Best Western Plus Bayside Inn

This high-rise had partial renovations to the rooms and hallways in 2008, and the common areas underwent further renovations in 2015. The greenhouse-like lobby now has contemporary decor elements, such as tree trunk wall art and modern furniture, but the sitting area inside is somewhat narrow and awkward. Nevertheless, light wood floors, wooden paneling, and cream-colored paint job significantly brighten up the formerly dark space. A new work station includes two computers and a printer.

Three blocks from the San Diego Harbor on West Ash Street, this hotel is convenient to the cruise ship terminal, Maritime Museum of San Diego, and other attractions in the bay. The Star of India -- a merchant ship from 1863, now a floating museum and the oldest active sailing ship in the world -- can be seen from the hotel when it's in the harbor. The hilly, historic neighborhood of Little Italy is just to the north. It's full of dining options and nearby highway I-5 provides easy access to other destinations. It's a 10-minute drive to San Diego International Airport, or about 20 minutes to the Mexican border (35 minutes to Tijuana).

Renovated in 2008, the contemporary rooms are furnished in the style typical of a chain hotel in this price range, with a neutral decor and framed black-and-white photography adding a little character. Oversize arm chairs are a nice addition (some with ottomans), as are the functional work desks with ergonomic desk chairs. The balconies are private, but tiny and disappointing (especially at these rates) with no seating to speak of. Rooms on higher floors have good views of the bay, or the city, though some face the pool too. Though the bathrooms were also updated, they retain their old shower/tub combos. All rooms have microwaves, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and iPod docks.

Bayside Bar & Grill serves as the hotel's convenient restaurant, dishing up American standards. A free, daily hot breakfast buffet includes scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, biscuits and gravy, and pancakes. The hotel offers a discount for dinner Monday through Friday. (The restaurant is closed for dinner on the weekends). Same-day dry cleaning service is available, but only on weekdays. The small outdoor pool is heated, although the high-rise keeps it in the shade for much of the day. A fitness center, added after our visit, includes a few cardio machines. Guests can take a free shuttle to the airport, as well as to the nearby Amtrak Station, cruise ship terminal, and the Greyhound bus terminal. There is also free Wi-Fi, but guests must pay for parking.