I was surprised at all the "glowing remarks" made about this place. Before I get into the lodging itself, I must describe the beach chair situation here; even though the beach is beautiful, you will have to lie on a towel, if you want to use it. Beach chairs are lined up next to the parking lot, off of the beach. THE WATERSIDE WILL NOT ALLOW YOU TO TAKE THEIR CHAIRS ONTO THE BEACH, AND YOU CANNOT EVEN SEE THE BEACH OR THE WATER WHILE LAYING IN THEIR BEACH CHAIRS BY THE PARKING LOT. THEIR SIGN SAYS (City ordinance: beach furniture is not allowed on the beach). In my entire 50 year lifetime, I have never been to a beach that prohibits beach chairs. I think think is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard of! They do allow dogs on the beach, which is rare. Since dogs are not allowed at the Waterside, I dont think this would be useful to guests.
The condo's here are called "Breakers West". Their website doesn't tell you that this these are not owned by "The Waterside Inn", but in fact are independently owned, and apparently only managed by "The Waterside Inn". The management doesnt seem to care much about providing excellent customer service, for these units, and are at the "mercy" of the owners for decisions regarding the units (repairs, etc.). Our unit did not have enough hot water for a bath (small hot water heater, with heat setting too low.) It was a big deal for them to fix this (took less than 5 minutes, when they got around to it. Gave the usual response "you're the first ones to ever complain about this". This is a canned response that I usually get from "poor customer service" business'. The shower comes on, when you fill the bathtub...too much work to even tell them about this. Not work the effort!
Neither of the 2 pools take advantage of fact that the property is next to the beach. One of the pools SHOULD have been built where the beach access parking lot is, and it could then have chairs and a deck overlooking the ocean, and the prohibition of chairs on the beach wouldnt be an issue. Instead, they built it ibasically in the middle of the central parking area.
If you dont want to lay on the beach (in a chair), and don't take baths, and like the quiet, than this place will fit the bill for you.

This is our first time staying at the Waterside Inn and we are in love with the place. The staff was extremely helpful and friendly. It was an easy walk to the beach and at low tide the shells were plentiful. All of the restaurants and shops were close and easily accessible. We were in the Apricot cottage and it was perfect for the two of us.

Our fourth time to stay at the Waterside Inn and it was good as usual. The staff is very friendly, the rooms are large and clean, and the location can't be beat. It's a quiet stretch of beach with lots of shells and yet close to restaurants and shops. We like an efficiency on the second floor of the Pineapple Lodge which has a small balcony with a ocean view. This year the pool was fabulous ~ very warm. We had fun walking down the beach for dinner at Traditions and liked breakfast at the Island Cow.

As with most beach side lodgings, the cottage was overpriced, even for "off season." That said, the location is stellar being just steps from the water. The cottages are bright if a little dated. (Who needs a rusty medicine cabinet?) the bathroom is teeney. Central air is a plus to lower the humidity. The screened in porch is great for sitting out at night - even no-see-ums love paradise. Open the jaulosie windows for gulf breezes and the sound of the waves. Stock up the kitchen to save on eating expenses.

Although we did not use the pool, it looks inviting. Beach chairs and towels are available. The grounds are meticulously kept. The front desk can help arrange activities although we found plenty to do on our own.

We had a great time. Look for Internet specials.