Stayed a few days in August and again for a week in November...a bit disappointed both times. Family in area recommended due to a coupon. Great price so booked the 2nd trip. Asked several times for an email confirmation because I wanted proof of the price since it would be Thanksgiving week. Each time, was told they were too busy to send email, that I should call back. Well surprise surprise, was charged $30 more each night when we got there..had no email to back it up. Was told they have never had those rates, even though I had them 2 months earlier! At any rate, (no pun intended:) each time I had to talk anyone at the desk for any reason, they seemed irritated, put off and borderline rude. We had problems with the room keys daily, the bathrooms have very limited counter space and it was very old and cracking etc. Hallways feel like a hospital, no decor. Asked ahead of time about fridge & micro in rooms. Was told there was a fridge but microwave was in breakfast room and we would have to use that one. I bought a pizza to heat up later, and when I went to heat it up, the room with micro was closed. When i asked to use it, they said it was only available during the 6-9 eating hours! Breakfast has much less than most cont. breakfasts...no eggs, waffles or anything like that.....First trip, the kids were so excited to swim but the pool was cold and FULL of bugs...so they quickly got out. Second time seemed nicer but never found the time. The big PLuS of this place is location. It is right next door to the greatest little shops, restaurants, and plenty of other marina/harbor attractions. Because the price is still reasonable and the surrounding area is so convenient,and wonderful, we actually will probably end up staying again due to family near by and visiting several times a year. My wish would be for them to update the place, and either train the staff in proper customer service or hire new people all together.
- Dana Point Marina Hotel
