Ocean Villa Inn

The room had comfortable beds, a coffee machine, microwave, small fridge, and a nice TV, though it wasn’t smart. Towels were provided, but there was no shampoo or body wash. The balcony was nice, but the room felt quite dated. This seems like a place that could work for a dog trip and a quick night’s rest, but I’m unsure I’d stay longer. It’s close to the beach, which is a dog beach with lots of off-leash dogs, and there was quite a bit of homelessness on the beach and around the hotel. When I left around 6:00 am, I saw homeless individuals under the outside stairwell only a few steps from my truck, and I felt uneasy. Parking costs $15, yet the area isn’t gated or otherwise especially secure. I usually travel solo with my son, and personally wouldn’t recommend it to someone alone with small kids. The incidental fee is $150. I’m not sure I’d return.

Everything was walkable, so I didn’t need a car, and the hotel is right on the beach. The staff were great. They held my luggage and had the room ready hours before check-in, which was really helpful. The price was the best around and just what I needed. I had a great time and will stay again next time I’m in San Diego. P.S. Try the breakfast spot in the parking lot, the lattes are great too!

We were traveling with dogs for the first time, and the hotel was very dog friendly. The dog beach is a three-minute walk, and our downstairs room opened onto a fenced area for bathroom breaks, which was super convenient. The rooms were dated and didn’t look like the website photos, perhaps because we had pet-friendly rooms. I’d expected something more boutique. The rate was very cheap, though, and the employees were friendly and helpful. There’s an outdoor dog-washing area for after the beach. Some lazy owners left their dogs’ mess behind, even though trash cans, poop bags, and scoopers are provided, so don’t be those people! The hotel’s restaurant or food truck was really good, I think it’s called Benedict’s.

We’ve been staying here every year for a decade, bringing our furry friends down for their birthdays. The rates are high for the building, but reasonable for this location. We used to stay at the marina, which was twice the price and fancy, but this has been our only spot since that first visit. It’s an old building and quite dank, yet the rooms are kept clean and maintained, and the employees are polite and very helpful. Dog Beach is just around the corner, and there are plenty of eateries within walking distance. Everywhere else you might need is about a 15-minute drive. The Aussie gets so excited to see 400 of his closest friends. A tip: come after Labor Day for fewer crowds, still-perfect weather, and slightly lower prices.