Inn by the Sea

Formerly a Best Western Plus, the Inn by the Sea is a modern, independent property fronted with lush tropical landscaping outside. Inside, the lobby exudes a cheerful vibe, with low ceilings and lots of light earth tones. The tan tile floors and maple paneling look fresh, and leather benches along the walls create lots of seating without taking up space. There's also living room-like space with benches and armchairs is tucked away from the registration area. A bank of windows looks out onto the tropical plants, and colorful photos of La Jolla hang on teal walls. Another casual lounging area with comfortable patio furniture faces the pool area. Most guests are tourists wanting a low-key, affordable option near the beach. 

The Inn by the Sea is located in a ritzy residential area of La Jolla, less than five minutes on foot to the beach. The nearest restaurants along touristy Prospect Street are a two-minute walk away, with many more just a bit farther. The Museum of Contemporary Art is within a four-minute walk, while La Jolla Cove is 10 minutes on foot. SeaWorld San Diego, Balboa Park, and Torrey Pines Golf Course are less than 20 minutes by car, while getting to San Diego International Airport and downtown San Diego takes about 25 minutes.

Reflecting the hotel's name, guest rooms have fresh decor in seascape colors, with teal accents and blond-wood finish furniture. Photos of the nearby Pacific coastline add more blue shades. Live plants on small oval tables bring a homey touch. While rooms aren't huge, they are big enough to include side tables with two chairs. Sliding glass doors leading out to private balconies or patios allow ample natural light. Some of the rooms on upper floors facing west have partial or full ocean views, while many other rooms overlook the pool. Vanities are in the main living space, while bathrooms feature faux marble framing the shower/tub combos. Standard amenities include mini-fridges, coffeemakers, free bottled water, and flat-screen TVs.

Features at this hotel are a bit uneven, offering more than expected in some categories but falling short in others. The hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, but it offers a free continental breakfast and there are numerous vending machines selling everything from drinks to sandwiches and soup. Free coffee is available all day in the lobby, and iced coffee is served in the afternoon. 

One highlight is the hotel's outdoor pool. It's a bit small, but it’s heated and has a lovely patio with nice landscaping and comfortable lounge chairs. Guests also get free passes to the La Jolla Sports Club across the street, which offers exercise equipment, spa treatments, and even yoga classes. 

For business travelers, the hotel also has two meeting rooms with 1,500 square feet (457 square meters) of space. A computer and printer is on hand in the lobby for guest use, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Use of the hotel's safe deposit box can be requested at the front desk. The front desk also offers minimal concierge services, and can arrange for dry cleaning and laundry. There's an on-site laundry room for guest use as well. 

There is plenty of parking in the hotel lot, but it costs extra; however, limited free parking is sometimes available on the street.