Beachside Resort Hotel

This older, roadside motel-style property sits right across from the beach along the main drag in Gulf Shores, so it sees a steady stream of guests. Its low rates attract numerous travelers, including couples and families, who are simply passing through, but its proximity to the beach and spacious pool also bring a raucous party crowd at times. The lobby, with its crimson and gold sofas and armchairs and black-leather chairs at the entrance, has only a few sitting areas, and it gets crowded at breakfast. The registration desk is large with tan granite atop handsome reddish brown wood. The spacious third-floor pool that overlooks the gulf is a popular gathering spot for guests, but it can be the site of loud, impromptu parties a la spring break.

The hotel is located across from the beach on Beach Boulevard, and is about a three-minute walk to the ocean's edge. While not typically a busy road, in high season and during popular events such as the Hangout Music Festival in May, traffic can pile up. There are a few restaurants and shops within walking distance, while others are a short two-minute drive away. Several vacation condo complexes and hotels are across the street on the beach. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, Waterville USA Water Park, and a Walmart Supercenter are a four- to seven-minute drive away. Jack Edwards National Airport and Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier are 10 minutes away by car, and the Tanger Outlet Foley is about a 20-minute drive away. 

The 100 rooms at the Beachside Resort Hotel include one to three double beds, or king beds, and some have sleeper sofas. All rooms include 46-inch flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. They're large but dark and dated. Walls are painted in shades of brown and tan, and floors are beige tile. White bedding is accented by gold bed throws and bed skirts with gold-and-brown checkered patterns. The dark, brownish-red wood furniture includes headboards, desks, nightstands, and dressers. Wall-mounted, stainless steel racks with hangers serve as closets. Spacious, tan granite vanities are placed outside the bathrooms, which have brown granite floors and walls framing shower/tub combos. Rooms need updating, as furniture is nicked and paint is chipped in some places. Previous guests have complained about housekeeping and maintenance problems, including worn mattresses, insufficient hot water, musty smells, and a general lack of cleanliness. The hotel attracts a party-hearty crowd at times, and guests have also complained about the loud parties that take place in the rooms. Designated smoking rooms are available. Some rooms on the higher-level floors offer ocean views. 

Amenities are limited at this budget hotel, but topping the list is a large outdoor pool with a deck, lounge chairs, and ocean views. The hotel also includes a limited continental breakfast in the room rate. Free coffee and tea are available in the lobby, and there's a vending machine for snacks. Soft drinks and water can also be purchased at the front desk, which is staffed 24/7. A computer station with Internet access and a printer is available for guests' use in the lobby. Guest laundry facilities are on-site, and parking is free. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.