Carolina Grande

The buildings and rooms feel dated, even though I can only speak to the one room we stayed in. With some work and investment, this could be a five-star property. The people were great, the main pool had a great feel, and the food at Black Drum was amazing. The hotel restaurants were average or a little above. I'd give it a low four overall, but would go again.

The view is a little odd: you can see the beach, but another hotel sits in front and blocks part of it, including the sunrise and sunset. We were able to use the pool and hot tub at the sister hotel, the Carolinian, across the street, though its lazy river was closed for maintenance. That location is across the street from the beach and close to good places to eat, including Salt n Honey and Old Vienna Cafe. Check-in service was great. The furniture at bluegreen is hard for me, and although I once had a soft bed here, this one wasn't soft. All the furniture feels hard to me.

For a timeshare, I expected more, though it's not mine. It was only okay. There were just two sets of towels for four people, and we had to go to the desk to get more because they wouldn't bring them. They don't clean the room during the stay, so you have to take out your own trash.

We had a good stay, with great staff and excellent customer service. Parking worked well for us since we were there during the week, and there are lots of deals in the area if you stay here.