Saltwater Lodge

The kitchen had plenty of equipment for cooking, plus teapots and a coffee maker. The fridges were well maintained, there was lots of dry food storage, and plenty of seating, including nice tables on the large terraces on each floor. One issue, the Moka Express had been mistreated, with milk put in the water compartment and left uncleaned for a while. The bathrooms and toilets were clean and simple, and each room had its own private shower and toilet. Rooms were nearly clean, with a comfortable bed and nice carpets. The reception manager was kind, generous, and knowledgeable. It’s a great budget-friendly hotel, two minutes’ walk from the main beach and city centre. Go try El Café next door. I definitely recommend it!

The gentleman who runs the place was helpful and nice. When I asked for a late checkout, Ben kindly let us stay until noon. Check-in was easy, and the place felt pleasant and conveniently located. The bedrooms were clean, and the shared areas were spacious, with everything needed in the kitchen. There was a nice grill and a small garden guests could help themselves to, plus bikes to borrow. The property was surrounded by grapes, and I enjoyed the ocean and mountain views. It was close to the beach, wharf, parks, markets, shops, and restaurants. There was free WiFi. The shower was strong, though it drained slowly, and I first thought the small room fridge wasn’t working. I was told it was user error and had a special switch. I paid very little for this cute place, so I can’t ask for much more. I’d stay again.

The double room was clean and spacious, though the bed was made of two mattresses pushed together, and you could feel the join, which wasn’t comfortable. Late check-in caused no problem. They advertise membership in a group of hostels around New Zealand, with a 10% voucher for stays at the others. When I asked reception about it at checkout, they knew nothing, so there seems to be a communication gap.

Saltwater Lodge has large rooms, comfortable beds, and great showers. It’s just half a block from the beach and swimming. The communal kitchen and laundry are handy, and the staff are nice. Shopping is only three blocks away, so the area stays quiet, while several cafes, restaurants, and a quick mart are on the same street.