CR302: Crystal Shores Condo 302

This is the third time we have stayed at this unit, and the first time since 2016. We love that the place is right on the beach, is spacious, has magnificent views, and an elevator -- which is most welcome on the move in and out. Unfortunately, though, our experience this year was not as great as previously. First, the elevator was out upon our arrival, meaning that we had to carry all of our stuff up to the top floor. It was fixed within a day, but of course it was the worst possible day for it to be out. One of our neighbors had an elderly parent with them who could not do the stairs, so it was a particular problem for them. The Wi-fi and TV cable were also out for the first two days. On the positive side, both things were fixed fairly quickly. Village Realty was very helpful and responsive in attending to these things, as well as bringing out parking passes, which for some reason were not left in the unit as indicated. We also had a bad experience on the last day, when we were moving out. We discovered that ALL of our beach items -- about $200 worth of stuff, including three chairs, three umbrellas, a beach blanket, a beach table, and a large plastic bag of beach toys -- were stolen overnight from the unit parking space on the ground floor. They even took two $8 sand shovels that our kids used and several small plastic buckets! We reported the theft to the police and Village Realty. An owner/resident told us that they could not recall this ever happening before. But it happened to us. We recommend that future renters either be given access to the locked storage unit abutting the parking space or be warned not to leave anything in the parking space. (We note that other renters had access to the locked storage space for their units.) On balance, we had a great week but, understandably, this incident ended the vacation on a sour note. One other recommendation: the owners and/or Village Realty may want to provide updated photos of the place and an updated list of small kitchen appliances. The kitchen and second bath appear to have been upgraded in the last few years. Why not show that? Also, we were unable to determine before arrival what kind of coffee machine was in the unit. It would also be helpful to have a large pot for cooking pasta and 4 or more pasta bowls, rather than the cereal bowls there now.

Immediately upon entering the condo, we were satisfied. The view is spectacular in both the living room and the master bedroom. The kitchen was fully stocked and I was able to make gourmet meals (seared ahi tuna, seared scallops, shrimp scampi, even a strawberry cobbler and peach crisp!) The bedrooms were nice size and each has able furnishings and televisions. The 2nd bathroom appeared to be recently updated, which was nice. The condo facilities were also outstanding. I was pleased to discover the elevator, pool, and underground parking were all clean, well maintained, and open for use. I also really loved that the walk to the beach was short and easy to maneuver with two toddlers. The only downside was the proximity to Route 12; but as an avid runner, I was able to run along Route 12 very easily every morning! I also really appreciated how close to the Wright Brothers Museum the condo was. Being so centrally located, we were able to explore Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, Manteo, and visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse quickly. I highly recommend this condo and will be staying here again!

We love the condo and location. We visited the restaurant across the street, enjoyed the spring sun from the deck and beach, and thoroughly enjoyed our week here. Cant wait for next year!

Nice place, well furnished. LOVE the view!

Very nice spacious and quiet condo, with everything you need! Great views. Lovely beach. Enjoyed the pool too. Lots of activities for everyone. A good choice of grocery stores and restaurants (our favorite Kill Devil Grill, We also like Front porch cafe for breakfast/mid morning coffee break). The only negative thing for us (we like quiet none busy areas -used to Emerald Isle), was that very very busy double carriage road that goes North to South of the Island and you have pretty much no choice but using/crossing it where ever you need/want to go. But this may not be an issue for anyone else ;) Great vacation as a whole, wish we had more time to visit more local places!

We loved our condo rental! Great location close to restaurants and shops. The condo was clean, updated and very spacious. Loved the deco and layout. We will definitely come back!

The view-breathtaking! The condo-perfect! Location-close to everything!

The owners of this condo have taken great care of this home away from home! We were so comfortable we hate to leave! The kitchen has been updated so it is even better than the pics on the website!