City Express By Marriott Manhattan Beach

Imani made check-in easy. She was friendly, helpful, and efficient, and the staff kept that welcoming feel going. Parking was well lit and straightforward, and I was comfortable leaving my things in the room while I was out. The lobby coffee and tea station stayed stocked all day and night, which I really appreciated. The room was spotless and quiet, with a comfortable layout for getting ready. The sink is separate from the shower and toilet, so two people can use the space at once. There were two TVs, a cozy bed with both down and allergy-friendly pillows, and a wipeable couch that seemed more hygienic than fabric. The air conditioning worked well, and the Wi-Fi was faster than I expected for a smaller hotel. Breakfast was fresh, clean, and kept replenished, with a good range of choices for this price point. I stay at Marriott properties often, and this new Manhattan Beach hotel delivered the dependable comfort I expect. It’s a quieter, smaller place, and I’d happily return for the clean rooms, coffee and tea, and kind staff.

Parking costs $25 a day, and you have to go back down to the basement to put the permit in your car. There’s plenty of parking, including EV chargers. The hotel has a small business center and fitness room, plus outdoor seating around fire pits. Coffee with syrups and other add-ins is available free around the clock. The breakfast buffet is modest: muffins, toast, yogurt, egg dishes, and today there were apples for fresh fruit. No meat. My room had a kitchenette with a sink, microwave, and mini fridge, along with a desk, lamp, and windows. Tile and carpeted flooring, and a small vanity set apart from the shower and closet, with a luggage rack. It was easy to find. The place feels like an old apartment complex converted into a hotel. The bed and bathroom were clean, and I was comfortable. There’s room for two or three people, and Wi-Fi is free.

The place is small and affordable, and the rooms have the basics and were super clean. Service was great, and the free breakfast was a big help when we were short on time. It’s close enough to the beach for a morning run. They didn’t have a toothbrush when I asked, but there’s a Target nearby. We’ll definitely come back.

This seems like a good pick if you cook for yourself while traveling and don’t plan to go out at night. I had a one-bedroom suite with a kitchenette, which was handy, though I had to ask for pots, pans, dishes, and cups because none were ready in the room at check-in. The location also felt a bit isolated for things to do after work. Breakfast was odd: three kinds of eggs, no breakfast meats, plus cereal, yogurt, and bread. For context, the property had recently been remodeled, so they may still be sorting things out. Maybe the breakfast will improve and kitchenware will be in rooms when guests arrive later on.