Waterfront Hotel

This Joie de Vivre property is hardly subtle with its nautical theme. In the lobby of the Waterfront Hotel, a steamer trunk and old leather suitcases make up a side table under a sunburst mirror, chair upholstery suggests octopuses, and framed prints hold maritime scenes. The welcoming sitting area off the lobby has a large, copper-hooded fireplace surrounded by more ocean-related prints; even Popeye is there. The Keurig coffeemaker and tea supplies give another reason to linger on a typically cool Northern California afternoon. The Waterfront attracts more than double that amount of leisure travelers for every business traveler, but largely adults in both cases, who appreciate the complimentary weekday wine-and-cheese hour. A fair amount of events are also held here, which can mean a loud crowd, especially on weekends. And while it’s not quite the only hotel on the Oakland Estuary, it is the only one in a walkable neighborhood, with plenty of grown-up attractions like jazz club Yoshi’s Oakland nearby.

Located by Jack London Square on the Oakland Estuary (the slip of bay-fed water that separates Oakland from the island of Alameda), the Waterfront has easy walking access to the shops of the square and the neighborhoods beyond. Pedestrians who venture beyond the square -- and it’s worthwhile to do so -- may encounter homeless encampments, especially under nearby Interstate 880. The freeway allows easy access to San Francisco, 22 to 55 minutes away, depending on traffic. Moscone Convention Center is a 25- to 55-minute drive, Union Square is a 25- to 60-minute drive, and San Francisco International Airport is a 25- to 65-minute drive. By far the nicest commute into the city is via the ferry, a one-minute walk from the hotel; the ride takes 30 minutes. Downtown Oakland is a five-minute drive or a 17-minute walk from the hotel, which also offers free shuttle service to downtown on weekdays. From there, BART train service into San Francisco takes 20 minutes. Oakland’s wonderful, densely packed Chinatown is a four-minute drive or a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Old Oakland, a few blocks of beautifully restored Victorians that house hip Oaktown shops, cafes, and watering holes, is about the same. The hotel is also very close to the train tracks, with whistles, horns, and bells sounding frequently and disturbing some guests.

It’s no surprise that rooms at the Waterfront continue the nautical theme, with bold blue-and-white striped blankets atop white bedding, oars on the wallpaper, and compass roses on the headboards. Chairs, couches, and curtains also have seafaring blue stripes. It's all tasteful and fitting, though squarely mid-range; those who know Joie de Vivre's style and quality from other properties may be disappointed, especially in rooms that are showing a bit of wear. Standard white bathrooms have beige granite countertops, marble tile floors, and showers over tubs. Each room has a hairdryer, an iron and ironing board, and toiletries by Lather, as well as earplugs to help keep out the nearby train noise. All have Keurig coffeemakers, mini-fridges, microwaves, and programmable safes, and some have gas fireplaces. The view is the biggest factor differentiating rooms: The best come with balconies over the water, and the least pleasant have parking lot views.

The Waterfront Hotel has a heated pool right next to the water, with a fire pit for chilly days, though guests are likely to get more use out of the cozy lobby fireplace. The hotel’s Lungomare restaurant and bar is popular for outdoor dining, with sun umbrellas, plenty of heat lamps, and drop-dead water views. Room service is available. On weekdays, free shuttle service takes guests to downtown Oakland and BART train service. The hotel’s two-room fitness center has two cross-trainers, two treadmills, an exercise bicycle, free weights, yoga balls, and kettle bells, as well as a TV. It also has a sauna -- a rare treat in a mid-range property -- open 24 hours. There’s a small business center in the lobby, and business services are available. Free perks include daily newspapers, a weekday wine-and-cheese hour in the lobby, and concierge services. Laundry and dry-cleaning service is available for a fee, as is valet parking. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout. Pets are welcomed with doggie beds, water bowls, and treats, but can’t be left alone in the room for more than 15 minutes (and the hotel enforces it).