Golden Sands Carolina Beach Oceanfront Tapestry by Hilton

We paid premium beachfront rates, but nobody told us there would be major pool construction during our stay. Around 8:30 in the morning, extremely loud equipment drowned out the atmosphere. We could hear it inside the room and from our ocean-facing balcony, so sleeping in or enjoying the view peacefully wasn't possible. Had we been told at booking or check-in, I would've understood more and probably wouldn't be writing this. Hotels do need maintenance and renovations, and that's not my issue. I don't want a refund, compensation, or anything free. I just think guests paying premium rates should know what to expect so they can make an informed choice. The hotel itself was otherwise very nice: clean rooms and bathrooms, comfortable beds, a well-maintained property, and great ocean views and location. My two-star rating is about the lack of advance notice, not cleanliness or rude staff.

The location was the best part, with easy access to beaches, restaurants, and attractions. But the property's condition didn't live up to the price or what we expected. The pool and deck were completely under maintenance while we were there, and no one told us before arrival. Why do that over a major holiday weekend like Memorial Day? If we'd known, we might have booked somewhere else. There was hair in the shower when we arrived, and peeling, bubbling paint on the shower ceiling. The balcony was especially unpleasant, looking dirty and poorly kept. The end table had stains, possibly from a bloody Mary. We didn't feel the stay was worth what we paid, and we won't be back.

We really enjoyed the beach, and the rooms are nice and updated. The hotel is older, but renovated, and I liked how solidly it was built. A few things were off: the platform bed didn't fit the king mattress, which seemed like a California king on a standard king base, and my shins took a beating. The website promised free breakfast, one of the main reasons we booked, but there wasn't any. You can eat at the tiki bar, but don't expect cereal or waffles. The exterior is being updated and still needs more paint. Our room was by the ice machine, but the only ice was two floors down on the second floor. The elevator was very slow, and they're building a new pool behind the building with no balconies.

They charge like a three-star hotel with free breakfast, but don't provide breakfast at all. For a hotel in the Hilton collection, that's pure greed. Don't be fooled by the name or the three-star rating. They can put lipstick on a pig, but it's still Paris Hilton.