Water Street Waterfront - Image 1
1 / 3

Water Street Waterfront

4.3
·266 reviews·Apalachicola, United States

Suites with river views, full kitchens, and a pool, offering a comfortable stay near Tampa's attractions.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Water Street Waterfront - Image 1

Water Street Waterfront

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Suites with river views, full kitchens, and a pool, offering a comfortable stay near Tampa's attractions.

4.3
(266 reviews)

"Fantastic balcony views and full kitchens make this a great spot, but be aware of potential room and management issues."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Water Quality

Inquire about current water quality before your stay, as it can impact bathing and drinking. :droplet:

Marina Slip Research

Compare marina slip rates and services in town; some guests found Water Street's pricing high. :boat:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Balcony River Views

Balcony River Views

Guest Rooms

Enjoy stunning sunrise and sunset views over the river from your private, screened-in balcony.

Full Kitchen Suites

Full Kitchen Suites

Guest Rooms

Prepare meals with a full-size kitchen, perfect for enjoying fresh catches from the water.

Poolside Relaxation

Poolside Relaxation

Pool Area

Unwind by the pool, even during busy periods, for a quiet and restful experience.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Water Quality Alerts

Be aware of potential water quality issues in the area. Management's response to these issues has been a point of contention for some guests, so inquire about current conditions before booking.

Marina Slip Concerns

If you plan to dock a boat, research marina slip rates and services carefully. Some guests have reported high costs and issues with amenities like shore power and waste stations.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Checked into the Tampa Marriott Water Street and honestly? The waterfront views hit different when you’re eating the freshest seafood of your LIFE at Anchor & Brine 🦞🌊 The shrimp basically introduced itself by name. The crab cakes had me drafting a love letter. Is it possible to be in a committed relationship with a restaurant? Asking for a friend 😂💙 Tampa, you’re doing it RIGHT ✨ Ready for your o...
sarahexclusivetoyoutravel
5 likes • 32 views

Check Water Quality

Inquire about current water quality before your stay, as it can impact bathing and drinking. :droplet:

Marina Slip Research

Compare marina slip rates and services in town; some guests found Water Street's pricing high. :boat:

Your weekend destination awaits 🌊🍻 Located in the heart of #downtowntomsriver right off the parkway. Water Street is your go-to hidden gem for fresh seafood, cold drinks and waterfront views you didn’t know were this close to home. #oceancountynj #tomsrivernj
waterstreetnj
104 likes • 5.7K views
✨NEW LISTING is now LIVE!✨ Build your dream home on this stunning waterfront parcel! With 100 feet of water frontage, you could have your dream home AND your dream boat! This lot is just 25-30 minutes from top Tampa destinations like: Downtown/Channelside/Sparkman/Water Street, Tampa International Airport, Hyde Park Village, Armature Works, International Plaza, Midtown, and Raymond James Stadiu...
panidapromsook
235 likes • 11.1K views

Request Room Updates

Rooms can be dated; consider requesting a recently renovated unit if available. :housewithgarden:

Pack Earplugs

Thin walls mean you might hear neighbors or early morning boat activity. :zzz:

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Water Quality

Inquire about current water quality before your stay, as it can impact bathing and drinking. :droplet:

Marina Slip Research

Compare marina slip rates and services in town; some guests found Water Street's pricing high. :boat:

Request Room Updates

Rooms can be dated; consider requesting a recently renovated unit if available. :housewithgarden:

Pack Earplugs

Thin walls mean you might hear neighbors or early morning boat activity. :zzz:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(266 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests appreciate the spacious suites with full kitchens and the fantastic balcony views over the river, offering a relaxing atmosphere. However, issues with dated rooms, thin walls, inconsistent water quality, and sometimes unhelpful management detract from the experience for many.

"My parents and I spent two nights here and it was fabulous. Our room was on the third floor and had a balcony with a fantastic view of Scipio Creek, the Apalachicola River and several other bodies of water. The beds were comfortable and so were the other furnishings. We had two full bathrooms which were both very nice. It was obvious from the parking area that the hotel had plenty of other guests but it was so quiet and restful, not just in our room but even at the pool. Apalachicola is such a beautiful place and the hotel was just minutes away from anywhere we wanted to go in town and very close to nearby St. George Island. The staff was also wonderful even though we didn't interact with them much because our unit pretty much had everything we needed."

Kristen

"Our experience would have been wonderful as it usually is on several other stays, except for the water quality issue, which is not controlled by the hotel, but management’s response to this is. Management should be contacting reservation holders and informing them of this significant issue and offering a discount to compensate for the issues of horrible water that can not be used for bathing, drinking, etc.. When this was suggested, management became defensive and we were asked to leave prematurely. Not good.

In response to the owner’s reply, we never said we wanted the room to be comped, what we said to the clerk & the manager was that we felt “some” compensation was in order for the inconvenience, in addition that if we or any guest was informed of the water situation, we would have at least been prepared. That is what we said. We reiterate, we never asked for full compensation, nor did we ask for one night compensation . In addition, the manager was argumentative and defensive and obviously did not listen. Once a person becomes defensive, communication stops. And, we were not “asked” to vacate, we were “told” to vacate and our locks were changed so we couldn’t even access our property without picking up a new key at the desk. We have stayed there many, many times but have stayed our last - unless the property had new management. Period."

Sue Cox

"Good hotel, but several issues keep it from being a great hotel.
TL/DR: Great balcony, full kitchen, and friendly vibes reel you in — but paper-thin walls, prehistoric mattresses, and BPH-levels of water pressure might have you wishing you'd stayed on the boat.
The Pros:
By far, one of the best features of my experience was the large screened-in balcony, complete with fans and patio chairs to catch both sunrise and sunset over the river.
The large living room with futon sofa helps recover after a long day out on the water.
A full-size kitchen with everything needed to make a proper meal from that catch of the day.
Finally, a generally helpful staff that makes you feel welcome.

Some of the Cons:
You'll notice that almost all of the parking lot lights are out if you arrive late. The area is generally safe, so there is not much of a safety concern, but it is definitely an annoyance when searching for an item.
While the hotel does accept pets, the pet waste stations are largely forgotten about, with bird nests taking up residence where bags should be and the bins overflowing with everyday trash.
The thin walls become an issue, especially when you have rooms that overlook a boat dock. A dock that begins early each day with a good amount of noise as everyone gets ready to go out for their big catch.
The mattresses are garbage. You'd get a better night sleep on the sofa. Ask me how I know.
Generally low water pressure in all the faucets. It's hard to blast off all the salt from a day out on the boat when there is only a trickle coming from the faucets.
Finally, dated rooms. They are just old and tired. The whole hotel could use a refresh."

Doc B

What People Like

Spacious suites with kitchens
Great balcony river views
Quiet pool area

What People Dislike

Dated rooms
Thin walls
Water quality concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Water Street Waterfront is located in the heart of downtown Toms River, easily accessible off the Parkway. For those arriving by air, Tampa International Airport is about 25-30 minutes away, making it a convenient base for exploring Tampa destinations like Channelside and Sparkman Wharf. Instagram

Yes, parking is available. However, some guests have noted that many of the parking lot lights are out, which can be an annoyance when arriving late. The area is generally considered safe. Reddit

If you're flying in, Tampa International Airport (TPA) is approximately a 25-30 minute drive from the Water Street area, offering convenient access to the waterfront. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Water Street Waterfront is a hotel and marina, so advance booking for accommodations is recommended, especially during peak seasons. There are no specific 'tickets' required to access the waterfront area itself, but hotel rooms and marina slips should be reserved. TikTok

As a hotel and marina, Water Street Waterfront operates 24/7 for guests. However, specific amenities like the restaurant or front desk services may have their own operating hours, which are best confirmed directly with the hotel. Instagram

There are no admission fees to simply walk around and enjoy the waterfront views. However, if you are staying at the hotel or docking a boat at the marina, there will be associated costs. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Guests can enjoy modern 1- & 2-bedroom suites, many with balconies offering river views. The hotel also features a pool, and some units include a full kitchen. Free breakfast is typically provided. TikTok

Yes, the hotel does accept pets. However, some guests have noted that the pet waste stations are not well-maintained, with overflowing bins and neglected bag dispensers. Reddit

There have been reports of water quality issues that can affect bathing and drinking. It's advisable to inquire directly with management about the current water situation before your stay. Reddit

While the suites offer great views and kitchens, some guests describe the rooms as dated and tired, suggesting the entire hotel could benefit from a refresh. Reddit

Some guests have reported issues with thin walls, leading to noise from neighboring rooms or early morning activity from the boat docks. Packing earplugs might be a good idea. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Tampa Marriott Water Street, located in the Water Street area, features Anchor & Brine, known for fresh seafood and waterfront views. TikTok

Many of the 1- and 2-bedroom suites come equipped with a full-size kitchen, allowing you to prepare your own meals, which can be especially convenient if you're enjoying local catches. Reddit

The description mentions free breakfast, so it is likely included for hotel guests. It's always a good idea to confirm this with the hotel directly when booking. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The balconies with river views offer fantastic opportunities for capturing sunrise and sunset shots. The waterfront itself provides scenic backdrops with boats and water activity. TikTokInstagram

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at the waterfront or common areas of the hotel. However, always be mindful of other guests' privacy. Instagram

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset provide the best natural light for photography, creating beautiful colors over the water. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Water Street Waterfront offers suites with full kitchens, which can be a lifesaver for families needing to prepare meals and snacks for children. The pool area provides a fun spot for kids to play and cool off. TikTok However, be mindful of the thin walls, as noise from other guests or early morning boat activity could potentially disturb younger children's sleep. Reddit It's also worth inquiring about the current water quality, as this could impact bathing and drinking for the whole family. Reddit

Consider packing some entertainment for downtime, as the rooms themselves might feel a bit dated. Reddit If you're planning on bringing a pet, be aware that the pet waste stations may not be consistently maintained. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Boaters

For those coming to fish or boat, the suites with full kitchens are a major plus, allowing you to cook your fresh catch right in your room. Reddit The waterfront location and proximity to the water are obvious draws. However, potential marina slip renters should proceed with caution. Reddit Research the pricing thoroughly, as it's been reported as significantly higher than other marinas in the region. Reddit Also, verify the functionality of shore power breakers and the cleanliness of the slips before committing.

Be prepared for potentially low water pressure in the room's faucets, which might make rinsing off salt and sand a bit challenging after a day on the water. Reddit While the balconies offer great views, the early morning noise from the docks could be a factor if you're looking for a completely peaceful start to your day. Reddit

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

The availability of suites with full kitchens and free breakfast can help save money on dining expenses. TikTokReddit However, be aware that the marina slip rates are reportedly quite high, so if you're boating, factor that into your budget. Reddit Some guests have also noted that the rooms are dated, which might mean you're not getting the most modern experience for your money. Reddit If you're sensitive to noise, consider requesting a room away from the docks to avoid early morning disturbances. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Marina Services

For those planning to dock their vessels at Water Street Waterfront, it's crucial to be aware of potential issues. Several reviews highlight concerns regarding the pricing of marina slips, with one guest stating it was "twice any going rate in the Southeast." Reddit Additionally, the availability and maintenance of amenities like laundry facilities, pet waste stations, and shore power breakers have been called into question. Reddit+1 It's recommended to thoroughly research and compare services with other marinas in the area before committing to a slip here.

Guests have also reported challenges with the marina office staff, describing interactions as rude and argumentative. Reddit Issues such as river foliage obstructing slips and non-functional breakers have added to the frustration for some boaters. If you're considering docking, it might be wise to seek out alternative marina options in town to ensure a smoother experience.

Key Takeaways for Marina Guests:
- Compare pricing: Marina slip rates can be significantly higher than other locations.
- Check amenities: Verify the functionality and availability of laundry, power, and waste stations.
- Staff interactions: Be prepared for potentially unhelpful or confrontational staff based on guest feedback. Reddit

Understanding Room Features and Potential Drawbacks

Water Street Waterfront offers suites with appealing features, notably the spacious, screened-in balconies that provide excellent vantage points for sunrise and sunset over the river. Reddit These balconies are often equipped with fans and patio chairs, making them ideal for relaxing outdoors. Inside, the suites boast a full-size kitchen, complete with necessary appliances, allowing guests to prepare meals, which is a significant advantage for longer stays or for those who enjoy cooking. Reddit The inclusion of a large living room area with a futon sofa adds to the comfort and functionality of the living space.

However, guests have pointed out several drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. The hotel's walls are described as "paper-thin," leading to potential noise disturbances from adjacent rooms or the early morning activity on the boat docks. Reddit The mattresses have also received consistent criticism for being uncomfortable, with some guests suggesting the sofa offers a better night's sleep. Furthermore, the water pressure in faucets is generally low, making it difficult to rinse off salt after a day on the water. Reddit

Room Considerations:
- Pros: Large balconies, full kitchens, ample living space. Reddit
- Cons: Thin walls, uncomfortable mattresses, low water pressure. Reddit
- Recommendation: If booking, consider requesting a room away from the docks and inquire about mattress toppers if comfort is a priority.

Navigating Management and Guest Relations

The management's response to issues, particularly concerning water quality, has been a significant point of dissatisfaction for some guests. One review details an instance where management became defensive when a guest suggested informing reservation holders about water issues and offering compensation. Reddit This led to the guests being "told to vacate" and having their locks changed, a stark contrast to a typical guest experience. Reddit

This confrontational approach has led to a loss of repeat business, with guests stating they "have stayed our last" unless there is new management. Reddit The lack of proactive communication about significant issues like water quality, coupled with a defensive stance when issues are raised, appears to be a recurring problem. It suggests a disconnect between guest expectations for service and the management's approach to problem-solving.

Key Takeaways on Management:
- Communication is key: Guests expect to be informed about significant issues like water quality. Reddit
- Defensiveness is detrimental: Arguing with guests and becoming defensive erodes trust and leads to negative reviews. Reddit
- Customer service matters: A more accommodating and understanding approach is needed to retain guests. Reddit

You may also like