Marina del Rey Hotel

The location was great for walking around during the day, though there was less to do at night and I’d probably Uber. The room was nice enough and priced decently. I booked a water view but got a pool view instead, which was fine for my one night. WiFi was a hassle: nobody explained how to connect, and the usual option to select the premium WiFi included with the resort fee didn’t work, so I had to ask for help. The restaurant closed pretty early on Friday, and kids were running and yelling outside the poolside windows around 10:30 pm. I’d stay again if I was nearby and the price worked.

The hotel bar and restaurant are amazing, and Ewelin always makes us feel like friends when we come back. We first found Marina Del Rey hotel a few years ago, and now that we visit LA about three times a year, it’s our regular spot. The grounds, amenities, and location work perfectly for us and our dog. There’s plenty of shopping and dining nearby, though the hotel itself has enough to offer if you just want to relax.

I keep coming back to this hotel after first spotting it on a walk along the marina. That day, the pool and view made it seem like a hidden gem, and I’ve since booked it many times, including several rooms for family and friends over spring break and Easter. The Friday Happy Hour at Del Rey Lounge is a favorite, with a fun two-man band, Keith and Curtis, plus the SALT burger and margaritas. The area feels clean and very safe, with restaurants nearby and a Trader Joe's just across the way. My two-year-old grandson enjoyed riding his little bike on the wide, clear paved walk and bike path. The heated pool is sparkling and actually warm enough to swim in during LA winter, and the jacuzzi is huge, maybe 9 or 10 feet across. Staff are welcoming. Trevor, one of the managers, handled an issue with our room type professionally and promptly. The rooms have fridges, though I didn’t see a microwave in any we booked, including the suite with a kitchenette. The walk-in shower toiletries smell great, and poolside rooms have enormous ottoman lounges that make the patio feel like another room. We used the lot down the street for $5 instead of paying for valet, and didn’t mind the short marina stroll. There’s iced water at reception, and the hotel is very dog friendly. We didn’t get around to trying the beach cruiser bikes included in the resort fee, but hope to next time. I’d recommend staying here and plan to return.

Marlee left us a sweet card and a slice of cheesecake for my 30th birthday, and even upgraded our room for free so I could have the marina view and balcony I wanted. My husband and I had a great weekend, and liked how quiet and tucked away the area felt. The restaurant service was the one letdown. Our waiter wasn't very nice and barely checked on us when we came down for appetizers. We still had a great time and would come back if we're in the area.