DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Pedro

For cruise ship-bound travelers, leisure guests, and families, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Pedro is a relaxing retreat. The flat, fresh white facade and terra-cotta roof lends a laid-back, mediterranean feel, and the back of the hotel looks particularly picturesque where it abuts the water lined with sailboats and catamarans. Inside, the look is clean and modern, thanks in part to a total renovation of the property in late 2015. Sleek tiled floors, swirling carpets, and beige and brown faux leather couches can feel like standard chain-hotel fare, but this decor is measured by more memorable details like high ceilings, arched windows, and those views of the marina, visible from the restaurant and many of the guest rooms. 

This hotel is situated right at the water's edge overlooking beautiful Cabrillo Marina. The area features plenty of paths for strolling and jogging, though there aren't really any restaurants or shops in walking distance. Cabrillo Beach is reachable on foot in about 10 minutes, with the aquarium about a five-minute walk farther. Area and regional attractions include Ports O' Call Village (six-minute drive), Point Fermin Park and Lighthouse (seven-minute drive), The World Cruise Center (nine-minute drive), Long Beach (15-minute drive), and Disneyland Park (one-hour drive). Los Angeles International Airport is about a 30-minute drive. Parking at the hotel is free and a free shuttle service takes guests to area hotspots, including the cruise ship terminal.

Guest rooms are fresh and modern with a refined, neutral taupe and white color palette and a subtle beachy feel. Sophisticated striped wall-to-wall carpeting is paired with wood furniture and cream-colored walls, while textured taupe accent walls are situated behind the beds and finished with framed black-and-white photos of the water. Paneled white headboards offer a taste of the beach-cottage look. Higher room categories add spacious sitting areas or furnished balconies. Views vary, with the loveliest being ones that extend directly over the marina; others are far less striking, overlooking the pool or parking lot. Beige bathrooms tend to be roomy with spacious vanities and, usually, combination showers and tubs, though suites have roomy walk-in showers.All rooms are air-conditioned and include desks, 32-inch flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers. They're also equipped with safes, irons and ironing boards, hairdryers, and free individual toiletries. Suites have mini-fridges and microwaves, but these aren't available in standard guest rooms. Wi-Fi is free for HHonors members (a loyalty program that's free to join), but otherwise costs an extra fee. 

This DoubleTree has a full lineup of amenities that aim toward maximum relaxation, though some practical and business-oriented features cover other needs. Guest tend to praise the Marina Bar & Grill, which serves fresh seafood and has big windows and outdoor seating overlooking the water. Continental and full breakfast buffets are offered, but they're not necessarily included in the room rate. Room service is also available. The highlight of the wellness facilities is a narrow outdoor pool, which is surrounded by a smattering of palm trees and lounge chairs, and a roomy outdoor whirlpool. There's also a ping-pong table and a small but decent gym with several cardio machines and weight lifting equipment, including free weights and medicine balls. The hotel has 12 rooms for meeting and events, including a ballroom that's sometimes used for weddings. A sleek little business corner has desks with computers for guest use and a printer. For guests traveling with children, cribs, high chairs, and playpens are available. Pets are allowed for an extra per-stay fee. The hotel offers concierge and room service and a free warm cookie on arrival, a Hilton specialty. Parking on-site is free, and there's also free and efficient shuttle service through the hotel to local hotspots, including the cruise terminal. Wi-Fi is free for Hilton HHonors Members (a loyalty program that is free to join); otherwise, it costs an extra fee.