Tower23 Hotel

With its white decor, glass accents, pops of blue, and ocean views from many of its rooms and public spaces, the property manages to blend seamlessly with its gorgeous ocean surroundings. It is a very popular option for weekend beach getaways -- in fact, it is one of the more popular hotels in Pacific Beach, and the bar and restaurant attract both hotel guests and non-guests alike. Overall, it's a younger, hip crowd that flocks to the property for its ocean views and incredible sunsets.

With the Pacific Ocean as its backyard -- and direct access to a public beach -- plus the shops and restaurants of lively Pacific Beach as its neighbors, Tower23's location is likely its best feature. Travelers looking for a relaxing weekend getaway won't even need a car if they plan to stay local, as there's plenty within walking distance of the hotel (including the pier and beachfront bike path). But exploring San Diego beyond Pacific Beach is easy enough; the resort town of La Jolla is just to the north and downtown San Diego is about a 20-minute drive away. The hotel is about 20 minutes by car from the airport and just a few minutes from the 5 freeway.

The rooms at Tower23 range from the smaller "pads" to larger suites. They seem almost like an extension of the seascape in the hotel's backyard, with a fresh ocean smell all around. In fact, many guests in rooms with balconies sleep with the doors open to hear and smell the Pacific outside. Many rooms have at least partial ocean views and some of the pricier options have private balconies. All are decorated in a mostly white, minimalist decor with teak furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and in-room spa and massage services on request. Rooms that surround the upper courtyard -- a lively gathering place -- can be loud at times.

The hotel's public spaces are popular gathering spots for both guests and non-guests alike. Its JRDN restaurant, which serves sustainable seafood and all-natural steak in a chic setting with striking ocean views, is a particularly well-liked feature. It is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The hotel offers free bikes to guests interested in cruising the beach path out back. In-room massage and spa services are available, but the hotel lacks an actual spa. There's parking, but it is mandatory valet parking that comes at an extra cost.