Ocean Park Inn

The Ocean Park Inn is well-suited to both beach-going families and couples, and draws these groups in approximately equal numbers. The interiors are adequate and well-maintained. The low-rise yellow building, complete with a California-style terra-cotta tile roof, sits on a car-free section of the boardwalk. Inside, the lobby has a reception desk with a tiled front, and a Buddha statue, palm fronds, and a tropical fish aquarium. Guests are welcome to the bowl of apples at the front desk, and free juice.

Palm trees, and other plants line the outside of the hotel. In the back, the pool area looks out onto the beach. Glass panels separate the property from the boardwalk, which is accessible through a door. Convenient access to the beach, and all the other sights on the boardwalk, make the Ocean Park Inn a solid choice for visitors who want to walk around and explore the area, as well as those who want to stay close to the nightlife.

The hotel has great access to Pacific Beach, which is right across the boardwalk from the front door. The beach is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, who come to soak up the sun and waves -- the latter even attract surfers. The boardwalk stretches over three miles, and is home to a plethora of restaurants, bars, and clothing stores. The Pacific Beach neighborhood is one of San Diego's liveliest areas for nightlife, and there's a nightclub right next to the hotel. A CVS is conveniently located behind the hotel. The San Diego International Airport is a little more than 20 minutes away from the Ocean Park Inn by car, and Belmont, San Diego's historic amusement park, is less than a 10-minute drive away.

Rooms range in size, from the Double Room to the King Suite. They feature nautical decor that's a bit generic -- light blue or beige walls, light wooden furniture, and a patterned carpet. There is space to move around in even the most basic rooms and bathrooms; all rooms have work desks and some additional seating, such as an armchair or love seat. The amenities include some convenient features: there are mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers. Suites also have kitchenettes. Another very nice bonus is that all rooms offer private patios. Units on the ground floor, facing the beach, have slightly bigger patios with more comfortable, upholstered outdoor furniture. Units on the higher floors, however, get better views of the water.

The Ocean Park Inn offers guests some nice freebies, including Wi-Fi and a decent continental breakfast with fresh fruit, fresh waffles, and cereal. One of the hotel's nicest features is the outdoor patio where the pool and hot tub are located. The pool is surrounded by wicker loungers and beach umbrellas, and there are also some small tables and armchairs for more seating. There's not much else to do on-site: There is no gym, or restaurant. The hotel is designed for guests looking to explore the busy, surrounding area.