Lake Almanor Tours and Activities

I didn't realize this property has a virtual front desk. It worked fine. There was a 2 min wait when I arrived but it was easy to do (just like an airline kiosk but it's a video call with a real agent). The motel is VERY nice. It's a 10 or so unit motor court with very newly redone units. Nicely furnished and appointed. My only confusion was the amenity kits at the lobby are extras. I wasn't sure if I needed to grab what I needed for my stay (You don't). I would have liked 2 things different for my room. The window shutter didn't close fully and there was a lot of light leak from the outside. And the bedside lamps are a glass shade so they have pretty direct light. That's a style point. I would absolutely stay here again. It's super convenient and I am glad to know about it.

Wonderful stay! Looking forward to my next visit

The Surf and Sand: Stunning Location, Disappointing Service The Surf and Sand's oceanfront location is genuinely spectacular—the kind of view that justifies five-star pricing. Unfortunately, the service quality falls far short of the property's premium positioning. Dining Issues: Our concierge recommended Splashes despite acknowledging recent reconstruction concerns, claiming they'd received no complaints. The reality was a severely limited menu with overpriced, overly rich dishes that didn't justify the cost. When we expressed concerns, no alternative dining options were suggested. Cancelled Services: Multiple advertised amenities failed to materialize. Morning yoga and other scheduled activities were cancelled without advance notice. Most frustratingly, a spa facial appointment booked a month in advance was cancelled when the aesthetician simply didn't show up. Billing Problems: Despite prepaying for our room, the hotel placed a $1,300 hold on our card for "incidentals"—an unusually high amount for a one-night stay. Additionally, the spa charged $148 for the cancelled facial service, and spa staff couldn't locate any record of the charge when we inquired. Bottom Line: While the oceanfront setting is undeniably beautiful, the property's operational issues—from unreliable service to questionable billing practices—don't support its five-star reputation. The location alone isn't enough to justify the premium pricing when basic hospitality standards aren't met.