Aloft by Marriott Ocean City

The easy arrival and departure, convenient parking, and friendly staff made the whole stay feel stress-free. Every person we interacted with seemed to care about making us comfortable. I was especially glad they welcomed my dog so warmly without charging an extra pet fee. I travel with my dog often, and that kind of genuinely pet-friendly attitude is rare. This was our first stay at Aloft Ocean City, and my dog and I had a wonderful time from start to finish. We enjoyed ourselves so much that we’re already looking forward to coming back to Ocean City.

I paid a lot and ended up annoyed instead of relaxed. There was no complimentary breakfast, just breakfast sandwiches to buy, and the microwave was down the hall instead of in the room. For the price, I expected more special amenities at an upscale hotel. I had booked an ocean-view balcony, then found out smoking or vaping there could mean a $250 fine. On top of that, people were fighting and the police came, so I couldn’t sleep. Very disappointing.

The hotel and rooms were nice and clean, and there were great amenities, but the service fell short. Our room wasn’t ready when we arrived, so we waited another hour and 45 minutes. Later, after asking for more towels, we waited two hours and had to go downstairs to ask again.

After more than 50 years of visiting Ocean City, this was my first time at Aloft, and it’s now my favorite hotel there by far. It has the value and location I look for, plus friendly, efficient staff. I have mobility issues, and they helped with my bags at both check-in and check-out before I even had to ask. I like the clean, modern Scandinavian feel of the architecture and decor in the rooms and public spaces. My room was immaculate, with a comfortable bed, a terrace and great view, Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, a safe, and plenty of bath linens. In all my years of travel, the exceptional hospitality I’ve experienced has come from good management setting and keeping high standards. I highly recommend Aloft Ocean City.