Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina

The hotel is in an excellent location with easy access to the marina and local sights (by car). The staff was friendly and accommodating, doing their best to resolve our room issues by moving us the next day. Being able to walk to nearby dining and the waterfront was a definite plus.

We chose this hotel specifically to recreate a California road trip from 16 years ago, but unfortunately, it seems the property hasn’t been renovated since then. Our first night was spent in a ground-floor street-side room that smelled so strongly of mold we had to sleep with the terrace door open just to breathe, leaving the room quite chilly. To their credit, the staff moved us the next day to our preferred room overlooking the marina. While this was an improvement, the overall condition was still disappointing and fell far short of our previous experience. At $400 per night, it felt significantly overpriced for the quality provided. We won't be returning unless the property undergoes a full renovation.

Great property on the marina. Great area to walk around.

I left something in the hotel room. I called the hotel and have not received a call back. I was a long time Best Western customer, not any more.

Location is great and rooms are big. That’s where it ends. The rooms are old and dirty. Furniture is falling apart and filthy. There were several moldy spots in the room and on the hotel grounds. This part is technically for the restaurant but I did deal with hotel staff for the issue. This is literally the stupidest reason to receive a bad review. I went to dinner with my spouse and two children. No rush, not very busy. My entire family's food came before mine, no big deal. (My meal was also the only one that didn't require any cooking) But after nearly thirty minutes, and my entire family finishing their meals, I asked for a manager. Manager came, offered to comp my meal. Comping a meal that was never eaten seemed like the bare minimum to me? Then, for some over dramatic waste of my time I had to wait for the hotel director? A hotel director and another half hour of my time? She also offered to only comp my meal. Which I accepted, as long as her name and corporate number were also provided. Some how I ended up with my entire bill covered, but no name and no corporate name or number. Nor was any employee, at any point, willing to take any kind of accountability or take any blame. Everything felt like a placation. Which is silly because at no point was I angry or loud. But they screwed up and were very unwilling to do anything to right their own mistake. Unfortunately this one staff interaction completely changed my opinion of this hotel. It should also be said, ask questions about the menu. Especially if you're picky. The kids menu says "Kraft macaroni and cheese", it's not Kraft. It's cavatapi noodles with cheese sauce. It also says "french fries" and it's waffle fries. Kids are picky. Especially about macaroni and their French fries. This miscommunication could ruin a family vacation. Also, the "avocado salsa" is creama. Not salsa. So mind your allergies because the menu describes almost everything incorrectly.

I love this hotel so much. It’s my go-to place when I have to stay downtown. The rooms are fantastic in most of the buildings, nice renovated bathrooms, comfortable beds, streaming services tvs, and the staff is always amazing. The restaurant onsite is fantastic, a little pricey but totally worth it no matter what you get.

If you get a room right next to the pool, ask to see if they can switch you. Those rooms I think run right next to whatever system is used to regulate the pool water so you’ll either have burning hot water or freezing cold water, you won’t get both. Also always check the shower soap/shampoo/conditioner dispensers. Sometimes they are all empty.

The view from the restaurant and the pool were great. Grounds were well maintained. The room was a little small, but adequate. The sitting area outside was very nice.

Objectively this resort deserves 4 stars, but the positive vibes and friendly service elevate it to a 5 star rating in my book. I stayed in the Casa Del Mar building, which badly needs a refresh - the rooms have that worn-in “beachy” smell, and the furniture, countertops, and appliances all look at least 25 years old. But if you’re in your 30s like I am, there’s something nostalgic about that throwback, beach house rental feel. The rooms, while dated, are spacious and very clean, and offer beautiful views of the harbor or marina depending on what side you’re on. The food and service at the on-site restaurant, Blue Wave Bar & Grill, are excellent, and the restaurant is nicely elevated to overlook both the marina and the secluded pool and jacuzzi area. Other nice restaurants, like Ketch, are just a 10 minute walk or short drive away. And there is ample parking. In sum, the Best Western Island Palm needs an update to stay competitive, but it’s still a great choice for a chill couples weekend getaway or even a weeklong stay with the kids.

We were so very happy with our accommodations here at the Island Palms! At check-in, Monica was so friendly, fast and efficient. The entire Front Desk staff were very courteous and friendly. Jaime, Jackie, Stacy, Clinton and especially Danny. The restaurant was always consistently fast, friendly and delicious! The clam Chowder was excellent, and the table side Guacamole was the best we ever had. The restaurant staff was so wonderful! Jose, Robin and Chance are great employees in the restaurant. We can see why many of the staff have been in their positions for so many years. Such a breath of fresh air to have so many happy and friendly employees, that comes from good management. We highly recommend this hotel for a great get away, small or large family vacation, or the ever-popular Staycation...