Loews Coronado Bay Resort

The Loews Coronado is over two decades old, and even after renovations in 2012, it still shows its age here and there -- but the lobby, which got a massive overhaul, is elegant, with double-height ceilings and an impressive double staircase. Views are the main draw here, and idyllic sea vistas complete with sailboats (there's a private marina on-site, after all) can be viewed from many of the public spaces and outdoor decks. Families and couples are the main clientele, though the slightly isolated location means guests should be prepared to spend a lot of time on the premises. Some guest rooms are a hike from the palm-tree-lined swimming pools (there are five buildings, and rooms with lower numbers are closer to the lobby).

The hotel is located on the Coronado Peninsula, right on the bay and a five-minute walk to Silver Strand State Beach via a private path. But Loews Coronado Bay Resort and Spa is on the southern, less populated end of the peninsula, so it's slightly out of the way for seeing the sites in Downtown Coronado and Downtown San Diego. Coronado Village is a 10-minute drive away and plan on at least 20 minutes' worth of driving to get to San Diego and its world-famous zoo.

Soothing, light-filled rooms with contemporary furniture and muted tones of powder blue feature Keurig coffeemakers, 300-thread-count sheets, flat-screen TVs and (in many cases) soaking tubs. Most rooms have private furnished balconies. For a guaranteed view of the water, upgrade to a Deluxe Room or Luxury Room. Note that some water views also include a view of the parking lot. The bathrooms look fresh, with green tile and white fixtures.

The Loews provides a free shuttle ride to the beach, three large pools with an adults-only section, and unique spa treatments (such a couples massages on a gondola). Although there are a couple of affordable activities -- a tour of the State Park, and a 30-minute tour of the herb garden -- there are numerous extra fees, including a resort fee and fees for parking. Dining options include gourmet global fusion at Mistral or more casual fare at Market or the juice bar. La Cantina serves food and drinks poolside, and a DJ plays by the pool in the afternoons. Little ones have access to a highly organized kids' club with daily activities and gifts, and there's also a teen lounge. Wi-Fi is included, but guests have to pay extra for faster Wi-Fi.