We just completed another week's stay, exactly two years later than when I wrote about in my first entry. The experience was completely different this time.
Physically, little has changed in the units. This time, we were in unit #202, which offers a lovely, straight-on view of the recreation area (pool, Jacuzzi, chickee hut) and the Gulf beyond. We could see the Gulf from our bed.
And we would have been able to hear the breakers on the shore, had it not been for a massive construction undertaking going on weekdays from 7am to 4pm, directly next door. The noise was so obnoxious that sitting around the pool to read, or even sitting on the screened in deck was not enjoyable. In order to sleep in the morning past 7am, earplugs were a necessity. Furthermore, there is evidence that if this new construction is more than two stories high (which it appeared will be the case) that it will block the afternoon sun from the recreation area. That will seriously affect the resort's desirability, at least for us.
The cleanliness had slipped, decidedly. When searching for a lost earring, a peek under the bed revealed several crumpled, used Kleenex. YUCK! One lamp was missing a light bulb, but it was replaced upon request. Other than that, maintenance and cleaning was OK.
The furniture was the same, a little worse for the wear, but not bad. The décor was the same too in dark green/pink. The ranges have been replaced with a smooth cook-top model. The fridge was the same as well, though it had broken bars, wire shelves, and extensive rust pitting, inside and out.
There are a few limited resort-sponsored activities, like an ice cream social for $2, and a cookout on Wednesdays for $3. Bikes (not in the best of repair, with handlebar grips missing, tires not pumped up and coaster brakes that didn't work well) are loaned out and seeing the area is fun. There are some bike trails, and you can walk your bike over the bridge off Manasota Key.
The other guests were completely different this time. The last time they were warm and eager to include newcomers. This time, we were barely greeted by anyone the whole week.
The pool registered 4-5 degrees less than the enjoyable 86 degrees it was the last time. The Jacuzzi was lightly warm. We asked that the thermostat settings be increased on both, and both requests were refused.
The Sea Oats is still a pleasant enough resort with comfortable accommodations. However, because of the noticeable decline in the staff's willingness to please, and because of the obnoxious noise that is present during most daylight hours, we were not nearly as enchanted as we were the first time. We had a "nice" vacation, but certainly not a memorable one, at this resort.