Best Western Plus Big America

For an overnight stop along the coast, this place costs a lot less than hotels in Paso Robles or Atascadero. That’s especially handy when a wine event sends prices up there soaring. The rooms were clean, in good repair, and nicely equipped, and the property was fairly quiet. I did find that light from the corridor fixtures outside the window came through the curtains. Blackout curtains might help.

The location between Morro Bay and Solvang made getting around on our trip easy, and we’d recommend the hotel to anyone. Our suite had plenty of space, with separate heating and air conditioning in each room. Check-in was quick, the staff were professional, and the lobby bathrooms looked professionally cleaned. The whole place had a clean, upscale feel. A great Best Western stay.

The decor was nice, and the room came with a useful makeup area and bathtub. Staff were great, and everything felt clean and fresh. One odd surprise was the huge mirror beside the bed. It could startle you in the middle of the night if you forgot it was there. I’d stay again, 5 out of 5.

The room itself was very comfortable, but the check-out arrangement made the stay inconvenient. I’m in Santa Maria often for work and need reliable internet and a desk for video calls. My schedule runs from 11 AM to 1 PM, so I asked to check out at 1 PM. Staff would only allow 12:30 PM, and even after I asked twice for a note to be added to the system, I was interrupted before then. The strict rules left no flexibility, so next time I’ll choose a hotel that can accommodate a 1 PM check-out.