Sherry Frontenac Oceanfront

I just returned from an impromptu 3-night stay with my young teenage daughter. We booked it last minute in search of some warm sun during our WI spring break. We usually stay at a Hilton resort, so I knew going in that comparatively it was not going to be a super nice hotel. We chose it due to the location on the beach and the close proximity to the boardwalk and restaurants. We also wanted to avoid the crazy spring breakers in South Miami. Overall--a good option if you are looking for sun and sand on a budget and not a luxury hotel experience. A quieter location compared to South Beach. I'll start with the pros: Beach--it was great! The resort fee includes beach chairs and umbrellas. We made sure we were there just before 9:30AM to get a front row set up. It does fill up quickly, so plan accordingly. By 9:30 most of the front row seats were taken. The sunrises were wonderful. Beach drink service available. The server seemed friendly. Pool--the pool is a good size with ample seating in both the sun and shade. Some umbrellas. Breakfast--included in stay. Nothing spectacular. Mainly bread, bagels, some fruit, oatmeal. No protein options, but you could purchase for an additional charge. We bought hard boiled eggs at the local Publix and ate those with our breakfast. Boardwalk--I loved being able to walk for miles in both directions. We walked to dinner each night. Watch out for the fast cyclists and rollerbladers. Quiet--considering it was spring break, I thought the beach, pool, and hotel were quiet overall. I loved that the resort did not have loud music at the pool. Some people at the beach and pool had their own speakers, but nothing was excessively loud. Close to airport--we ubered it both ways and it cost about $35 each direction. It takes about 25-40 minutes depending on traffic. Cons: Needs more renovating: the resort has gone through some renovations, but is badly in need of more. The first impression walking in was not great. The entrance doors are lacking a welcoming feeling. It felt like we were walking into a convenience store. An automatic opening door would add a nice touch. It seemed that the rooms in the South Tower had been renovated. Our room had tile floors and updated furniture. Not sure if the North Tower has had renovating yet. Pool floor--the bottom of the pool needs resurfacing. Lots of chipping. Smell-our room and the hallways/elevators had a weird smell. Smelled like chemicals, musty, and bad air freshener. Windows--our partial view window was very dirty. Needed to be cleaned from the outside. Front desk--the morning crew seemed to be much friendlier than the afternoon/evening crew. The check-in crew was not very warm and welcoming. No hello or how can I help you. It was almost like they were annoyed that we were there and they actually had to work. They were not fast at all and seemed like there was always a long line. Our room was not ready when we arrived and we were told they would call when it was ready. They never called. At 5:00 we went to the front desk and they proceeded to check us in. We booked a partial ocean view room and found our room to have zero view of the ocean, only the busy road and next door hotel. We went back to the front desk and they did work with us to get a partial ocean view room. We stayed in room 726 which was right next to the elevator. Fortunately, our air conditioner sounded like a freight train and blocked it out. Baggage area--since our room wasn't ready upon arrival, we were told to put our luggage in the baggage area across from the front desk. It was a small area with zero supervision. Use at your own risk. Air conditioning-- super loud. It would not get colder than 73 degrees at any time, even with the shades pulled. Keys--I had to get them rekeyed at least 2 times. Complaints--almost every time I walked past the front desk, someone was complaining about something. One person was trying to get resolution for items stolen out of his room while they were away. Some were complaining about the air conditioning. Safety--traveling with a teenage daughter I was on alert, but never felt unsafe. I would recommend locking any valuables in safe or keeping them with you due to complaints about items stolen from room. Towels--the front desk uses a card system for pool towels. Not very efficient, especially when they are busy checking in customers and dealing with complaints. This hotel could really be great with more renovations and training in excellent customer service skills. I don't think I would ever stay there again without these changes. Side note: the location is close to a Walgreens and Publix to buy snacks and alcohol. Great restaurants in the area! We ate at Arlen Beach Restaurant (17 minute walk on Boardwalk). It is a hidden gem! Great customer service and food. We also ate at Taquiza (20 minute walk on boardwalk) Great tacos, margaritas, and lots of GF options. They even have GF churros amd breaded fish tacos.