SpringHill Suites by Marriott Amelia Island

I expected more from a hotel charging $150-$200 a night, and based on this stay I’d look elsewhere. The room and common-area walls were visibly dirty and peeling, and bathroom water pressure was disappointing. The towels were rough and worn, below what I’d expect at this rate. There were used dental floss and similar things in the hallways, along with bloody napkins, which made me question the hygiene throughout the property. Breakfast wasn’t included, which surprised me at this price. Requests to the front desk met resistance and made for an uncomfortable stay. The bar and restaurant had a limited menu; staff said it was off-season and they hadn’t ordered a broader selection. The $15 per vehicle, per night parking charge was another unexpected cost.

The pool was the highlight at Courtyard Amelia Island, and the kids absolutely loved it. We liked the stay a little more than expected because of that. Our first room smelled strongly of damp and mold, so we had to request another room, which was a rough way to begin. The rooms generally feel dated and poorly maintained. Breakfast was another headache: the area was overcrowded and there weren’t enough seats for the guests, so it felt chaotic and uncomfortable, especially with children. Better upkeep and organization would make this a much nicer family option.

We came for the Amelia Island Half Marathon and the hotel was perfectly located, no more than a three-minute walk from the start and finish. The room was clean and nice, the updated stand-up shower was great, and the bed was super comfortable. I actually enjoyed the hotel more than the race.

I was here for a conference, and this is the least safe I’ve ever felt at a hotel. There’s no security, even though the hotel has a bar where people can get completely drunk. Coming back from the gym, I was accosted by two drunk people at the main elevator who mistook me for someone else. They tried to stop me going upstairs and demanded my room number. I called the front desk once I got to my room to report them, and the only solution offered was that I check out and leave. Check-in was bad too. I’m not pleased with this place at all. They need adequate security as soon as possible.