I booked a last minute stay at the Holiday Inn with my parents who were visiting from out of state so we could escape the SoCal heat wave. The shuttle arrived shortly after we arrived at the ferry terminal which was convenient because it is a bit of an uphill hike (doable but if you have bags wait for the shuttle). The driver was very friendly and we had a nice chat on our way to the hotel. Ophelia greeted us at reception and she couldn't have been nicer! We arrived early so we could maximize the day and only hoping to store our luggage but a room was available (even better than the room we had booked that was the only room available since we booked last minute) and Ophelia took the time to check us in early. Thanks again Ophelia! We had a room on the 4th floor by the road. I think I would prefer to be back there because it was quiet but there may be better views on the other side by the pool. The room was clean and had a nice patio sitting area that I wish we had more time to enjoy. We spent most of the day out and about enjoying the town but did come back late afternoon for some pool and hot tub time. The pool area was nice with loungers and a couple tables with umbrellas. In my opinion,...I booked a last minute stay at the Holiday Inn with my parents who were visiting from out of state so we could escape the SoCal heat wave. The shuttle arrived shortly after we arrived at the ferry terminal which was convenient because it is a bit of an uphill hike (doable but if you have bags wait for the shuttle). The driver was very friendly and we had a nice chat on our way to the hotel. Ophelia greeted us at reception and she couldn't have been nicer! We arrived early so we could maximize the day and only hoping to store our luggage but a room was available (even better than the room we had booked that was the only room available since we booked last minute) and Ophelia took the time to check us in early. Thanks again Ophelia! We had a room on the 4th floor by the road. I think I would prefer to be back there because it was quiet but there may be better views on the other side by the pool. The room was clean and had a nice patio sitting area that I wish we had more time to enjoy. We spent most of the day out and about enjoying the town but did come back late afternoon for some pool and hot tub time. The pool area was nice with loungers and a couple tables with umbrellas. In my opinion, the loungers could be updated a bit but they were comfortable. The pool and hot tub were clean and I noticed a worker checking in to make sure towels were stocked. He was also kind enough to turn the hot tub bubbles on for me when they turned off. The pool got pretty crowded late afternoon with a mix of families and men working on the island and staying at the hotel but everyone was respectable and just enjoying the beautiful weather. The restaurant was open for dinner and we read the chef had great reviews but the menu didn't interest us and we wanted to eat in town so I can't comment on the food. I didn't go into the restaurant but my mom said there was also a little bar if you just wanted a drink. In addition to the restaurant, there is a nice selection of food and drinks to purchase in reception. I would suggest picking up snacks and food at the Von's in town if you are staying for a few days. Some con's for me for this hotel would be some of the added charges. I understand there are limited places to stay in Avalon so it is to be expected prices will be a bit higher during high season, however, they do charge 10$ extra for each person after the second adult. It may just apply to adults but double check if you are a family 2+. The other charge that I feel was a bit steep is the "resort" fee. I believe that fee was 49$. I assume that fee goes toward free wifi, towels at the pool, and shuttle service. I have stayed at hotels and paid a lower fee at places that had more ammenities and maybe there were more things available but we weren't aware?? I think if you are going to charge a resort fee, you should offer more resort ammenities (nicer pool towels, bar/restaurant service during pool hours, activities, etc.) . The only other suggestion would be to offer one additional nightly shuttle from town. The last pickup is at 1045 and although the town quiets down in the evening, there were still bars/restaurants with music and activity still going into the later evening hours. Overall, we had a fabulous stay at the Holiday Inn and absolutely loved our short little stay in Avalon. Rent a golf cart, drink a Buffalo Milk, and enjoy the town!!More
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