We stayed in the RamSea over Christmas (2006). It's probably the 7th or 8th time we've stayed there.

I like it because the kids have a good time, but it's also quiet enough at night to be relaxing. The three bedroom unit we stayed in was on the 5th floor which had a bonus of a nice view of the Boca Ciega Bay (from the East side). The view of the Gulf sunsets from the RamSea units is always wonderful. The sand near the waterline is packed hard enough to make walking (and jogging) easier than other areas (e.g., Nags Head, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC) that I've visited.

We always try to stay in the building with the office because the DoubleTree is next to the other building and they have a beach bar with music on some evenings. There are washer/dryer rooms on at least two floors but for the last three years each of the units we've stayed in has had its own washer dryer available to its renters.

We had 20+ people over for Christmas dinner in our unit and were able to fit comfortably in the main room (using some rental tables arranged by the office). The only gripe (and it's small) that I have is that the elevators are painfully slow. Perhaps it's because we still have relatives (that we actually like) in the area but we always find it hard to leave. If you're looking for a classy condo (with the matching price), try The Tides just a little south on Gulf Blvd. If you want a good condo at a good price, the RamSea is a nice catch.

If you're looking for excitement, this is probably the wrong stretch of beach. If you're looking for family fun and relaxation, this is a great area. There are many restaurants in the area: The Frog Pond (huge, delicious breakfasts), Lobster Pot, Cafe de France, Salt Rock Grill, etc. Of course there are a lot of chain restaurants too. The Seminole Mall and the Tyrone Square Mall (both less than 1/2 hour away) will work if you need a mall fix (or to pass time on a rainy day). I believe that they're re-doing the John's Pass shopping area and there should be at least one or two good restaurants there when they're done. I always make at least one stop at the Columbia Restaurant on Sand Key because I love their Spanish Bean soup and 1905 salad. Of course, a pitcher of sangria makes it all a little more fun and it doesn't hurt that the Columbia has a wonderful view of the bay. A stop at the Candy Kitchen in Maderia Beach for a hand dipped cone is also mandatory.

One last comment, we've found that the folks who work in the RamSea's office are easy to work with and responsive to any requests for assistance. Try it, you'll like it!