We had some hesitation after reading some of the reviews here. However, this motel was exactly as advertised - basic, clean, and within walking distance of downtown Saugatuck. Plus they allow dogs without any extra fee, which is very appreciated. No, there are no little bottles of shampoo or lotion, and no, it's not the most modern television set up, and no, the wifi doesn't reach the rooms, but it's not a big chain hotel so I didn't expect those things. My only two complaints were that the lobby smelled of cigarette smoke when we arrived (but the rooms did NOT, so no big deal) and that the vinyl shower curtain was kind of musty - needs a good bleaching. But the room was very clean, the linens were fine, the bed was comfortable. We were very satisfied and would stay there again. No, this is not a chain so don't expect all the extras a chain may provide! This is a local mom and pop type motel...support local businesses!

Maybe I am asking too much but we paid $568 for two room for two nights and that was exactly what we got - a room. There is sort of wi-fi if you stand outside the office but no breakfast or pool and nothing nearby so you have to drive to breakfast or walk into town (10 minutes, quite pleasant). The room was clean but dark and a bit dank smelling. The bedding clean but not crisp. The previous night we had paid quite a bit less for a pristine room and very good breakfast in a Hilton Garden Inn which although lacking character actually delivers on all the key attributes.
In this day and age independent hoteliers need to offer a bit more, not a bit less. Having read reviews of The Pines and driven past, I wish we'd have stayed there.

Last year we (family of 4 with boys ages 8 and 5) discovered Saugatauk / Douglas and loved it. We decided to return this year to spend a few days. Our friends decided to join us (family of 4 with boys ages 5 and 2). We found the Captains Quarters to be perfect for us. The rooms were standard motel rooms in terms of size and amenities (coffee maker, small fridge, furniture) but they were very clean, comfortable, and smelled pleasant. We had rooms right next to each other, with an outside entrance to the rooms. We were able to put the kids to bed for the night and sit on the covered porch area outside our rooms and enjoy some adult beverages into the night. There were even wrought iron chairs on the porch for us to use. Also, our cars were parked right outside the rooms for convenient loading and unloading. The motel is very well maintained outside too. There is room to play some backyard games (if you bring them) like bags or washers or throwing the ball with the kids. Also, because Paul is the owner / operator, he is always around. One day after going to the beach, with our towels and suits all wet, we hung them outside to dry. However, while out to dinner it rained leaving us with wetter clothes than what we started with. Paul let us put them in the dryer he has on property for the bed linens at no cost. He is an interesting and friendly guy, stopping over to chat from time to time while we relaxed on the porch area. For what we wanted, this place was perfect. The downsides are pretty minimal...no pool (didn't care because we spend most time at beach) and wifi was nowhere to be found. Bottom line is if you are looking for a 5star resort, keep looking. However, if you want someplace relaxing, but simple, this might be for you. Price is good for area, you won't do better without ending up in a smelly place. I will absolutely go back next year.

On the plus side; clean, good location, quiet, good A/C.
On the downside; small room, cheap furniture, no shampoo/toiletries, no in-room phone; although advertised, there is no in-room, or lobby WIFI, TV remote sort of worked, no refund for early checkout. No, I won't be a repeat customer.