Residence Inn by Marriott Corpus Christi Downtown

We've stayed here many times and it has usually been our go-to in Corpus, for both the rooms and location. This visit, management let us down. We'd already reserved and paid online, but at check-in they had us swipe our card using a different method and charged us for the full room again, even though they could clearly see it was paid. That took money from our spending budget. We asked to have it fixed right away, but the manager wouldn't speak with us. An employee went back and forth to tell us there was nothing they could do, then gave us two drink coupons as if that made up for it. The manager never came out to apologize or explain what would happen to the charge that shouldn't have gone through. The information cards named Assistant General Manager Laura Earley and General Manager Brian Vaugh, but we never saw or spoke to either of them. It says a lot about how much they value customers when they make a mistake and won't face us to apologize for the inconvenience to our trip.

The room was clean and spacious, and the staff were friendly and accommodating. The hotel is right across from the beach, an easy walk to some fun. Marriott never disappoints! We look forward to staying with you again on our next visit to Corpus.

For sand and beach access, go to the Omni instead. This Marriott doesn't deliver on that, and it's surprising how poorly it compares with other Mariotts here and abroad, and even with the local Omni. My kitchen floor had chemical or grease stains, and the shower wasn't cleaned. There was hair and dirt everywhere. When I asked the front desk woman about the overnight parking fee, since I'd booked a room, she just stared at me. I tried reaching the GM and was told he'd left. I suspect the fee is there to undercut the other hotels' online rates and draw customers in. Given the local competition, I'm surprised they're still in business. Save $100 or more and stay elsewhere. I'm saying this as a Marriott member.

The bar area was fantastic, the pool was beautiful, and breakfast in the morning was free and delicious. The rooms were super clean and outstanding, and the hotel is in the city Bay Area. Housekeeping and front desk service were top notch and made us feel comfortable. Samantha at the front desk gave me such amazing service and made me and my family feel welcome and special. I'm glad I found a place that knows how to treat guests so well. Thank you for everything and for all your hard work. I'll be back.