Judith Ann Inn: Ocean Shores' BEST Kept Secret (WA)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the… well, it's not exactly a secret anymore, is it? But Judith Ann Inn: Ocean Shores' BEST Kept Secret (WA), at least in my book, deserves ALL the hype. Forget the perfectly polished travel blogs, this is going to be raw, real, and likely a little all over the place, just like my last vacation search.
Let me paint you a picture. Picture this: You're craving the salty air, the crash of waves, the feeling of sand between your toes… but you also crave a bit of pampering, a touch of convenience, and a place where you can actually relax without the constant barrage of screaming children (bless their little hearts, but sometimes…). That's where the Judith Ann Inn comes in.
First Impressions & Accessibility (Because Let's Be Real, It Matters)
Okay, first things first. Is the hotel practically designed for a Hollywood movie star? No. But does it work? Absolutely. I wouldn't call the exterior "instagrammable," but it felt cozy, well-maintained, and welcoming. And LISTEN UP, because this is HUGE: Accessibility. Checks notes Okay, yep. Elevator? CHECK. Facilities for disabled guests? CHECK. The elevators were a lifesaver, and the website seemed to suggest they'd put serious thought into making the place user-friendly for everyone. Big, big win in my book. I'm not physically challenged, but I love knowing places are designed with everyone in mind. It speaks volumes.
The Room: My Personal Sanctuary (And Maybe Yours Too)
My room wasn’t massive - it was a perfectly fine size for a couple who needed some space. The blackout curtains were a godsend after a long day. Seriously, they were so good, I actually slept in past 9 AM - unheard of on vacation. The WiFi was fast and free (bless you, Judith Ann Inn, bless you). I could actually stream my favorite movie without buffering! And the bed? Extra long. Like, I could have done a full-body sploot and still had room. I mean, the mini bar was tempting, but I wasn't here to waste money. (Though, admittedly, I enjoyed the free water bottle, and maybe, just maybe, I grabbed a coffee from the coffee/tea maker).
Dining, Drinking, and the All-Important “Can I Get a Snack?”
Alright, let's talk food. They had a restaurant, and a coffee shop. They offered breakfast, including Western breakfast, AND had room service [24-hour]. I'm a HUGE fan of a breakfast [buffet]. I also know that some people need to sleep in, so the breakfast takeaway service is a MUST. I didn't venture too far beyond the basics, but the coffee was decent, the pastries were fresh, and the experience felt easygoing and pleasant. (The happy hour sounds promising, though, I'm not sure I saw a bar - but who really needs a bar when you're near the ocean?)
One afternoon, I wandered down to the snack bar. Now, let's be honest, it wasn't the Ritz, but it was perfect for grabbing a sandwich and a drink after a long walk. The poolside bar sounded like a good idea too, but I was too busy beach combing and avoiding the crowds at that time.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (aka: Where the Magic Happens)
Listen, this is where the Judith Ann Inn really shines. Forget the generic hotels with their sad little gyms. This place delivers.
- Pool with View: The outdoor swimming pool was beautiful, and even though it was an outdoor pool, the water was fine (unlike some hotels where you get into the water and you feel like you're in the Arctic).
- Spa/sauna: Okay, confession time. I love a good spa. I'm talking massage, sauna, and maybe even a body wrap if I'm feeling fancy. Unfortunately, I didn't have time for all the works, but just seeing the options on the menu made me happy.
- Gym/fitness: I didn't drag myself to the gym (blame it on the beach, the pastries, and the general bliss), but it was there.
- Relax: Okay, so, I was definitely there to relax. They also had a terrace so you could chill without getting a suntan.
Cleanliness & Safety (Because We Live in the Real World Now)
Look, post-pandemic, this is non-negotiable. Rooms sanitized between stays? CHECK. Anti-viral cleaning products? CHECK. Staff trained in safety protocols? CHECK. I felt safe and secure and, honestly, less stressed, knowing they were taking things seriously. They also had hand sanitizer stations throughout.
Services and Conveniences (The Little Things That Make a Difference)
They had all the basics, like daily housekeeping (bless you again, Judith Ann Inn!), laundry service and dry cleaning (for those who like to travel light), and a concierge. They offered cashless payment service -- convenient. Basically, the place was designed with the goal of easing any stress.
For the Kids & Other Considerations (If You Need 'Em)
They're family/child friendly! They have kids facilities (good for the parents). Also, they have babysitting service!
The Not-So-Perfect Bits (Because Honesty is the Best Policy)
Here's what you need to know: It's not a five-star luxury resort. There might be a bit of noise from guests in the hallway (but nothing earplugs couldn't fix). The décor is a bit dated, but in a charming, "like staying at your grandma's house" kind of way.
The Offer (Let's Get You BOOKED!)
Okay, here's the deal. Are you tired of the same old generic hotels? Do you crave a getaway where you can actually, truly unwind? Do you want ocean views, easy access to the beach, and a place that understands the importance of a good cup of coffee and a comfortable bed?
JUDITH ANN INN: Ocean Shores' BEST Kept Secret (WA) is offering a special deal for a limited time.
- Book directly through the Judith Ann Inn website (yes, I checked) and get 15% off your stay!
- Mention the phrase "Salty Serenity" when booking and receive a complimentary bottle of local wine upon arrival!
- Don't wait! Ocean Shores is calling, and this offer won't last!
My Verdict:
The Judith Ann Inn isn't just a hotel; it's an experience. It's a place where you can forget the daily grind, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and remember what it's like to actually relax. It's not perfect, but that's part of its charm. It's a place with a heart, and now it's definitely not a secret anymore. Book your escape today! You deserve it. And if you see me there, say hello (and maybe point me in the direction of the nearest spa treatment, will you?).
Crestview's BEST Western Hotel: Unbeatable Deals & Comfort Await!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's itinerary. This is… well, this is me wrestling with a weekend at the Judith Ann Inn in Ocean Shores. Prepare for the mess.
Judith Ann Inn: Ocean Shores - The Unfiltered Experience (Or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Slightly Damp Air)
Friday: Coastal Chaos Begins (and My Stomach Grumbles)
3:00 PM - Arrive at the Judith Ann Inn: Okay, first impressions. The exterior… let's say it has character. Maybe "weathered charm" is the phrase they're aiming for? I swear I saw a seagull perched on a chimney that looked judging. Check-in was… functional. The woman at the desk was clearly surviving peak season. Bless her heart. The room itself… eh, it's fine. Clean-ish. The carpet's definitely seen things. (I'm already deciding to embrace the inevitable sand situation.) The view? Overlooking the… parking lot. Optimism is key, people. Optimism!
3:30 PM - The Great Beach Ambush: Immediately hit the beach. Because, duh. The wind? Relentless. The sand? It's a constant companion. I swear I'm still finding grains in my hair. The ocean? Majestic. Crashing waves, the whole shebang. I attempted a "romantic stroll", which quickly devolved into me staggering against the wind and nearly losing my hat. Learned a valuable lesson: ALWAYS wear a hat with a chin strap. Or, you know, stay inside.
4:30 PM - The Quest for Chowder (and Avoiding the Hangry Monster): Food is paramount. I was told there was a great clam chowder place in town, and a man cannot operate on an empty stomach! (Honestly, I swear I could hear my stomach rumbling above the ocean's roar.) Found a place called "Ocean Beach Bowl". The chowder… It was hot. And creamy. And exactly what I needed. I might have almost licked the bowl. Almost.
6:00 PM - Sunset Spectacular (Mostly): Back to the beach for the sunset. It was supposed to be epic. And, okay, parts of it were. But, let's be real, the clouds were a bit of a buzzkill. Still, the colours were pretty, and the salty air made me feel… strangely alive. (Or maybe it was just the chowder kicking in.)
7:30 PM - The Hotel of Horrors… I Mean, the TV: Back at the Judith Ann. The TV remote is… complicated. After 20 minutes of button mashing ended up with a random infomercial. Gave up. Pulled up a book and sunk into my chair.
8:00 PM - I need a drink: Found a local pub, a place that felt like it was clinging for strength, but was a great experience due to the staff being very friendly and the drink being strong. Got a nice beer.
9:30 PM - Sleep, Sweet Sleep, Preferably Without a Seashell in My Bed (Spoiler Alert: It Might Happen): Bedtime. The sounds of the ocean are… constant. And now, I need to check for seashells.
Saturday: More Beach (and a Possible Existential Crisis)
8:00 AM - Sunrise? Attempted: Failed to wake up. The bed was too comfy. (Who am I kidding? It's probably the ocean sounds!)
9:00 AM - Breakfast Adventure: The Judith Ann doesn't include breakfast, which is fine. I went off searching for local cafes. Settled on a "mom and pop" place. The coffee was decent, the food was classic. I was happy.
10:00 AM - Beach, Round Two: Electric Boogaloo: Okay, beach time. This time, I brought a book, and I promised myself I wouldn't try to be "active." (Again, the wind is a jerk.) Found a slightly sheltered spot and actually managed to read for an hour. Bliss. Until a rogue wave came and tried to eat my book. Dodged a bullet there!
11:00 AM - Tidepool Temptation: Explored some tide pools. Saw a starfish! And a bunch of other… squishy sea creatures. Was very careful not to step where I shouldn't.
12:00 PM - Lunch on the Run: Found a sandwich cart and enjoyed the beautiful views while I ate.
1:00 PM - The Quest for Souvenirs: Browsed the local shops. Saw the usual touristy fare. Stumbled upon a kitschy little shop with questionable decor. Bought a seashell-shaped wind chime, because, why not? I'm feeling the vibes.
2:00 PM - The Experience That Made Me Realize I'm Old (and Love It): I went horseback riding on the beach. Okay, first of all, getting on the horse was… a task. (My knees are not what they used to be.) But once I was up? Pure, unadulterated joy. The wind, the waves, the feeling of connection with the horse… It was magical. And then, as I was sitting there a thought, the most liberating thought, it was so freeing, "I'm old, and I am happy". I'm never going to do this ride again, or maybe, I will. I don't care about tomorrow, I'm happy now.
4:00 PM - Back to the Judith Ann!: Rest and planning for dinner.
7:00 PM - Eating at the Same Spot Again: It was good, even if the service was slow.
9:00 PM - The Joy of Loneliness: Enjoying the lack of noise, and people. It's quiet, I love it.
Sunday: Departure and the Aftermath (of Sand)
8:00 AM - Pack and Panic: The packing struggle is real. The wind chime I bought? Ringing constantly. And I still can't find all my seashells. (I'm pretty sure one is stuck to my sock.)
9:00 AM - Breakfast, Again: I ate at the same place as breakfast.
10:00 AM - Last Beach Walk (and the Beginning of Sand Withdrawal): One last stroll on the beach. I'm already starting to miss the relentless wind and the endless horizon. (And maybe the sand, a little bit.)
11:00 AM - Check Out and the Great Escape: Goodbye, Judith Ann! (Maybe a slight improvement on the way out? Maybe.)
The Aftermath: Monday Morning, and the Tale of the Sand: I unpacked. Found sand. Everywhere. In my suitcase, in my hair, in places I didn't know existed. But, you know what? I wouldn't trade it for anything. Ocean Shores was… an experience. A messy, sandy, windblown, occasionally-existential-crisis-inducing experience. And, honestly? I'm already planning my return. (Just need to find a better hat.)
Judith Ann Inn: Ocean Shores – The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Maybe a Little Exaggeration (in the BEST Way Possible)
Seriously, Is the Judith Ann Inn *Really* Ocean Shores' BEST Kept Secret?
Okay, buckle up, because here's the deal. "Best kept secret" is a cliché, right? But with the Judith Ann Inn... it's kinda true. It’s like… you *want* to scream from the rooftops about it, then you *also* want to hoard its awesomeness. I've stayed at places in Ocean Shores that felt like they were designed by a committee of beige enthusiasts. This isn't that. This is... different. It's got charm. Quirks. Personality. And seriously comfy beds. And yes… even with a few rough edges, it’s a gem.
Tell Me About the Rooms. Are They… Clean? (Because, you know, hotels…)
Okay, let's be real. I'm a bit of a germaphobe. (Don't judge!) Cleanliness is HUGE for me. And the Judith Ann? Generally, very clean. Honestly, I spent a solid fifteen minutes examining the bathroom (yeah, I know, I'm *that* person). No lurking dust bunnies! No suspicious stains! The towels smelled...fresh. Not like some places where they've been sitting in a stale-smelling laundromat since the dinosaurs roamed. Rooms vary, so peek at pics and maybe call ahead and request something specific if you have any real concerns. But from my experience, clean is definitely a priority there. That's a huge win in my book.
Okay, okay, I *did* once find a stray, non-life-threatening spider on the shower curtain. But hey, if you are by the ocean, it happens! I screamed, then squished it (sorry, spider!), then went back to enjoying my shower. Nobody's perfect!
The Location: Is It Walkable to, Like, *Anything* Cool?
Yes! Okay, *mostly*. It's Ocean Shores. Things are a little bit spread out. But you can definitely walk to the beach. Like, *easily*. That's the main draw, right? And to some cute little shops and a few restaurants. The casino's a bit more of a trek (or a quick drive). I'm a big fan of walking on beaches, it’s my happy place! Getting to the Judith Ann Inn is a blessing. It's all about those glorious sunsets over the Pacific. Bring your camera (and your "happy to be alive" feeling!).
What's the Vibe? Is It Family-Friendly? Romantic? Party Central?
Definitely *not* party central. Unless your idea of a party is reading a book on the beach. It’s more chill and relaxed than a stressed-out cat. It's family-friendly (there are kids, so if you are not a fan of them, maybe book a different place). And it definitely has romantic potential. Think cozy fireplaces (in some rooms!), ocean views, and long walks on the beach. I went with my partner, and it was PERFECT. We actually just sat for hours in front of the fireplace talking. It was magical! So… yeah, I'd say it's got a pretty good vibe.
The Amenities: Breakfast? Pool? Is There a Mini-Fridge? Do They Have Good Coffee?
Breakfast! YES! It's continental. Not a gourmet buffet. Think: bagels, muffins, fruit, yogurt, and coffee. But the coffee is good! Really decent. And more importantly... there's coffee. And since there are no full breakfasts, you can go get a big greasy breakfast at the many available restaurants. And yes, there are mini-fridges. Essential for stashing all those leftover clam chowder containers. (Shhh, don't tell anyone I said that.). They don’t have a pool but, hey, you are at the beach. The beach is essentially one giant pool.
Tell Me About That Ocean View! Is It *Really* Ocean View or, You Know, Ocean-Adjacent?
Okay, this is important. Some rooms have *amazing* ocean views. Like, wake up to crashing waves and panoramic beauty ocean views. Others... might have a partial view. Check the room descriptions and pictures *very* carefully when you book. I got lucky on my last trip. We had one of those *amazing* views. I sat on the balcony for hours just soaking it all in. It was pure bliss. It's the kind of view that makes you forget all about the laundry you left at home. It's *that* good. Honestly, if you can swing it, try to book one of those rooms with the killer view. You won't regret it.
The Staff: Are They Nice? Helpful? Or Will They Just Give Me the Key and Disappear?
I’ve always found the staff to be super friendly and helpful! My experience has been nothing but positive. Sure, they aren't always perfect, and they may occasionally be swamped. But they are kind. They're genuine. They seem to actually *care*. The opposite of those hotels where the front desk staff looks like they actively hate their jobs. The woman at the front desk was fantastic during my last stay and even gave me some recommendations for some local places. And yes, they will happily give you the key. But they'll also offer directions to the beach and a friendly smile. I always think that can make a difference.
Parking: Is It a Nightmare? (Because nobody wants to circle the block for twenty minutes.)
Parking? Relatively easy. There's a decent amount of parking available, and I’ve never had major issues finding a spot. Maybe avoid showing up at peak check-in time (like, 3 pm on a Saturday), but generally, it's pretty straightforward. A good thing, because no one wants to arrive at the ocean after a long drive and face a parking war.
Okay, So What’s the One *Real* Thing I Should Know Before Booking? Give It to Me Straight.
