05/26/05

Romantic Getaway

by biscoinferno

The hotel was great for my girlfriend and I. We enjoyed the clean and comfortable room with an awesome Oceanview. The staff was friendly, knowlegeable and very courteous, we felt like V.I.P's! We were looking for a dinner suggestion and the gentleman at the front desk suggested Re Nato Ristorante, located right next door. Just what we needed. Delicious and well prepared Northern Itallian cuisine, my girilfriend had the dover sole, made our romantic getaway that much more special. The Grand Mariner Souflee was the best desert I have ever eaten.

• Pros: Souflee, staff, wine list
• Cons: no in room movies

05/20/05

Quaint boutique style hotel on the beach

by djs4mcs

I was happy to stay at this charming small hotel, like a b & b, on the beach. It had a great location, nice staff, and clean rooms. The property wasn't very big, but had everything I was looking for. I had a great time.

• Pros: location, breakfast, service
• Cons: limited amenities

05/17/05

An European-inspired B&B just a block from the Pacific.

by Contributor

The Scene
Overlooking lively Newport Pier on Balboa Peninsula, which juts out between Newport Bay and the Pacific Ocean, this intimate property offers old-fashioned Italian ambiance in a historic 1875 building. The owners, who also run two vacation houses, will be happy to recommend a local Italian restaurant to complete your dolce vita experience.

The Details
Guest rooms are named after Italian cities such as Milano, Roma and Firenze, and feature an almost over-the-top Victorian style, with ornate window treatments, intricately carved wood furnishings and richly colored rugs. Some are even furnished with fireplaces. Bathrooms are just as done up, with marble everywhere and spa-type tubs. While most rooms have ocean and Pier views, all guests can admire this quaint neighborhood and the water from the second-floor observation parlor.