Lakeside Inn

The rooms are old and nothing fancy, but they’re comfortable, inexpensive, and come with a lovely lake view. The neighborhood felt quiet, safe, and cute, with families and other people out walking the trails and enjoying the outdoors. A front desk gentleman let me check in much earlier than expected for a small fee, since they had a room available. I’d just gotten off a redeye, so being able to nap gave me the energy to explore Salem that evening. This was an affordable place to stay near Salem, and I’d come back.

Do not stay here. We were there from 10/19-10/22, and our vacation was ruined by what I believe was a bedbug infestation. After waking with bites all over us, I searched the room and found bedbugs, larvae, and blood streaks on the sheets. We’ve been dealing with extremely unpleasant, uncomfortable bites for over a week and a half. The room was already dirty when we arrived, with hair on the bathroom surfaces and bedding, plus used soaps in the bathroom. I initially let that go, but the bites made it clear something was wrong. Management and front desk staff have avoided dealing with the situation and have been extremely unprofessional. I didn’t want to write a review, but I don’t want others to go through this. Save your money and health, and don’t stay here.

The Waves Bar had a good vibe and great service, and the people at the inn were welcoming. There’s also a nice little lake and a fire pit behind the hotel near the bar. The room is somewhere to sleep, but bring shoes or expect to wear socks the whole time. It was outdated, and the rug was filthy and stained, like it hadn’t been cleaned in years. I should’ve taken a picture.

Dear Owner, you emailed to thank me for a five-star rating. I did not give five stars. The rooms are very small and have no amenities, and the vending machines don’t work. I paid for a Waterview side but could only see the parking lot. Breakfast was decent, but the drink options were lemonade or some watered-down mango drink. There was no milk, juice, or other breakfast beverage. The location was okay for Salem, and the lake view is worth three stars, but we won’t be returning for several reasons. I know rooms have to be turned over quickly, but staff talking loudly in the hall at 6:30 a.m. was too much. At least the vacuum didn’t start until 9. Please read my review before sending a generic reply. This is three stars, for the location and lake side only.