Name: Oceana By The Sea
Address: 1601 Ocean Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, United States of America, Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, US
Rating: 8.7

What guests think

Dunes by the Ocean is a simple beach motel with a convenient, walkable location near beach entrances and the boardwalk, a clean, enjoyable pool, generally friendly staff, and basic, dated rooms that vary in comfort and upkeep.

Cleanliness is mixed, with many noting clean rooms while others report moldy showers, pests, musty air conditioners, and limited in-stay housekeeping like towel exchanges rather than full service. Guests frequently mention very small bathrooms, aging mattresses and pillows, minimal storage or no closets, and loud window A/C units, with occasional noise between rooms. Several also point out that public beach access requires paid badges and some nearby entrances are private, and that the walk to the boardwalk can be longer than expected. Best suited to travelers comfortable with basic lodgings and mixed standards.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

The outdoor pool is clean and enjoyable, and there is on-site parking. Overall facilities are basic and the property looks dated.

Related guest reviews

10

Edward

23 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 4 nights

pool was refreshing

6

Steven

17 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Needs a face lift. Pool is great. Staff is friendly. Room furnishings were nice.

8

Lisa

7 Aug 2023

·

Stayed 4 nights

The pool was very clean & enjoyable

4

Maria

17 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The pictures on line are very deceiving. The room is not what it looks like on line. The bathroom is tiny. Very outdated. But great location and nice pool

6

Silvia

18 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Very basic and quite old facility

6

Jean Marie

5 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

They try but the building is in need of repair.

10

Marc

2 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Easy walk to the boardwalk. Large pool and patio area. Room was clean, comfortable and nicely decorated. Initially the A/C in the room didn't work. Staff immediately addressed and reassigned the room. Problem solved. Very kind, helpful and friendly front desk staff. A great place to stay in Point Pleasant!

8

Mark

14 Aug 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Nice value in Point Pleasant. Friendly staff, room clean, adequate, pool area nice.

10

Robert

3 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Very nice apartment with plenty of room for the six of us . The rooms were clean and neat. The pool was well kept and parking on site . I would recommend staying here . We all had a great time.

4

Marie

16 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Had a for sale sign. Check in was awkward. Very run down motel, but rooms and pool were clean. Very few comforts (no chairs on balcony in front of rooms, no tables at the pool next to or near chairs, no towels at pool, not enough towels in room. They did have a coffee pot at the check-in room in the morning, but not in room. Microwave and fridge in room were clean. Window AC was loud, but i prefer white noise. The AC on high did keep room comfortable. 2 minute walk to beach entrance was nice. But 20 minute walk to boardwalk...if you walk fast. Beach fee was 15 per person per day in that area.

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Cleanliness

Cleanliness is inconsistent: many guests found rooms clean, while others reported mold in showers, pests, musty A/C units, and occasional issues with linens. Housekeeping during stays can be limited to towel exchanges rather than daily cleaning.

Related guest reviews

2

kelly

7 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The one bed hadn’t been changed. There was someone else’s hair and an old blood stain on the sheet. It was found when we went to go to bed like 10pm. They gave us new sheets and just said sorry. When we asked what they we’re going to do about it, the manager said nothing we said sorry. The second night kids were running on top of us til 1am and we’re back at it at 6am. Nothing done about that either.

10

Michael

23 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Was straight forward clean and comfortable.

2

Debra

12 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The room was disgusting. Dead bugs on the ceiling in several places. The beds had 1 sheet and a thin blanket. The air conditioner was full of mold. Overall the room was gross and wayyyyyyy over priced. We had to listen to the people in the next room all night. We left after one night and checked out as we could not bear to stay another night.

4

Jacqueline

23 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Not everything is at it appears to be. If you think staying at the Dunes across from the beach is ideal, think again. The beach is there, but it's a private/gated one for the homes that face that beach. In other words, you still need to get into your car and drive to the beach & pay to park. The rooms were dirty, including the shower which had mold on the grout. Small AC in the room which took a while for it to cool down. With all the hotels in the area, this is one you should overlook. Oh, and it's for sale, so likely they aren't keeping up with appearances, which we clearly witnessed during our stay.

4

Alexa

6 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The bathroom was dirty - mold in the grout in the shower and 1/4 of a damp roll of toilet paper on the roll. We had no control over the ancient window AC unit (we could barely reach it and the buttons were worn down). We also heard a dog barking loudly from very nearby in the motel. The beds were adequately comfortable. There was a for sale sign posted when we checked in which might explain the untended to appearance of the place. I wish I had read the reviews before booking.

6

richard

8 Aug 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Nothing special at all about this place. Staff was friendly and the grounds relatively clean but the rooms were a little musty and the beds were very old. Pics are a bit deceiving and the entry to the beach is a 10-15 min walk not right across the street as advertised.

6

Laura

31 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Nice staff, definitely could use better cleaning in the rooms

10

Suzanne

24 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Was super clean and quiet.

6

Christopher

31 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

It is close to a beach entrance, however, badges are not included in room price and cost $15 each person, per day. Rooms are clean, but nobody cleans room each day. I had to bring my dirty towels to the office and ask for clean ones. The place has a For Sale sign so minimal updating will be done.

6

Cheryl

17 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Rooms were clean but dated. Bathroom very tiny

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Rooms

Rooms are basic and dated, with very small bathrooms, older or uncomfortable beds, loud window A/C units, and limited storage or no closets in some. A few guests found rooms comfortable, but amenities are minimal.

Related guest reviews

4

Susan

21 Aug 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

This place is a dump. Appears to be for sale. Bathroom was tiny. A/C window unit was very loud. Weird colonial era furniture with modern gray plank flooring. Nothing was done well here and for over $300 a night it is a rip off.

6

richard

8 Aug 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Nothing special at all about this place. Staff was friendly and the grounds relatively clean but the rooms were a little musty and the beds were very old. Pics are a bit deceiving and the entry to the beach is a 10-15 min walk not right across the street as advertised.

6

Edwin

21 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Very basic room. Not bad if it was cheaper. Not worth it for the price. Too expensive

6

Sean Salins

24 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Overall the stay was fine for my wife and myself for one night. It’s actually a motel. The location is good and close to the beach at various access points. The room was comfortable, beds are good, A/C is good, there’s a TV, microwave and refrigerator. That’s good for a motel. The bathroom is expectedly small, being a motel, so that’s ok, but it could use a bit of upgrade and more lighting for sure. I think the whole motel including the outside appearance needs an uplift. The people/family running the hotel were very friendly and kind and welcoming.

6

Justin

21 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Last minute decision to take a trip and stay for the weekend - I was happy there was a room available. The pictures on the website are very deceiving, quite honestly I thought it was closed down upon driving up. The location itself is quiet, being a couple blocks away from the boardwalk and the Lake of Lillies was right behind it. They do offer off-street parking. The room was VERY dated. Beds, also dated, were not comfortable and very old. The pillows are worn out and only an inch thick...not great for sleep, wish I brought my own. TV channel couldnt be changed with the remote from the bed, had to stand within 3' of the TV to change the channel. Room didnt have a closet to hang anything. Also did not have a coffee maker in the room or a hair dryer. Air Condition kept the room very cool. Overall, wouldn't book there if the trip was planned and wouldnt stay there again.

6

Kim

14 Aug 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

The staff was wonderful. They were very accommodating and helpful. However, if you got a room on the second floor, the bathroom was not updated and the shower was old and it looked as if there was mildew on the grout of the tiles. There was also very limited space to store things. There were no closets and just a few hooks in the room. Room was otherwise clean but the condition of the shower was hard to overlook.

6

Cheryl

17 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Rooms were clean but dated. Bathroom very tiny

4

Claudine

19 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The lobby was a mess, the staff was indifferent and the beds needed to be replaced years ago. Not worth the money for even one night.

8

Lauren

17 Oct 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Love the property, just wish the bathroom was updated. Room was updated, bathroom was not. Like the pool area and the staff is friendly and helpful. I really like the beach access across the street.

10

Alexander

30 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Great location and value! Beds very comfortable and only 7 minute walk to the beach

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Service

Staff are often described as friendly, helpful, and accommodating with smooth check-in. However, a minority reported indifferent or rude interactions and awkward or frustrating check-in experiences.

Related guest reviews

2

kelly

7 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The one bed hadn’t been changed. There was someone else’s hair and an old blood stain on the sheet. It was found when we went to go to bed like 10pm. They gave us new sheets and just said sorry. When we asked what they we’re going to do about it, the manager said nothing we said sorry. The second night kids were running on top of us til 1am and we’re back at it at 6am. Nothing done about that either.

10

John

1 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Loved the friendly staff

10

Will

12 Jul 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Very nice staff and very accommodating .

4

Brandi

12 Jun 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Check in was a HUGE hassle and information was required that was not communicated. Property and cleanliness was okay - nothing to rave about.

10

Barbara

11 Sept 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Excellent check in and staff was great

10

Caitlin

2 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The staff here are truly amazing and really go the extra mile to make your stay comfortable

10

Marc

2 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Easy walk to the boardwalk. Large pool and patio area. Room was clean, comfortable and nicely decorated. Initially the A/C in the room didn't work. Staff immediately addressed and reassigned the room. Problem solved. Very kind, helpful and friendly front desk staff. A great place to stay in Point Pleasant!

4

Claudine

19 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The lobby was a mess, the staff was indifferent and the beds needed to be replaced years ago. Not worth the money for even one night.

8

Lauren

17 Oct 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Love the property, just wish the bathroom was updated. Room was updated, bathroom was not. Like the pool area and the staff is friendly and helpful. I really like the beach access across the street.

8

Joseph

3 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Check in very easy. Front desk people nice and helpful

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Location

Walkable to beach entrances and within walking distance of the boardwalk for many, though not directly on it. Several note that some nearby beach access is private and public beaches require paid badges; distances can feel longer than expected.

Related guest reviews

8

Paula

5 Aug 2023

·

Stayed 5 nights

Close to the beach and the boardwalk.

6

richard

8 Aug 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Nothing special at all about this place. Staff was friendly and the grounds relatively clean but the rooms were a little musty and the beds were very old. Pics are a bit deceiving and the entry to the beach is a 10-15 min walk not right across the street as advertised.

6

Sean Salins

24 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Overall the stay was fine for my wife and myself for one night. It’s actually a motel. The location is good and close to the beach at various access points. The room was comfortable, beds are good, A/C is good, there’s a TV, microwave and refrigerator. That’s good for a motel. The bathroom is expectedly small, being a motel, so that’s ok, but it could use a bit of upgrade and more lighting for sure. I think the whole motel including the outside appearance needs an uplift. The people/family running the hotel were very friendly and kind and welcoming.

10

Edward

19 Sept 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

the ocean is across the street

10

Marc

2 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Easy walk to the boardwalk. Large pool and patio area. Room was clean, comfortable and nicely decorated. Initially the A/C in the room didn't work. Staff immediately addressed and reassigned the room. Problem solved. Very kind, helpful and friendly front desk staff. A great place to stay in Point Pleasant!

10

Julie

28 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

This is a great place, 2nd year going a plane to go again! Beautiful area! Walking distance to so many things!

4

Mailyn

11 Aug 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Not close to point pleasant beach

4

Marie

16 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Had a for sale sign. Check in was awkward. Very run down motel, but rooms and pool were clean. Very few comforts (no chairs on balcony in front of rooms, no tables at the pool next to or near chairs, no towels at pool, not enough towels in room. They did have a coffee pot at the check-in room in the morning, but not in room. Microwave and fridge in room were clean. Window AC was loud, but i prefer white noise. The AC on high did keep room comfortable. 2 minute walk to beach entrance was nice. But 20 minute walk to boardwalk...if you walk fast. Beach fee was 15 per person per day in that area.

6

Eranjala

26 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Basic motel. No dining facilities and very few dining options around the area. The public beach is right in front of the property. But in order to be in a safe zone to swim, you should go to the boardwalk area - 15 mins walk.

10

Alexander

30 Jun 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Great location and value! Beds very comfortable and only 7 minute walk to the beach

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Dining

Not enough information in reviews.

Related guest reviews

10

Meghan

21 Jul 2023

·

Stayed 7 nights

Third time staying at Dunes by the Ocean. A great experience each time. Close to the beach, as well as the boardwalk. Restaurants nearby. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Would highly recommend.

6

Eranjala

26 Jul 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Basic motel. No dining facilities and very few dining options around the area. The public beach is right in front of the property. But in order to be in a safe zone to swim, you should go to the boardwalk area - 15 mins walk.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Month	Average price
May	US$328
June	US$376
July	US$453
August	US$466
September	US$157

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Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Room options

Standard Room, Multiple Beds

Luxury Apartment, 2 Bedrooms

Deluxe Room, Multiple Beds

Apartment, 1 Bedroom

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed

Studio

Guest reviews

Fabulous

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property policies

Check-in instructions

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