I booked my stay based on Tripadvisor reviews and was not disappointed! In fact, I found Chesapeake exceeded my expectations. Several posted reviews dissed the cleanliness, condition, and bedding qualities of the rooms, so I arrived with a few hesitations. \r
\r
Checking in at night I was helped by a friendly front desk person. In fact, I called before I arrived thinking I was lost. She coached me with a few simple directions and I arrived safe and secure. Check in was a breeze. I appreciated a real key on a wristband that wouldn't get lost - 2 sets in fact.\r
\r
My ocean side king suite was immaculate, the bed and pillows very comfortable, and the furnishings quite nice. This is indeed an 'old Florida' style facility, which is what I prefer. The living area had a sofa and 2 arm chairs, as well as storage furniture and large screen tv. The adjacent dining area had a 30"" round table w/ 4 side chairs. Two balcony areas, one off the living, another off the bedroom, had 2 arm chairs with side tables. The housekeeping staff were helpful and friendly, not in your face. I left my 'privacy please' tag on several different days and they didn't bother me, but left clean linens in a bag outside my door.\r
\r
A real treat was the jacuzzi in the king room just steps from the bed; I thought it would be in the bathroom, but it was a second tub altogether. Wonderful for honeymoon romance I would imagine! Relaxing for me before hitting the bed.\r
\r
The main pool is large enough to swim laps, no deep end or diving board. I actually liked the shallower depth for standing around and visiting with other guests. Plenty of nice quality chaise loungers, umbrella tables with arm chairs, and a large hot tub in the pool area. I didn't go to the second smaller pool, but others seemed to be enjoying it.\r
\r
There is a beach, though small, but still exists, and you can wade out into the shallow water to enjoy the ocean. Wear shoes as there is seaweed and some gravely rocks as you enter. Not shelling beaches like Sanibel, but still the same wonderful calm, warm ocean water. Low tide was in the morning and was great to get out into the water. Loungers and hammocks and chairs/tables are located along the property's length by the water.\r
\r
As for the grounds, they were very nice. Not a 5 star overdone resort property, but small gardens along the pathways between buildings. Plenty of parking even for Labor Day weekend, and room for boats to pull in and dock at the nice small harbor there. Lovely plantings and walkways to the pool, water sports area, tennis court, and covered workout weight equipment spot. Elevators that have been added at some point made getting from the first level parking up to my 3rd level room easy. The view of the ocean is spectacular.\r
\r
I booked an all day off-shore fishing charter with Captains Parker and Grovier on the Danica Anne. My daughter from Miami visited for 2 days, and went fishing w/ me. We caught a lot of fish and had a nice ride with these two gentlemen. A very pleasant fishing experience. Good for singles, couples, family, or up to 6 friends on their nice large 42' boat that has an enclosed cabin, including an airplane size bathroom 'head'. We fisher ladies appreciate that!\r
\r
I would return again for sure. A diverse crowd at the pool, with folks from Miami, New York, Ohio, and me from Colorado. If you have a boat, it seems a great place to dock and stay.\r
\r
Hot breakfast is complimentary and decent fare served in an A/C room on the way to the pool and boat area.\r
\r
Ice and pop machines near the elevators at each level. Some gifts and things for sale in the Lobby. Closest grocery store is 20-30 minutes or so away, so maybe hit it on the way there to stock up if you are fixing for yourself. There is an ATM at the restaurant/harbor complex just to the north by the dockmaster office.
more