Darkling S.

Very surprised to find no reviews of this bed & breakfast in such a historic coastal town on the Gulf! I found it by Googling and TripAdvisor. It is highly rated on TA. Very close to the main historic town area in a residential neighborhood. Venice is quiet, charming, and clean with the usual shops and entertainment. The inn offers a selection of bicycles and took a turn around the town and out to Venice beach .. no one used locks .. just park it on the sidewalk and wander as you please. And yes, I said 'sidewalk' which of course one cannot do in Chicago ... illegal and hazardous to pedestrians. The inn is a long two story home that has been renovated to a modern classic style. Each room is different and spacious with tile baths and comfortable beds. The rear of the inn has a fountain, walkway and sunning area. It is unique in character and well-maintained. It's one of those inns I appreciate for having an 'open' kitchen with 24 hr beverages and snacks, a large comfortable living area with gas log FP, computer nook and Wifi. Coffee at 7:30 with breakfast at 8:15. Since one of the features of a B&B experience is the breakfast, I award a star for a timely, healthy and well-prepared one in an appropriate atmosphere. I had to deduct the star for the amount of sugar and carbs served at breakfast. Apparently there is no choice, only one dish offered each morning. I was thrilled to hear we were getting oatmeal since I eat it 5 mornings a week as a healthy alternative to a bagel and cream cheese. But we started with a sweet roll on each table then a sweetened fruit dish followed by oatmeal with fruit ... delicious, but no protein. The only other concern was the choice of either half-and-half or 1% milk in the icebox for beverages. Lois the innkeeper is a dynamic and lively hostess. She gives a very helpful primer on the town, the beaches and the inn with the aid of a local map. I would return to this inn if I find myself in this area again; highly recommended for those who want all of the comforts of a boutique hotel and a home.