My husband, two girls (ages 10 and 6) and I vacation at the Marriott Grande Hotel in Mobile Bay Alabama several weekends each summer. Even though it is a quick 2 1/2 hours away from where we live in New Orleans, I would drive further to get there.
more +From the moment you drive onto the grounds, one can't help but notice the exquisite landscaping with wild flowers dotting the grounds. There are several buildings to choose from but my husband and I choose the Bay building as it is steps away from the beach.
There is no other resort that is as family friendly. The pool is a graduated one so that moms of the youngest kids can let their kids sit at the most shallow part of the pool without worry. The pool is quite large with ground sprayers, waterfalls and a corkscrew slide with no age restrictions. There are lifeguards at all times. The lounge chairs are plentiful and covered by umbrellas. The have a poolside restaurant and bar. Steps away from the pool is the bay which serves the same function as a beach. Free bike rentals for singles (or for families of four) can be taken for a lovely ride down past the property and back. They have canoes and other motorized water gear as well.
There is a tetherball game and volleyball court as well as shoe horns amidst the hammocks and rocking chairs.
Each day, the resort has scheduled activities free of charge for kids of all ages executed by their friendly, young staff. They have a shell hunt on their beach at 9:30 followed by arts and crafts under a large shade tree on a picnic table followed by tattoos and popsicles at 3:30 poolside.
Each day at 4:00, the lobby offers tea, coffee, scones and cookies, once again, free of charge.
They have a large playground when the kids get tired of swimming and a hot tub which welcomes all ages.
There is an adult only pool and hot tub as well.
In the evening there are traditional activities such as the S'mores bonfire each Friday night at 8:30 and Saturday is a dive in movie on a large screen by the pool.
The gym is impressive and there is an indoor pool if needed as well.
The grounds are gorgeous and the pond in the center of the grounds is full of hungry ducks that will eat out of your hands. The front desk will furnish all the duck food you want.
The restaurants are fabulous but what stands out is the Sunday Jazz Brunch.
There is no reason to leave the grounds once you arrive. My family and I have had lovely weekends with wonderful memories. The rate might be high at times, but you do not get nickle and dimed after you arrive. I give this hotel my highest recommendation.
Date of Stay: 07/03/2009
Children in Party: 2
Tots (0-2) Kids (3-6) Kids (7-9) Tweens (10-12) 
Tweens (13+) Accommodations Dining Kids Play Area Money Value Pool & Water Fun Staff
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Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa
