Everything about the Coral Gardens Resort was great. From the location (right on the beach) to the apartment (a two-bedroom beach walkout) was just incredible. From the moment we arrived, we were made to feel welcomed. The apartment was great, perfectly sized for my family of four (parents, plus 17 and 12 yr old.) The common areas, kitchen, dining, and living space were great. The bedrooms were large and spacious. The beds were comfortable with plenty of pillows and excellent air conditioners. The bathrooms well stocks with plenty of soft towels. From the apartment, we could walk out to a little patio, with a path leading to the pool and then on to the beach. The access to the beach is perfect, the resort has attendants that prepare umbrellas and chairs for you. They can also arrange for activities that you might be interested in (parasailing, jet skis, banana boat ride, etc). The attendants are also on the lookout for any snorkelers wandering into the protected reef right in front of the resort. Literally, right in front of the hotel, you have a reef system that is TEAMING with wildlife. Fish of every color of the rainbow, turtles, eels, lobster, all live in this reef. Plan on spending lots of time exploring the reef. As for needing a car. The resort is in a "hotel" area, the supermarket is close, but not really walkable. If you only plan on going once or twice, then a cab is better, skip the car rental.
I fully recommend the Coral Gardens on Grace Bay resort.