Ocean Glass Inn

We had a great quick overnight here. The little room had what we needed for a beach trip, especially a comfortable bed and a shower. Service was good too. They texted before we arrived to check that we had everything. We'll come back.

It's an easy bike ride to the beach and there are plenty of places to eat nearby, though walking to the beach is a bit of a hike. The hotel has an unusual, almost Airbnb-like setup. Check-in starts at 4, while the office closes at 5, so you may need to call the number on the door. They'll send a link to verify your ID and put a card on file, then you use the keypad code they give you to open your door. Most of the place was clean, apart from one bed skirt. If you're looking for an affordable, no-frills stay and don't expect customer service beyond an emergency number, it works.

For $170 in the off-season, I wasn't impressed. It felt like a cheap motel with a beach-themed cover-up. There wasn't even a plastic cup for water in the bathroom, and beyond towels and a bed there was little to offer, not even a coffee maker. The room smelled odd, maybe musty. A few employees said the previous management preferred a “minimalist” setup, which came across as cheap to me. The tub had old caulk and looked gross, some of the inexpensive furniture was falling apart, and everything just felt cheap. I've heard new management is gradually taking over, so maybe that will improve things. I'm still not sure why so many people like it. Maybe staying somewhere “cheap” in Rehoboth makes them feel privileged?

The staff were pleasant and very helpful, and the rooms were clean with nice decor and a great beach feel. Breakfast was simple but done well. Shopping and dining are about a 15-minute walk away, while the boardwalk and beach take around 20 to 25 minutes on foot.