noise was our main problem. It’s a very loud property, and as a couple looking to relax, we struggled to find a quiet place in the daytime. The same 80s hits, Michael Jackson, and Bob Marley played over and over. Karaoke and drumming during the day were excessively loud, and the sound system was poor. Evening live performances often repeated the same songs, too loudly and not very enjoyably. At times we had to wear earplugs during dinner. A New Year’s Day DJ played more current Caribbean music on the beach, which was a refreshing and much more enjoyable change. I hope the refurbishment improves the sound system and changes the entertainment program. There also weren’t enough loungers or parasols. By the pool there were only around 20 shaded parasols for over 140 rooms, and no separate adult pool. Kids were splashing, running, and screaming everywhere, leaving little room for adults to relax. We chose the beach, but there were no parasols there, just loungers with hoods offering minimal sun protection. They were close together, short on privacy, and not plentiful enough. Guests began reserving them before 6 a.m., which was frustrating, though the beach itself was absolutely stunning. The New Year’s Eve buffet dinner was beautifully arranged with fantastic decorations. On our last night we requested lobster, which the chef prepared perfectly. It cost extra, but was absolutely worth it.

Our room had a full view of the clear ocean, and there were activities for every age. The beach and pool were terrific, and the food was amazing, with lots of accommodations for different dietary restrictions. Halal food was available on request. My family and I had a wonderful stay at Turtle Beach. I can see why we met so many returning guests. The hotel is beautiful and the staff were so helpful and friendly.

We’ve just come back from nine amazing days at The Turtle Beach Hotel & Spa. The setting is spectacular, right on the beach, and I understand every room has amazing views. In the heat, all three pools were very welcome. The sun loungers around them were comfortable, and we never had trouble finding one. Fresh towels were available every day.