Courtyard By Marriott Aguadilla

With its huge open-air parking lot and expansive two-winged structure set in a somewhat sparse industrial area, this Marriott still reflects some of its former life as a military hospital. As a hotel, the property caters to a broad clientele with its 24-hour casino and kid-centric pool, so gamblers and families with young children find a lot to love. The colorful aquatic park is like a wonderland for over-excited kids who basically own the pool. The loud, all-day music blasting from the speakers is more adult-friendly, but peace-seekers will find any tranquility drowned out. A steady stream of guests roll through the lobby, which services both wings and accesses the parking lot, restaurant, casino, cafe, and the elevators. Decor in common areas is as you’d expect for a mid-range chain: cherry-red wood furniture, '90s-style geometric carpets, and faux mid-century seating. Apart from families and gamblers, the hotel also attracts airline crews, local families, and travelers requiring something handy to the airport. 

The Courtyard by Marriott is located in Aguadilla, a town in northwest Puerto Rico that's home to world-class surfing and beautiful beaches. The closest of these, Surfer’s Beach, is an eight-minute walk away. Guests can also drive or take taxis to other beaches including Survival Beach (a five-minute drive), Crash Boat Beach (a 14-minute drive), and Jobos Beach in Isabela (a 12-minute drive) -- where great surfing, plus an array of beachfront bars and restaurants are on offer. Rincon Beach -- known for its snorkeling -- is a bit farther at a 35-minute drive, but it's a worthwhile trip. There aren't many attractions or great restaurants in the immediate area either. However, it’s a three-minute drive to Rafael Hernandez Airport from here, and a free shuttle is provided by the hotel. 

Spread out over two wings, rooms are all spacious and decorated with modern furniture that’s tasteful if old-fashioned and chain-hotel generic. A spectrum of blues in carpeting and bed skirts complement crisp white bedding and cherry-red wood furniture. All rooms are well-equipped with work desks with ergonomic chairs, comfortable beds, coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, irons and ironing boards, and safes. Simple white-tile bathrooms feature shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and individual toiletries. Premium Rooms and Suites upsize layouts with separate living areas. While many rooms are peaceful, some guests complain of late-night noise from the casino interfering with sleep, so light sleepers should request rooms accordingly.

Features aren't exactly high-end at this Marriott, but they do cover all the bases. Two neighboring pools dominate the outdoor space -- one is entirely dedicated to kids with the aquatic playground and waterslides, and there are plenty of deck chairs on hand. The fitness center isn’t exactly state-of-the-art, but offers everything required for a decent workout, and an in-house spa is on hand for massages and treatments. For dining, RB Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual setting, although food has mixed reviews. David’s Cookies Cafe in the lobby also serves good espresso coffee, cakes, and a range of snacks. Plus there’s a little market with drinks, chocolate bars, and other basic amenities right behind the front desk. The Runway Pool Bar serves drinks and snacks like burgers, by the pool. The Ocean Casino, accessed through the lobby, is open 24 hours, seven days a week. It features the B-52 Sport Bar and offers evening entertainment, like comedy shows, from time to time. There are a number of meeting rooms available, along with audiovisual services. Plenty of on-site parking is available but the daily fee is an annoyance to guests. Free Wi-Fi is provided, and there’s also a free airport shuttle.