Seaview Patong Hotel

This hotel offers a distinctive seafront location at the quieter end of Patong, providing a tranquil escape while remaining conveniently close to the area's vibrant attractions. Its traditional Thai style contributes to its unique charm, though some aspects are noted as dated. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and the hotel's beautiful, clean pools, which serve as a central feature for relaxation. The breakfast receives positive remarks for its variety and quality. This destination is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a peaceful retreat with scenic views, families who appreciate the spacious rooms and pool areas, and sightseers looking for easy access to local points of interest. For a more comfortable stay, guests with mobility challenges should be aware of the numerous stairs throughout the property, and it is advisable to be prepared for a room deposit upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features multiple swimming pools that are consistently described as beautiful, clean, and well-maintained, offering ample sunbeds and provided pool towels for guest convenience. While most guests enjoy the pool areas, some have noted that the surrounding tiles can be slippery when wet, and a few mentioned the water features can be quite loud. Feedback on Wi-Fi connectivity is mixed, with some guests experiencing slow speeds or difficulty connecting in their rooms, while others found it strong. The fitness center is available, though some equipment is reported as outdated or non-functional. The hotel primarily relies on stairs for access to various areas, with only one elevator available, which can be a challenge for guests with mobility issues or when it is out of service.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room condition is varied, with many describing the accommodations as dated and in need of refurbishment. Recurring issues include a pervasive dampness and musty smell, particularly in ground-floor rooms or those with older air conditioning units, which can also lead to mold in bathrooms and around vents. While daily cleaning and fresh towels are provided, some guests felt the cleaning was superficial, missing deeper areas. Bed comfort receives mixed reviews, with some finding beds comfortable and others noting uncomfortable mattresses. Bathrooms are frequently cited as old, small, and in need of renovation, with reports of leaks, dirty shower screens, and issues with toilet flushing. Noise levels vary, with some rooms being quiet and others experiencing sounds from traffic or other guests.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast generally receives positive feedback, with guests appreciating the variety of options, including fresh fruit, cooked items, and a popular egg station where custom orders are prepared. However, some guests noted that hot food items could be cold, and a few mentioned limited vegetarian choices. The restaurant offers dinner options, with food quality often praised, though service can sometimes be slow. The pool bar provides a selection of food and drinks, with some guests finding prices reasonable and enjoying happy hour specials, while others found the atmosphere less inviting or the selection limited. Room service is available and has been described by some as prompt and efficient.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent seafront location, directly opposite the beach, offering a tranquil setting away from the main bustle of Patong. It is conveniently situated within walking distance (ranging from 5 to 25 minutes) to popular attractions such as Bangla Road, Jungceylon shopping mall, and various local markets, shops, and restaurants. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available outside the hotel, providing easy access to other parts of the city. While the immediate beach area is not ideal for swimming or sunbathing due to its proximity to the pier and high tide, more suitable beach areas are a short walk away. A significant point of concern for some guests is the hotel's reliance on numerous stairs to access reception, dining areas, and rooms, which can pose a challenge for individuals with mobility limitations or heavy luggage.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, politeness, and helpful demeanor. Many guests highlight their attentive and accommodating approach, often going above and beyond to assist with requests and resolve issues. The check-in/out process is generally smooth, though some guests were surprised by unexpected deposit requirements or difficulties with securing late checkout. While housekeeping provides daily room cleaning and fresh towels, some reviews suggest the cleaning can be superficial, particularly in bathrooms. Reception staff are largely commended for their responsiveness to maintenance issues and room changes, though a few guests reported instances of unhelpfulness or communication challenges due to language barriers.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the hotel's cash deposit policy, which requires a significant amount upon arrival and has surprised some who were not informed beforehand, with occasional issues reported regarding deposit returns. Securing a late checkout can be challenging, as the hotel frequently states it is fully booked, even when rooms appear available online. Due to local regulations, some guests have noted a strong cannabis smell in common areas and occasionally in rooms. Standard room amenities include kettles, free bottled water, coffee/tea, and mini-fridges. Guests are also required to use a key card for pool towels, a policy some find unusual. Many reviews consistently mention that the hotel is very old and in significant need of a complete refurbishment or upgrade to address its dated appearance and various maintenance issues.