Not only was this place awesome; it was relaxing, peaceful and a true getaway. My husband and I opted to stay in Port Isabel instead of paying for an overpriced dirty condo on SPI for twice the price of this gem. So glad I found this place. The Spanish architecture is beautiful and the Mayfield's have done a fantastic job updating and caring for this property. My husband loved the bed, it was a bit hard for me; but, wasn't so bad I couldn't sleep like the dead. However, i could sleep (and have slept) thru a hurricane; lol!
The outdoor area is where the relaxation is. I spent a lot of time by the pool when we weren't on the beach. It was perfect with all of the plants, watered daily by a real sweetheart named Jenn. The massive plumeria was my favorite. I have a huge love of these plants. The north winds also blew right thru the area making it perfect even in the heat of the day.
Fair warning, if you have never lived or stayed in a beachy/coastal area; the little sugar ants won't hurt you. I grew up on North Padre Island and they were probably a solid part of my diet as a child. You just have to remember not to leave anything and I mean anything out that could be enticing to them. They are part of the salt life; be prepared and don't be squimish.
Anyway, back to Gallo; there is a private sitting area out front, complete with patio table and chairs. Street parking under a massive tropical tree; wish I knew what it was, I want one! You're also a short walk away to the Laguna Madre if you just want to look at the water or see the fireworks outside the tourist trap of Louie's Backyard on SPI Thursday and Friday's. Definitely walk to few short blocks to Joe's Oyster Bar on Maxan; some of the best grilled fish I've ever had. That is saying a lot for me! I was turned off fish years ago smelling redtide from the NPI part of the laguna madre.
I loved everything about our trip. Note, if you're going to the beach, its probably cheaper to buy a 30 day pass than to pay the $12 a day to get onto the beach. If you want to watch a perfect sunset; go to Laguna Bob's and hang out with Jesse, Brandon and Tom. Best burger and ceviche I've had in a while!
All in all, if you want a relaxing beach trip that feels like home; stay with the Mayfield's! If you want an overpriced hotel or condo on the beach with onsite restaurants/roomservice/bar, where the maids wake you up at 8 a.m. don't stay here. If you have expect a 5 star resort, don't stay here.