I took a hockey team to play in the Lobsterfest in Portland, ME. I could have stayed in Portland but wanted a place where the kids and parents could have more fun. We opted to stay at Old Orchard Beach. I checked all the motels on the strip and the Grand Beach Inn was simply the best. Sara who handles groups was simply amazing. She got us great rates and even did welcome baskets for the kids (no easy task for a dozen 11 & 12 year olds). The boys loved them. We brought in ten familes and they had no problem with more than 20 kids many under 12. We had rooms with full kitchens (which help keep the food cost down) and a couple of us with bigger families took the larger suites (two rooms and a kitchen with a queen pull out couch, and queen beds). It was very comfortable and very roomy. I had 2 teenage daughters and my niece along with my wife and my son in the room and it worked great. The Grand View is at the opposite end of the Pier which was a good thing for us as the beach (right across the street ) was quieter and nicer. The Pier (seaside boardwalk with rides and shops) was a mile away ( a good walk) but with the trolley that runs hourly I heard no complaints. You are never sure when you deal with a non chain motels. I did see some questionable reviews and so I talked with Sara and even did a ride up before to be sure our team would be welcomed. Sara and her staff was amazing. They made sure we were together and with its own little resturant on property it made last minute breakfasts and quick meals easy for a team on the go. If you are looking for a clean, team friendly place with great rates and an even better staff the Grand Beach Inn is my pick.
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