We had a very pleasant stay at the Ocean Front. The only hassle was picking up the key, which is on the other side of the main road behind the building on the 1st (or 2nd floor if the 1st is the ground floor) in the dive shop. There are no signs!
PROS: - behind the playground there is a little bay (15 meters wide) / beach w/o people. You can reach it by passing the mangrove forest. Clear water, white sand. More cosy than the big Painagama Beach opposite of the Family Mart. - balcony with semi sea view. - spacious apartment equipped with washing machine, kitchen, TV, a/c. - soft and ambrosial toilet paper ;-) in case you need that. - quiet location. - FANTASTIC water pressure. - mosquito net. - provide washing liquid and tissues, etc... - friendly staff (if you want to extend your stay or need some service) - english speaking lady at the dive shop makes conversation easier! - family mart 8 mins walk away.
CONS: - key pick up could be indicated on the PADI building opposite the apartment building. - facilities in the apartment could use an upgrade (oven, cutlery) - wifi was a bit lame as during evening time. - fridge temp. was stuck on a maximum. - they were so kind to give us room 207 which is the corner room --> better view.
GREAT STAY AT A GOOD PRICE - especially as it is only 1km from the bus station at the pier which can be reached directly from the airport.
Ps. They also rent bicycles (for scooters you need an international driving license and the scooter stores are a 20-30 mins walk away - e-bikes available at BIG JOY). Car rentals could be an option but are a bit pricey in Japan. If you want to explore the island you can take the bus which only leaves 6 times a day. So check the departure and return times before boarding!
The apartment is located as it named--“Ocean Front”. The balcony is facing Irabu-ohashi Bridge. It takes some time to find the check-in location (a blue building cross the road) which is separated from the apartment building.
The parking space (approximately 20 places) is sufficient at the moment but not sure the condition at hot season.
The apartment is a traditional one with washing machine, kitchen (including cookware and utensils).
There are some shortages if you try to cook your meal. There is no formal dining table. It does not have clear instruction for garbage disposal and classification. You are provided with a dishwashing pad but it is not convenient without a dishwashing cloth. Also it does not have sufficient garbage bags.
I very much appreciate the gas stove instead of induction stove. The hot water heater and water pressure never disappointed you so that you can enjoy your hot water bath anytime. Basic shower gel, shampoo and washing detergent are provided. The balcony allows you to hang your laundry.
Overall, it is a highly efficient accommodation no matter for your leisure vacation or a trip full of energetic water activities.
