My siblings and I are planning to gather in Lordship Township, which is part of Stratford, Connecticut, to celebrate my sister's birthday in January 2025. Our family has gathered here for about 30 years, for holiday dinners at our mom's house, which is in Lordship Township, right on Long Island Sound. For all of those years, those of us who traveled from a distance would stay at Marnick's, a locally owned hotel that's right on the beach near our mom's house. Our mom passed a few years ago and I hadn't returned to Lordship Township since then. On a whim, browsing online for hotels in the area, I learned about The Surfside Hotel. I learned that Marnick's had closed and that a while later Surfside emerged, sporting a whole new vibe. Prior to committing to recommending a sibling gathering there, I spent the night last week at Surfside. I'm happy to report that the upgrade is impressive. While the rooms now cost more than they did when Marnick's owned the place, the prices are well within reason for the area. I took an Amtrak from D.C. (about 6 hours), paid about $12 for an Uber/Lyft from the train station, and arrived to meet Iona at the hotel's front desk. She took my information and offered that she'd been there for about 2 years and the present owners have been there for about six years. All the features of the hotel appeared to be solidly restored and improved upon. I had a second-story room (21) with a balcony looking out to the Sound. There was a complimentary coffee bar with self-serve coffee, tea, hot chocolate, fruit, and snack bars. There's a beach-reading library, so I contributed my copy of Rachel Kushner's recent novel, "Creation Lake," which I finished reading on the train ride from DC. There were no downsides. There's a decent efficient fitness center that includes a Peloton and free weights. There's a map of the area suggesting pleasant walks along the seawall, Russian Beach, the Prospect Light House, and Long Beach Gatehouse. There are paths taking hikes of two miles, 3.6 miles, and five miles, and a suggestion for a longer bike ride. The main reason for this visit was to see whether the siblings would be able to stay on site for meals. There's a well-populated bar and restaurant attached to the hotel called The Little Pub (see my Yelp review.) There's also a neighborhood Italian restaurant and bar half a block away. There's a deli and an adjacent pizza parlor three blocks away, where I picked up a single slice of pizza and a portion of carrot cake. The Lordship Corner Market is right next to the pizzeria, and has sandwiches, newspapers, and sundries for days at the beach. For those with cars, I can recommend the Cricket Car Hop, a mile or two inland, for great hot dogs, burgers & fries (it was a favorite of my mom's, and we went there just about every time I visited, but I wasn't in town long enough this time to visit). Things to keep in mind: Surfside is a small business, not part of any chain. Iona needed to know when I was likely to arrive, to be sure someone was available for check in. No one was at the front desk when I checked out (but I received a check-out acknowledgement shortly after 9 a.m. the day I checked out). I believe pets are welcome (I saw a service dog there as I was leaving in the morning). There are no elevators, and my room was on the second floor. The hotel is still using single-use plastics for the shower, and the tub lacked handholds. But the vibe is good . . . we get the aloha and mahalo greetings, suggesting Hawaiʻi roots. The innkeepers report that "Boy knows nothing about running a hotel, but restaurant comes with a hotel attached so it's all or nothing. Boy must convince Girl it's a good idea. Girl is not impressed. Boy breaks into song. Girl is impressed and says YES! Restaurant and hotel are redone, there is singing and dancing, and everyone is happy." True Romance! Mahalo read more

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Cute and clean. Very accommodating. Cold water provided. Sweet mini fridge and custom placards. Right on the beach. Really! Old timey and homey vibes. Nearby restaurants, too. read more

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Enjoyed a quiet and relaxing stay in room 19. Beautiful views from our room's balcony. The room and hotel were clean and the overall style is rustic, retro, and eclectic. The outside of the building reminds you it's an older hotel but I personally loved the retro feel. They also had bikes to borrow, electric car charging, and free parking. The hotel is located near a residential neighborhood and on the beach. We really enjoyed waking along the water for a bit looking at what washed along the shore like crabs, rocks, seashells, etc. There's a restaurant on site but we didn't try it. We really appreciated the coffee room equipped with muffins, snack bars, apples, tea, coffee, ice, and a water bottle filling station! Both people we interacted with at the front desk were friendly. We would love to stay here again. read more

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Great location for a few nights away. This is not a tourist area, but there are some great restaurants in the area (The Little Pub attached to the restaurant, Riley's next door, a nice sandwich/corner store and pizza shop about 2 minute drive or 10 minute walk) and an adorable gift shop (Mellow Monkey) about 10 minutes from the hotel. The hotel has plenty of parking and is very clean. There are Filtered water machines in a few areas to fill bottles (it was good water). The coffee area has some bags of ice in the freezer (no ice buckets in rooms) granola bars and apples. There is a nice little exercise room with 2 bikes some free weights and yoga mats/blocks. There are quite a few stairs to get to the 2nd floor and no elevator. We stayed in Room 22 (beachfront corner room) the room was spacious, the 2 queen beds were very comfortable, there were 1 million pillows (lol). There was a desk chair and another that I think was just for decoration. The mini fridge was a good size. The deck is a good size, but there is no privacy if others are using theirs below or next to your room. The beach is nice, the hotel offers a few chairs, paddle boards and kayaks. if you plan to go in the water I'd recommend water shoes. There were also bikes available for guests. Overall it's a nice place for a night or 2 getaway. read more

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This is such a charming gem of a hotel! Stayed overnight for a wedding and everything was fantastic! The room was very clean and cute - nice fun little touches like a retro mini fridge & comfy bath robes. The setting was beautiful for both the wedding ceremony & reception. Also enjoyed drinks at the Little Pub after the wedding and coffee from the cute little coffee bar the morning we checked out! Highly recommend! read more

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This hotel is a MUST if you will be in the area and need a place to stay and love the beach. It's been completely refurbished with all of the modern amenities that you could need. The staff is wonderfully friendly and we had a tour of the hotel before arriving at our room. It's so artsy and beautiful! The room was large, clean and comfy, and our room had a large deck facing the beach...perfect to watch the sunset and the sunrise! We went to Little Pub (connected to the hotel) for a drink before exploring the area. We were there in December, so it was too cold to really enjoy the beach, but beautiful nonetheless! read more

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This hotel is absolutely amazing! Comfortable, friendly, it's great. I felt like I was on a tropical island.

Great location right on the beach. The bed and shower were good, but I had three issues: 1. There is only one handicapped parking space, and its side access is partially (and illegally) blocked by bicycles. 2. The technology is terrible...not enough wall outlets, shoddy internet (with very little mobile phone access), and DirectTV that keeps going in and out. 3. A telephone pole (with wires) right in the middle of the small beach. read more

We were only here for a night as we attended a nearby concert, but The Surfside Hotel immediately burned itself into our memory as one of our favorite stays ever... First of all, the beachy boho vibes are right up our alley. I mean seriously, the color scheme and those hanging lamps... Style doesn't get much cooler. Then there's ample amenities. A small fitness center. A little breakfast area with coffee and muffins and a few other morning necessities. The room has a fridge that's fully stocked with beverages and snacks--with up charges for consuming them, of course, but that's to be expected. There's also an attached restaurant (Little Pub) with a delicious menu and an exquisitely chill atmosphere. When we went to our concert that evening, we were happy to see that The Little Pub had a little snack bar at the venue and we made sure to hit them up! Perhaps most impressive was the dedicated level of service. We've stayed in dozens of hotels all over the United States and Canada and this staff were among the friendliest we've encountered. We were given a personal tour of the hotel while being escorted to our room, which has never happened before at any other place we've stayed. I'm surprised it's not more common! From a marketing perspective, it's a great way to help customers experience the value of the hotel before they even set foot in their room. To top everything off, the hotel is literally right on a beach. Guests have easy access to the sand and many rooms have a balcony or opening facing it. We could see Long Island across the water from our room, which was pretty cool. Needless to say, we'll be staying here again sometime. read more

The Surfside Hotel - Lobby - Hotels Near Me - Stratford, Connecticut

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My niece and I accompanied by her newborn baby stayed at this hotel for 2 nights and encountered a most traumatic stay. Upon arriving the Mitsubishi unit was locked on 66 degrees. We let the front desk which is rarely manned by a human know, and instead of moving us immediately or calling a 24 hr HVAC number to rectify the situation they turned the air off completely and left us no recourse to breath in this room. Upon returning in the evening the air was stale and the unit was not working at all, totally shutdown as their remedy for the situation. No one was at the front desk and the call number posted their after 12 calls remained unanswered by the management number that obviously couldn't careless about their job or their clients. We rustled a gentlemen from the associated bar to come in and after an hour he got the unit on, but again stuck at 66 degrees not 73 as promised. We were afraid to turn it off and stifle. We couldn't budge the window open that was stuck and didn't want to break it, so we suffered all night frozen to death with a new born crying and freezing. The next day of the vacation was a bust after being so uncomfortable and up all night we could barely keep our eyes open. Finally, someone from management texted us to change rooms bc they realized the unit remained broken. No apology, no assistance in moving all of our bags, further inconsideration to a second floor out of the way side room which was no upgrade in our eyes with a side long distance peak of the bay from one vantage point only. We were told we would get a minimal credit for the inconvenience which a week later has not come. Many phone calls later still no answer. Our trip was ruined, the baby came home sick, and we were out of a good chunk of money for a weekend of misery. We ate a meal in the associated restaurant. We asked them for 2 spoons to eat ice-cream later that night to eat in our room which they refused, so we had to eat it with our fingers. This was the worst treatment from a hotel I have ever encountered with the worst staff because they were just missing in action the entire stay, and a week later we still have not received the minimal not appropriate credit on this trip from hell at the Surfside Hotel. read more

My friends and I were looking for a spot for a girls weekend and this hotel popped up during my friends search and we were so glad we stayed here! Who knew that there could be a great place like this in Stratford? Check in was a breeze and we were greeted with little bottles of champagne. The receptionist gave us a tour of the facilities and like another reviewer said, this really needs to be the standard for all hotels! They've got a cute help yourself coffee bar, a fitness room with a peloton bike, and some regular bicycles to borrow if you'd like to bike around the beach. The room itself was so spacious and loved the boho details throughout. There's a mini fridge and tv with an Amazon Firestick. The best part of this hotel is that it is right on the beach so you can enjoy your morning coffee out there or sit outside for sunrise/sunset. Little Pub is attached to the hotel so we stopped by there for snacks and drinks after check in. So convenient! Customer service was great here and I would definitely look into staying here again for a little staycation! read more

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Just checked in. Cutest place ever. Truly. Perfect touches everywhere. The linens, the bath soaps, the little blue fridge. And the breeze from the sound. Absolutely heaven. There is attention to every detail. The 24/7 coffee room with coffee, tea, hot cocoa and granola bars. The water stations around the place so you can fill your water bottle. The surfing theme is so well done. Can't recommend this adorable hotel enough read more

Had three rooms for overnight. Awesome little beach boutique hotel. Rooms were great,

I can't say enough about this hidden gem hotel. We stayed in room 14 which had two double Queen beds and a beautiful walk out roof top balcony over looking the beach. The space was immaculately clean and thoughtfully decorated for a really comfortable stay. The beds were so heavenly, it was hard to get out of them. The morning coffee space was perfect and the lobby was really welcoming. We had a late night snack at the Little Pub which was staffed with pleasant servers and good food. We're already planning our next stay - we really had a wonderful time here. read more

While we didn't end up actually staying at this hotel, we were very disappointed in our communications with them. My overall sense is that this place is one of those 'virtual concierge' type places, and where there is no actual staff onsite. We initially had a reservation, but then had to cancel it. I was quite shocked at how expensive their prices were. Sure, the rooms look cute and all but... it's in a far-flung location, so I'm not sure how they warrant such prices, and seeing as there doesn't seem to be much onsite support there. I'd imagine we may have felt we were left to 'fend for ourselves' once we arrived there....almost as if we were at an empty Airbnb apartment vs a 'hotel'. Often when we called, it was more like an 'answering service' that picked up the phone, telling us someone would have to call us back, often a day later. With regards to our reservation cancellation, while we received a confirmation of the cancellation, our bank showed otherwise, with the full charge appearing on our bank statement. We called the hotel 5 days ago, to try and resolve this, and the person who's been answering the phone is clearly just a 'message taker', and is seemingly incapable of transferring us to anyone with any real problem-solving capability or power. I don't know if this place is a one-man operation or what, but from where we sit, it all feels a bit odd. Needless to say, we are still waiting for a call back, to resolve the erroneous charge. If that doesn't work, we will dispute the charge with our bank. read more

They did get the air conditioning back on so points there but I'm going to leave the 3 stars. Once the air came back on I couldn't change the temp. This place is fine for a one night stay but wouldn't stay here long term. Walls are thin, only got one bath towel, no irons, beach towels smelled musty. On the positive side, cute decor good shower pressure, had good food and fun at the Little Pub, nice view from the hotel. read more

The Surfside Hotel - Thermostat that doesn't work! - Hotels Near Me - Stratford, Connecticut

We went for a visit to see my son and his girlfriend and they recommended this location. I'm so glad they did. First off customer service is above and beyond. They are very personable and friendly which makes you feel so welcome. The decor is spot on in every nook and cranny ..very fun. Absolutely spotless everywhere and beds were so comfy I overslept and missed the yoga they offer in the gym..I never overslept. The view is incredible and the outside patio from our slider was such a bonus. The pub downstairs was convenient and impressive with a large menu and drinks drinks drinks. This is a paddle board enthusiast dream spot and they do have bikes and boards for guest use. Im sure you have figured by now we loved it here and plan on being regulars read more

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The hotel is wonderful. Great location and feels like you're on an island somewhere. My only issue is with Hotel / Restaurant Management. Over the summer, my wife and I received a parking ticket outside of the property. As Town of Stratford parking regulation signs were not well marked, my wife contacted the property manager suggesting the Hotel / Restaurant notify customers of the street parking regulations since their parking lot can't accommodate everyone on busy summer nights (it feels kind of crappy to receive a parking ticket right outside the establishment without any heads-up from the property about parking regulations). The property manager told my wife to let her know when we'd be returning and she'd take care of us. A week before our planned night at the hotel in November, my wife directly emailed the manager letting her know the night of our stay. Disappointingly, the manager never responded, meaning it was an empty promise without the intent of being fulfilled. It's unfortunate we won't be returning, as we enjoyed the hotel. read more

Reservation system they said is flawed. Reserved second floor water front king room and got a first floor water front double room. This room had picnic tables in front where a group of people hung out all night and had to leave curtain pulled closed to have any privacy. Staff explained that the system mistakenly gave us wrong room key. Really? Charged the full price of the second floor king though and the comment was the rooms were the same. Not hardly. Was offered a ten percent reduction ($40) which was never received. Also just to inform you who may want to give it a shot. Room smelled of mildew and had bugs. Really did not just saying this because of "System Error ". Little Pub was great, so eat there and stay somewhere else. read more

I went here when it was Marnicks Roadway motel growing up as a getaway from home as a family. I now went back as a newlywed with my wife. Simply amazing. The management is second to none. They did a rose display and champagne as well. I did not expect this nor did my wife. What a gift !!!!! Thank you 1000 times and more. We will be back. You made my honeymoon a truly amazing one. If your looking to get away or your in the area this is a place you must stay at. I'd give 10 stars if I could. The staff is amazing!!! And if your hungry the pub attached to the Hotel is a must goto ! Tha k you guys! read more

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Really happy with our night stay here! Beautiful sunset & beautiful sunrise! Some very sweet little amenities & a Environmentally conscious little hotel - perfect! read more

This motel has mold in most rooms and rust around shower drainage. Please, be aware if you are staying on the first floor that you will hear every move from upstairs. read more

Love it here. Excellent customer service. Repeat customer. My hideaway. Cindy from Brattleboro Vermont read more

This hotel has completely transformed! I am in disbelief that this the same property that used to be Marnicks. well definitely be back! read more

Busy urban-type motel on small beach that has been recently updated. We went on an off season weeknight and the attached restaurant was packed so I would expect the summer weekends will be crazy. Bed was very comfy but not much else stands out. Don't accept a ground level room. We paid extra for one of their "signature" rooms on ground level and it was tiny with restaurant picnic tables lined up right next to it! read more

Renovated and beautifully furnished, there is such a fun retro vibe to this hotel. We were lucky enough to have a porch with the water view which really expands the living space. So clean with comfortable beds, towels, furnishings. The 24 hour coffee room is such a nice touch as is the exercise studio. We had dinner next door at the attached Little Pub where we enjoyed an al fresco meal on the deck. What a gem of a hotel this was. read more

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Jason is amazing!!!!! Gave us a feee upgrade and a nice welcome gift! The room and vies is amazing!!! Definitely will do business with them again! Highly recommended!!! read more

The Surfside Hotel - Hotels Near Me - Stratford, Connecticut

Great spot.... Nice room( though ours was a little too warm). Beautiful spot on the beach. Two restaurants on the block and a cute deli about 3 blocks away. It is an older (remodeled) motel but you can't beat the location and view!! read more

Horrible experience and a total waste of money!!! The hotel is very low quality and run down, but they pretend it is high quality. The bed was uncomfortable. My room didn't even have a chair, so I couldn't sit and look at the ocean view (which is nothing special, as far as ocean views go). The most comfortable chair in the room was the toilet. I've had much better experiences at $80 a night hotels. I will never stay here again. read more

My husband and I spent a weekend here about a month ago. Our room was on the top floor facing the water with a large shared deck outside. The view was wonderful and even though there were diners at outdoor tables just below us, all we could hear was the gentle sound of the waves. Our room was very large, bright, and immaculate with tasteful, neutral beach decor. Very nice bathroom and amenities like bathrobes, pastries and coffee in the morning, and use of the hotels bicycles made us feel right at home. It was heavenly to fall asleep with the doors to the deck wide open and breezes blowing in all night. Little Pub right downstairs has a great menu for dining all day. Our only complaint was that upon arrival the doors to the hotel were locked and we had to go into the restaurant to track someone down to let us in. The young woman who seemed to be in charge was not especially welcoming and didn't tell us anything about the hotel (we found out about the continental breakfast, the bikes, and other amenities from a brochure in the room). It was a little pricey for an area that really doesn't have much to offer besides the beach (no nearby shopping, only two restaurants within walking distance, no local sightseeing, boating, nightlife, etc.) We were fine with just relaxing in a pretty spot and looking at the water, but the price was comparable to places like Cape Cod where there is a lot more to do and see. Overall, we had a lovely stay and are glad to have found such a nice little place not too far from home. read more

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What a great little getaway ! From the moment we checked in to the moment we left !! Great little pub onsite with excellent food and an all together excellent stay! Can't wait to go back :) read more

Absolutely love The Surfside Hotel & Staff! We stumbled upon this unique & awesome hotel traveling to Fairfield Connecticut "Go Stags". So glad we did. Room was clean & staff was absolutely amazing & accommodating. Excellent Little Pub restaurant downstairs with great food & drinks huge portions & again awesome friendly staff. We have returned numerous times & same great service ~plan to return again & again! Love this place! If your looking for an all inclusive getaway The Surfside Hotel is your place. read more