I loved the Inn. The lady at the front desk was so sweet and accomodating. She really cares about the guest comfort. She was there when we checked in, there when we went to bed, and there when we checked out. Our room was very nice (room 2). It looked out onto the peir and the ocean. I must admit I didn't know what a Roman tub was until we stayed at the Doryman, but I wasn't disappointed. The gas fireplace and old books were a nice touch. The bubble bath products smelt great. If you are looking to be in a convient location, this is the place to stay. We didn't have to walk more then a couple of feet out of the Inn's doors to find bars and restaurants. The restaurant 21 Oceanfront, had an amazing view and great food (there is a dress code). A couple staying at the Inn didn't bring dinner attire, so the Innkeeper arranged for the restaurant to cater to then on the large deck with the beach view. Like I said the Innkeeper bent over backwards to make people happy. This was our 10th anniversary and the Doryman's staff definetly made it special.

We have stayed here several times over the past 10 years. This time was not nearly as good as previous stays. Nobody told us that #2 had a loud rumble all afternoon and in to the night. The machinery making the rumble (AC compressor?) also interfered with the television, putting 30 oscillating vertical lines of interference on the picture. I called after the stay to try and resolve the matter, but both times the manager was out and the receptionist was unenthusiastic about taking a message. As for breakfast, I would eat at the great coffee shop across the parking lot. Eggs, oatmeal, pancakes; anything you want.
The high point of the trip would be the place up the boardwalk with gelato. Try chocolate with a shot of espresso over it.

I booked room #4 for my wife's 50th birthday and we were looking forward to a great time. Save your money!!! The traffic in Newport Beach, particularly Balboa is a parking lot. I've been to NYC and DC, the traffic there is bad. Newport is worse. I live 20 miles away and I spent 1.5 hours on the peninsula alone. We never checked in because parking is in a lot around the block and it would have taken me another 45 min. Not a great way to spend a relaxing evening or weekend. My wife's 50th birthday is ruined.

The location, on Newport Beach, is well-positioned right at the pier on the beach. The rooms are charming with a vintage victorian decor (feels a little like a brothel....in a good way). Beds are amazingly comfortable. We spent two nights at the Doryman in room 9 and room 10. The rooms are filled with flowers, beveled mirrors, sunken marble tubs, skylights, fireplaces. Room 9 has a door to the balcony where we enjoyed our coffee and breakfast. It does get loud at night. It's right on the beach and surrounded by bars...it didn't really bother us, but if you are looking for quiet and an early night, you should be prepared with earplugs.

Parking was a bonus.

Below the hotel, is the Ocean 21 Restaurant which is dubbed NB's finest/most romantic. I enjoyed the food and cocktails. Did not enjoy the service...not friendly or interested in making us feel welcomed or comfortable. We dined here twice and came for cocktails another two times....you would think they would have been more attentive. Took 10 minutes to waive over the bartender (with less then 8 people at the bar).