This is an unpaid review of the The Westin in downtown San Diego, California. Dadtography.com was not compensated in any way for this review. The opinions in this review are 100% that of the author and are 100% authentic.
I love Southern California; San Diego has some of the best weather in North America. I was excited when I learned a business trip would be sending me to the area. Below is my review while staying at the Westin in downtown San Diego.
Location
Westin Downtown San Diego 400 West Broadway San Diego, CA 92101There are actually two Westin hotels within walking distance of each other in the downtown area of San Diego. The other is the Westin Gaslamp, which is located near the north-west corner of the famous San Diego neighborhood.
Eenie, meanie, miney - which @Westin to choose in downtown #SanDiego? Click To TweetFeatures
Westin Hotels and Resorts are known for their high-end features. From the Westin Heavenly Bed® to the Westin Heavenly Bath® and their top-notch spa services, your an (almost) always expect a 5-star experience even if the hotels are rated a 4-star.
The lobby area was somewhat ornate, with elaborate decor, long escalators and glass elevators that went to the upper floors.
The WestinWorkout® area was typical of a Starwood hotel and can always be counted on to get a quality workout in, even on the road.
The pool and hot tub area of this particular Westin were on the 4th floor (just outside the workout area). The pool was a bit on the small side – not quite large enough for swimming a decent lap and too narrow to accommodate much activity. I’m pretty sure it’s not heated, either. A heated pool in Southern California, you ask? Days in San Diego can be a bit on the cool side and without a heated pool, 70 degrees may not be enough to get in. Oh, and be sure to vacate the premises by 10pm or “security” will have to kick you out. There aren’t any rooms in the area, but I guess they have rules to keep.
The rest of the hotel including the common areas and the room we stayed in were in need of repair and maintenance and cleaning. The air vent in our room was extremely dusty. Apparently they don’t have dusters in Southern California. The window in our room had a seating area with the paneling peeling away from the wall. The carpet and wall paper in the hallways needed replacing. I was extremely disappointed with the overall state of the majority of this 4-star hotel.
Service
Westin Hotels are typically keen on providing good service and, with a few exceptions, that was my experience with the Westin Downtown San Diego as well. We arrived a bit early and there was a pretty long line for people checking out. We had to wait a few hours for a room, but we arrived well before the 3pm check-in time.
Once we were able to check in, the guest services agent checked us, got us our key cards and had us on our way in no time.
I attempted to also reach out to hotel marketing staff to arrange for a tour, but my request was never answered. It seems they only cater to the Travelocity.com’s of the world.
Insider Tips
I really only have one insider tip at the Westin San Diego, but it’s an important one. If you are assigned to a room above the 23rd floor then pay careful attention to the elevators. There are four elevators on a single bank of buttons. Only two of the elevators go to the floors above 23. Of course, this means you only have a 50/50 shot of getting an elevator that can actually go all the way up to your floor. I’m not sure what genius designed the elevators at this Westin but they should be flogged.
Watch out for the tricky elevators at the @Westin Downtown #SanDiego Click To Tweet
