Discovering The Harbor Terrace: Your Family’s Perfect Getaway!
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If you’re on the lookout for a fantastic family-friendly destination near Tokyo, then let me introduce you to The Harbor Terrace. Nestled in Zushi, this apartment hotel is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the iconic Kamakura. Imagine this: a mere 1 hour and 20 minutes drive from central Tokyo, or 1 hour and 30 minutes via public transport. It’s perfect for a quick escape from the bustling city!
Now, I must confess that one of the main attractions for us was the pool! After spending days in the sweltering heat, the idea of lounging by a pool was simply irresistible. After our stay in early September, I can say with confidence that it was the right choice. Just a quick note: if you’re planning to book at the last minute, brace yourself for a “last minute” price tag—it’s a hot commodity!
Hotel Amenities: Space, Comfort, and Fun!
The Harbor Terrace is particularly great for families, offering spacious apartment-style rooms complete with balconies. Picture this: your little ones can play while you sip coffee on your private balcony. What’s more, the hotel features a delightful rooftop pool that’s simply to die for! However, there are a few things to keep in mind: the restaurant on the lobby floor doesn’t allow children, so you’ll need to get a little creative with meals. Luckily, each room comes equipped with a kitchenette, making it super convenient to whip up breakfast or late-night snacks! And if you fancy a barbecue, just ask the reception for options—they can even supply the ingredients!
Your Family Adventure Awaits!
During our stay, we made a point to enjoy a game of Monopoly every night. It’s a fun tradition we started to keep the family spirit alive, and The Harbor Terrace’s cozy lounge area was the perfect spot. Plus, we were thrilled to find that they provide cute pajamas for in-room use! Talk about comfy!
One of my favorite features was the in-room kitchenette. We stocked up on goodies from the local supermarket and enjoyed breakfast in our PJs. And let me tell you, the oven and toaster oven came in handy for all our culinary experiments!
Rooftop Pool: The Crown Jewel!
Now, let’s get back to the highlight of our trip—the rooftop pool! Open from May to October (weather permitting), this gem is available from 8 AM to 8 PM. But beware, if the weather takes a turn for the worse, like a typhoon, the pool may close. We were lucky enough to enjoy it under the sunset, and the views were simply breathtaking. The atmosphere at the pool deck is perfect for both relaxation and family fun, making it one of the best spots in Zushi!
Dining Out and Nearby Attractions
When it comes to dining, you’re in for a treat! One of our favorite spots was Malibu Farm, located at the Marina in Zushi. It’s about a 12-minute walk from The Harbor Terrace and offers colorful, organic meals that are reminiscent of its LA counterpart. If you’re traveling with kids, I highly recommend checking out my write-up on dining at Malibu Farm with kids!
For a little more adventure, you can take a short drive or taxi ride to Garden House in Kamakura. Although it’s not just around the corner, it’s worth the journey—about 16 minutes by car or a reasonable 1000 yen taxi fare. If you opt for public transport, it’s just a 20-minute bus ride at 220 yen per adult. Be sure to check out my full write-up on dining at Garden House, Kamakura with kids!
Playgrounds and Local Delights
What’s a family trip without a little playtime? Just a 3-minute walk from The Harbor Terrace is Kotsubo Iijima Park, a charming grassy area with a small climbing structure, perfect for little ones to stretch their legs and let off some steam. Just a heads up, there are no public toilets, so plan accordingly!
During the summertime, you’ll find delightful street stalls selling kakigori, which is flavored shaved ice—a local favorite that’s sure to cool you down on a hot day!
Final Thoughts
In summary, The Harbor Terrace in Zushi is a fantastic destination for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. With spacious accommodations, a stunning rooftop pool, and delicious dining options nearby, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, bring your kids, and get ready for a fun-filled adventure! Linkhouse