Pete T.
Yelp
So, the reservation that I made year ago that no one at Margaritaville Hotel San Diego could find (see my original review if you want details) was somehow found.
I received an email four days before check-in was to happen. Confused, I called to verify. Confirmed. Although it was an ADA room, it was still at the original price from my original booking. I called our Plan B hotel and cancelled. So it was off to Margaritaville.
The lobby area is as aesthetically pleasing as any hotel we've been in. It exudes the beachy island, laid back, chill vibe that Jimmy Buffett spent a career and lifetime promoting.
From the chandelier made of fishbowl margarita glasses to the wall of hats, to the welcoming fireplace, Jimmy Buffett (and his brand) are everywhere. Especially the larger-than-life flip-flop next to an equally large "pop-top".
Hotel amenities included a fitness center, heated outdoor pool on the 4th floor rooftop at the 5'Oclock Somewhere Bar. Ground floor held the Landshark Bar and Grill and a coffee shop/gift shop. Free WiFi was offered as well.
We did not appreciate the $30 per night "resort fee".
My wife Becky works at a building not far away. We enjoy free parking in her spot there. Margaritaville has valet only for $60 per night. Ouch!
We checked in and were given our key cards to room 719. The room was nice. Not super nice, but nice. Hardwood floors rather than carpet was a plus. The king size bed was comfy. Everything was spotlessly clean. The powered window shade was a cool novelty.
It was an ADA room so it had a large sliding barn door style bathroom door. The tub/shower had handles everywhere. The dual, upper and lower shower heads were a dream!
I'm not a fan of the refillable shampoo/conditioner/shower gel dispenser mounted to the shower wall. I get it that it is more cost effective than the little personal bottles, I just think the refillables are not tamper-proof. Not that anyone would, but still... Also do they really refill them with the fancy name brand stuff that's on the label, or is that Dollar Tree shampoo?
The room was well appointed. Jimmy Buffett decor, a comfy chair and small table. A nightstand on either side of the bed. Decent size TV (not many channel options), desk, etc. In-room coffee and a mini fridge. Although the fridge did not get very cold.
Outside noise was a minimum, but we could hear every peep from the hallway.
The downtown location is superb. We stayed Wednesday and Thursday nights for the Padres home opener. It was great being just a couple of blocks from Petco Park.
Overall, a nice hotel. We wouldn't go out of our way to stay again, but if the price is right, we certainly would.