Ocean Beach Hotel

This relaxed beachside property offers a budget option in a prime setting across the street from the beach. Tall palm trees flank the three-story white building, which features exterior hallways that wrap around an inner courtyard. Pink geraniums sprouting from planters that adorn the wooden railings are a sweet touch, as are potted plants dotting the courtyard and a fountain babbling at its center. Interiors are unassuming, yet clean and pleasant -- though there's not much in terms of common space beyond a small, functional lobby. Tourists traveling on a budget make up most of the clientele here, and include both couples and families -- plus guests traveling with their furry friends are drawn by the hotel's pet-friendly policy.

The hotel is situated right across the street from the beach in San Diego's Ocean Beach neighborhood. It's located on Newport Avenue, a busy street that's lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes, so there are plenty of dining options nearby. The half-mile long Ocean Beach Pier, home to a cafe and a good fishing spot, is a two-minute walk away. Dog Beach, where pets can roam off leash, is a 12-minute walk from the hotel. Downtown San Diego is about a 20-minute drive from here, or 45 minutes via bus that stops two blocks away from the hotel. The historic Gaslamp Quarter takes about the same time to reach, while other popular attractions like SeaWorld San Diego and the San Diego Zoo are a 12- and 20-minute drive, respectively. San Diego International Airport is a 15- to 20-minute drive, or around 40 minutes by bus. The Mexican border is about a half-hour drive.

Rooms are fairly spacious and homey, with pleasant decor that includes laminate wood floors (ground floor dog-friendly rooms have tile floors) and wooden furnishings such as dressers and nightstands. The spaces show some wear, but they're clean. Charcoal-hued bed runners top white sheets adorned with silhouettes of branches, while framed seascape photos decorate off-white walls. All rooms have tables and chairs, plus some add couches. Most rooms have balconies (or patios in ground floor rooms) with tables and chairs, and some offer ocean views. Bathrooms are tiny and due for an update, with visible wear and tear and old fixtures. They're equipped with showers, plus toiletries and hairdryers are provided. Other standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, irons/ironing boards, and free Wi-Fi, but the rooms lack safes and tea/coffee-making facilities. Note that noise issues due to thin walls can be a problem here.

Features are scarce in this modest property, but a handful of extras are a convenience, including vending machines with drinks and snacks, coin-operated laundry facilities, and freebies like Wi-Fi and on-site parking. The central courtyard is the only gathering space here and it offers several alfresco tables and chairs. Postcards, magnets, keychains, and other souvenirs are available for sale in the lobby. Furry friends are allowed in this pet-friendly hotel with no extra fees.