Royale Beach and Tennis Club

The location is great, the pools were kept up, and the staff responded quickly when I first reported water dripping from the ceiling onto the bed and nightstand in room #84. They later said they had vacuumed it up and thanked me for reporting it. But the leak came back the next morning. The desk clerk said water from the shower was getting through the caulking around the tub into the room below (warm thoughts), and offered us room 40. That room was dirty and smelled musty, with no window to open for ventilation, so we went out for the day instead. When we returned, the leak was still there, though the desk said it had been resolved at 8:30 am. We moved the bed and put up with the slow drip for one more night. There was also bubbling paint over the TV, though that spot wasn't leaking yet, and water was dripping onto a light fixture, which seemed like a possible shock hazard. The drip slowed down, but I expect it could start again when the next guest in room 94 showers. We disinfected the cooler we had used to catch the water. Black mold and poor ventilation make this a health concern, and I hope management deals with it. Also, the elevator may not work after a power failure or storm. We booked through RCI, and they did not ask us to join the timeshare with Royal Holiday.

The room was dirty, smelled awful, and had roaches. When we complained about the odor, staff brought a little Air Wick that barely helped; the filthy rug by the entrance had to be taken out after we raised that too. Later, dirty water from the hot tub was drained into the pool, where you could see it. Check-in was rude and unwelcoming, and there was no word from staff when the power went out. We had booked a unit for six, yet received just one parking pass. Visitors had to pay for another, and anyone under 30 had to buy a wristband. All those extra costs added to an already disappointing spring break stay at the Royale Beach and Tennis Club.

We barely left the resort, except for one nice dinner, since there was so much to do and everything we needed was close by. The condo had pans, utensils, and the kitchen basics, so cooking for the family was easy even with all the food we brought. Stores were right by the resort, and fireworks were within walking distance, which the kids loved. The pools and cornhole kept us busy, and the place felt calm, clean, and kid-friendly. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves without the noise or chaos you sometimes get. Rooms and pool areas were spotless and well cared for. Parking took a bit of figuring out with three cars, since only two could stay inside the resort. The staff suggested a safe nearby option, though it cost extra. The bartenders were welcoming and helpful with drink and menu suggestions. We had a wonderful time at the Royale Beach & Tennis Club and would happily recommend it for a family trip or celebration. The views and amenities were lovely, and we had what we needed on site.

The beach and location were the only real pluses for me. It’s close to plenty of restaurants and shops, but the place itself felt old and dirty and needed maintenance. Check which room type you’re booking, because the website gives the wrong impression. A studio has no full kitchen, balcony, or washer and dryer, just a very small fridge and an awful bed. Rain came through big gaps around the doors, so we had to stuff towels underneath. Linens, toiletries, and pots and pans were cheap, and a pool bar drink cost $12. Two chairs and an umbrella were $50 for the day. They didn’t keep kids out of the adult pool, even with loud music. Expect construction noise, a club next door, and broken elevators. We had to haul our luggage up nine floors.