Hotel Marisol Coronado

My lady friend deserves the credit for finding the Marisol, not me. “Quaint” was my first thought when I saw it. The outside brought to mind the 1930s or earlier, especially the Golden Age of Aviation, a period and style I’m particularly fond of. Even though we arrived late, the staff were friendly and welcoming. The tiny vintage elevator, with its wooden door and paneling, iron gate, and brass controls, really felt like a step into the past. The rooms are cozy, small but adequate, and the bed and bedding were soft and plush. I wish the room decor carried on the same atmosphere as the rest of the hotel. Most of all, I sleep poorly in unfamiliar places, but this hotel was dead quiet on a Coronado side street. That made it a much better choice for me than anywhere in downtown San Diego, and the drive across the bay bridge was worth the extra comfort. My one quibble was the sliding glass doors on the toilet and shower room. By coincidence, a critical Guardian article about this growing hotel trend arrived in my email newsletter the next day. But as a friend said, if you’re worried someone might hear you urinate, maybe you shouldn’t share a hotel room. I’d return to the Marisol in a heartbeat. It was the most pleasant hotel stay I’ve had in over a decade.

Marisol Coronado made for a truly pleasant three-night stay, starting with a warm welcome from the front desk. The room was quaint and well equipped, and the bed was extremely comfortable. Set on a quiet street but close to everything, the location is excellent. The coffee and breakfast area was beautifully put together and added to the charm. I highly recommend it for a relaxing, comfortable visit.

The location is perfect, and there’s continental breakfast every morning, which is why I’ve given it two stars. The rooms are small, and the staff didn’t feel welcoming. It seemed like being kind or even smiling was a chore for them. When we reached the desk, the receptionist’s first words were, “Well...I don't have any notes about your service dog,” instead of welcoming us, even though we had spoken with the manager by phone the week before. They put us on the top floor, the 3rd floor, so I had to run down the stairs every day to let the dog out to pee. The elevator only worked if both doors were closed a certain way, and I couldn’t wait for it every time. I don’t recommend this hotel and won’t stay here again.

My husband and I have stayed in a lot of hotels, and this was one of the best. The room felt romantic, and it was clean and comfortable. The bed was plush, the sheets incredibly soft, and the staff were so kind, helpful, and wonderful to deal with. I can’t wait to come back.