We picked the Varden for it's location, but a plus was the wonderful service and interesting history. The friendly environment created by the owners and staff made the continental breakfast and evening wine and snacks into comfortable social gatherings. We met interesting guests as well as the super friendly staff and owners.

I have stayed at The Varden Hotel on 3 occasions now and this Hotel is the best in Long beach CA, every year we attend a local conference in the Long beach area and we always stay at The Varden hotel. The Staff( Adina, Melissa, and Jose) are WONDERFUL, the owners Charles and Larry are THE BEST. They really make you feel like you are at home. The hotel is very clean and the customer service is the best. If you are looking for a home away from home while you are traveling then THE VARDEN is the place to be.

I recently stayed at The Varden in Long Beach while attending a show at the Long Beach Convention Center. What a refreshing change from the big American hotel chain rooms! My room was small but well thought out in its use of space and quite comfortable. Everyone I met on the hotel staff was exceptionally friendly and welcoming. It was a pleasure to talk to the owner and learn a bit about the history of the building. I look forward to staying at The Varden the next time that I'm in Long Beach. If you like the types of hotels that Rick Steve's recommends, you'll most certainly like The Varden.

The staff and management of this small hotel are what makes the difference. Yes, it's cute, it's not a chain, it's "non-standard."

Put your preconceptions aside and revel in a group of employees that really take care of you. And an owner that shows up at 6:00am and makes you a cup of coffee.

I have worked at 5 star / 5 Diamond hotels, and I would find everything about the Varden's staff to be equal or better.

Stay there, and enjoy.