SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

The oceanfront location is hard to beat, and I’m already looking forward to coming back. It’s an older hotel that’s been remodeled nicely, with good quality amenities, though the hall ceilings are low, as is typical. The staff have been friendly and focused on service. Kevin at the front desk made a particularly nice first impression when we arrived today.

There’s a lot of potential here, especially because the location is so good, but the online price and rating feel out of line with what you get. The rooms are modern enough and clean, and I liked that the pool has separate family and adult areas. It’s a no frills property, though, with no bar or restaurant service. The breakfast was free but so mediocre that I didn’t understand why they made such a big deal about it. Night staff were welcoming; the morning staff were less accommodating. There were plenty of families and kids, so it could get noisy, but as a city guy that didn’t bother me. The first floor views are obstructed, there are no elevators, and the parking lot felt aggressive enough that I would’ve paid extra for a valet area. I paid about what I did at The Cliffs on my last trip, but this didn’t feel like the same premium experience, whether in the views or the staff service. More concierge help and little comforts, like extra fire pits, outdoor blankets, snacks around the property, or a local wine bar, could make the location feel like more of a destination. There’s even a brew house next door they could partner with. This place has potential to be lit.

We stayed two nights in a pet friendly room with a patio that opened onto a big lawn, handy for taking our four legged baby out. We could see part of the ocean from the patio. The room was clean and very comfortable, and the hotel is a lovely resort. Breakfast was an extensive buffet with eggs, sausage, pancakes, waffles, breads, pastries, yogurt, coffee, and juice, served in pretty patio areas. There are spacious outdoor spots for relaxing and taking in the views, plus a big pool and three hot tubs. The pier is under a mile away on foot, with shopping and plenty of restaurants nearby. Highly recommend, and we’ll return.

I felt at home here. The staff were friendly and accommodating, and my room was comfortable and quiet. The beach is just down a flight of stairs, and town makes for a nice walk along the beach. The setting is beautiful, and I’d recommend upgrading to an ocean view. The balcony is worth it.