Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes

During our Labor Day vacation, an employee at the Marriott Grand Dunes OceanWatch villas property stopped my son and me while we were walking across the parking lot to reach the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort and Spa property. I was questioned about whether I was a guest and where I was staying, in front of my son, in a way that felt inhumane and disrespectful. I believe we were singled out because of our race. I saw multiple Caucasian guests moving between the properties without being approached or questioned. The experience was deeply hurtful and frustrating while we were trying to enjoy a family holiday. Professionalism and hospitality should apply regardless of race. I've filed a formal case about the incident with the South Carolina Human Affairs Commission (SCHAC).

The location is great, the rooms are clean, and the people are amazing. The hotel is older, though, and could use fresh paint and upgraded lamps. Starbucks is across the street, with good restaurants nearby.

I didn't feel I got much value for the price. For one night, we paid $300 at the off-season rate, plus a $40 resort fee and $20 for parking. The outdoor pools looked great, but it was too cold to use them, and the sauna was closed despite the resort fee. The rooms felt dated, and the hotel seemed old inside. If I went again, I'd probably choose another hotel.

I was there for a business conference. The ocean view was great, and the staff were great too. The café had good coffee and plenty of choices, and breakfast at the restaurant was good with nice service. My one concern was the cleaning: there was urine on the toilet when I arrived, so I cleaned it myself.