Just got back from three nights at the Fountain Beach Resort. Located right on the beach side of S. Atlantic Ave at the end of International Speedway Blvd., you couldn't ask for a more Daytona Beach experience. The hotel's rooms are all individually owned, so each one is decorated by the owner. We had rooms 222 and 224 on the north side of the building closest to the street, so at times it was noisy with drivers trying to impress one another (it happened to be Jeep Beach week - very popular.) Everything was very clean, the beds were comfortable and we had no complaints. Shampoo, soap and towels are provided, (beach towels available at the pool) and rooms are cleaned daily.
Front desk staff were great at check in and check out, and quickly helped us book an extra night when we decided to extend the weekend. They were always available to answer questions and everybody seemed happy to be working there - to me that's the sign of a well-run property.
The Oasis Bar and Grill on the beach has separate ownership and also has a really friendly and helpful staff. They had a DJ Friday and Saturday and a really talented guitar player Sunday afternoon (Tom? I think it was Tom.) Great voice, mastery of his instrument, and his love for what he does just made me grin the whole time we were there. They shut down early so bar noise isn't an issue at bedtime if you're bringing kids.
Several restaurants are within walking distance. A free continental breakfast is offered (toast, coffee, yogurt, cereal, juice) but we opted to walk down the road in order to try a variety of places.
There's a pool and hot tub right on the ocean. The beach is a section where driving is permitted. If that's not your cup of tea head just one block north to the vehicle-free zone.
Now listen up, people: this is not a chain, it's not a spa, it's just a well-run, funky beach hotel. If you want corporate decor and loyalty points, get thee to the Hilton. If you go with the flow and enjoy a little something outside of the box, give the Fountain Beach Resort a try.
