Holiday Inn & Suites Daytona Beach on the Ocean by IHG

The breakfasts were a bright spot during a stressful week, and the room service and takeout were satisfying, even though the menu was limited. We had an ocean view, a comfortable room, and on-site parking. Our first room was larger, with a couch and balcony, but looked out over the parking lot. After extending our unexpected stay of about a week, we moved to a slightly smaller room with a chair instead of a couch. That one looked over the pool toward the ocean, a much nicer view. We were in the area for a family emergency and chose the hotel because it was close to the local hospital and had a positive restaurant review. The little 24/7 convenience store was a real help, especially for snacks, personal items, Diet Coke, and bottled water. The staff were generally kind. It was very cold in Daytona Beach while we were there, and the atmosphere was quiet, which suited us. I chose this place because of the circumstances, and probably wouldn't have picked it first for a vacation, but the Holiday Inn gave us what we needed to be comfortable. It also looks like there are good facilities for having fun, including indoor and outdoor bar areas.

Direct access to the beach through the pool area was nice, and there was a pleasant outdoor seating spot with a fireplace in the evenings. The hotel also has a small market and a microwave nearby. Breakfast was included, with one food option and one drink, and parking was about $10 a night. The oceanfront setting is the best part. With the window open, you can hear the waves from the room. Our room had been renovated, but the bathroom still had an old tub, fixed showerhead, and curtain. That didn't match the renovated tub and shower shown in the website photos, and I didn't like that setup. The hall smelled strongly of cigarettes and marijuana despite the hotel's claim that it's 100% smoke-free. Thankfully our room itself didn't smell, but management should deal with the corridor odor. The air conditioner was very old and loud, the balcony looked like it hadn't been cleaned recently, and the common areas felt dated next to the rooms. For the price it's not a bad choice, but the misleading bathroom photos, hallway smell, and tired shared spaces need attention.

We had perfect weather during the third week of October, and the stay felt relaxing and laid-back. The views and location were great, and the staff were cheerful and easy to find whenever we needed them. I'd definitely return. A hot tub would have made it even better.

The bugs bit me, and the room smelled bad of marijuana. I couldn't sleep, and people told me they could hear traffic from their rooms too. The hotel was built in the 70s, so don't expect much. They moved me to the fourth floor, but that room smelled like marijuana as well, and it took me all night with the balcony door open to air it out. I wish I could get my money back. Worst trip ever. I won't stay here again or go back to Dayona.