The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, Autograph Collection

I rarely visit the Cavalier. It feels stuffy to me, and the employees seem to lack customer service skills. I spent $150.00 on lunch at Becca, but the place was empty and the service only adequate. The host was robotic, though our server was wonderful and completely agreed that the $7.00 parking fee was absurd. You have no choice but to valet because there’s no other parking. I asked Valerie, the Manager of Becca, to stamp our parking, but she said no one was around to approve it. Really? Marriott lets employees use a certain daily amount to make guests happy. This feels like a poorly run hotel. The GM is nowhere to be found, has no assistant, and Valerie said her hands were tied. They act like Becca is a superior restaurant, but they wouldn’t give me a side of vegetables. They only serve FRENCH FRIES? BAR FOOD! The fries were mushy and undercooked. So much for a superior dining experience. Locals, make your voices heard! Maybe that’s why they call their low-level bourbon TARNISHED TRUTH!

The Cavalier has become our favorite holiday tradition. Our family has plenty of seasonal traditions, but this stay has gone right to the top of the list. The room and bathroom were gorgeous, cozy, and comfortable, and we slept better there than at home. Everywhere we turned, the staff were kind and positive, anticipating what we needed and making us feel valued. The resort offered more than we expected: turndown service, afternoon tea, photos with Santa, s'mores by the fire, a carriage ride, and plenty we didn’t have time to do. The team put so much care into making the hotel a winter wonderland, with lights, decorations, and winter-themed treats that made the holiday spirit easy to get into. Thanks for such a wonderful December trip. Carlo was so kind and helpful when he welcomed us to our room, Robert was a great Bourbon host, and Lars showed us a new level of hospitality.

Santa was one of the highlights: the kindest, loveliest Santa, and we even got a photo for free to remember the trip. The whole weekend at the Cavalier felt special. Jessita and Jaliese welcomed us with sparkling wine, gave us the weekend dining and event details, and were so warm that we felt like old friends. Carlo helped with our packed cart and showed us around the room with such care. We also had delicious breakfasts, and Beth looked after us so thoughtfully on the second morning, even with plenty of other guests to serve. We chose the Cavalier for a Christmas weekend with my best friend of more than 60 years since it sits between our homes. From the first glimpse of the beautifully decorated building on the hill, I kept noticing one lovely thing after another, including the fresh flower displays. We live six hours away, but I’ve already told my husband, children, and grandchildren we should all come together. I can’t wait to return.

The food and drinks were delicious, the room was clean and great, and the service was professional and helpful. We had an amazing time at the Cavalier. Robert deserves a special mention: he was so courteous and helpful that he really stood out to us. The place has had a great reputation for nearly a hundred years, and I can see why.