Springhill Suites vs Holiday Inn properties

Question

Hi there, I’m taking a mother-daughter trip with my 17 y/o in April. Which property do you recommend? We love a lazy river, preferably heated. A kitchen or kitchenette would be a bonus. Thanks so much!

Answer

For your mother-daughter trip to Panama City Beach, both Springhill Suites and Holiday Inn properties offer great amenities, but depending on your preferences for a lazy river, kitchen facilities, and overall atmosphere, one might suit your needs better than the other.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed, beachy vibe with extra space, a kitchenette, and a great pool experience, I recommend considering the Springhill Suites by Marriott Panama City Beach. This property offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, which is a definite bonus for longer stays. While it doesn’t have a lazy river, its pools are quite large and well-maintained. The location is also very close to the beach, and you can enjoy an easy walk to the water from the hotel.

On the other hand, if a lazy river is a must for your trip, I’d recommend checking out the Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach. This property has a fantastic outdoor pool area with a lazy river that’s heated, making it a great option if you’re visiting in April and want a comfortable pool experience. While the rooms here are a bit more traditional, it still offers some suites with kitchenettes. It’s also located right on the beach, so you get the best of both worlds with easy access to the water and a fun poolside experience.

Springhill Suites by Marriott – Spacious suites with kitchenettes, close to the beach, large pool (no lazy river).
Holiday Inn Resort – Features a heated lazy river, beachfront location, some rooms with kitchenettes, family-friendly atmosphere.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites – A more budget-friendly option with a heated pool, near attractions but lacks a lazy river.

Both properties are solid choices, but if the lazy river is a priority for you, the Holiday Inn Resort is probably your best bet. Either way, you’re in for a memorable trip with plenty of options for relaxation and fun!