Embassy Suites by Hilton Mandalay Beach Resort

The Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort is the largest oceanfront resort in the area, with a wide, beautiful white-sand beach right on the grounds. The beach is uncluttered with sun beds, beach umbrellas, and organized resort activities, which makes it an ideal spot for relaxed sunbathing and swimming. Well-tended tropically landscaped grounds are lined with palm trees and stone pathways. A moderate-sized central pool is surrounded by boulders, waterfalls, and a big hot tub. The main lobby is Spanish Mediterranean in design, with high, wood ceilings, wide archways, flagstone floors, and a sweeping marble stairway and balcony. Brightly colored Spanish-style paintings accent the elegant beige and brown walls. Clutter is reserved for the gift shop, while the major gathering places are peaceful and spacious. The vibe is relaxed, not crazy and overrun with kids in vacation mode. The large number of meeting rooms and flexible event spaces, coupled with the convenient location, make this a good spot for business travelers and groups.

The Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort is on a quiet street, halfway between Santa Barbara (30- minutes north), and Malibu (30-minutes south). Los Angeles proper is 60 miles down the coast. The resort is within walking distance of Channel Islands Harbor, where guests can kayak, and find an assortment of restaurants and water sports. There's a beach at the property, with a wide array of neighboring surfing and swimming beaches, as well as a number of excellent golf courses. Business travelers will find the hotel convenient to Oxnard Companies.

All rooms at the Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort are suites, with bedrooms, living rooms, and two full bathrooms per unit. Each room is furnished with a sofa bed, although past guests have complained they're springy and uncomfortable. Some rooms have furnished balconies or patios with views of the beach, pool, or courtyard. Ocean view might be worth the splurge. The overall decor is contemporary and a little dull, with low-key colors, wall-to-wall carpet, and large work surfaces. Bathrooms are attractive with double sinks and private water closets. Microwaves, refrigerators, free toiletries, and flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view movies are provided. Walls are thin, and some guests have reported issues with cleanliness. 

The Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort is bordered by a gorgeous, uncluttered white sand beach. There is a medium-sized outdoor pool surrounded by tropical plants and man-made waterfalls, lounges, and a large hot tub. Spa services are available, and the spacious fitness center is open 24/7, with plenty of cardio, weight, and stretching equipment. Hard surfaced tennis courts are available outside. 

Guests receive a free hot breakfast, cooked to order; for lunch and dinner, the casual Coastal Grill offers craft beer and an American menu in an indoor courtyard setting with fifty foot wood ceilings, on an outdoor terrace with a fire pit. Room service is available. Expect to pay extra for Wi-Fi and valet or self-parking.