Foghorn Harbor Inn Hotel

This SoCal hotel feels like a blast from the past. Decorated in a tropical motif, the modest lobby is bright and cheerful, with white tile floors, wicker furniture, nautical-themed artwork, and cute knick-knacks that add a kitschy vibe. Guests don't tend to linger here, but they do sit on the connecting patio that overlooks the beach. Expect to see tourists of all ages at this laid-back property, which is considerably quiet given its location. Most guests find decor charming, but it may not appeal to everyone. 

Foghorn Harbor Inn Hotel is located right on the water in a quiet and safe neighborhood in Marina Del Rey. It’s next door to a Cheesecake Factory restaurant, laundromat, and liquor and convenience store. Other restaurants are within walking distance, and Mother’s Beach, which has a gentle surf, is a two-minute walk from the hotel's front door. Venice Beach is roughly a 20-minute walk, and guests will often rent bikes to tour the area. Driving to Santa Monica Pier takes about 17 minutes, and Malibu is 40 minutes by car. Depending on traffic, downtown Los Angeles is a 40-minute drive, and Los Angeles International Airport is 15 minutes way. 

The operators of this small hotel have made the most of their older, motel-style guest rooms, incorporating bright and colorful decor. Cream walls are accented by ultra-vibrant shades such as lime green and fuchsia, drapes and blankets are striking royal blue, and throw pillows in a range of complimenting hues pull it all together. The look could easily be garish, and while it won't suit all tastes, the overall effect is pleasant. 

The King and Double-Double units are spacious and have wide patios or balconies with tables and chairs. Premium rooms have lovely views of the beach and marina, while Standard rooms overlook the parking lot or surrounding residential buildings. Sliding glass doors allow lots of light to come in, and all rooms have desks with office chairs, mini-fridges, microwaves, flat-screen TVs with DVD players, and free Wi-Fi. Kettles or coffeemakers are not included, but free coffee is available 24/7 in the lobby.

Bathrooms are a decent size and functional, with pedestal sinks and small shower inserts or shower/tub combos framed by white tiling. Some ambient noise can be heard from other rooms and the surrounding area, but it’s not intolerable.

While amenities are limited at this hotel, there are a nice set of features for a property in its category -- including several freebies. A free continental breakfast is offered that includes cold items like baked goods, yogurt, and boiled eggs. Coffee and tea are available in the lobby 24/7, as are cookies and other treats. On-site parking also is free, and guests receive free transfers to and from Los Angeles International Airport with advance arrangements. Free newspapers are available at the front desk, where there are loaner books and DVDs that guests are welcome to borrow. Wi-Fi is free throughout, and the lobby has a computer and printer. Travelers with limited mobility should be aware that the hotel doesn't have an elevator to access second-floor guest rooms.