Oakwood Marina Del Rey

The pool and on-site restaurant kept the kids happy, and our family had plenty of room. We had a balcony overlooking the marina, and walking by the water was a highlight. Marina del Rey Marriott worked out well for our trip. It’s near the beach communities and not far from LAX, which made getting around easier.

We were only there for one night, but it seemed decent. Parking, like at most LA hotels, is insanely expensive. The rooms looked newly remodeled and were very nice. The hallway carpet was rough and stained, so I was pleasantly surprised when I saw how nice the rooms were.

The hotel looks nice, with a lobby bar, a coffee bar for coffee and pastries, a designated place for Uber Eats deliveries, an M Club with breakfast, snacks, drinks and workspace, and bikes you can borrow as part of the resort fee. Staff were friendly and helpful, and my Marriott status got us a suite upgrade, which I appreciated. It was a handicap suite with bathroom accessories, though, and we would have preferred a regular suite. The hotel allows dogs, but doesn’t offer basics like a food or water bowl or a designated outdoor area. I appreciate that when hotels provide those. Room prices were high, and I find the “resort fee” approach annoying. Just charge the full room cost instead of nickel and diming guests. Room 651’s mattress sagged on both sides and was very uncomfortable. The toilet handle was loose too. We reported both issues. The handle was fixed right away, but the only solution for the mattress was moving rooms. Moving can be more disruptive than the problem, so I stayed put, but after four nights on that sagging mattress my back hurt and I wished I’d moved. The room could have been cleaner as well. There were spots on the sofa and bathroom walls, and the floor and carpet felt dirty. When a white paper towel turns black after wiping up water from the floor, you know it hasn’t been cleaned thoroughly. All in all, a good stay, but that mattress in room 651 needs replacing.

The M lounge had the best menu we’ve ever had, and the staff were all really friendly. Great location, within walking distance of whatever fun you’re looking for at Venice Beach.