You’re between the Boardwalk and Atlantic Avenue at 9th Street. The 7th Avenue Stage is just two short blocks down for free entertainment. Across the street there is a ticket vending machine for the trolley which stops just outside. The 19th Street fishing pier is a ten minute walk, the 17th street stage, even less. You really aren’t far from anything… a short drive up Atlantic or Pacific takes you to 22nd Street and I-264 for easy access to the attractions of Norfolk and a little further to 31st Street (Laskin) gives you access to grocery shopping and considerably more.
All the units, whether they are RCI or hotel, are one bedroom units overlooking the beach. Each has a narrow balcony with a couple of chairs and with binoculars, or the naked eye, you can people-watch the crowds on the boardwalk and the beach or watch the dolphins parading up and down the beach in the morning.
All the units at Barclay Towers are accessed from a hallway to the rear. The odd thing is that the only door opens into the bedroom. For the two of us, that wasn’t a problem… had there been four, then there may be some difficulty. Although the bedroom window overlooks the hallway, it is opaque and well curtained, so it created no problem. The bedroom contained a comfortable king bed, television, adequate storage in a closet (with room safe) and a bureau. The bathroom is off the short hallway to the living area. It was a comfortable size, but of the rooms of the unit, it showed the most wear… peeling wallpaper and a tub that showed evidence of past injuries.
The open living space consisted of a full kitchen with dishwasher, 3 burners and oven, full sized refrigerator and microwave. It was also well equipped with small appliances, dishware, cookware and storage. The rest of the living space had a dining table for four and soft seating for four with a television set and VCR. The space is quite compact but a mirrored wall has the effect of opening it up.
We appreciated the twice-weekly maid service (more if you want it… the maids were great) and the hotel atmosphere… fresh towels, complementary toiletries and a free morning paper. Unlike some resorts, you get a "starter kit" that lasts all week.
The resort has few amenities or guest activities. There are a small swimming pool and workout area and we appreciated the small lending library just off the lobby. RCI guests pay a $59. fee for a continental breakfast; hotel guests don’t. The resort also thoughtfully provides excellent directions for just about everything that you’ll want to see.
The hotel has a parking lot just outside the front doors, but it is reserved for hotel guests; RCI guests are asked to park in the 9th Street garage (no charge). It was across the street, but it presented no problem at all