King's Bay Lodge

The staff were excellent, and I liked the history they share about the place. The spring-fed pool is a great idea, and everything was clean enough to meet my picky standards. I found it at the last minute, but loved it and will make it a repeat place to stay. My only wish is that it were pet-friendly. I travel to Florida often and usually need to bring my two small dogs.

It's easy to walk downtown from here, and the designated parking spots are a plus. The grounds are well kept, and our room was spacious, clean, and had a really comfortable bed. We were unsure when we first saw the older motel exterior, but don't let that put you off. I'd come back and wouldn't bother looking for another place.

We saw manatees right from the dock, and could launch our paddle boards from a platform next door. The Florida pool was a bonus, too. Our apartment was a very clean, nicely kept older lodge unit, with one large bedroom, two queen beds, a big kitchen and dining area, and a living room with a pullout couch. The linens and towels were nice. Shops and restaurants are just around the corner and easy to reach on foot.

I was originally pointed toward a Holiday Inn, but I'm so glad we chose KINGS BAY LODGE instead. The renovated room felt like a little cottage, and the place has a lovely Old Florida feel in a community right on the water. The staff, especially Sherry and Chancie, were welcoming, friendly, and ready to help with anything we needed. Restaurants and shops at The Heritage Square are within walking distance. My grandson and I came to swim with Manatees at Nature's Discovery, and it was an incredible experience. This is a hidden gem to enjoy any time of year.