Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection by Marriott

Being right by the beach and steps from the pier made getting around easy. Great local restaurants and walkable spots are all nearby, so we never needed a car. The staff throughout our stay were welcoming and helpful, and we still had one night to go when I wrote this. We came from Kansas City for a real estate event and arrived Saturday hoping to relax, but I had messed up part of check-in. Gaby calmly and patiently sorted it out without making me feel foolish, which I appreciated. Five stars, plus a bonus for saving me from my own mistake. For a beachfront stay with great service, this place is a fantastic choice.

The staff were fantastic, smiling, kind, and happy to help. They gave us useful day trip tips, and maintenance crews were painting, repairing, and updating parts of the property. Our rooms were clean and comfortable. We had ocean view rooms 304 and 307. The balcony at 307 looks over the fitness park and ocean, while 304 faces more toward the park but is still nice. Room 310 may be the best spot for ocean views. We'd read complaints that the facilities were dirty, run down, or poorly maintained, so we came in concerned. Some things do seem to be aging early from the sea air and sand, but nothing felt dirty or too far gone to make us uncomfortable. For a California oceanfront hotel, it was good value, and I'd recommend it and stay again.

The service really stood out. From valet and room attendants to restaurant servers and concierge, everyone was welcoming and responsive. Gaby was especially helpful at check-in, and all our room attendants were lovely. The resort hosted daily rooftop guest receptions from 6 to 7 with wine, beer, and snacks, a fun way to wind down. We visited in May for a week that combined business and vacation. The beachfront was nice, with a lifeguard station beside us, and there were lots of eateries within walking distance as well as a tasty restaurant on site. The rooms had modern wood finishes, comfortable beds, and spacious bathrooms. The resort itself is a little dated, but we enjoyed soaking up the California sun at this low-key oceanfront spot in Imperial Beach.

When the room I'd booked wasn't available, Gaby, Aaliyah, and Daniella moved me to a better corner suite with beautiful beach views and lowered the rate to make up for the inconvenience. Their professional, warm, proactive help made me feel valued. I travel often for business and stay in hotels around the country, and I don't say this lightly: the hospitality at Pier South Resort / Marriott in Imperial Beach was one of my best hotel experiences in a long time. It's a beautiful property in a great location, and the front desk team really knows how to take care of guests. If you're staying around San Diego or Imperial Beach, I'd put Pier South high on the list. Thanks to Gaby, Aaliyah, and Daniella for setting such a high standard. Marriott is lucky to have them representing the brand. I'll absolutely be back, and it'll be my go-to hotel for San Diego.