Sandpeddler Inn & Suites

Previously a rundown hotel, the Sandpeddler Inn & Suites has been transformed into a small, quaint property with privately owned condos. The four-story building is a classic Southern beach property painted a soft taupe with white trim. Balconies, furnished with strap outdoor furniture, have white rails across the front. The small, cheerful lobby is done in a coastal aqua hue and features plants, a wicker-furnished seating area, and an aquarium. Continental breakfast is laid out there each morning, though there is no table seating. Exterior passageways lead to the accommodations, and the smells of seafood cooking at the restaurant across the road hangs on the air. The only place for guests to hang out is by the small pool. The hotel is near the beach's public access point, so there are often pedestrians in the area, and the hotel's vibe is laid-back, drawing an equal number of couples, families, and retirees.

The hotel is located on the southern end of Wrightsville Beach directly across the street from the Crystal Pier and the beach. Many houses surround the hotel, and there are public access points and parking lots along the road. Guests should note that although the hotel's rooms offer ocean views, it is not directly on the beach. Two dining spots, the Oceanic Restaurant (on the ocean, as its name implies) and the Post Cafe, are within a two-minute walk. South End Surf Shop across the road offers surf supplies, surf lessons, and bike and paddleboard rentals. A number of other restaurants, small grocery stores, and shops are within a 15- to 20-minute walk, Johnnie Mercer's Pier is about 2 miles away, and Airlie Gardens is about 3 miles, both easily accessible by car. Wilmington and its airport will take 20 to 30 minutes to reach by road.

Suites at the Sandpeddler all have a separate bedroom and can sleep up to four people using the sofa bed in the living area. As these are individually owned and rented condos, decor varies from one unit to the next, though all have a homey charm. That being said, some are more stylish than others, with elements like bright wall art, sharp paint jobs, and modern tiling. The more dated units have less contemporary furniture and features like tube TVs at the time we visited. Each unit is in good shape, though, and unlike many apartment-style hotels, daily maid service is provided. About half of the units have full kitchens, and the others have a kitchenette, some with a full-size refrigerator. Other amenities include air-conditioning, a balcony or terrace in each unit, coffeemakers, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi. All rooms have views of the ocean, and some have waterway and sunset views. The modernity of bathrooms varies as well, though all have bathtub/shower combos and small vanity sinks. Toiletries and towels are provided.

A small outdoor pool has lounge chairs and umbrellas for relaxing poolside, but the pool is sandwiched between a four-story building and the road. Palm trees add a little shade. The property provides one parking spot per unit plus a storage area for bikes and beach gear. A free continental breakfast is served each morning and includes coffee, cereals, oatmeal, juices, yogurt, and packaged muffins and danishes. There are laundry facilities on-site, and lawn golf and corn hole games are available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.