The Boat House Motel

This family-owned property is well maintained and has an old Florida style and a quiet, laid-back atmosphere. The charming white structure features turquoise-colored doors, window shutters, and railings along the open-air hallways. The small, functional lobby is stuffed with trinkets and t-shirts, with mint green walls, free coffee, and a flat-screen TV on the wall. Gorgeous sunsets and fantastic water views can be seen throughout the property, including from the gray wood dock and sundeck with white and tan seating. The majority of visitors here are couples, but families stay too. Guests should note that there is no elevator at this property.

The Boat House Motel is situated on Collier Bay and surrounded by other resorts and condos. Several restaurants, bars, shops, and the Pelican Pier Marina are less than a 15-minute walk away. Marco Town Center Mall is a five-minute drive, while The Rookery at Marco and Flamingo Island Court are around a 20-minute drive. Tin City, Village Plaza Shopping Center, and Collier County Museum are a 30-minute drive from the property, while the Southwest Florida International Airport is a one-hour drive.

There are several types of rooms available at this property, including Traditional Rooms, Condos, and a Gazebo House. All have a quaint, if a bit dated, Florida-style, though the property has recently invested in upgrades like new linens and towels. Rooms have tan tile or carpet, wood armchairs, and colorful bedspreads (replaced after our visit with fresher patterns). Mini-fridges sit on top of furniture pieces, as do microwaves, flat-screen TVs, and Keurig coffeemakers. Air-conditioning is provided. Some rooms are waterfront and have patios with seating and exquisite views of the Marco River, while others have fully-equipped kitchens with stainless steel appliances. The Gazebo House is situated on the water with panoramic river views and a wraparound deck. However, there is no housekeeping provided for the Gazebo House or Condos. Bathrooms are small and simple, with shower/tub combos and basic toiletries provided.

The lovely outdoor pool is surrounded by a bright green deck, a few chairs, and magnificent water views, and is the highlight of the hotel. A large sundeck offers seating and there is an on-site marina with boat slips for a fee (travelers must book directly with the property to obtain boat slips). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and there is free outdoor parking. Coin-operated laundry facilities are provided. Some units are pet-friendly, but require reservations and daily fees for pets, and travelers need to book directly with the hotel to make these arrangements. Additionally, Condos and the Gazebo House have a minimum number of days required for rental, depending on the season. There isn't a restaurant or a bar on the property, and breakfast isn't served.