The beach was in excellent shape and the water was super clear... evidence that the BP oil spill has been cleaned up fairly well. Only remnants of the spill that I could see were dark patches of seaweed floating in the water... possibly stained by the oil? Otherwise, no qualms about taking a cool dip in the Gulf of Mexico... my entire family enjoyed swimming in the ocean during our vacation.

My family and I have stayed at various units in the Palacio each year since 2006. This year was our first stay in 1806. The condo has been recently renovated with soothing wall colors, comfy carpeting in the bedrooms, and an attractive laminated wood floor in the great room. The bathrooms and kitchen have durable ceramic tile floors. Sunsets are incredible to watch from the wraparound balcony that faces the south (oceanfront) and the west (Intracoastal Waterway).

Palacio... the Good:
• Beach location is prime for relaxing and water sports
• Parasailing and jetskiing are available just a short walk west on the beach
• Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to Palacio guests
• Free DVD rentals in lobby kiosk
• 2 tennis courts (lighted) available across the street
• Shopping, restaurants, and pubs are within walking distance (or a short drive)
• Front desk staff was friendly and efficient w/check-in
• Condo was clean and comfortable

Palacio... the not so good:
• Beach attendant didn't remember my family's faces (or last name)... asked me everyday if we were staying at the Palacio... even though she wrote it down on her clipboard the first day of our stay. Also, even though it was very quiet that week (i.e. not many people staying at the Palacio and plenty of availble chairs/umbrellas), the attendant wouldn't allow my family of seven to use more than two beach chairs and one umbrella each day.
• 2 lights were out on the tennis courts. I immediately requested (in person) the front desk staff to have the maintenance department replace the lights ASAP because my family likes to play tennis at night after dinner. The lights were never replaced during our entire stay Easter week.
• The 19th floor penthouse unit above our condo was noisy for a few nights... sounded like late night parties. The worst of the noise transmitted through the ceiling of the master bedroom. My wife and I would lay awake listening to the penthouse stereo/TV blasting before & after midnight, and patio doors opening & closing. Also, early in the morning we awoke to the pitter-patter of feet above our bedroom.

Past experiences with the Palacio have been positive... we will likely return if the value remains good.