The Beach House at Drifting Sands

We arrived to check in at Drifting Sands only to find our reservation was mysteriously canceled. The manager refused to refund what we paid up front. He offered us a more expensive room than we had booked, for an additional $180 for a 2-night stay. We climbed three sets of stairs in a building with chipped paint and other disrepair. The "upgraded" room was sparse with no amenities. Clean enough, though. We checked out as an early nor'easter was bearing down, making travel to Long Beach Island difficult.The same manager was on the phone telling a customer that, no, she could not have her money refunded. Access to the island was cut off 2 hours later. The only pluses I give this place is that the young staffers were friendly and they have a nice coffee/tea service in the lobby. Otherwise management doesn't seem to value customer service.

I don’t ever leave reviews, however, we’ll never stay there again (Labor Day weekend). The Bad: I booked 2 standard rooms, but somehow got 2 efficiencies; which are NOT updated at all. The carpet is hanging by a thread. The bathrooms have no electric outlets and are very outdated. No tables/chairs to sit, unless you hang out in the tiny kitchen which sits 2 (tight). TV is small. The wall mirrors were part of a non-existent dresser. Only one outlet to plug their barely functioning hair dryer. Which had to be placed on the floor since there’s no accommodating furniture. The A/C is SOOOO loud, it’s distracting. The curtains were HORRIBLE. Wrinkled and lightweight (not blackout type), there were different color panels (as if not from the same set). 4 panels to cover the sliding door but 3 different lengths. As soon as the sun was up, so were we. The 2nd room had 2 panels and didn’t cover the sliding glass door. It’s obvious they put together whatever leftovers to these rooms from the updated section of the hotel. No USB plugs anywhere. No alarm clock provided. Must’ve been last updated in the 80s. The Good: staff is very friendly and helpful. The lobby is cute and has a few useful snacks/drinks for purchase. The beds/sheets were comfy and clean. Bathroom had great water pressure. Towels are clean. Shower toiletries provided were nice. Location is convenient (easy in/out). Plenty of parking. I hear the standard rooms are nice/updated…. wish I got what I booked.

Clean and convenient, I will stay there again

Enjoyed stay here. Room was large and clean. Walk to the beach was under 5-10 mins. Located near walkable stores, restaurants etc. Parking was sizable never had a problem getting a spot. I’d definitely return. Nothing fancy but perfectly fine for a quick LBI visit.

Great location, right on the beach, clean room, very friendly, efficient staff