We have stayed at the Beachway Resort on two successive Labor Day weekends and will go there again this Labor Day weekend (2011). Here is a quick summary which will be followed by more details.
Positives:
1. Very nice pool
2. Easy access to downtown Saugatuck via the Chain Ferry
3. Detailed website that is very specific and up-front about the facilities
4. Walking distance to Oval Beach
Negatives:
1. A little on the expensive side
2. Hotel does show some signs of wear and tear
3. Limited breakfast buffet
We really like the Beachway Resort and Saugatuck. Labor Day 2011 will be our third visit. We wanted a place with a pool which was also within walking distance of the Downtown, not too easy to find in Saugatuck. The location of the Beachway, which is right by the Chain Ferry (on the Lake Michigan side) and within walking distance of Oval Beach is just about perfect.
The hotel has a very detailed website with lots of pictures and virtual tours. The owners are very up-front and honest about the facilities. For example, they clearly state that the Economy Family Rooms are on the small side and make note of units/rooms that require climbing a lot of stairs. Another nice feature of the website is that you can book the exact room you will be staying in (each room is a little unique).
The rooms are nice a clean (decor is maybe a little dated in places). Again, the web site provides specific details of what to expect in each room. The pool is large and clean with a deep end and a shallow end with entry steps.
The car park does get a little crowded late at night but we never failed to find a spot. The breakfast buffet is fairly minimal (coffee and doughnuts) but again this is indicated on the web site.
We found all of the staff members to be helpful and friendly. The room rates do seem a little on the expensive but may be competitive with the area.
So all in all, I would recommend the Beachway, particularly to families with kids.
- Beachway Hotel Saugatuck
