Our week at Bay Gardens Beach Resort went all too quickly. We loved the location which was adjacent to the beautiful beach and was also convenient for shopping in Rodney Bay. Without exception the staff were friendly and helpful. Problems were dealt with quickly and efficiently. For instance, when we mentioned to reception that the sliding wardrobe doors didn't work, someone arrived at our room within five minutes. By the time we returned from the beach the faulty track was gone, the doors had hinges and handles and the frame had been repainted! We were astonished at the level of service we received. We had no other complaints about our room. It was spacious, clean and comfortable and had lovely views towards Pigeon Island. The housekeeping staff kept it immaculate.

We chose the all-inclusive meal option which we thought represented great value for money. We enjoyed both restaurants but Trio's was our favourite because it was quieter. The food was delicious and well-presented. All the staff went out of their way to make my birthday meal enjoyable and memorable. The attention to detail was amazing. We felt that everyone in the place enjoyed their job and wanted only to make the guests feel that they mattered.

Given the chance, we would certainly return to this hotel.

Our second trip back to St. Lucia and stay at this small, intimate resort. Close enough to Rodney Bay, shopping and dining. Far enough to be away from crowds. Fabulous location, awesome beach with great views of the anchored yachts and sailboats. Stunning sunsets! Beach is not too crowded with adequate security. Thanks to Margaret and Joseph for being so approachable and friendly. Wonderful massage on the beach from the spa ladies listening to the waves......how relaxing! Don't miss out on beach vendor food. The BEST roti and chicken patties in the world are available from Shirley. Made fresh everyday! Not only are they tasty but also reasonably priced. Highly recommend as a quiet, friendly place to stay.

We've just returned from a week at the Bay Gardens Beach Resort and had an excellent time.

However, where it not for the location on a fantastic beach, we were likely to have been disappointed. The hotel could definitely do with a spruce up - the beds were hideously uncomfortable (far too soft and saggy), the a/c, safe and toilet in our room all broke at some point (though they were quickly fixed by the excellent maintenance team) and the two restaurants on site (Trios and the beach bar) were both poor, Trios especially.

Saying that, however, the location is superb and you're not more than 20 metres from one of the best beaches in St Lucia. Rodney Bay is an excellent location with plenty of shops, though try and eat at the local places, not the over-priced international restaurants.

Unfortunately, I suspect the hotel is resting on its location laurels somewhat, but what a location!

My wife and I have just spent two weeks at the BGBR and throughly enjoyed our stay at this lovely hotel.

Unlike some of the completely over the top (single poster) reviews, I would like to post a more objective report.

The pros

Our Ocean view suite was clean, spacious and nicely furnished. The view was obstructed by trees, I would recommend the top floor rooms and suites for a better view.

The staff are really excellent, friendly, well mannered and good fun to be with.

BGBR is attractive and well designed and deserves it's four star rating. The pool is clean and the gardens well attended. The security seems good at all times.

The cons

The Hi Tide restaurant was a disappointment, the food is very average and lacks imagination. Most guests dine outside the hotel at night. The service is very hit and miss, no one seems in charge. The 'specials' remained unchanged for the whole two weeks. The hotel is missing a big opportunity and needs to get it right. These views were shared with many of the other guests we met.

Getting a simple drink from the bar takes forever with all the receipts having to go to a central cashier where they are hand written and bought back for signing. There must be a better system.

The beach is very nice but is dominated by the two Rex Resort Hotels which cover around 80% of the beach. The BGBR end is quieter but you will be sharing the beds with guests from the other two Bay View Resorts. The beach is also very popular with the cruise ships, when they are in port they bus their passengers up to the beach (which is most days).

Would we return, definitely as the BGBR offers great accommodation at a reasonable price.