La Jolla Shores Hotel

Description:

• Formerly known as the Sea Lodge, this three-story 1960s hotel in a mainly residential enclave is under the same management as the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club next door. It has an identical on-the-sand location, minus the country-club ambience. About half the rooms have some view of the ocean, and the rest look out on the pool or a tiled courtyard. Priced by view and size, the rooms are pretty basic -- as of this writing, though, they're getting a much-needed renovation, including new furniture, carpeting, and flatscreen TVs. Bathrooms feature separate dressing areas with large closets; balconies or patios are standard, and some rooms have fully equipped kitchenettes. From the beach you can gaze toward the top of the cliffs, where La Jolla's village hums with activity (and relentless traffic). Like the B&T, this property is popular with families but also attracts business travelers looking to balance meetings with time on the beach or the tennis court.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010

Other features:

Pool, beach, 24-hour security and underground parking. The Shores restaurant provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Beachfront rooms are extra.