Less like hotel rooms, and more like summer camp cabins, the hotel lacks many accommodations that most modern hotels have. The neat, large, wood-paneled rooms are housed in two-story buildings along the beach in a motel style; the main building houses the snack bar, dining room, lounge, front desk and a small gift shop. There is an outdoor pool near the main building and a pier perfect for viewing the beach and fishing not far from there. Vending machines and ice are located between each set of rooms. The hotel also has some advantages. It’s more affordable than local upscale places, and each room is large with huge windows and balconies overlooking the ocean; the rustic feel of the rooms adds to the natural feel of the surroundings. This isn't a hotel room one would mind spending the day in, with the breathtaking views of the ocean waves.
For those who don’t want to lounge on the beach or balcony all day, there are areas for boating and fishing on the Gulf as well as a golf course near by. Near the hotel, there are also a number of attractions, such as the United States Naval Aviation Museum, outlet malls, and the Gulf State Park Nature Center for naturalists who want to learn more about the area. Lake Shelby, a freshwater lake, is available across the highway for fishing and picnics. There are also vacation cottages located on the lake. The weather was great during my stay, with only a few afternoon showers; it was humid, but manageable, with plenty of sunlight. I enjoyed my stay in the park, but in lazier moments, did regret the inconvenience of the main building, with its restaurant and gift shop, being so far.