Best Western Plus Inn Of Ventura

With lobby decor that has a touch of midcentury modern style, this Best Western makes a fine first impression. There's a seating area with three attractive eggshell sofas that have tufted backs and bolster pillows, and stylish arc lamp, and a bright-orange table lamp for a pop of bright color. The rest of the property isn't as stylish, but it's still pleasant and contemporary. Just around the corner is the tidy breakfast area, marble tables and large windows looking out on a small patio with tables for outdoor dining. Given its proximity to the Port Hueneme naval base and to Ventura County Fairgrounds, expect to see travelers visiting those facilities. Otherwise, it’s mostly tourists enjoying the SoCal beach scene.

The Best Western is conveniently located just off the 101 Freeway on the southern edge of downtown Ventura. Several restaurants are within a short walk, and it’s a five-minute walk to the heart of downtown Ventura. It’s a safe area, though it's near the train tracks so it can be noisy at times. It’s a seven-minute walk to Ventura Beach and the Ventura Pier, and Surfer’s Point at Seaside Park is a 15-minute walk. It’s a five-minute drive to San Buenaventura State Beach and Ventura County Fairgrounds, and 23 minutes to the Port Hueneme naval base. Burbank Bob Hope Airport is roughly 75 minutes away by car, while Los Angeles International Airport takes about 90 minutes, depending on traffic.

The contemporary guest rooms were renovated in 2016, done in neutral tones paired with accents in a similar eggshell blue as found in the lobby. The appealing hue appears on walls behind beds, and in the striped carpeting. It works well with the dark-brown furniture, which includes headboards, armoires, desks, and nightstands. Units are fairly spacious, as the King and Queen rooms we saw were large enough to accommodate small tables with chairs as well as armchairs. Double Queens and Suites with whirlpools in the bedroom areas also are available. Standard amenities include microwaves, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, 40-inch flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi, but there are no safes. Bathrooms have a similar look, with wide granite vanities, laminate wood floors, and salmon marble-lined shower/tub combos. All come with hairdryers and toiletries. The Suite we saw had a granite vanity with twin sinks and a walk-in shower lined with white marble. The biggest issue is that some rooms get noise from nearby train tracks, even at night. Some second-floor rooms feature views of the beach, while others overlook the property, street, or adjacent park.  

This cozy SoCal property features a free breakfast buffet with eggs, refried beans, and other hot dishes including bacon, sausage, and make-your-own-waffles. But the highlight is the heated outdoor pool and whirlpool, surrounded by loungers and towering palm trees. It's a bit small, though it's eight feet deep at one end. Other amenities include two computers and a printer in the lobby, vending machines, safety deposit box at the front desk, and free parking and Wi-Fi throughout. Travelers with limited mobility should be aware that this older, motel-style property with exterior corridors doesn't have an elevator.