First Group Port Owen Marina

This resort is amazing for nature lovers or bird watchers. Very laid back and peaceful. A boat trip along the water you will see lots of flamingoes and other birds. At the resort we had a lovely family of Egyptian geese with new ducklings come visit for food and they ate right out our hands. Although there isn’t much to do around the resort itself, it is a great get away if you just want to relax. We played putt putt and there is a large floor chess set. Some picnic spot with playground and swings for young kids. There is canoes, paddle boats, bicycles - all need an update but serviceable. Very family friendly. Amazing people and friendly helpful staff. Only down side was dirty pools (May be due to the season) and outdated facilities. Each unit has a private patio with bbq wich is kept clean for each use for you. It’s really good to just sit outside with the view of the water and a fire on just relaxing.

We spent 4 days at the resort. Finding Reception was a bit confusing although there is a big sign board indicating the direction from the car park but the entrance was not clearly marked so we found ourselves [and another couple with the same dilemma] walking along the path to the apartments until someone guide us to the actual reception area. That said, the welcome was warm and friendly which made us feel relaxed and reassured of a good stay. My only complaint would be the housekeeping needs to be overhauled.. The floors were clean to look at but when you walked on it, it felt and sounded like you had sticky residue underneath your shoes. We removed our shoes, unpacked our groceries and discovered that our feet were filthy underneath as a result of the residue on the tiled floors. Needless to say, I set about giving the floors a wash [on hand and knees] with warm water which solved the issue. The carpets in the main bedroom were grubby and had scorched/burn marks on the right side of the bedside table. The blinds in the kitchen had layers of dust that needs to be washed off. Putting all of that aside, the apartment was located in a beautiful part of the mariner. Peaceful, relaxing with lots of bird life too. Will be back!

There is good reason why the Port Owen Marina was built where it was. It is situated in a beautiful location and is secluded enough to be enjoyable. If you are in the area it is well worth a visit as there are lots to do. You can take a scenic walk or stop into one of the specialty eateries on the Marina, all of which are great fun to visit.