Name: Shea's Riverside Inn & Motel
Address: 132 Main Street, Essex, Massachusetts 01929, Essex, Massachusetts, United States of America, Essex, Massachusetts, US
Rating: 9.1

What guests think

At Shea's Riverside Inn & Motel, travelers praise the clean, cozy rooms, friendly staff, and a quiet, scenic riverside setting that is walkable to restaurants and shops, making it a pleasant, convenient base for exploring Essex, Salem, and Cape Ann.

Many note compact rooms and tiny showers, with some suites or cottages offering more space. Amenities are basic; several reviews highlight no in-room coffee or ice and limited or no daily housekeeping. A few guests mentioned issues like dated elements, TV problems, odors, or minor bathroom upkeep. Expect a simple, peaceful stay by the water.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Riverside grounds offer outdoor seating and a small dock, with some rooms featuring balconies, plus ample parking. Amenities are basic; multiple reviews note no in-room coffee makers, no ice on-site, and limited in-room appliances such as fridges or microwaves.

Related guest reviews

6

Amy

Jul 18, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Property being sold, so I understand they do not want to make changes, improvements. Very clean, good bed, small room and bath. No other amenities…no fridge, coffee in room, icemaker, room cleanup (in the motel anyway). However, the price is right, so I shouldn’t complain!

10

Kathy

Apr 22, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

great location. spotless room, many restaurants within walking distance, ample parking

10

heather

Jun 21, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Very cute spot in town on the water with views. BUT BEWARE, no ice machine (or coffee)!! But Dunkin is a stone's throw and seafood restaurants, too, Manager Eleanor was great. We had a fun visit!!

10

Tricia

Jul 24, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Our stay was brief, but quite pleasant. When entering the room, the light was on and the air conditioner at a comfortable level. It was welcoming with a welcome home touch. Interaction with staff was quite pleasant. There was a sanded area with picnic tables and chairs to rest as you looked over the waterway. I would absolutely have no problem staying here again.

10

Kathleen

Aug 4, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

We loved watching the boats on the Essex River. We had a balcony & had beautiful sunsets. The women in the office are kind & knowledgeable about the area. The bed was very comfortable as was the room! Very clean & fresh!

10

Lisa

Oct 1, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Upon arrival and check-in, staff was extremely friendly. Easy to check-in, we had read all conditions before we booked. (no ice on premises, no daily clean- we didn't care at all) The property is across from a dunkin donuts, Woodmans clams and lobster(fabulous btw), Shea's Restaurant and more.. While the weather wasn't the best for us, it is on the water and kinda neat to see.

8

Katherine

Sep 18, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Staff was especially great! And we thank a certain someone for the yummy dessert! Our only disappointment was no Adirondacks chairs around the fire pit on the water as depicted in the website pictures.

10

Angela

Sep 15, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

What a cute little place. Its right at the bend of the river, has a small dock for boats and is walking distance to Woodman's, Dunkins and CK pearl. A perfectly placed little gem!

10

Joan

Sep 8, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Was a great view of the river, the only thing not happy with was no coffee pot in motel room and no ice. Also the shower was so tiny.

10

jack

Sep 21, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Super cute! Staff were friendly. A/C worked good, TV was easy to figure out. When looking for an outlet behind the bed and night table I noticed dust and cobwebs along w/what looked like a Reese’s cup paper- also cobwebs behind toilet. If you need multiple things plugged in at once, I suggest bringing an extension cord.

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Cleanliness

Rooms are frequently described as very clean. Housekeeping is limited or not daily, and a few guests reported dusty spots, bathroom caulk/mildew or odors, or floors needing better attention.

Related guest reviews

10

Mary H

Aug 11, 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

The property is beautiful, we’ve been there before and have been very satisfied. However, since COVID, there is virtually no housekeeping, and we found the floors were somewhat dirty, particularly in the bathroom. Hopefully, this was an oversight and doesn’t happen on a regular basis. We did enjoy our stay there.

8

John

May 26, 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

The floor in the room was not clean. Otherwise, the room was good value for the money.

4

Carlie

Sep 2, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

There was a terribly strong smell of bleach and mildew. So much so that it gave us both headaches

10

Meagen

Oct 22, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

This was an extremely cute property! It is also quite walkable to a few restaurants and shops. The room was very clean and the beds were extremely comfortable. I would definitely recommend this Inn to anyone staying in Essex!

10

Fannie

Oct 27, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

We had a great time ! Place was really clean and just like the pictures

10

Rebecca

Sep 3, 2024

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Stayed 1 night

Great stay! Room was impeccably clean and staff was courteous and helpful

8

Tamara

Oct 9, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Great location and very nice staff. However, the office staff leave a little early and come in late, so if you need anything keep that in mind. The property itself needs a little love. The front door has such a big gap under it that we had to roll a towel up and stuff it around it to keep the cold air out. In the shower there was caulk over top of some black mold that should have been remediated prior to being caulked. Other than that it’s a nice place and convenient to a lot of things/places.

10

Brittany

Oct 28, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Clean, updated and they had everything we needed! Beautiful and cozy!

10

MacKenzie

Oct 28, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Quaint, quiet, comfortable, CLEAN, friendly team, pretty view, easy check in and check out. Its not the ritz, but it's great for what it is - a small little locally run motel. Comfy beds, plenty of towels and blankets, plenty of pillows (I'm a pillow person, and there's never enough) would absolutely stay here again if I was in the area.

10

jack

Sep 21, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Super cute! Staff were friendly. A/C worked good, TV was easy to figure out. When looking for an outlet behind the bed and night table I noticed dust and cobwebs along w/what looked like a Reese’s cup paper- also cobwebs behind toilet. If you need multiple things plugged in at once, I suggest bringing an extension cord.

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Rooms

Rooms are simple and comfortable, with many praising the beds and river views. Several mention compact layouts and tiny showers, plus occasional frustrations with TV quality or light-blocking shades; some suites or cottages offer more space.

Related guest reviews

10

Cassandra

Aug 1, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Shea’s Riverside Inn has clean, quaint, affordable rooms with a beautiful waterside view!

4

Barbara Ann

Sep 28, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Very disappointed in what we got for the price: tiny bathroom with no room to put toiletries and few towels were supplied, no “normal” housekeeping service, uncomfortable seating in room, no hi-def tv

8

Betty

Aug 19, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Really decent place for an overnight on the North Shore. Priced fairly. Small room but very comfortable bed, good shower and good location overlooking the marsh. Easy walk to the great antique shops and restaurants in Essex

10

Sheryl

Oct 11, 2024

·

Stayed 5 nights

Shea's is a great place to stay in Essex. The staff is very helpful, and the rooms are clean with comfortable beds. Hope to return sometime soon.

10

Lea

Nov 12, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

The H1 suite was great. Beautiful view, spacious, and convenient for my plans.

8

VICTORIA

Sep 8, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Room is a ittle too small, but location is really beautiful.

10

Meagen

Oct 22, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

This was an extremely cute property! It is also quite walkable to a few restaurants and shops. The room was very clean and the beds were extremely comfortable. I would definitely recommend this Inn to anyone staying in Essex!

8

Jeffrey

Aug 12, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Location of property was perfect for our travel plans. Room was very clean, but extremely small. Better fit for a single rather than a couple. Staff was very friendly. Grounds were great for sitting and relaxing by the river.

6

Igor

Jun 2, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The room had poor shades that didnt block off light, which was very bright at night. Made room very hard to sleep, felt like daytime. TV woulnt work. Staff was great and accommodating

10

Joan

Sep 8, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Was a great view of the river, the only thing not happy with was no coffee pot in motel room and no ice. Also the shower was so tiny.

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Service

Staff are widely described as friendly, helpful, and accommodating, with smooth check-in including late arrivals. A few guests noted limited office hours or unsatisfying responses to concerns.

Related guest reviews

10

Kayla

Nov 3, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Had a great time!! There was an issue with my paiment for the room (not their fault) and every person of staff that we spoke too was absolutely lovely and super understanding !

10

Stephanie

Oct 28, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

We had a great night visiting this little town. The hotel staff was friendly and suggested a local dinner restaurant which was great

10

Nancy

Jun 22, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Sue and Eleanor great to work with. Quaint and welcoming for first night in Massachusetts. Many thanks!

8

Hugo

Aug 6, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Personel was very friendly.

10

Sheryl

Oct 11, 2024

·

Stayed 5 nights

Shea's is a great place to stay in Essex. The staff is very helpful, and the rooms are clean with comfortable beds. Hope to return sometime soon.

10

Tricia

Jul 24, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Our stay was brief, but quite pleasant. When entering the room, the light was on and the air conditioner at a comfortable level. It was welcoming with a welcome home touch. Interaction with staff was quite pleasant. There was a sanded area with picnic tables and chairs to rest as you looked over the waterway. I would absolutely have no problem staying here again.

10

Lisa

Nov 1, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Friendly, helpful and nice rooms 😊

10

Kimberly

Sep 30, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Great location. Setting could not be more scenic. Nicest host. I would recommend and would stay there again.

10

John

Jul 7, 2024

·

Stayed 4 nights

VERY NICE, VERY FRIENDLY CUSTOMER SEVICE. WOULD STAY AGAIN

8

Tamara

Oct 9, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Great location and very nice staff. However, the office staff leave a little early and come in late, so if you need anything keep that in mind. The property itself needs a little love. The front door has such a big gap under it that we had to roll a towel up and stuff it around it to keep the cold air out. In the shower there was caulk over top of some black mold that should have been remediated prior to being caulked. Other than that it’s a nice place and convenient to a lot of things/places.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Location

Quiet, scenic setting on the Essex River that’s walkable to several restaurants and shops. Convenient for visiting Essex, Salem, Gloucester, nearby beaches, and the wider Cape Ann area.

Related guest reviews

10

Kathy

Apr 22, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

great location. spotless room, many restaurants within walking distance, ample parking

10

Lisa

Sep 27, 2023

·

Very nice, roomy, clean. Nice views and walkable to shops and food

10

Meagen

Oct 22, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

This was an extremely cute property! It is also quite walkable to a few restaurants and shops. The room was very clean and the beds were extremely comfortable. I would definitely recommend this Inn to anyone staying in Essex!

10

Terry

Oct 10, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

We stopped off for a final night before leaving for Boston airport. It was convenient for Salem and a pleasant visit to Manchester by the sea en route to the airport. The room was clean comfortable and shower was good. Local bakery made a short walk for a good coffee and croissant. Great location by the river.

10

Kimberly

Sep 30, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Great location. Setting could not be more scenic. Nicest host. I would recommend and would stay there again.

10

Thomas

Jul 5, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Perfect location to walk to some great restaurants after a day at Cranes or Wingersheek beaches. Rooms are very clean and the beds are just as comfortable. Awesome seating area to watch the boats coming in at sunset.

10

Angela

Sep 15, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

What a cute little place. Its right at the bend of the river, has a small dock for boats and is walking distance to Woodman's, Dunkins and CK pearl. A perfectly placed little gem!

10

Carlyn

Oct 4, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Lovely river setting. Walkable. Wonderful outdoor seating.

10

Frank

Jul 27, 2024

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Stayed 2 nights

Nice, quiet location on the Essex river. DD right across the street and other dining options within a short drive. Room was small but clean and cozy. Staff was extrenely friendly and helpful. Would definately return.

10

Mary

Oct 16, 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

This property was beautiful. We visited to experience Salem during Halloween but fell in love with the relaxing atmosphere surrounding the Inn.

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Dining

No on-site breakfast is mentioned, but guests often highlight nearby seafood spots and a Dunkin within walking distance. A few travelers found breakfast choices limited or needed to drive farther.

Related guest reviews

10

Curtis

Nov 13, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

We knew this location was not a full service hotel and that was exactly what we wanted. It was clean, the bed was big and comfy, plus it had a great view and walkable access to a Dunkin and two local restaurants. Very nice and helpful staff in the office. If we are ever back in the area we would love to stay again!

10

heather

Jun 21, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Very cute spot in town on the water with views. BUT BEWARE, no ice machine (or coffee)!! But Dunkin is a stone's throw and seafood restaurants, too, Manager Eleanor was great. We had a fun visit!!

6

Richard

Jul 22, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Place was nice. Plenty of eating options around. Not much else around. I stayed here to go to Salem. Was like a 10 min ride to downtown Salem. Cheaper option then staying in Salem. Hotel is old school motel type place. Very clean and quiet. Antique stores and Seafood restaurants very close by.

10

Tom

Jul 14, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Wonderful place to stay. A/c was already on in the ultra clean room when we checked in. Lovely shade tree with recliners outside with a beautiful view of the Essex River. Susan, the clerk, was very helpful and nice. Pearls restaurant just 300 yards away. Several churches a half mile away. Antique shops. And close to Rockport which is a wonderful place to visit and dine. Look for the sailor at the helm statue in Gloucester on the way to Rockport if you go the scenic route. And of course the frequently painted (by artists) Red Shed.

10

Lisa

Oct 1, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Upon arrival and check-in, staff was extremely friendly. Easy to check-in, we had read all conditions before we booked. (no ice on premises, no daily clean- we didn't care at all) The property is across from a dunkin donuts, Woodmans clams and lobster(fabulous btw), Shea's Restaurant and more.. While the weather wasn't the best for us, it is on the water and kinda neat to see.

10

Angela

Sep 15, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

What a cute little place. Its right at the bend of the river, has a small dock for boats and is walking distance to Woodman's, Dunkins and CK pearl. A perfectly placed little gem!

8

Patrice

Jun 12, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

It was very pretty and relaxing by the river. The only problem we had was finding a place to have breakfast.

10

James

Oct 21, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

A quaint and charming motel/Inn. The dining options were fantastic and within a short drive or walking distance.

10

Jennifer

Oct 1, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Great stay, cozy, in a beautiful walkable area close to food, drinks, and shopping

10

Vicki

Oct 21, 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

My husband and I just stayed there for our anniversary vacation which was four days long. The property was beautiful. The staff was nice. The room was clean and quaint. They did supply a hair dryer and some toiletries. The toiletries were beekman which we love so that was nice. There were some cons. We had a double bed room. Bed was small. There were no refrigerators, microwaves, pictures on the walls, and they did not supply ice for our cooler that we brought ( thank god we brought that cooler)! We did a daily trips for ice and food. The shower was tiny! We could not stand in front of the sink because it was so close to the wall across from it so we had to use it from the side. And we could not get the shampoos etc out of the tiny toiletry bottles. Also, it was not convenient if you like to shop, eat out or DoorDash unless you wanted to seafood. The closest eateries were 5 to 10 miles away even on DoorDash. There was a Dunkin’ Donuts right across the street but we don’t drink coffee and it was only open in the mornings.

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Month	Average price
January	$219
May	$219
June	$219
September	$184

Select dates to see prices and availability

Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Room options

Cottage

Room, 1 Queen Bed

Room 3, 1 King Bed

Room 6, 1 Queen Bed

Motel King Bedroom

Room, 1 Double Bed

Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa Bed

Room

Room, 1 King Bed

Room, 2 Queen Beds

Suite, 1 King Bed with Sofa Bed, Balcony, River View

Room 4, 1 King Bed

Motel Queen Bedroom

Guest reviews

Superb

Who stays here?

What guests think

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