Retreat at Crystal Manatee

This is a cute boutique hotel. Walking distance to shops, restaurants, and the pier. Rooms were very clean. Beds were comfy and a/c worked well.

This place was super cute! Big room (fridge even has a freezer), bed was super comfortable, and the croissants at check in was a nice touch. Loved the location too. The thing that sucked was the late fee I got charged for checking in at 930pm. There was no mention of this anywhere, and even though I messaged the staff to keep them aware of my issues & delay due to travel, they never responded, and didn’t waive the fee. Be warned if you’re arriving after 9 whether it’s planned or unplanned.

Came in at 7p left by 7:30 am

This is an odd property. First, it's a motel, which wasnt clear to me, but no problem. The motel Is difficult to find & even more annoying to park across the street at some run down motel. We tried to take the handicap spot, but there is no overnight parking for disabled. The check in woman was bizarre and semi confrontatal. We told her we planned to see the Manatees. She said there's no way we will see any & then accused the kayak company of lying. She was a weirdly hostile. The restaurant they boast of was closed on a Thursday. The room. Omg. It was so strange. The layout is so poorly designed. Office chairs & shelves. Nowhere to sit. The rooms are big, so a lot of potential squashed for a sterile & unwelcome place. You know it's bad, when a customer checking in, said , well luckily it's only one night. We could not wait to get out of there.

The staff and location were fantastic. Fresh pastries were delivered to our room each night. We had everything we needed and we were within walking distance to a great bar, St. John’s Tavern. The hotel itself is unique, with each room having its own decor. The shower was incredible, too. We would definitely return to this place.