Best Western The Hotel California

I recently stayed at the Hotel California on May 31st and it wasn't what I was expecting. I guess I had my hopes up becaue of the reviews from other guests but I was disappointed when I walked into my room. First I want to backtrack and say the staff is wonderful, helpful and extremely kind but when I walked into my room and heard sirens outside my window (which looking outside my window I was greeted by the rundown building next to mine...no view at all).

The bathroom was nice and room (liked the shower) but really if you are expecting a lot of amenties this is not the place for you. I booked a basic king room thinking that would be good for me (it was only me traveling) boy was I wrong. The lamp didn't work, the heat wasn't working (the room was freezing) and the sounds outside just wouldn't let up. So at 5 AM the next morning I informed them that I would be checking out and decided to check into the Grand Hyatt on Stockton. I ended up paying $200 more then planned to stay at the hyatt but in all honesty it was worth it.

Like I said though, the staff was extremely friendly and I think maybe I should have choosen a different type of room (maybe the Deluxe or Sun Room). I'm always up for giving a hotel another try but likely when I go back out in October I will be staying at the Hyatt again.

Pros: Wonderful staff, great vegan restaurant

Cons: Extremely noisy, near tenderloin district

Posted 06/10/07

There were hairs left in my bathroom from the previous guest (or the maid I suppose) and there was a strange smell in the lobby and corridors, but other than that, I loved it. Had a fun room on 7th floor with a great feel to it. Loved the big flat screen TV on the wall, loved the decor, especially the painting on the ceiling around the ceiling fan. Slightly disappointing that there was a note in the minibar: "Sorry we're out of JD, Champagne and Vodka" - well go out and fricking get some!!! Would definitely go back there, with my wife - she'd love it. Free wireless broadband in the lobby, but not in the rooms. Lovely receptionist called Dasha who will smile much more if you engage her in conversation. Doorman Ricky lovely.

Pros: Fun hotel, walking distance from lots of cool places including Swig, right across the street

Cons: Weird smell in the lobby!

Posted 03/08/07

It is a charming place but has some downfalls. We had a reservation several weeks in advance. We got there early in the day (before noon) and there wasn't a room ready, which we expected but they stored our bags and parked our car. We had a full day planned and told them we wouldn't be back to check in until 9 p.m. or later, which was no problem. When we did finally return to check in we were told that there wasn't a great selection of rooms left for the night and that all they had was near the elevator. When we were checking in the front desk person was with another guest and never acknowledged us with even a hello and I'll be right with you. Then, while we were checking in the phone rang and he stopped what he was doing to answer it and then when he hung up turned to us and said "that was one of our VIP guests". I guess I thought we should all be VIP guests or at least feel like we are. That was when we were told there were no choice rooms left for us. I guess they wouldn't mind if we stayed at one of the many other great hotels in the area next time so they can cater to their VIPs.

The room was small. Tiny small. With two larger suit cases we could barely move around each other in the room. I know it is an old building and I appreciate the charm but the bathroom could use some updates as well. The bed and linens were very comfortable.

In all- the price and location cannot be beat. Close walking distance to Union Square. It wasn't bad but we'll probably try some where else next time.

Posted 06/12/06

It's a cute hotel right in the heart of downtown- location can't be beat- a few blocks from the BART and about $10 taxi from Fisherman's Wharf. The room was clean and cosy- beds were very comfortable and the higher threadcount sheets and the duvet was definitely appreciated. The breakfast isn't worth it unless it's part of the package- boiled eggs, yogurt, apples, pastries. Didn't get a package that was delivered to me until I personally asked for it though.

Pros: Central Location, Reasonable Price, Cosy and comfortable

Cons: Valet Parking only, View only of street

Posted 03/14/06

We stayed at the Savoy one night when we had theatre tickets, and the location can't be beat! We walked to Union Square to do some window shopping and have dinner, then to the theatre for the play. Our room was very nice, I loved the feather beds and want to get one for our bed at home, they're so comfortable! The staff was helpful and friendly, the rate was very reasonable and I'd recommend this hotel to anyone staying in downtown San Francisco.

Pros: Great location, Good value, Comfy beds

Posted 09/03/03

This Hotel was described as small and elegant, well they have the small right but they should have substituted the elegant for dirty. This place was a complete dump! Don't waste your money.

Posted 06/30/03