Pineapple Paradise was a delight. It was our first time in Crystal Beach and we really enjoyed our stay. The home was immaculately clean and very well appointed—my girlfriend is always wary of home rentals due to cleanliness, and she was very impressed. Very close to the beach. Decent enough WiFi for one of us to work if needed. It was just two of us, so there was plenty of space. We would happily return with another couple and have plenty of space. Overall 5 out of 5 stars. Perfect COVID getaway from Austin. Three cons made this a four star property for us. Two could be fixed, one just is what it is...
1. The washer and dryer left our clothes smelling like cigarette smoke. On a first whiff the machines didn’t smell like anything, but our clothes came out reeking. Really disappointing considering everything else about this rental was spotless.
2. The front door opens outward, so none of the hotel/vacation door locks will work. We always bring something with us if the door locks with a code and there isn’t information on how often the code is changed. We suggest the owner either let the renter pick their own code, or fix the door so that it opens inward and can be locked with any of the “AirBnb” portable locks on the market. This might be a deal breaker for us returning.
3. Be aware that the Bolivar Peninsula is heavily Trump country. Lots of flags and paraphernalia from all the houses and people on the beach. I’m a white guy who grew up in Texas, so I know to just pay those people no mind. But if you’re a BIPOC be aware that the people here might not be the most friendly.